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Saurabh Aggarwal
Building Healthify, Co founder, Fitso, Hybrid Athlete, 3xIronman finisher, Kite Surfer, Mountaineer
Professional Background
Saurabh Aggarwal is a dynamic entrepreneur and angel investor with a passion for sports and adventure, who has made impressive strides in the startup ecosystem, particularly in the field of sports and fitness. He embarked on his professional career in 2011 after graduating from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IITD) with a Bachelor of Technology degree in Chemical Engineering. Saurabh's journey began with Flipkart, where he held the position of Business Development Manager. His time at Flipkart, though brief at just nine months, provided him with valuable insights into the e-commerce landscape and equipped him with the necessary skills to navigate the entrepreneurial world.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
In 2015, Saurabh took a bold leap of faith, leaving his corporate job to pursue his passion for sports, traveling to the Himalayas to learn and master various adventure sports, including paragliding and mountaineering. His love for sport didn't stop there; Saurabh went on to train for a Triathlon, ultimately becoming an Ironman competitor in Sweden in 2014. This unwavering dedication to physical fitness and personal ambition was a pivotal time in Saurabh's life, reinforcing his commitment towards sports.
Alongside two of his IITD classmates, Saurabh co-founded Fitso, a venture that would go on to redefine sports and athletic training in India. Launched in August 2015, Fitso helps individuals from different backgrounds learn to swim and engage in various sports, thus addressing a significant gap in the Indian sports industry. The company's success was met with challenges, including the complexities of scaling within a competitive landscape but Saurabh remained undeterred, guiding Fitso through its development. Under his leadership, Fitso not only became a leader in sports education but also positively impacted thousands of people's lives by promoting healthier lifestyles through sports.
In 2021, Fitso caught the attention of major players in the fitness and health sector, leading to its acquisition first by Zomato, and subsequently by Curefit. The partnership with these high-profile companies illustrates the importance of Fitso's mission and sets the stage for further growth in the sports education sector.
Following this successful exit, Saurabh continued his exploration of new sports, including kitesurfing and skydiving, while also stepping into the world of angel investing to support promising startups that share his vision for innovation and advancement in sports and lifestyle.
Education and Achievements
Saurabh's educational background has played a critical role in shaping his entrepreneurial journey. He earned his B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from IITD, a highly regarded technical institution in India that is known for producing some of the country's top engineers and entrepreneurs. His time at IITD not only provided him with technical skills but also exposed him to like-minded peers, igniting his entrepreneurial spirit.
In addition to his undergraduate degree, Saurabh sought to deepen his expertise in sports by obtaining an Ironman Coach Certification from Ironman University, affirming his dedication to both athletic performance and coaching. This certification has equipped him with the tools to guide others in achieving their fitness goals, further solidifying his role as a thought leader in the sports community.
Saurabh's formative years were spent at esteemed institutions like St. John's School and Modern Vidya Niketan in Faridabad, where he exhibited academic excellence and developed leadership qualities, which would become instrumental in his later pursuits.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his ambitious career, Saurabh has achieved numerous milestones, many of which showcase both his entrepreneurial acumen and his commitment to personal fitness. His journey to becoming an Ironman competitor is a testament to his resilience and determination. Climbing Mt. Everest from the Tibetan side in 2015 is another one of Saurabh's notable accomplishments, marking his adventurous spirit and thirst for new challenges.
As a co-founder of Fitso, Saurabh has directly influenced the lives of countless individuals seeking to improve their sports skills, particularly in swimming. The acquisition of Fitso positioned him as a key player in the fitness and sports education landscape in India, highlighting the demand for innovative sports models in a growing market.
In the realm of investments, Saurabh's focus on angel investing reflects his commitment to fostering innovation and supporting emerging talent in the sports and wellness industries. His insights and experiences are valuable assets to any startup looking to make a mark.
Achievements
Skills and Interests
Saurabh's skills extend beyond sports and entrepreneurship. His background in technology and business management enables him to navigate the evolving landscape of startups successfully while leveraging data analytics and market trends for strategic decision-making. His interests also encompass adventure sports, which continue to drive him to new heights both personally and professionally.