Ep.36 - Emma Barry, Founder of a fitness juggernaut

A founding member of Les Mills International, self-titled observer and catalyst, Emma Barry is known for delivering fitness magic both in terms of workout delivery with icons such as Equinox and also through business advice and knowledge shares. Since the birth and growth of high intensity workouts, she’s travelled the world to teach, learn and love life.

Watch the full episode on YouTube – https://youtu.be/OYHP4xNYGU4

Born in London and brought up in New Zealand before moving abroad yet again, Emma is no stranger to the fitness industry on any continent.

She began teaching and personal training as a student, before joining the industry professionally in the early ’90s during the original days of step and circuit training popularity. Changing the history of fitness, she was part of launching Les Mills International and helped lead the exercise giant on its growth journey through the rise of pre-choreographed classes such as Pump, which later became Bodypump.

After weighing up the pros and cons of the decision, Emma decided to move to America and joined Equinox as director of group fitness programming, and she’s continued to influence, inspire, educate and inform ever since.

Today, in California, Emma spends her time speaking at conferences and fitness shows, taking on research and learning around the world, contributing to publications and forums, as well as mentoring and helping people clarify what they’re doing or getting clear on project goals and putting energy behind them.

Her clients range from boutique spaces in value markets and high end, to equipment manufacturers and anyone looking for feedback on the pros or cons of a particular product in group exercise. With over two decades in fitness, her invaluable levels of knowledge and market history can benefit any interest with a depth that few people can match.

 

Episode Highlights - 

• Hear why gender representation isn’t coming into the fitness industry yet when it comes to the standard models of conventions and promotion.
• Learn about what lifestyling means in fitness and how the influence of different market sectors affect trends, actions, opportunities and offerings.
• The origins of Les Mills, and what brought the popularity of the company’s programming at the perfect time for serious growth and longevity.
• How you can get clients and members to think like your brand, and why it’s important to integrate your brand’s values with lifestyles and mindspace.

 

Join Matthew Januszek in conversation with Emma Barry…