Finding a fitness routine that feels both effective and enjoyable can be tough. At Body Fit Training Overland Park, members discover a place where great workouts and genuine community come together. Owners Stephen and Wendy Summerlin opened the studio in May 2024 after spending 25 years raising their family in Overland Park. With their kids grown, they wanted to create something meaningful in the next chapter of their lives. That search led them to Body Fit Training, or BFT, a global strength-centered brand backed by Xponential Fitness.
What stood out to them was BFT’s combination of smart programming, expert coaching, and a friendly, supportive atmosphere. They brought the first location to Kansas City, choosing the Prairiefire area as home. In just 18 months, the studio has grown into a strong, diverse fitness community, welcoming members from their 20s to their 70s.
At the heart of the studio is General Manager Eric Chen, who brings extensive experience to the floor.
"I have been in fitness for over 10+ years and over 5+ in boutique fitness. BFT is the first boutique fitness gym that incorporates strength and conditioning with the emphasis on strength training. The movement patterns, the prescribed intensities and the heart rate monitor technology to work in the desired heart rate responses truly allows each individual who is experienced or inexperienced in strength training the opportunity to continuously see results. Led by 2 or 3 personal trainers in each session, you truly get the value of a personal trainer in your corner for a fraction of the cost of a one on one.”
BFT’s approach is structured and science-backed. Each week is built around “The Power of 3,” meaning members train different muscle fiber types, move through all three planes of motion, and work all three energy systems. This creates balanced, full-body progress without the guesswork. Programming is organized into eight and ten week training blocks that build strength and improve performance over time.
The studio offers 13 class types that blend strength, conditioning, cardio, and mobility. Workouts change daily to stay fresh, yet flow together within a larger plan. Weekday sessions run 50 minutes, while Saturday sessions last 60 minutes, all including warmups and cooldowns so members can train effectively and safely.
Stephen and Wendy are especially proud of the team they’ve assembled. Their energetic coaches are knowledgeable and deeply invested in helping members feel confident. They create a welcoming environment for people of all fitness levels, whether they’re brand new to strength training or experienced athletes.
According to Eric, the community that’s developed is just as important as the workouts themselves.
"The community here is another aspect that truly makes the difference in our facility. Friendships are continuously being formed along with results members are currently still experiencing! Results can come in many different wins, such as strength gains, muscle gain, fat loss, clothes sizes fitting differently, or overall improved conditioning. BFT is scientifically backed and proven to work with an awesome community that encourages and invites a friendly culture to anyone and everyone."
Strength training remains a major focus at BFT for its long list of proven benefits, from increased bone density and improved mobility to better metabolic health and overall confidence. Many members report feeling stronger and more capable in daily life after joining.
For newcomers, BFT offers a variety of membership options, class packs, and trial periods that make it easy to get started. They also host an 8-Week Challenge several times a year that includes body composition scans, nutrition guidance, and structured coaching support for those seeking clear goals and accountability.
Looking back at their first year and a half, Stephen and Wendy say the people are what make BFT special. Between a dedicated coaching team and a community that shows up for one another, the studio has become a place where individuals feel supported every step of the way.
Body Fit Training is located at 6285 West 135th Street in Overland Park. For more information, visit bodyfittraining.com.
Article by Allison Swan
Photography by Janie Jones
Originally published in Johnson County City Lifestyle