From Studying Law to Running Four fit20 Studios: Mitchel Samson’s Journey to Becoming a Successful Entrepreneur
At 19, Mitchel Samson took his first steps at fit20. Today, ten years later, he runs four fit20 studios – one of them together with a business partner – leads a team of twelve employees and now also invests in property.
He never planned this career path. For him, it is the result of continuing to learn, seizing opportunities and building confidence.
“I QUICKLY REALISED THAT LAW WASN’T FOR ME”
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Mitchel began studying law. But he soon realised that this was not the right path for him.
“After six months, I knew it wouldn’t make me happy. I don’t like sitting still. I’ve always been passionate about movement, motor skills and sport – and I enjoy helping people. That suits me much better.”
At fit20, he found exactly that combination. What began as an entry into the fitness industry developed into an entrepreneurial career in which he still feels at home today.
FROM THE FIRST STUDIO TO FOUR LOCATIONS
When Mitchel started, he never expected to run four fit20 studios one day.
“No, absolutely not. Starting your own business is exciting at first. You have to arrange financing, there is still so much you don’t know, and of course you take on a certain amount of risk. Fortunately, fit20 guided me step by step. That way, I learned not only how the concept works, but above all how to become an entrepreneur.”
This support gave him the confidence he needed to grow. His first studio was followed by further acquisitions and later even an in-company studio.
“The first acquisition was exciting. Afterwards, you realise how much experience you’ve already gained. Suddenly, you see opportunities and risks very differently.”
Mitchel opened his fit20 studio in Dordrecht together with a business partner. Alongside becoming a franchisee independently, fit20 therefore also offers the opportunity to fulfil the dream of owning a business together.
BECOMING AN ENTREPRENEUR, STEP BY STEP
The early days of his first studio were a particularly valuable learning experience for Mitchel.
“Everything is new. You have to make decisions, allow yourself to make mistakes and, above all, learn a lot. My father supported me enormously during that initial phase. When I was ready for the next step, I took full responsibility myself.”
In his experience, entrepreneurial confidence does not develop on its own.
“The better you become at something, the more your confidence grows. That gives you the courage to take bigger steps.”
THE STRENGTH OF THE FRANCHISE MODEL AND THE COMMUNITY
For Mitchel, the support provided by fit20 was one of the main reasons he was able to develop so quickly as an entrepreneur.
“The franchise model gives you plenty of guidance. You know what to focus on and gradually learn to master every aspect of running a business. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel.”
The exchange between franchisees is equally important to him.
“We really are a community. During the training, you get to know each other well, and you can always turn to one another with questions or ideas. That’s how we help each other move forward.”
THE FREEDOM TO PURSUE YOUR OWN OPPORTUNITIES
Although the franchise model provides a clear structure, Mitchel still has plenty of room for his own entrepreneurial ideas.
“You have the freedom to spot opportunities and try new things. Because everyone shares their experiences, new insights keep emerging. This collaborative, coaching-based approach is incredibly motivating.”
ENTREPRENEURSHIP IS TEAMWORK
Mitchel is particularly proud of the team he has built over the years.
“We now employ twelve people. fit20’s clear identity attracts people who share the same entrepreneurial mindset. That allows me to focus more on developing the business. Everyone contributes ideas and takes responsibility.”
This is what makes entrepreneurship increasingly fulfilling for him.
“With a strong team, you gain the freedom to look ahead rather than focusing exclusively on day-to-day operations.”
THREE QUALITIES OF SUCCESSFUL FIT20 FRANCHISEES
According to Mitchel, you don’t have to be a born entrepreneur to succeed at fit20. However, he considers three qualities essential:
Boundless enthusiasm for movement and vitality.“That enthusiasm is contagious.”
A willingness to learn.“You don’t know everything at the beginning. Advice and feedback are what help you grow.”
An appreciation of the value of your network.“At fit20, you build very personal relationships. That network is incredibly valuable.”
“IF YOU DECIDE TO DO IT, REALLY GO FOR IT”
Mitchel has a clear message for anyone considering starting their own business:
“First, be sure about what you really want. If you want to be an entrepreneur, you have to commit wholeheartedly. Doubts are part of the process, but at some point you need the courage to make a decision.”
He recommends that anyone interested visit a fit20 studio for themselves.
“Then you can experience the atmosphere, see how the community works together and discover just how comprehensive the support provided by the franchise concept really is. You only truly understand it once you’ve been there yourself.”
SHAPING YOUR OWN FUTURE
Mitchel’s latest step shows that owning a business has opened up opportunities far beyond building several studios.
“Thanks to the stable revenue the franchise concept makes possible, I’ve now been able to purchase a property through my property company. I would never even have considered opportunities like that before.”
For Mitchel, this may be the most important lesson of his entrepreneurial journey so far: if you are willing to keep learning and seize opportunities, you can go much further than you ever imagined.

