Max Muscle in South Hill, Puyallup, isn't your generic supplement store. For one thing, owners Ann'e and Josh Waisanen require that all employees be certified sports and/or nutrition specialists.

Whether it's from the National Exercise & Sports Trainers Association (NESTA), the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), or the American Dietetic Association (ADA), employees should be subject matter experts. Furthermore, employees must try products before recommending them to clients.

These requirements ensure that staff provides sound nutritional advice about products, alternatives and side effects, so clients can make informed choices.

 "We care about our customers and corporate does, too," said Ann'e, referring to Max Muscle's franchise headquarters. "We don't sell banned substances, and we wouldn't sell stuff just because it's popular. Products have to be safe, tested, and have a good track record to end up on our shelves." 

An Army Special Forces staff sergeant, Josh and wife Ann'e invested in the franchise last year and in May opened Max Muscle. "We hope to open two more stores in Tacoma and Federal Way over the next two summers," said Ann'e. "The store is our exit strategy once Josh transitions out of the Army."

The Waisanens' picked Max Muscle because of the franchise's high quality assurance standards, and because it carefully screens applicants to ensure the brand retains its integrity and ethics. The franchise also provides hands-on support every step of the way, from training, business plan development, setup and weekly meetings. "It was a lot of work, but they made it simple," she said. "It was a great way to start a new business because we relied on their years of experience and didn't recreate the wheel."

The biggest problem for Ann'e is letting go and taking a day off. She works long hours, does her own payroll, manages staff, and is constantly searching for creative ways to set the store apart from the competition.

Max Muscle South Hill offers personalized nutrition plans, which include customized meal-plans, shopping lists, diet and nutrition supplements, exercise plans, and ongoing in-store support. It also hosts Ladies Night once a month, with discussions about topics concerning women along with cookies and health-based recipes. Max Muscle also offers 15-percent military discounts.

"We want to be known as the place to go for all your health needs," said Ann'e.

For more information, visit www.southhill.maxmuscle.com or call (253) 229-4735.

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