By Ella Verinder, DLE communications intern and freshman at Smith College in Northampton, MA

Longtime DLE member AJ Bowman truly has the entrepreneurial spirit. He has just opened his second business: a gym called The Ultimate Body Factory. What makes this especially impressive is that he’s not yet even 30 years old.

AJ’s first business, Boatman Shoes, is a sizzling, trending footwear and bag company. Committed to bridge sustainability and fashion, he started the business at age 22. With an eye toward differentiating it from its competitors and gaining a competitive edge, Boatman Shoes produced the world’s first boat shoe made entirely from sustainable cactus leather. (Click here to read our 2023 DLE profile on AJ.)

His latest venture takes him in a dramatically different direction–fitness. After several years of dreaming about combining his passion for bodybuilding with a drive to bring a new concept workout facility to his hometown community of Pittsfield, MA, AJ made his move and opened The Ultimate Body Factory in December 2025.  

“We are aiming for a customer base that fits between the beginner level and serious athletes–something in the middle that would keep people motivated to stick to a training routine.” He notes that creating an enticing, exciting environment was essential. 

“The gym has a sleek aesthetic. The floors and ceiling are matte black. There are hexagonal blue accent lights on the walls which create a modern feel and a focused environment,” AJ describes. “When people walk in the door, their eyes light up and they’re like, ‘Wow, this place is incredible.’”

He credits active networking with making his entrepreneurial dreams come true. “We all know how useful networking can be when on the job hunt, but it’s just as important for starting a business,” he explains. “I’ve leaned into my network for their ideas and feedback about what makes a great gym. Their time, support, and insights have been a massive help in giving me the clear direction and confidence to move forward with the gym. I truly believe that your network is definitely 75% of making things happen.” 

Fully tapping into your network requires patient listening and checking your ego. “With constructive feedback, you can quickly find your weak points.” 

AJ encourages those who are fanning the spark of entrepreneurism to seek out successful business owners and to be curious. “Surround yourself with people who are better than you in certain aspects, and learn from them. For example, websites are a big focus for any business–and particularly a new one–in creating first impressions. Seek out a friend or friend of a friend with experience in that field, grab coffee, and talk about features that work well for a start-up. Whenever you don’t know something, there’s a good chance that someone around you does. And more often than not, they’re going to be an invaluable resource.”

AJ’s latest business venture earned headlines in his local newspaper, The Berkshire Eagle. Check out the coverage here.