Dreaming Big And Lifting New Jersey’s Fitness Game: The Munjal Patel Story

By MANISHA KOSHY

Munjal Patel has become a transformative force in New Jersey’s fitness landscape, but his journey to the top wasn’t a fluke—it was driven by a deep passion for health, an unwavering belief in calculated risks, and a dedication to community impact.

Over the past year, Patel has opened 10 Retro Fitness locations across the state, establishing a brand that blends affordability with high-quality service, and making fitness more accessible for New Jersey residents. His story is not just about franchising; it’s about embracing an entrepreneurial mindset that drives real change.

Munjal’s attraction to the fitness industry wasn’t a random choice. It came from a place of careful consideration. “I was drawn to fitness because it’s an industry that’s only going to grow,” Patel explains to India-West. “People are prioritizing health and wellness more than ever, and there’s a shift toward affordable, high-quality fitness options.”

It’s this “High Value, Low Price” model that Retro Fitness champions, making it the perfect brand for him to align with. Patel wanted to be part of something bigger—something that could improve people’s lives while also making good business sense.

Unlike many first-time entrepreneurs, Patel didn’t start small. Instead, he set his sights on opening 10 locations right from the start. “I’ve always believed in dreaming big and taking calculated risks,” he shares with a confident smile.

He recognized that New Jersey’s fitness market had enormous potential, and he knew that a larger footprint would allow him to establish a strong presence quickly. With the support of Retro Fitness’ proven business model and a clear plan, he dove headfirst into the challenge. “It was about thinking big, but with a clear, actionable roadmap,” he says.

But starting 10 franchises is no easy feat. The investment required for each location can range from $1.5 to $2.3 million, a hefty sum for any entrepreneur. For Patel, raising the capital involved a combination of personal savings and strategic partnerships with investors who believed in his vision. “I surrounded myself with people who understood the potential of Retro Fitness,” he explains. His financial expertise—backed by a solid business plan—helped him secure the necessary funds, but he also relied heavily on his engineering background to ensure operational efficiency as he scaled his business.

In the beginning, Patel was deeply involved in every facet of his business. “It was all hands on deck,” he admits. “From daily operations to customer feedback, I was everywhere.” As his business grew, however, he was able to step back and focus on the strategic side of things, trusting his team to manage the day-to-day. It’s this ability to adapt and surround himself with the right people that Patel credits as a key factor in his success. “It’s about leveraging your strengths and finding the right people to fill in the gaps,” he says.

Of course, no entrepreneurial journey is without its challenges. While his growth has been rapid, Patel has faced obstacles along the way. One of the biggest lessons he learned was how much time and effort it takes to build a strong, cohesive team. “I underestimated how crucial it is to invest in training and team development,” he reflects. Marketing also presented challenges. Some of his early campaigns didn’t have the impact he anticipated. “It’s easy to get caught up in one-size-fits-all strategies, but you really have to understand your audience and tailor your approach,” he adds.

Despite these hurdles, Patel’s drive remains unwavering. “Success doesn’t come overnight, and the road is full of challenges,” he acknowledges. “But if you’re persistent and adaptable, you can overcome anything.” His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds or first-generation entrepreneurs, is to focus on networking, mentorship, and meticulous planning. “Your unique perspective is an asset. Use it to your advantage,” he says.

Looking ahead, Munjal Patel has no plans to slow down. His first ten Retro Fitness locations are just the beginning, and he’s focused on strategic growth. But his journey is about more than just business success—it’s about changing lives. “At the end of the day, what matters most is making a positive impact on people’s health and well-being,” he says.