Advice Line with Randy Hetrick of TRX - How I Built This with Guy Raz Recap

Podcast: How I Built This with Guy Raz

Published: 2025-09-25

Duration: 52 min

Summary

In this episode, Randy Hetrick shares insights from his journey with TRX and his new venture, Outfit. He discusses the evolving fitness market and offers advice for entrepreneurs navigating a crowded landscape.

What Happened

Guy Raz welcomes Randy Hetrick back to the show, having first interviewed him in 2017 about the inception of TRX, the resistance strap exercise system. Hetrick recounts how his innovative idea stemmed from a jiu-jitsu belt he used while stationed in Southeast Asia, which he rigged to a bathroom door for upper body workouts. This moment marked the beginning of TRX, a brand that has significantly evolved over the years.

Since their last conversation, Hetrick sold a controlling interest in TRX to private equity, but it wasn't a perfect match. After parting ways with the firm, he launched Outfit, a mobile fitness company designed to deliver group classes in outdoor settings. He emphasizes that this model not only reduces overhead costs but also creates opportunities for veterans looking to start their own businesses, as the franchise costs are lower compared to traditional gyms. Hetrick expresses excitement about the potential for Outfit to empower trainers and veterans alike in the fitness industry.

Key Insights

Key Questions Answered

What inspired Randy Hetrick to create TRX?

Randy Hetrick's inspiration for creating TRX came from his experiences as a Navy SEAL in Southeast Asia. He recounts how he used an old jiu-jitsu belt to create a makeshift resistance training system by throwing it over a bathroom door. This innovative and practical approach to fitness led to the development of TRX, which has since grown into a well-known brand in the fitness industry.

What led to Randy Hetrick selling TRX?

In 2019, Randy Hetrick sold a controlling interest in TRX to a private equity firm. However, he mentioned that this partnership was 'not a match made in heaven.' After a couple of years, Hetrick decided to pursue other opportunities and ultimately bought back TRX from the troubled situation, showing his commitment to the brand and its future.

What is Outfit and how does it operate?

Outfit is Randy Hetrick's new venture, designed as an outdoor mobile fitness company where group classes are held in parks and other outdoor settings. Unlike traditional gyms, Outfit operates with a lower cost of entry and fixed overhead, making it an attractive option for franchisees. The mobile nature of the business allows for flexibility and the ability to train up to 50 people at a time, which is a significant advantage in the fitness market.

How has the fitness market changed since TRX was launched?

Randy Hetrick acknowledges that the fitness market has undergone significant changes since the launch of TRX. While it has become easier to find manufacturers and produce fitness products, the market is now saturated with various options, making it harder for new entrants to stand out. Hetrick emphasizes that understanding this clutter and finding unique ways to break through is essential for any new fitness business today.

What advice does Randy Hetrick have for new fitness entrepreneurs?

Randy Hetrick advises new fitness entrepreneurs to be innovative and adaptable in a challenging market. He highlights the importance of leveraging personal stories and experiences when introducing new products. Hetrick also points out that entrepreneurs should consider alternative business models, like mobile fitness, that can reduce costs and allow for greater flexibility in reaching clients, particularly in a rapidly evolving industry.