A 27-year-old entrepreneur has transformed a personal quest for community into a thriving New York City-based social fitness enterprise, Peak and Pace. What began as a free run club in 2024, founded by Akhibi while he was working in algorithmic trading sales at J.P. Morgan, has evolved into a significant revenue-generating business. The company’s larger-scale events, typically ticketed at $15 to $25, brought in over $640,000 in revenue in 2025, primarily through these organized parties.

Akhibi’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. A meticulously planned 5K run and after-party on Governor’s Island faced a last-minute crisis when the contracted ferry boat broke down, stranding essential supplies, including 30 port-a-potties, on Wall Street. Despite the logistical nightmare and the need to potentially refund 2,000 attendees, Akhibi and his team secured an alternative boat, ensuring the event’s supplies arrived just as the first guests were arriving. The successful execution of the event, marked by members celebrating each other’s achievements, underscored the value of the community he was building.

Recognizing the widespread appeal of social groups, especially among Gen Z adults relocating to new cities, Akhibi founded Peak and Pace to foster connections beyond traditional nightlife. The club, which now also organizes hiking and ski trips, has seen its participation grow significantly, with over 30,000 people attending events in 2025. This rapid expansion led Akhibi to delegate more responsibilities, hiring a team of nine contractors to manage events independently. Akhibi, who now works full-time as head of partnerships at AI robotics lab Grounded Superintelligence in San Francisco, oversees the operation with monthly visits to New York and is seeking a new head of operations.

Despite the demanding schedule of managing a full-time job and a rapidly growing side hustle, Akhibi views the experience as invaluable. The lessons learned in event management and dealing with diverse groups have not only strengthened his entrepreneurial skills but also enhanced his ability to build community and foster understanding in new environments. The company maintains a 15% profit margin, with profits reinvested into the business rather than taken as a salary by the founder.

Key Takeaways

• Peak and Pace, a social fitness group founded by Akhibi, generated over $640,000 in revenue in 2025 through ticketed events.
• The business overcame significant logistical challenges, such as a boat breakdown, to successfully host large-scale events.
• Akhibi has transitioned the operational management of the club to a team of contractors, allowing him to focus on his full-time role and personal growth.

Editor’s Analysis & Impact

The success of Peak and Pace highlights a growing trend of individuals seeking community and social connection through shared activities, particularly in urban environments. Akhibi’s venture taps into the desire for authentic social interaction beyond digital platforms, demonstrating a viable business model for community-focused enterprises. The company’s impressive revenue growth, despite operating with a 15% profit margin and reinvesting profits, suggests strong demand and efficient operations. As more people, especially younger generations, navigate new cities and seek belonging, businesses like Peak and Pace are well-positioned for continued expansion, potentially influencing the future of social networking and recreational businesses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How did Peak and Pace start?
A: Peak and Pace was founded in July 2024 by Akhibi as a free run club in New York City. He started it as a way to build community for himself and others after moving to the city from London, seeking social connections beyond nightlife.

Q: What is the primary source of revenue for Peak and Pace?
A: The primary source of revenue for Peak and Pace comes from ticket sales for its larger-scale organized parties and events. These events typically cost between $15 and $25 per participant.

Q: How is Peak and Pace managed now?
A: Akhibi has transitioned the day-to-day management of Peak and Pace to a team of nine contractors. He remains involved through monthly visits to New York and is looking to hire a head of operations to oversee the club's activities independently.