Future of Fitness

In this episode, Eric Malzone welcomes Julian Barnes, co-founder and CEO of BFS Network, for an insightful discussion on the state of the boutique fitness industry. Drawing from BFS's latest annual report, Julian shares data-driven strategies that gym owners can use to improve profitability, streamline operations, and build sustainable businesses. The conversation covers everything from fundamental KPIs to surprising trends that challenge conventional wisdom in the fitness space. https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int

Edward Hertzman, Founder of Athletech News and organizer of the Athletech Innovation Summit, dives into the evolving fitness landscape. He discusses the critical need for rebranding and collaboration amid economic challenges. Hertzman highlights the growing influence of AI and personalized experiences at events. He also emphasizes the importance of smaller voices in the industry, advocating for transparency and science-backed claims. The dynamic between collaboration and competition is explored, along with networking opportunities that foster innovation and growth.

In this episode, host Eric sits down with Marco Benitez, CEO and founder of ROOK, to explore how digital health data is reshaping the fitness and healthcare landscapes. They discuss how wearable technology drives innovation in health monitoring, especially during the pandemic's impact on the industry. Marco shares his expertise in biomedical engineering and big pharma, highlighting how data-driven insights can enhance patient outcomes. The conversation dives into the challenges of standardizing wearable data, the role of AI in advancing healthcare, and the critical need for data privacy. They also examine how wearables empower disease prevention and personalized care through real-time biometric tracking. Marco wraps up by sharing Rook's mission and inviting collaborations to harness wearable data for better health and well-being. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int

In this conversation, Tom Dowd discusses the significant progress made at F45 over the past year and a half, highlighting leadership changes, franchisee engagement, and the challenges faced, including accounting issues. He emphasizes the importance of innovation and strategic focus in the fitness industry, introducing the new 'Fit House of Brands' strategy and differentiating the VAURA Pilates brand as a unique offering in the market. In this conversation, Tom discusses the strategic growth and management of his fitness franchise, emphasizing the importance of balancing demand with operational capabilities. He introduces innovative recovery modalities and the integration of GLP-1 medications into their offerings, while also addressing the challenges posed by economic uncertainty. Dowd highlights the significance of content creation in establishing authority in the wellness space and the ongoing commitment to supporting members' health journeys. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int

In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Sam O'Keefe discuss the intersection of fitness, health, and financial opportunities through HSAs and FSAs. Sam shares his unique background and how it led him to identify a significant business opportunity in connecting health and fitness with financial wellness. They explore the differences between HSAs and FSAs, the market potential for these accounts, and how fitness businesses can leverage them to enhance customer retention and acquisition. The discussion also covers the qualification process for medical necessity, the commercial relationships with gym owners, and the future trends in health and fitness integration. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/

In this episode, Darren MacDonald, the CEO of Tonal, sits down to discuss the state of the connected health and fitness industry at the Connected Health and Fitness event in Los Angeles. They reflect on the event's interesting discussions, including the speaker sessions on GLP-1s. Darren shares his thoughts on the promising aspects of the event and how various players in the industry can contribute. The conversation pivots to Darren's insights on the impact of GLP-1 drugs on fitness routines and the broader implications of tariffs on fitness hardware companies. The talk covers Tonal's recent developments, including the launch of 'Tonal 2' and the Tonal Training Lab in New York, which provides an experiential group fitness class. Darren also reveals his future vision for Tonal, including expansion plans and fostering partnerships. The discussion concludes with a reflection on Darren's personal journey to Tonal and his goals for the company's growth by 2030. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/

In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Dana Milkie discuss the evolution of the fitness industry, focusing on eGym's innovative technology and the role of Wellpass in connecting companies with fitness facilities. Dana shares his journey into the fitness world, the importance of AI in personalizing workouts, and how eGym's open ecosystem allows for flexibility in equipment choices while enhancing user experience. They explore the future of AI in fitness and the significant investment eGym is making in research and development to stay ahead in the industry. In this conversation, Dana Milkie discusses the transformative role of AI in the fitness industry, emphasizing its potential to enhance outcomes for fitness professionals and clients alike. The discussion shifts to the perspective of investors, highlighting the importance of viewing fitness companies as technology platforms. Milkie addresses the unique challenges faced by eGym in the North American market, particularly in educating consumers about smart fitness equipment. The conversation also explores innovative partnerships, such as the Fred Fitness model, and the slow adoption of technology in the fitness sector. Finally, Milkie shares insights on navigating market dynamics, including potential tariff impacts, and calls for industry engagement to improve member outcomes. Takeaways Dana Milkie's journey into fitness was accidental but transformative. Wellpass connects companies with fitness facilities, enhancing employee benefits. eGym focuses on partnering with best-of-breed technology providers. The Genius AI creates personalized training plans for users. AI in fitness is about hyper-personalization and continuous learning. The open ecosystem allows gyms to use various equipment while leveraging eGym technology. Wellpass is expanding into North America, starting in Denver. eGym invests heavily in R&D to lead in fitness technology. AI's role in fitness is rapidly evolving and becoming essential. The future of fitness technology lies in seamless integration and user experience. AI can accelerate fitness outcomes. Investors view eGym as a technology platform. North America has unique challenges in fitness tech adoption. Education is key for introducing smart fitness equipment. Innovative partnerships can drive market growth. The fitness industry is slow to adopt new technologies. Planning ahead is crucial in navigating market changes. WellPass can help operators improve revenue streams. Fitness solutions should cater to a diverse range of members. Partnerships are essential for advancing the fitness industry. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/resources/webinar/future-of-fitness-wellness-franchising https://podcastcollective.io/ Learn more about EGYM - https://bit.ly/44YeV5W

In this insightful conversation recorded at the Connected Health and Fitness Summit in Los Angeles, Eric Malzone sits down with David Knies of PA Consulting to explore where the next trillion dollars in the wellness industry will emerge. David shares research-backed insights on five major market disruptions shaping the future: the convergence of healthcare and consumer industries, the growing GLP-1 economy, consumer struggles with "wellness overload," the shift toward hyper-personalization, and the question of trust in wellness technology. From wearables potentially becoming implantables to the unexpected effects of weight loss medications on exercise habits, this episode offers valuable perspectives for wellness professionals looking to position themselves at the forefront of an industry projected to reach $8.7 trillion. Whether you're a fitness entrepreneur, industry executive, or wellness enthusiast, this conversation delivers actionable intelligence on how the wellness landscape is evolving. LINKS >> https://ai.futureoffitness.co/ https://goteamup.com/

In this conversation, Eric Malzone speaks with Dr. Gloria Winters, the Chief Health Officer of the YMCA, about the organization's historical significance and its role in promoting health and wellness. They discuss the challenges of the current healthcare system, the importance of preventative health, and the potential for innovative strategies to improve community health. Dr. Winters emphasizes the need for a shift from traditional sick care to a more holistic approach that integrates behavioral, physical, and socioeconomic factors. The conversation also touches on the impact of digital transformation on health and wellness, the barriers to data integration, and the future of preventative health in relation to insurance. In this conversation, Gloria Winters discusses the evolving landscape of healthcare and fitness, particularly focusing on the integration of Medicare Advantage plans and fitness benefits. She emphasizes the importance of practitioners in promoting health and wellness, the innovative business models being developed at the YMCA, and the need for research to validate the effectiveness of fitness programs. The conversation also touches on the integration of healthcare services within fitness facilities and the potential for policy changes to enhance health outcomes. Collaboration and teamwork are highlighted as essential for driving innovation in the health and fitness industry. Takeaways YMCA has a rich history and significant impact on community health. The healthcare system is fragmented and costly, requiring innovative solutions. Whole person health encompasses behavioral, physical, and socioeconomic factors. Digital transformation is reshaping how health data is collected and utilized. Membership utilization can be a key metric for health outcomes. Building relationships is crucial for effective health interventions. The integration of health and wellness data with sick care data is essential. Chronic diseases account for a large portion of healthcare costs. Preventative health strategies can reduce the burden on the healthcare system. The future of health may involve prescriptions for fitness and wellness activities. Medicare Advantage plans are increasingly offering fitness benefits. The aging population presents a significant opportunity for fitness businesses. Health plans prioritize member satisfaction and retention through fitness benefits. Practitioners need to be educated and equipped to address holistic health. YMCA is developing innovative business models to expand access to health services. Research is crucial to demonstrate the effectiveness of fitness programs. Integrating healthcare services within fitness facilities can enhance patient care. Policy changes at local and national levels can impact health outcomes. Collaboration among health professionals is essential for innovation. The YMCA aims to serve all community members, regardless of insurance status. LINKS >> https://ai.futureoffitness.co/ https://goteamup.com/

Tim Green, the Chief Operating Officer at TeamUp, dives into the thriving landscape of the fitness industry. He emphasizes how fitness has evolved from simple gyms to essential community hubs. Tim highlights the importance of retention over acquisition for building loyalty, and shares insights on how AI is set to change the game. The role of technology in enhancing user experience and the vital presence of human instructors are also discussed. As fitness professionals become tribe leaders, new entrepreneurial opportunities arise, making this an exciting time to be involved in fitness.