Many people struggle to find workout routines that are fun and exciting. Traditional workouts like lifting weights or running on a treadmill can feel boring. They might not keep people motivated to exercise regularly. For those who want to stay fit but also try something fun and different, it can be hard to find the right solution.
Mike Hartwick and Sarah Ponn recognized this problem and decided to create a fitness product inspired by surfing. They invented the RipSurfer X, a workout board that mimics the feeling of being on a surfboard in the water. This product combines balance, core strength, and fun into a unique exercise experience.
Mike and Sarah showcased their business, Surfset Fitness, on Shark Tank Season 4, where they asked the Sharks for a deal to grow their company. The entrepreneurs requested $150,000 for 10% equity. Did the entrepreneur get a deal on Shark Tank? Check out our Surfset Fitness update to find out!
Surfset Fitness Net Worth Shark Tank Update 2025
Sarah Ponn and Mike Hartwick went on Shark Tank asking for $150,000 for 10% of their company. This meant they thought their business was worth $1,500,000. They made a deal with Mark Cuban for $300,000 for 30%, lowering the valuation to $1,000,000. The episode was aired on September 28, 2012. The company continues to operate on a small scale with surf-inspired fitness training. Using the default 10% yearly growth method, the current net worth of Surfset Fitness is estimated to be around $1.5 million in 2025.
As for Surfset Fitness update, the company saw massive growth after appearing on Shark Tank. They partnered with several big brands, including Under Armour, Garnier Fructis, and Qdoba Mexican Grill. These partnerships helped promote their product and brought in new customers.
Surfset Fitness expanded its reach with certified trainers and group classes in over 30 cities across the United States. Their RipSurfer X board became a popular choice for gyms and personal trainers looking for creative workout tools.
Mike Hartwick, one of the co-founders, left the company in 2021 to pursue other projects, but the company is still in business and thriving. Their website continues to sell the RipSurfer X, along with information about fitness programs.
Yes, Surfset Fitness got a deal on Shark Tank. They entered the Tank asking for $150,000 for 7% equity in their company. After several offers and counteroffers, they finally accepted a deal with Mark Cuban. He offered $300,000 for 30% equity.
| Shark(s) name | Offer & Demand | Counteroffer | Accepted? |
| Robert Herjavec | $150,000 for 20% equity | N/A | No |
| Barbara Corcoran | Out | N/A | N/A |
| Kevin O’Leary | Partnered with Daymond | N/A | No |
| Daymond John | $150,000 for 25% equity + manufacturing | N/A | No |
| Mark Cuban | 1# $300,000 for 33% equity 2# $300,000 for 30% equity | Yes |
Surfset Fitness Shark Tank pitch
Mike Hartwick and Sarah Ponn came from very different backgrounds. Mike was a professional hockey player who loved surfing during his free time. Sarah was a fitness professional who wanted to create new ways to make exercise exciting.
Mike’s love for surfing gave him the idea for Surfset Fitness. He realized that surfing was not just fun but also a great workout. Balancing on a surfboard works your core muscles, improves strength, and burns calories. Mike and Sarah teamed up to create the RipSurfer X. Their goal was to bring the benefits of surfing into gyms and homes without needing access to the ocean.
In the early stages, they faced challenges with product design and funding. Developing a product that could safely mimic a surfboard’s instability wasn’t easy. They also had to work hard to convince people to try something so different. But their persistence paid off, and they brought Surfset Fitness to life.
Mike and Sarah walked into the Shark Tank with a clear and energetic presentation. They introduced themselves and their product, the RipSurfer X. The board was designed to look and feel like a surfboard on water, using springs and stabilizers to mimic the instability of real waves.
During the pitch, they explained how their product offers a total body workout by targeting core muscles, improving balance, and increasing flexibility. They shared that Surfset Fitness had already been featured on shows like Good Morning America and Access Hollywood. These appearances helped boost their sales to $150,000 in just four months.
To demonstrate the product’s fun and challenging nature, they invited Robert Herjavec to try the RipSurfer X. He enjoyed the experience and praised its uniqueness. Mike and Sarah explained that they had also received 200 inquiries about franchising, showing that their product had a lot of potential to grow.
Each Shark had questions about the product, its potential, and the business model.
Robert Herjavec asked if the product needed endorsements from professional athletes. Mike and Sarah believed that while endorsements could help, the product’s uniqueness was enough to attract customers.
Daymond John wanted to know more about the $1.5 million valuation. Mike explained that it was based on the high number of franchise inquiries they had received.
Barbara Corcoran questioned how the product could stand out in a competitive fitness market. Mike and Sarah emphasized the fun and unique aspect of their surf-inspired workouts.
Each Shark reacted differently to Surfset Fitness:
Mark Cuban loved the product and its potential to change how people work out. He made the first offer of $300,000 for 33% equity. He believed marketing and demonstrations would be key to promoting the product.
Robert Herjavec offered $150,000 for 20% equity. He disagreed with Mark about needing endorsements and thought the product could succeed on its own merits.
Daymond John offered $150,000 for 25% equity. He also said he would cover all manufacturing costs.
Barbara Corcoran wanted to join Mark’s deal, but he declined.
Kevin O’Leary partnered with Daymond but ultimately did not win the deal.
After a tense negotiation, Mike and Sarah accepted Mark Cuban’s revised offer of $300,000 for 30% equity.
Product Availability
From our Surfset Fitness update research, the RipSurfer X and related fitness programs are still available. Customers can purchase the product directly from the company’s website. The board is designed for personal use and group fitness classes.
Surfset Fitness has also expanded its offerings with certified trainers and group classes in gyms nationwide. Prices vary depending on the program, but the product remains a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts who want a unique workout experience.
Conclusion
Surfset Fitness brought an exciting new idea to the Shark Tank, blending fun, fitness, and surfing. The RipSurfer X captured the Sharks’ attention and secured a deal with Mark Cuban. Since then, the company has grown significantly, partnering with major brands and offering group classes across the country.
Even though one founder left the company, Surfset Fitness continues to thrive. It shows that with determination and a unique idea, entrepreneurs can overcome challenges and achieve success. We’ll keep you updated on their journey as they explore new opportunities and expansions!
Hey, I’m Amna Habib an undergraduate student of Bachelors in Business Administration. Shark Tank is one of my favorite TV shows of all time. The show provides a fascinating insight into the world of entrepreneurship by presenting creative solutions to common problems, which strongly connects to my academic interests. I’m interested in learning more about the strategic thinking and creativity that lead these companies as each pitch provides insightful information. I’ve found that watching Shark Tank has inspired my enthusiasm for business and entrepreneurship and has been a very enlightening and motivating experience. Apart from business and writing, I love food, shopping, and hanging out with friends and family. Read more About me.
