Sound Sports Performance and Training LLC, in Lynnwood, is a blend of inspiration, fitness, and motivation – providing progressive fitness programs focused on anaerobic strength training for youth, adults, and seniors of all skill levels. Established by Federick Brooks, this 1700-square-foot strength and conditioning facility is committed to assisting clients in achieving their fitness and performance goals. Empowered by winning at IMPACT Pitch, Federick’s entrepreneurial journey continues to expand and find success, including on a national level.
Federick Brooks: From the Marine Corps to a Fitness Authority
Separating from the Marine Corps, after a 10-year stint, Federick relied on his passion, skill set, and a bit of advice from his partner for his transition out of military service. As a child, he was heavily involved in sports and maintaining an active lifestyle, and that became deeply ingrained with the tragic passing of his mother. Federick’s mother passed away, at just 44, from a heart attack. Devastated, Federick wanted to live a healthier lifestyle, and embarked on a journey of prioritizing physical fitness.
Federick states, “As I was getting out of the military, I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do. My ex-wife reminded me I’d always been into physical fitness, why don’t I become a personal trainer”. Driven by his passion for health and wellness, he started his entrepreneurial journey as a personal fitness coach. However, Federick realized he was training people as if he was still in the military. He realized that to truly make an impact with his clients, deeper expertise and more education was necessary.
Growth Through Continuing Education
Recognizing the need to expand his own understanding to better serve his clients, Federick earned an undergraduate degree in Recreational Health and Fitness Resources and later pursued a Masters in Kinesiology, specializing in sport and exercise conditioning as well as sports psychology. Federick is also an adjunct professor through Lake Washington Institute of Technology, a Muay Thai Fundamentals and Fitness Coach, and a Level 2 USA Track and Field Coach, A Level 1 Weightlifting Coach, and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Coach, he is primed to work with all age levels at all capacities in their fitness journey. This extensive training, coupled with experience at major gyms, military service, and national competitions, equipped him with the skills to launch into his own enterprise– Sound Sports Performance and Training LLC.
Bridging Fitness With Business Impact NW
Federick’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to continue to grow Sound Sports Performance and Training LLC as much as possible. Always seeking to expand his network and gain business insights, Federick connected with a business incubator program through Urban Impact, a non-profit dedicated to improving Seattle communities. That led Federick to get on the email list for WSBDC, which eventually led him to signing up for the newsletters for Business Impact NW. It was through this connection that Federick first learned about Business Impact NW, a non-profit dedicated to serving entrepreneurs and small business owners. Initially collaborating with Miriam Works and Zia Jabari, Federick received free business coaching services, financial and lending support, and was later encouraged to apply for IMPACT Pitch. IMPACT Pitch is an annual pitch event for entrepreneurs of all stages, that could provide the exposure and support his company needed.
“I’m always seeking out resources to grow my business”
The Transformative Experience of IMPACT Pitch
Participating in IMPACT Pitch marked a pivotal moment for Federick as he sought to expand his growing business. The competition provided a platform to showcase Sound Sports Performance and Training LLC. IMPACT Pitch provided invaluable mentorship and resources that helped take the company to new heights. With guidance from his coaches, Miriam Works and Zia Jabari, Federick refined his pitch. He worked on learning to clearly articulate his vision in a compelling way. Miriam helped him distill his message down to its core while Zia ensured he understood the financial considerations needed for expansion. Their expertise proved instrumental to his success. Beyond marketing and advertising opportunities that elevated the profile of his business, Federick’s winning marketing video at IMPACT Pitch led to national recognition within his genre.
For Federick, IMPACT Pitch represented more than just a chance to win. It provided a platform full of opportunities. Standing on the stage, Federick was energized by the enthusiasm of the live audience and motivated by their positive feedback. Equally rewarding were the networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs, industry leaders, investors, and lending experts. Each interaction during IMPACT Pitch was another step towards advancing his company, underscoring the power of community and strategic networking.
From IMPACT Pitch Winner to State Director of the Year
Federick was named the State Director for the National Strength and Conditioning Association for Washington State. The National Strength and Conditioning Association is a non-profit founded in 1978. It is dedicated to advancing strength and conditioning research and education, with over 60,000 members, researchers, educators, and certified professionals. This achievement is further amplified as Federick won the title of State Director of the Year at the National Conference, NCSAcon- a testament to the transformative effect of the support received through IMPACT Pitch.
“I used the winning video from the Business Impact NW IMPACT Pitch competition on my application to show how I am promoting the National Strength and Conditioning Association, as well as my own business to promote health and fitness.”
Scaling Success
Competing and winning IMPACT Pitch played a pivotal role in the growth of Sound Sports Performance and Training LLC. Federick secured invaluable partnerships and connections with lenders through the networking opportunities provided. These relationships helped expand his marketing to better serve an ever-growing client base. Looking ahead, Federick plans to hire additional trainers so the company can increase its reach. He also plans to expand his square footage and eventually grow into a bigger fitness center as his clientele increases. His journey exemplifies how perseverance and community can fuel success in business against all odds.
Guidance for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Federick encourages new business owners to take advantage of free resources like those offered through Business Impact NW. Most importantly, he stresses the value of understanding financing options and lending best practices. Through IMPACT Pitch, he successfully leveraged clear messaging and networking to progress his venture. His advice is to remain resilient in the face of setbacks. Federick states, “Have a plan. For the long game, it is patience, networking, and planning. Not every day is going to be easy, so have a plan, stick with it, and enjoy the ride.”
Federick Brooks’ journey and tireless entrepreneurial endeavors highlight the power of determination and community. Federick’s life experiences ignited a passion for helping others optimize physical health and performance. This drive, combined with participating in IMPACT Pitch and a continuous relationship with Business Impact NW, equips him with in-depth knowledge and practical strategies to empower clients across all levels. Federick remains dedicated to his core mission through resilience, innovative tactics, and collaborative partnerships. As a testament to his vision, Sound Sports Performance stands to inspire many more, for years to come.
“Definitely keep your ears and eyes open to the things that are free. There are people out there willing to help you and set you in the right direction. There are a lot of free resources out there to help you grow your business, like Business Impact NW.”
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About the author
Emma Seymour is a Communications and Public Relations professional specializing in storytelling, relationship building, and content development. A military spouse and former small business owner, she advocates for veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses, and has delivered keynote speeches on workforce development, military programs, and childhood trauma.
A true inspiration! Thank you for never giving up!
This was a great article. Very well written and further amplified the accomplishments Federick has made along the way. I’m excited to see what comes next for Spound Sports Performance