Success Story: Los Campeones Gym

Los Campeones Gym – Bismarck 2024

BISMARCK – Jason Locken, one of the owners of Los Campeones Gym, had a clear vision when he decided to open his fitness center in Bismarck. Along with co-owners Dustin Eastgate (above left) and Talyn Johnson (white shirt), Jason (black shirt just right of center) wanted to create a gym that catered to serious lifters while also offering a welcoming environment for everyone, from beginners to elite athletes. Their goal was simple: to open a gym that they would want to work out in, providing the best equipment, expert training, and a high-energy, supportive atmosphere for all members.

With a background in business and accounting, Jason’s career experience in overseeing operations at both a restaurant and coffee shop gave him the foundation to manage the operational side of running a gym. He wanted to create an environment where people could succeed and improve their fitness, and in June 2024, Los Campeones Gym officially opened its doors.

Despite his passion for fitness and experience in business management, Jason knew he needed guidance to properly develop and plan for the financial and operational aspects of starting a new business. That’s when he turned to the North Dakota Small Business Development Center (ND SBDC) for help.

Jason worked closely with Tyler Demars, Center Director in Bismarck, who guided him through the process of building a solid business plan. With support from the ND SBDC, he gained a deeper understanding of critical business concepts. Jason reflects, “The ND SBDC provided me an opportunity to put our idea on paper and the tools to help work through the technical side of developing the business. From sales, to controlling overhead, to forecasting sales and costs we would need to cover. It has been a blessing to have that help along the way.”

Dustin and Talyn, who also own the gym, bring their own expertise to the table. Dustin, who owns Iron & Oak Designs, a construction business, and Talyn, the owner of Nutrishop Bismarck and Dane Gainz Transforming, contribute their unique backgrounds in both business and fitness. Their combined experience has played a key role in shaping the gym’s development, ensuring a well-rounded approach to its operational success and its emphasis on fitness.

With the assistance of the ND SBDC, Jason, Dustin, and Talyn were able to navigate the complexities of starting the gym, ultimately leading to a successful launch. This guidance gave Jason the clarity he needed to focus on fostering the culture and community at Los Campeones. “The most apparent result was being able to make an informed decision that we could be confident about and also have the confidence that we would be successful,” Jason notes.

Los Campeones Gym has become a valued part of the community, with members sharing how it has helped them improve their fitness and strength. Jason credits the gym’s success to a focus on quality services, attention to detail, and maintaining consistency. He also acknowledges the dedication of his staff and the support of loyal members, who have helped establish the gym as a local favorite.

Jason, Dustin, and Talyn’s journey demonstrates the importance of having a clear vision, thoughtful planning, and strong community connections. Jason credits the other owners for their integral role in the gym’s success, highlighting the power of teamwork and shared goals. With support from the ND SBDC, Los Campeones Gym is well-positioned to continue contributing to Bismarck’s fitness scene.