The Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme is a flagship initiative designed to nurture and propel Wales' brightest entrepreneurial talents. Over an intensive 12-week programme, participants gain expert guidance, mentorship, and invaluable networking opportunities to transform their innovative ideas into scalable, sustainable businesses. The 2024 cohort featured 21 entrepreneurs from across Wales, celebrated for their determination and creativity in an awards ceremony at the programme’s conclusion.
Among the award winners was Trystan Lloyd, founder of LYFT Club, who earned the Sales Accelerator Award for his groundbreaking platform connecting fitness professionals with clients. LYFT Club blends cutting-edge technology with Trystan’s personal experiences to redefine how fitness services are accessed and delivered.
With LYFT Club now trading and rapidly gaining traction, Trystan’s journey exemplifies the transformative potential of the Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme.
We spoke with Trystan to learn more about his journey, the impact of the programme, and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Can you explain the idea behind LYFT Club?
LYFT Club is an online platform that connects customers with fitness professionals, such as personal trainers and gyms. It’s a directory where providers showcase their services while customers compare reviews, offerings, and prices, similar to Checkatrade but for the fitness industry. By applying a proven business model to fitness, LYFT Club brings transparency, choice, and verified information to users, transforming how people access fitness services. Unlike anything currently available, LYFT Club empowers professionals to expand their customer base and help customers find the right fit for their fitness journey.
What inspired you to start your business?
After retiring from professional rugby, I struggled with a sense of lost purpose and noticed a gap in the market. There was no straightforward way to compare fitness services, access reviews, and find pricing in one place. Drawing on my experience in sport and business (and having grown up in a self-employed family), I created LYFT Club to bridge this gap, giving professionals a dedicated platform and helping customers make informed choices.
What challenges did you face before joining the Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme, and how did you overcome them?
My biggest challenge was self-doubt. While I knew the fitness industry, I lacked experience in technology, which was critical for developing the LYFT Club. The programme’s mentorship was instrumental in building my confidence. My mentor challenged my decisions and held me accountable, which was invaluable.
How did the Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme refine your business idea or strategy?
The programme confirmed that my strategy was on track while enhancing my understanding of key business areas. Workshops and mentoring sessions provided the support and accountability I needed to launch LYFT Club confidently.
What motivates you as a founder, and what do you enjoy most about starting a business?
I’m motivated to help people become the best versions of themselves through health and fitness. Reducing barriers to accessing fitness services is central to LYFT Club's mission. The entrepreneurial journey has also been personally transformative, allowing me to discover a new sense of purpose and explore my creative side.
How has your business developed because of the Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme?
The most impactful area was learning about investment, understanding funding options, and positioning LYFT Club for potential investors. The mentorship sessions focused on resilience and personal growth, helping me bring out my best qualities as a founder. My mentor, Alex Darby, encouraged me to share my story and become the face of the brand. I’ve embraced using my background to connect with customers and started creating social media content, which I never envisioned doing. This has significantly strengthened trust with potential customers.
What are your future plans for LYFT club?
My primary focus for the foreseeable future is to increase awareness and engagement for LYFT Club while securing investment to enhance our capabilities. Ultimately, I aspire for LYFT Club to become the global platform of choice for anyone embarking on a health and fitness journey.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from the Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme?
Entrepreneurship is tough but incredibly rewarding. It demands sacrifice, but the sense of fulfilment and excitement is unmatched.
What advice would you give to someone starting their own business?
Take the leap. You’ll uncover more about yourself and your potential than you ever thought possible.
Click here to register your interest in joining the next Business Wales Start-Up Accelerator Programme, part of the Business Wales Accelerated Growth Programme.
Click here to learn more about LYFT Club.