Trainer Built $191M Brand Making Activewear She Couldn't Find

Entrepreneur

by Jon Bier

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Krissy Cela, co-founder of Oner Active, turned her personal frustration with activewear into a multimillion-dollar business. Fed up with costly, ill-fitting workout clothes that didn’t meet her needs for color, performance, or style, she launched Oner Active in 2020 after building a loyal community of 1.5 million followers. The brand quickly gained traction, achieving $191 million in revenue last year, and now sells one piece every nine seconds. Cela’s success lies in her ability to offer high-quality, affordable activewear that bridges the gap between performance and fashion, directly challenging established brands like Lululemon and Alo. Despite her achievements, Cela faces ongoing challenges, including resistance from potential business partners and biases against female founders who discuss their success openly. She attributes her perseverance to maintaining momentum and building a strong team, including CEO Zach Duane, who has been instrumental in scaling the brand. Oner Active’s viral Soft Motion fabric and commitment to fair pricing have resonated with consumers, filling a void in the market for activewear that is both stylish and accessible. Cela’s journey from immigrating to the UK as a child to becoming a successful entrepreneur highlights her resilience and determination. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to one’s vision, even when faced with rejection or doubt. Her story inspires aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women, by proving that it’s possible to disrupt established industries with innovation and authenticity. For those interested in startups, Cela’s approach offers valuable lessons: identifying a clear market need, building a strong team, and maintaining unwavering focus despite obstacles. Her blunt honesty and willingness to challenge industry norms make Oner Active a standout player in the competitive world of activewear, proving that success is achievable even when taking on giants like Lululemon and Alo. In an era where startups often struggle to gain traction, Cela’s story serves as a testament to the power of solving real problems for consumers. Her ability to combine creativity with business acumen has not only created a thriving brand but also established her as a leader in the activewear industry, redefining what it means to be a female founder in a male-dominated space.

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Originally published on Entrepreneur on 2/26/2026