Meet Clarisse Frazier | Owner, Shock Fitness Studio

We had the good fortune of connecting with Clarisse Frazier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Clarisse, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
The most valuable lesson business ownership has taught me is the importance of hiring/recruiting with great intention. When selecting individuals to be a member of your team, you have to consider their purpose, their passion and their practices. If you want to succeed, you must have these critical conversations before aligning all individuals with your business mission and vision.

Purpose: What does your teammate want for themselves as a member of your team? What do they feel they can contribute to moving your business forward? If your potential teammates are going to be productive, they must know their purpose for being there, your purpose for having them there and their purpose for the business to grow.

Passion: What is your teammate passionate about? Once you know that information, you are able to align their passions with your business model. When team members see themselves in the work and operate from a truly productive space, they tend to shine.

Practices: What are the habits and practices of your teammates? Are they timely? Are they consistent? Are they finishers? Pay close attention to how your teammates work so you are able to properly align the roles needed for your business.

As I continue my role as a business owner, I continue to remain a learner understanding knowing we are ever-changing and growing. Never stop learning.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At SBR and Shock Fitness Studio, we are more than just a gym—we are a community. Our brand is built on the foundation of intentionality, authenticity, and heart. Every class is unique, taught not just with skill, but with a genuine love for fitness and a deep desire to connect.

What started as a way to hold myself accountable in the gym after having a child has grown into a lifelong passion and now, a thriving business. The journey from being a member in a class to becoming an international fitness professional development coach and business owner has spanned 13 years in the industry and 44 years of personal growth and learning. Every experience—every challenge, triumph, and lesson—has led me to this moment: the moment I bring my vision of what a gym should be into reality.

This has been one of the most life-altering experiences I’ve ever had. At the core of who I am, I want everyone to be happy and to love me through the process. But as a coach and business owner, I’ve learned that this isn’t always the reality. Along the way, some will embrace the vision and help it grow, while others will walk away—quietly, or with a louder exit. It’s a hard truth when you invest deeply in each person and form relationships with them, only to see them move on.

But I’ve learned that I am a part of their journey, not their final destination. And that realization has allowed me to move forward with more strength, grace, and understanding.

Overcoming these challenges has only been possible by trusting in my faith in God. I’ve learned that this is His assignment for my life, and I’ve had to remove myself from the equation to better serve His purpose. By listening more closely to Him in my decision-making, I’ve become more reflective, less reactive, and more confident in the direction I’m being led.

The process of acquiring the gym and building this brand has been a true test of faith and resilience. I had to do it on my own after the passing of both my parents, which was the hardest lesson I’ve ever learned. But I trusted myself, prayed with intention, and let go of my fears. Today, I can proudly say that Shock Fitness Studio is more than just a place to work out. We are the BEST gym because we offer more than fitness—we offer a safe space for everyone to be their authentic selves as they navigate life through health and wellness.

We are here to build lasting relationships, to support each other, and to help you grow stronger in every way. This isn’t just a workout. This is a community, and you belong here.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Welcome to Atlanta! If I had a friend in town, this is the perfect way I’d show them a great time:

Day 1:

We’d kick things off by heading straight to Blendz Friendz for the most refreshing Acai bowl in town— a perfect start to our Atlanta adventure! After fueling up, we’d head to Rejuv Spa in Fayetteville for a luxurious and unique spa party. We’re talking massages, painting, and a charcuterie and wine spread that’ll keep the vibes high as we relax and unwind.

After all that pampering, we’d get a good night’s sleep, ready to take on the next day with plenty of energy.

Day 2:

We’d rise early and hit Shock Fitness Studio for an energizing day of classes! First up, a high-energy Spin class to get the heart pumping, followed by a tough yet fun Bootcamp. To top it off, we’d finish with a Beastmode Bounce class, a little cardio, a lot of fun, and tons of laughs. Afterward, we’d shower, freshen up, and head to First Watch for a delicious breakfast that will fuel us for the day ahead.

Next, we’d spend the afternoon shopping at Perimeter Mall or Lenox Mall, both stylish havens with something for everyone. After a little (or a lot) of retail therapy, we’d wind down by grabbing drinks and enjoying some live music at Lucky Food Lounge; the perfect way to relax after a full day of adventure.

Day 3:

To round out the trip, we’d attend a service at Elizabeth Baptist Church to start the day on a peaceful, spiritual note. For lunch, we’d head to the beautiful Garden Room for a delightful meal in an equally stunning setting. And to close the weekend in style, we’d enjoy a truly indulgent High Tea at the St. Regis, the perfect way to unwind and savor every last moment of our time together.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to take a moment to dedicate this shoutout to the members of the Dirty Shock Squad, both past and present. The incredible individuals I’ve had the privilege to coach have truly helped shape the woman I am today.

As their coach, I’ve learned the true meaning of maturity and patience, pushing myself to grow in ways I never expected. Each one of them—whether through moments of triumph or challenge—has contributed valuable feedback that has been instrumental in defining the SBR program and ultimately leading to the creation of Shock Fitness Studio Atlanta.

I can’t take credit for any of this on my own. Without each of you, there would be no me. Thank you for being a part of this journey.

Website: https://www.shockfitnessstudio.com

Instagram: shock_fitness_studio

Facebook: Shock Fitness Studio

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/shock-fitness-studio-riverdale

Image Credits
Kristina Cooper: August Lion Photography