SISU Fit Owners’ Vision: Stronger, Healthier Sioux Falls

Dec. 4, 2025

This blog post is brought to you by First National Wealth Management.

Imagine walking into a gym and spotting a cute guy at the front desk. You decide to get a job there, and before you know it, you’re married to the guy, and you’re both running a successful gym business together. This is the story of Annie and Chris Mello, founders of SISU Fit, a popular fitness center in Sioux Falls.

The Birth of a Fitness Dream

Having met at a gym, the idea of launching their fitness center was a natural step for Annie and Chris. Their gym, SISU Fit, has now become a health and wellness hub in Sioux Falls, offering quality services to its growing community since its establishment in the fall of 2024.

Recently, the couple made an appearance on a local podcast named “Common Cents on the Prairie,” hosted by First National Wealth Management, where they shared their inspirational journey and mission to contribute to making Sioux Falls the healthiest city per capita.

The Journey to SISU Fit

Annie and Chris knew from early in their marriage that they were destined to open their own gym. The desire to help others improve their health instead of their wealth led them to make a brave decision – to move to Sioux Falls, known for its support of small businesses and a strong medical community. With their commitment and determination, they established their first gym in 2008, which evolved into SISU Fit.

SISU Fit: A Unique Approach to Fitness

SISU Fit, a boutique health and wellness center, targets working professionals and offers an innovative model reflective of gyms found in larger cities. With the mission of improving the lifestyles of Sioux Falls residents, SISU Fit proves to be a haven for those seeking to prioritize their health amidst their stressful lives.

The Mellos partnered with the developers of Cherapa Place to bring SISU Fit’s concept to downtown, with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle in Sioux Falls. The gym’s name, SISU, a Finnish word meaning perseverance, resilience and determination, reflects the philosophy the Mellos apply to their entrepreneurial journey.

For more about the Mellos’ unique journey, watch the full episode of “Common Cents on the Prairie.” Interested in improving your financial health? Reach out to the experts at First National Wealth Management for guidance.

Note: The strategies discussed in this blog post are general in nature and may not apply to your specific situation. Please consult with your attorney, CPA, and/or your financial advisor before making any decisions.