Do you have a “me” or a “we” fitness business? Zach Colman reveals the transformative concept of building a community brand in the fitness industry. He explains that a community brand is more than just a platform—it's an evolution from a personal brand to a collective ecosystem of shared values and experiences. Coleman emphasizes that modern fitness businesses must move beyond transactional interactions, recognizing that people now crave genuine connections and meaningful experiences. By focusing on core values, communication, and creating an environment where members feel understood, fitness leaders can differentiate themselves in a competitive market. You’ll also hear from Jared Williams about the best equipment layout for your gym, as well as Hailey Rowe about a time management strategy that will help you stay organized and on track. Key highlights from the episode: How to transition from a "me" to a "we" business model. Developing a brand culture that aligns team values and member experiences. Creating an advocacy ecosystem that goes beyond traditional fitness services. Leave us a voicemail! Leave a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.   Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn CommunityMystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Zach Coleman - LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram GymMark - Website Merch Sponsor: Be a Merch Sponsor - Here In The Trenches With A REXer: Jared Williams - LinkedIn The Dynamic Fitness - Website, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook REX Roundtables - Website and Email Wise Words: Hailey’s Website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Hailey’s Podcast. Trusted Suppliers: Sarah Pellegrino - LinkedIn Wellness Space - Website Smart Health Clubs - Website Saltbox - Website Reinig Insurance - Website Club Com - Website, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok About Your Host: Justin "JT" Tamsett is a fitness industry veteran with over 30 years of experience who aims to reduce global healthcare costs by promoting physical activity. Through his company Active Management, he provides business coaching to fitness entrepreneurs, leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, and has spoken at over 40 conferences across 23 countries. His ultimate goal is to create a world of opportunity for his daughter Zoe by helping more people move and stay healthy, while empowering gym owners to build successful businesses that contribute to a healthier society Related: Community Brand Development, Fitness Business Strategy, Brand Identity for Gyms, Athletic Brand Marketing, Fitness Community Building, Gym Member Experience, Values-Based Business Leadership, Fitness Industry Branding, Community-Focused Fitness, Gym Marketing Strategies, Personal Brand Evolution, Fitness Business Ecosystem, Member Retention Techniques, Athletic Brand Communication, Fitness Community Advocacy

With a staggering 181% increase in strength equipment usage between 2012 and 2022, as reported by Track My Gym, strength training has become the hottest trend in the fitness industry. In the first episode of the new season of the Fitness Business Podcast, host Justin Tamsett explores this trend with key expert Paul Byrne, as well as explores other key strategies with industry experts Jennifer Poljacik, David Steele, and Lauren Becker. The episode covers enhancing leadership, driving innovation, and boosting profits through developing a growth mindset, creating a strong culture, investing in team members, and leveraging technology to improve the member experience.   Key highlights from the episode: - Paul Byrne discusses the strength training trend and its implications for gym businesses. This trend is driven by social media, influencers, and changing consumer preferences. - Delivering exceptional customer service is crucial for gym businesses. Key strategies include defining service standards, understanding customer needs, and going the extra mile to create raving fans.  - Modern marketing in the fitness industry requires a shift from linear CRM processes to more organic and responsive interactions. Utilizing texting, AI, and retargeting ads can automate and speed up the marketing process, focusing on convenience, reviews, and ease of membership to attract and retain customers. Leave us a voicemail!   Our favorite quotable moments: “Consider making your gym [micro] influencer friendly. You have a room in the back where you have good lighting, you have the equipment you need. They can go back there and make it a place where they like to come and shoot their content.” - Paul Byrne “Creating the best customer experience can only benefit your bottom line and increase customer retention and staff satisfaction... One of the most helpful tools that I have used with my teams over the years is a wonderful book called Raving Fans by Ken Blanchard and Sheldon Bowles.” - Jennifer Poljacik "It's time to rethink the way we think of our prospects and how they interact with us, to get them from looking at us - to membership... We need to make it better." - David Steele   Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn CommunityMystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Paul Byrne - LinkedIn Harrison Co - Website Link to Strength Training Report - Access Here Link to GLP-1 Report - Access Here Merch Sponsor: GRIT Fitness - Website Be a Merch Sponsor - Here In The Trenches With A REXer: Jennifer Poljacik - LinkedIn 212 Fitness - Website and Facebook REX Roundtables - Website and Email Wise Words: David Steele - LinkedIn Sneeze It - Website Trusted Suppliers: Club Com - Website, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok Lauren Becker - LinkedIn Wellness Space - Website Solution One - Website Egym - Website   About Your Host: Justin “JT” Tamsett is a seasoned fitness industry veteran and passionate advocate for promoting physical activity. His mission is to reduce the health care costs across the globe by having more people move and move more often.  JT’s hope is that his daughter Zoe can grow up in a world full of opportunity rather than one where governments and communities don’t have the burden of an ageing and sickening population. With over 30 years of experience, JT has owned gyms, coached fitness classes, and now specialises in business coaching for fitness entrepreneurs.  Through his company, Active Management, JT provides guidance and support to gym owners worldwide, empowering them to build successful businesses and contribute to a healthier society. He also leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, spoken at over 40 conferences in 23 countries, and consulted with gyms worldwide. JT’s commitment to improving health extends beyond his professional endeavours, as he has also dedicated himself to coaching various sports and actively participates in industry organisations. Related: weight training, beginner weight lifting, weight lifting program, strength exercises, strength training for women, strength training for seniors, strength training for women over 50, strength training for beginners, training for women, workout for women, gym workout, weight training Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

The recovery industry in fitness is experiencing rapid growth, with experts projecting it to be worth over $90 billion globally by 2027. This episode of the Fitness Business Podcast explores the rising trends in recovery, focusing on popular modalities such as cold plunge therapy and percussive therapy. The discussion highlights how recovery has evolved from being primarily for professional athletes to becoming a mainstream interest for everyday fitness enthusiasts. Factors driving this trend include increased awareness, celebrity endorsements, and a post-pandemic emphasis on overall wellness. The panelists, representing companies like Plunge (makers of cold plunge tubs) and Therabody (known for their Theragun devices), discuss the importance of incorporating recovery spaces in gyms as a member retention tool and potential revenue stream.   Key highlights from the episode: - The recovery industry is booming, with cold water therapy and percussive therapy gaining significant popularity. - Gyms are prioritizing recovery spaces to attract and retain members, as well as to create additional revenue opportunities. - Considerations for implementing recovery areas in gyms include economic models, location requirements (especially for water-based therapies), and compliance with health codes and regulations. Leave us a voicemail!   Our favorite quotable moments: "Recovery has evolved from a world for professional athletes, to a niche interest, to now a booming industry." - Justin Tamsett "People are paying attention to wellness a lot more than ever before, and I think that the main driver has been from the pandemic and post." - Asher, Therabody   Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn CommunityMystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Anthony Schreiber - LinkedIn Plunge - Website Plunge on Shark Tank - Watch Here Andrew Spellman - LinkedIn Asher Gardner - LinkedIn Therabody - Website, Instagram and LinkedIn Therabody App - Download Here Therabody Reset Locations - Here Therabody in Clubs - Here Therabody Jet Boots with Red Light Therapy - Here Recovery at Brick Bodies - Website EOS Rejuvenate - Here Barry’s Bootcamp Venice - Website Health & Fitness Association - Website   Merch Sponsor: Anytime Fitness - Website Be a Merch Sponsor - Here   In The Trenches With A REXer: Matt Remick - LinkedIn Rochester Athletic Club - Website, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram   REX Roundtables - Website and Email   Trusted Suppliers: Integrity Square - Website Eleiko - Website ABC Fitness Services - Website Budderfly - Website   About Your Host: Justin “JT” Tamsett is a seasoned fitness industry veteran and passionate advocate for promoting physical activity. His mission is to reduce the health care costs across the globe by having more people move and move more often.  JT’s hope is that his daughter Zoe can grow up in a world full of opportunity rather than one where governments and communities don’t have the burden of an ageing and sickening population. With over 30 years of experience, JT has owned gyms, coached fitness classes, and now specialises in business coaching for fitness entrepreneurs.  Through his company, Active Management, JT provides guidance and support to gym owners worldwide, empowering them to build successful businesses and contribute to a healthier society. He also leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, spoken at over 40 conferences in 23 countries, and consulted with gyms worldwide. JT’s commitment to improving health extends beyond his professional endeavours, as he has also dedicated himself to coaching various sports and actively participates in industry organisations.   Related: Cold plunge therapy, Percussive therapy, Cryotherapy benefits, Recovery tools for athletes, Wellness and recovery, Fitness recovery techniques, Cold water immersion, Therabody products, Gym recovery space design, Post-workout recovery methods, Fitness recovery solutions, Cold plunge installation for gyms, Percussive therapy equipment for fitness centers, Benefits of recovery spaces in gyms, Wellness amenities for fitness facilities, Gym member retention strategies, Designing recovery areas in fitness centers, Trends in fitness recovery services, Integrating wellness into gym offerings, Revenue generation through recovery services Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

Want to boost your fitness business's sales and communication skills? Think outside the box! Improv is no longer just a drama term; it’s a unique strategy that can help you have conversations with better results. By incorporating improv techniques into your sales and service training, you can enhance active listening, build rapport, and handle objections with confidence. By mastering the art of "Yes, And," your team will become more adaptable, creative, and effective in every interaction. Key Takeaways: Enhance Active Listening: Improv teaches you how to listen to your clients and members, understanding their needs and concerns. This leads to more meaningful conversations and stronger relationships. Build Rapport and Trust: By practising improv, your team will develop the ability to connect with people on a deeper level, building trust and rapport. This is essential for closing sales and retaining members. Handle Objections with Confidence: Improv empowers you to think on your feet and respond to challenges with creativity and flexibility. This will help your team overcome objections and find solutions that satisfy both parties. Leave us a voicemail!   Our favourite quotable moments: “‘Yes, and’ is the one rule. And when you do that one rule, you say yes and you get all the benefits.” - Mary DeMichele “‘Yes, and”… those two words gain access to the brain, and it balances our nervous system. And when you balance the nervous system, you bring the brain online and you get all those benefits.” - Eric Tepper “Whether we’re saying it out loud or we’re doing it in another nonverbal way, that ‘yes’ creates enough safety to help our brain turn back on.” - Mary DeMichele   Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn CommunityMystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Eric Tepper - LinkedIn Selling Wellness - Website, Facebook and Instagram Mary De Michele - LinkedIn One Rule Improv - Website, Facebook and Instagram   Wise Words Guest: Chris Stevenson - LinkedIn Marisa Hoff - LinkedIn The Empower Group - Website   In The Trenches With A REXer: Shania Parker - LinkedIn Peak Health & Wellness Center - Website   Merch Sponsor: Physiq Fitness - Website, Facebook and Instagram   REX Trusted Suppliers: Max Members - Website Les Mills - Website EVOLT 360 - Website American Barbell - Website   REX Roundtables - Website and Email   About Your Host: Justin “JT” Tamsett is a seasoned fitness industry veteran and passionate advocate for promoting physical activity. His mission is to reduce the health care costs across the globe by having more people move and move more often.  JT’s hope is that his daughter Zoe can grow up in a world full of opportunity rather than one where governments and communities don’t have the burden of an ageing and sickening population. With over 30 years of experience, JT has owned gyms, coached fitness classes, and now specialises in business coaching for fitness entrepreneurs.  Through his company, Active Management, JT provides guidance and support to gym owners worldwide, empowering them to build successful businesses and contribute to a healthier society. He also leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, spoken at over 40 conferences in 23 countries, and consulted with gyms worldwide. JT’s commitment to improving health extends beyond his professional endeavours, as he has also dedicated himself to coaching various sports and actively participates in industry organisations. Related: Improv for sales, improv for customer service, improv techniques for fitness professionals, improv for fitness business training, how to improve communication skills in fitness, sales technique for fitness, customer service tips for fitness, leadership skills for fitness managers, build rapport with clients, overcome objections in sales Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

Join Brian Weaver, a fitness leadership coach, Clint Argonha, AI sales expert, and Jason Jaquais-Tarbox, marketing strategist, as they explore how AI is revolutionizing the fitness industry. They discuss practical AI tools like ChatGPT for automating tasks and personalizing client experiences. The trio dives into the importance of embracing AI to enhance operational efficiency and drive profits. They also unpack common misconceptions about AI and underscore the ongoing value of personal trainers in a tech-driven world.

Are you looking for a unique and effective way to market your gym, attract new members and retain members and staff? Podcasting is the answer. In this episode, we chat with podcast producer Jamie Kennedy, exploring how gyms can leverage podcasts to build community, increase member and staff retention, and position themselves as thought leaders in the fitness industry. Key Takeaways: - Podcasting is a powerful storytelling tool. Use it to share your gym's story, highlight member success stories, and provide valuable fitness tips and advice. - Podcasting can improve member retention. By providing valuable content and fostering a sense of belonging, podcasts can help keep members engaged and motivated. - Podcasting can position your gym as a thought leader. By sharing expert insights and industry knowledge, you can establish your gym as a go-to resource for fitness information. Podcasting can be a valuable tool for gym leaders who want to increase their visibility, build community, and attract new members. Listen to this episode to create a successful podcast that will help your gym stand out from the competition. Our favourite quotable moments: "Storytelling is an incredible way to sell your offering, your product, your service." - Jamie Kennedy "Podcasts can be a great tool for the top of the marketing funnel (building awareness)." - Jamie Kennedy "Your job is to create a podcast that is helping solve your target audience's biggest struggles." - Jamie Kennedy If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Resources: Fitness Business Podcast’s LinkedIn CommunityMystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Jamie Kennedy - LinkedIn Brave Moon Podcasts - Website Resources: Free podcast launch guide for leaders in health & fitness - Download today. Podcastle - Podcast recording and transcription platform option 1. First 3 hours are free. Riverside - Podcast recording and transcription platform option 2. Acast - Podcast hosting platform option 1. Libsyn - Podcast hosting platform option 2. Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller Stories that Stick by Kindra Hall Wise Words Guest: Dr Paul Bedford - Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube In The Trenches With A REXer: Troy Morgan - Website and LinkedIn Willows Gym - Website  Sponsor’s Pitch: MXMetrics - Website and LinkedIn Jason Abucejo - LinkedIn REX Trusted Suppliers: ROR Partners - Website Precor - Website Performance Foods - Website REX Roundtables - Website and Email About Your Host: Justin “JT” Tamsett is a seasoned fitness industry veteran and passionate advocate for promoting physical activity. His mission is to reduce the health care costs across the globe by having more people move and move more often.  JT’s hope is that his daughter Zoe can grow up in a world full of opportunity rather than one where governments and communities don’t have the burden of an ageing and sickening population. With over 30 years of experience, JT has owned gyms, coached fitness classes, and now specialises in business coaching for fitness entrepreneurs.  Through his company, Active Management, JT provides guidance and support to gym owners worldwide, empowering them to build successful businesses and contribute to a healthier society. He also leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, spoken at over 40 conferences in 23 countries, and consulted with gyms worldwide. JT’s commitment to improving health extends beyond his professional endeavours, as he has also dedicated himself to coaching various sports and actively participates in industry organisations. Related: start a podcast, start a podcast business, fitness business marketing strategies, podcast marketing strategy, podcast marketing trends, podcast marketing online, podcast marketing tips, fitness business ideas, fitness business growth, member retention Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

Barrie Elvish, CEO of AusActive, and Richard Beddie, CEO of Exercise New Zealand, discuss the importance of lobbying for the fitness industry's role in preventive healthcare. Lindsay Vastola, founder of Vast Potential, highlights how emotional intelligence can significantly enhance workplace performance and talent retention. Dana Milkie from eGym North America introduces the benefits of AI in marketing and efficiency for fitness businesses. Together, they stress the importance of industry associations in shaping policy and community engagement for healthier lifestyles.

Fitness Business Podcast is back! Version 3.0 kicks off with an episode to knock your (gym) socks off. Are you struggling to increase your fitness business's bottom line? This episode of the Fitness Business Podcast reveals five proven strategies that can help you boost profits and take your business to the next level. Key Takeaways: - Maximize lead generation and boost retention. Discover how to audit your sales system and capture more leads to increase revenue, as well as learn effective strategies to keep members engaged and extend their memberships, resulting in higher profitability. - Motivate your team. Uncover how to create a positive and supportive work environment that inspires your staff to deliver exceptional service. - Optimize your gym’s finances. Learn how to pay yourself a fair salary and save excess cash in high-yield accounts to build wealth. Listen now to discover actionable steps you can implement today to drive growth and success in your fitness business. Our favourite quotable moments: “If you want a line of people wanting to work for you, including those who already do, then start caring about your team as humans first and team members second.” - Justin Tamsett "To fully understand perceived value, you must see your entire business through the eyes of your customer." - Justin Tamsett "[Digital signage] becomes an additional communication tool that could help increase revenue and reduce costs." - Taylor Watkins "What we leave behind is not set in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others." - FBP Community Signoff If you’re loving the podcast, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Resources: Continue the conversation in our LinkedIn Community. Keepme.ai - Website Mystery Shopping for Fitness Businesses - Website Profit First book - Amazon Episode 24 with Mike Michalowicz Dr Paul Bedford - LinkedIn Mike Michalowicz - Website Wise Words Guest: Alan Leach - LinkedIn Sponsor’s Pitch: Digital Revenue Systems - Website REX Trusted Suppliers: Wellness Spaces - Website Solutions One - Website Egym - Website REX Roundtables - Website and Email About Your Host: Justin “JT” Tamsett is a seasoned fitness industry veteran and passionate advocate for promoting physical activity. His mission is to reduce the health care costs across the globe by having more people move and move more often.  JT’s hope is that his daughter Zoe can grow up in a world full of opportunity rather than one where governments and communities don’t have the burden of an ageing and sickening population. With over 30 years of experience, JT has owned gyms, coached fitness classes, and now specialises in business coaching for fitness entrepreneurs.  Through his company, Active Management, JT provides guidance and support to gym owners worldwide, empowering them to build successful businesses and contribute to a healthier society. He also leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, spoken at over 40 conferences in 23 countries, and consulted with gyms worldwide. JT’s commitment to improving health extends beyond his professional endeavours, as he has also dedicated himself to coaching various sports and actively participates in industry organisations. Related keywords: Fitness Business Lead Generation Strategies, Increase Retention Rate at Fitness Clubs, Staff Training for Fitness Sales, Referral Programs for Fitness Gyms, High-Yield Savings Accounts for Business, Fitness Business Staff Motivation Techniques, Gym Owner Salary Optimization, Digital Signage Solutions for Fitness Clubs, Fitness Industry Government Lobbying Please note: We only recommend products we care about (affiliate links support our free content). Thank you for your support!

Are you a gym owner or manager looking to improve conversions from prospects to members, member satisfaction, employee retention, innovation and profitability? Many fitness podcasts focus solely on lead generation, but we believe the real key to long-term success lies in effective leadership and reducing churn of both staff and members. Host Justin "JT" Tamsett, a leader in the global fitness and wellness culture, brings you actionable advice from multiple industry experts in each episode. With over 1 million downloads, this podcast offers brilliant strategies to overcome challenges in the fitness industry today. Whether you run a big-box gym or boutique studio, this podcast is your lifeline to hands-on experience. Educate yourself today on how to hit record sales numbers, boost member retention, build a high-performing team, and skyrocket your revenue through strong leadership. Listen and subscribe now! Join our email list. Join the Fitness Business Podcast community. Q: Is this podcast right for me?A: The podcast is for independent, chain and franchise owners, managers and department managers ready to be the best: Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, Equinox, Anytime Fitness, PureGym, David Lloyd Leisure, Virgin Active, Snap Fitness, Crunch Fitness, F45, Pure Barre, Barry's Bootcamp, SoulCycle, Psycle, The Movement Nation, and much more. Q: How often are new episodes released? A: New episodes drop twice a month, delivering valuable education to help you grow your fitness business. Q: What can I expect to learn from the show this season? A: Expect to learn about building strong communities, boosting member retention, creating a better employee experience, and navigating the future of fitness. Q: Who are your sponsors? A: This show is supported by REX Roundtables and Active Management. About Your Host: Justin “JT” Tamsett is a seasoned fitness industry veteran and passionate advocate for promoting physical activity. His mission is to reduce the health care costs across the globe by having more people move and move more often.  JT’s hope is that his daughter Zoe can grow up in a world full of opportunity rather than one where governments and communities don’t have the burden of an ageing and sickening population. With over 30 years of experience, JT has owned gyms, coached fitness classes, and now specialises in business coaching for fitness entrepreneurs.  Through his company, Active Management, JT provides guidance and support to gym owners worldwide, empowering them to build successful businesses and contribute to a healthier society. He also leads 8 REX Roundtables in the US and Australia, spoken at over 40 conferences in 23 countries, and consulted with gyms worldwide. JT’s commitment to improving health extends beyond his professional endeavours, as he has also dedicated himself to coaching various sports and actively participates in industry organisations.

The Fitness Business Podcast is ending after 8 years and 527 shows, but we are leaving you with a thought-provoking episode.  There is no easy business, and the fitness business certainly can present its challenges. But fortunately, our industry is filled with industry leaders willing to share their knowledge and advice. Today's episode is filled with exactly that.   Our guest is JT Tamsett, a business expert with extensive experience in the fitness industry. JT's work with Rex Roundtables and Active Management makes him the perfect person to share his knowledge and advice on the challenges of running a fitness business. Learn the difference between a blue ocean and a red ocean in the marketplace, highlighting the importance of finding unique opportunities. JT also defines the difference between trends and fads, emphasizing the significance of long-lasting styles and habits. He emphasizes the importance of strategy and planning, explaining how they support each other in achieving business goals. Lastly, JT discusses the misconception that quitting or ending a project is a sign of failure, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when to move on and focus energy elsewhere. We hope you enjoy!  Show Notes: https://fitnessbusinesspodcast.com/527 The Fitness Business Podcast has been a beacon of education and inspiration for fitness business owners around the world. It has provided a platform for industry experts to share their knowledge and insights, helping listeners improve their businesses and achieve their goals. While the podcast may be taking a pause for now, the impact it has made will continue to resonate within the fitness industry. As we look to the future, we can expect new opportunities and ventures from the hosts of the Fitness Business podcast. Their expertise and passion for the industry will undoubtedly lead to new ventures that will continue to shape the fitness business landscape. In the words of JT Tamsett, "You never say never." So, while this may be the end of the Fitness Business podcast for now, who knows what the future holds? - Dori Nugent, Weekly Host