A dynamic duo has taken the fitness world by storm with their innovative approach to lower body workouts and building a successful empire from the ground up. Kevin and Katie Lilly, the masterminds behind Bünda Fitness, have shared the story of how their unique fitness concept took off and transformed into a multi-million dollar business in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE.
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The Bünda Fitness logo, cleverly designed to resemble a bikini-clad butt, is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the company’s offerings. What started as a light bulb moment for Kevin, a licensed trainer, has now evolved into a science-backed group fitness program that combines StairMaster workouts with strength training. Since its inception seven years ago in Los Angeles, Bünda has expanded its footprint to include studios across Florida, Texas, and Illinois, with plans for further growth on the horizon.
Celebrities such as Mindy Kaling, Addison Rae, Noah Beck, Olivia Culpo, and Jada Pinkett-Smith have all jumped on the Bünda bandwagon, attesting to the effectiveness and appeal of the lower body-focused training provided by the Lillys. Kevin recalls the serendipitous moment when he first noticed the resemblance between the letter ‘B’ and a butt, which eventually led to the birth of the Bünda concept.
The Lillys’ journey began in 2007 when Kevin, fresh out of college, spotted Katie working out on a StairMaster in Philadelphia. Despite initial obstacles, including Katie being in a relationship at the time, the couple’s paths eventually aligned, leading to a move to LA and a shared passion for fitness. Drawing inspiration from a chance encounter during a workout with a Brazilian couple, the idea for Bünda started taking shape.
Katie’s keen business acumen and foresight for the burgeoning group fitness industry paved the way for Bünda’s establishment in April 2018. Kevin’s roster of celebrity clients and Katie’s dedication to crafting a unique lower-body strength program proved to be a winning combination. With 14 studios and over 2,000 students nationwide, Bünda has solidified its position as a frontrunner in the fitness world.
While Bünda’s focus remains on lower body training, the Lillys are quick to emphasize that it’s not just about sculpting a perfect posterior. Each workout session is meticulously designed to target different muscle groups and ensure holistic fitness transformation. As the duo prepares to expand their family, they reflect on the risks they took to bring their vision to life and the impact Bünda has had on its growing community.
Beyond physical transformations, Kevin and Katie are passionate about fostering mental well-being and a sense of community through Bünda. Their dedication to helping others achieve their fitness goals and create a supportive environment underscores their commitment to making a positive impact on people’s lives. By following their passions and staying true to their vision, the Lillys have sparked a fitness revolution that continues to inspire and empower individuals across the country.