Through technology, data, and intelligence, FITPASS provides access to over 7500 gyms and fitness studios across more than 40 cities in India. India’s largest app-based full-stack corporate well-being and engagement platform.

Bowman and Verma discuss the mission and services of FITPASS, Verma’s personal and professional journey, the challenges faced in entrepreneurship, and the role of technology in the growing fitness industry in India.

““A report from the WHO says inactivity is the biggest killer people don’t know.”
~ Akshay Verma, Co-founder of FITPASS ~

What is FITPASS?

FITPASS emerges as a beacon of innovation in India’s growing fitness industry, signaling a shift towards democratizing access to wellness. Positioned as the country’s premier app-based full-stack corporate wellness and engagement platform, FITPASS doesn’t just offer a service; it embodies a vision. At its helm stands Akshay Verma, the dynamic CEO, whose passion for fitness and commitment to societal well-being infuse every aspect of FITPASS’s mission.

Central to FITPASS is its unwavering dedication to making fitness not just a luxury but a fundamental right for all. Acknowledging the stark reality of inactivity prevalent across India, Verma articulates a bold ambition: to combat this sedentary epidemic head-on. The cornerstone of this endeavor lies in FITPASS’s innovative approach – offering a universal membership that transcends socio-economic barriers, granting unfettered access to a plethora of fitness and wellness services.

FITPASS’s philosophy includes a profound sense of inclusivity, shattering the notion that fitness is exclusive to the affluent or privileged. By harnessing the power of technology through its user-friendly app interface, FITPASS seamlessly connects individuals from all walks of life with a diverse array of fitness facilities, trainers, and programs. This democratization of access not only empowers individuals to take charge of their health but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.

Verma’s vision extends beyond physical exercise, encompassing holistic well-being encompassing mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. FITPASS’s expansive catalogue includes not only gym memberships but also virtual wellness sessions, personalized nutrition plans, and AI-driven coaching modules. Through this comprehensive approach, FITPASS aims not just to transform bodies but to uplift lives, fostering a culture of wellness that permeates every corner of Indian society.

Fitness Challenges and Solutions In India

Akshay Verma’s discourse on the challenges rooted within India’s fitness landscape unravels the disparities in accessibility and affordability. Amidst the backdrop of health consciousness, a stark reality persists: the high costs associated with accessing fitness facilities stand as barriers, especially against the backdrop of modest average salaries prevalent across the nation.

In Verma’s candid assessment, the traditional model of fitness membership perpetuates exclusivity, effectively alienating large portions of the population unable to bear the financial burden. This economic exclusion not only encourages inactive lifestyles but also worsens existing health inequalities, further establishing the cycle of inactivity and its consequences.

FITPASS develops as a bringer of change that disrupts this status quo by offering a holistic membership model that transcends financial constraints. Verma’s vision extends far beyond gym access; it involves an ecosystem of wellness services designed to cater to diverse needs and preferences. At the heart of this ecosystem lies the FITPASS membership, a gateway to a myriad of fitness centers, virtual coaching modules powered by artificial intelligence, personalized nutritionist consultations, and an array of supplementary services aimed at nurturing holistic well-being.

By consolidating these services under a single, affordable membership, FITPASS effectively democratizes access to fitness and wellness, rendering it accessible to individuals across all strata of society. Verma’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity and affordability underscores FITPASS’s mission to dismantle barriers and foster a culture of proactive health management.

Entrepreneurship Challenges In India

One big challenge for Verma was dealing with the unpredictable timing of things. Especially in the early days of FITPASS, the market was always changing, and people’s preferences were hard to predict. But instead of seeing these challenges as roadblocks, Verma and his team saw them as opportunities to be creative and flexible.

In a crowded industry where many companies are trying to be the best, FITPASS had to work hard to get people’s attention. Verma didn’t see other companies as enemies, though. He saw them as motivation to come up with new ideas and stand out from the crowd.

“You may be naturally talented, but if you are not capitalizing on it with perseverance and hard work, it doesn’t work.”

~ Akshay Verma, Co-founder of FITPASS ~

Leveraging Technology and Future Aspirations

In a nation teeming with diversity, both cultural and geographical, Verma and his team recognized the vital need to craft a solution that transcends the constraints of convention and offer a place that challenges India’s fitness ecosystem. Through the strategic integration of cutting-edge technology, FITPASS sets out to increase access to fitness and wellness services, empowering individuals from all walks of life to embark upon a journey of self-discovery and self-improvement.

From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the shores of Kerala, FITPASS extends an invitation to all who seek a healthier, happier tomorrow. Through its intuitive app-based platform, FITPASS transcends the limitations of physical space, offering a virtual gateway to a world of fitness and wellness opportunities, tailored to the unique needs and preferences of each user.

Verma’s vision extends far beyond the confines of the present moment, reaching towards the horizon of possibility with an unwavering sense of purpose and determination. Verma’s future aspirations, both personal and professional, reflect a visionary mindset, characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a dedication to continuous growth and development.

Verma’s aspirations merge around consolidation and informed decision-making as he sets out to steer FITPASS towards a future defined by sustainable growth and strategic foresight. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a sharp eye for opportunity, Verma is ready to steer FITPASS and beyond towards a prosperous tomorrow.

Akshay Verma on LinkedIn:   / akshayverma  

FITPASS: https://fitpass.co.in/fitpass-tv

Paul Bowman on LinkedIn:   / pbowman  

The post FITPASS: Revolutionizing Fun & Accessible Fitness in India appeared first on Wexer.

From the increasing emphasis on health awareness to the integration of technology and the rising demand for personalized experiences, they unpack the transformative forces driving change in the fitness sector, discuss the latest findings from the European fitness trends report, and delve into the strategic considerations for fitness operators looking to thrive in this rapidly evolving environment.

Europe Fitness Trends

The 2024 EuropeActive/Deloitte European Health & Fitness Market Report serves as a focal point for understanding the current landscape of the industry. The noticeable rise in health awareness among Europeans has been a driving force behind the growth of the European fitness market. As people become more aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, they are increasingly seeking out fitness options to support their goals.

1. Technology Trends

The integration of technology is another significant aspect of the European fitness market. With advancements in digital health and fitness solutions, technology has become increasingly integrated into the fitness industry. From wearable fitness trackers to virtual fitness classes and mobile apps, technology is reshaping how people engage with fitness. This integration not only enhances the overall fitness experience, but also provides valuable data and insights for both consumers and fitness operators.

“I’ve always contended that Europe has the most sophisticated operators in the world. Both in technology adoption and business models.”

~ Bryan O’Rourke, CEO of Core Health & Fitness ~

2. Fitness Facility and Membership Growth Trends

In 2023, fitness facilities in Europe saw a 12.3% increase in membership, according to the EuropeActive Consumer Survey. This surge in interest brought the total number of gym members to a staggering 63.1 million, up from 56.2 million.

The same survey also revealed the growth in the number of fitness clubs across the continent. Europe’s fitness club numbers rose to 63,830 in 2023, marking a significant increase and demonstrating the sector’s healthy expansion.

The total revenue of the fitness industry also witnessed an impressive growth and reached €28 billion in 2023. The ambitious goal for the future is to increase the number of active members to 100 million.

3. Leading European Fitness Trends

The American College of Sports Medicine’s International Trends highlights the top fitness trends in Europe:

• Personal Training
• High-Intensity Interval Training
• Small Group Training
• Weight Loss Programs
• Body Weight Workouts
• Functional Fitness Training

These trends signify a pivotal change in health and wellness, highlighting the increasing focus on adaptability, customization, and community engagement. This movement is set to reshape the fitness sector, securing its key role in Europe’s evolving fitness scene.

Strategies To Attack Digital Fitness & Wellness Opportunities

1. Integration of Digital Wellness and Personalization

As the European fitness market stands on the precipice of significant evolution, the merging of digital technology with personalized wellness strategies is reshaping the landscape. The EuropeActive Consumer Survey underscores a marked increase in workout frequency and diversity, reflecting a dynamic shift towards integrated fitness experiences. With projections showing the digital fitness sector’s revenue reaching €14.23 billion by 2024 and wearable technology’s popularity surging, the blend of digital and physical fitness experiences is becoming increasingly central to consumer engagement.

O’Rourke illuminates the journey towards a digitally-transformed fitness industry, where the adoption of robust digital fitness and wellness platforms and digital marketing strategies become critical for clubs to thrive.

“If you already have a digital technology model in a facility and you already have a membership base, you’re not going to spend near as much money acquiring digital customers who are out there looking for digital content and personalized solutions.”

~ Bryan O’Rourke, CEO of Core Health & Fitness ~

This digital transformation facilitates a deep dive into personalization and customization, catering to the individual holistic demands of today’s fitness enthusiasts. Leveraging data analytics, AI, and machine learning, fitness clubs can now offer highly tailored fitness and wellness content, workout routines, nutrition plans, and more.. This level of customization extends beyond workout programs to the holistic user experience, from interface design to engagement strategies, ensuring fitness apps, websites, and devices are intuitive and seamlessly integrated into daily routines.

By embracing digital innovation and focusing on user-centric design, the fitness industry can enhance engagement, retention, and satisfaction, empowering users to take control of their fitness journeys in uniquely personal ways. As the industry moves forward, staying attuned to societal trends and consumer behaviors will be crucial for operators to seize new opportunities and maintain relevance in a rapidly digitizing world

2. Programming Opportunities 

Within the context of the European fitness market, well-designed programming plays a key role in ensuring the continued relevance and success of fitness clubs. Offering diverse and tailored programming options to cater to the evolving preferences and needs of consumers.

• Personalized training programs tailored to each client’s specific needs and objectives, fitness clubs can differentiate themselves and provide added value to their members. Personalized training programs.
• High-intensity interval training (HIIT) provides members with a more effective workout, delivering results in a shorter amount of time.
• Small group training offers a balance between the personalized attention of one-on-one training and the camaraderie of working out in a group setting. By providing small group training sessions led by certified instructors, fitness clubs can foster a sense of community while delivering effective and engaging workouts.
• Weight loss programs are also an essential component of club programming, reflecting the ongoing demand for structured weight management solutions among consumers. By offering comprehensive weight loss programs that combine exercise, nutrition guidance, and accountability support, fitness clubs can attract individuals seeking sustainable and long-term solutions for achieving their weight loss goals. 

Weight Loss Programming Challenges & Opportunities

Weight loss programs are also an essential component of club programming, reflecting the ongoing demand for structured weight management solutions among consumers. By offering comprehensive weight loss programs that combine exercise, nutrition guidance, and accountability support, fitness clubs can attract individuals seeking sustainable and long-term solutions for achieving their weight loss goals. 

O’Rourke highlights a recent report on the new GLP-1 weight loss drugs New Opportunities for Battling Obesity and Driving Growth for the Fitness and Wellness Industry.  The report shares, “GLP-1’s offer remarkable benefits along with potential drawbacks, including excessive loss of lean body mass. This drawback presents a significant opportunity for the fitness and wellness industry to offer strength training and other programs to cater to a previously underserved group intent on losing weight.” 

Weight Loss Programming Suggestions

• Welcome Environment: Dedicated Private individual and group exercise areas.
• Body Composition Assessments: Perform on a regular basis to monitor progress.
• Resistance and Strength Training
• Dietary advice: Specifically on protein intake. 
• Certified Personal Trainers and Health Coaches

The cost and accessibility of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic highlight a broader discussion about opportunities in the US and Europe. Health equity is a topic to discuss with the different approaches regarding pharmaceutical reimbursement in the US and European healthcare systems.  

“The United States customer pays as much as 400-600% more on average for the same or suitable pharmaceutical solution.”

~ Bryan O’Rourke, CEO of Core Health & Fitness ~

In the US, where healthcare is largely insurance-based, the reimbursement for these drugs can be complex and varied, with some plans covering them under specific conditions while others may not, making accessibility for patients dependent on their insurance policies. This situation contrasts with many European countries, where national healthcare systems can negotiate drug prices and provide wider access to necessary medications, including for weight loss and diabetes management.

Time To Execute An Operational Excellence Strategy

Finally, O’Rourke underscores the critical importance of executing an operational excellence strategy in the fitness industry by adopting and integrating technology and human capital. Operational excellence should be a strategy for fitness operators to make foundational decisions based on what a business can excel at and the market it aims to serve. 

Align the company’s strengths with market opportunities in a way that’s both sustainable and profitable. This includes leveraging enterprise platforms for automation and ensuring that the team has the talent and skills necessary to deliver on a business value proposition​​.

Implement An Omni-Channel Approach

Omnichannel is a strategy that merges digital and physical member interaction points, including websites, social media, apps, digital content, and the traditional in-club experience, to deliver a ensuring a seamless and integrated fitness journey for members. It focuses on creating a consistent brand presence across all platforms, enabling customers to interact with the brand fluidly. Additionally, it supports personalized customer experiences, enhancing overall satisfaction.

It will be important for fitness operators to adopt an omni-channel approach to meet consumer expectations for personalized fitness experiences accessible across multiple platforms.

“When it comes to personalization, digital and thoughtful user experience design in and out of the club, Omnichannel is going to become the norm.”

~ Bryan O’Rourke, CEO of Core Health & Fitness ~

These insights highlight the multifaceted approach needed to drive growth in the European fitness market by adapting and innovating to remain competitive. O’Rourke and Bowman focus on strategic clarity, market alignment, digital transformation, economic flexibility, and executional excellence. Each will play a crucial role in navigating the complexities of today’s business landscape. By embracing technology, refining programming, and prioritizing tailored offerings, operators can navigate the digital transformation of the industry while effectively meeting the evolving needs of their members.

Ready to learn how to take advantage of the digital technology and wellness opportunities outlined in the 2024 Europe Fitness Trends report? Let us help you enhance your member experience, add virtual technology, and use data and AI to develop your fitness and wellness content strategy. Email us: INFO@WEXER.COM

More Information:

Bryan O’Rourke

Core Health & Fitness

Paul Bowman

Europe Digital Live and On-Demand Fitness Trends

Podcast

The post 2024 Europe Fitness Trends & Opportunities: Holistic Technology  appeared first on Wexer.

“I think the combination of AI and IOT when you are trying to interconnect health eco-systems together, sharing health data, fitness devices, and fitness business with healthcare providers could actually give people a holistic view of their health world.”

~ Adam Zeitsiff, CIO, L.A. Fitness ~

With more than twenty years in the fitness industry, Adam has seen technology play a more significant role in the user experience. From the imperative of embracing innovation to the transformative impact of technology, Adam provides valuable perspectives on fostering innovation and growth, leveraging technology to drive change, and how to encourage talent and advance careers in an era defined by rapid technological advancement.

Foster Innovation To Enhance Member Experiences & Retention

Encouraging a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within organizations is paramount for fostering growth and staying competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. When you empower employees to innovate, they are more likely to develop new technologies, processes, and solutions to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and drive business growth. This can range from developing cutting-edge software applications to implementing advanced manufacturing techniques or leveraging data analytics to gain valuable insights into customer behavior.

“You have to foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.”

~ Adam Zeitsiff, CIO, L.A. Fitness ~

Embracing innovation can also lead to advancements in business practices. Fitness companies can enhance their agility, responsiveness, and overall performance by continuously seeking ways to improve and optimize workflows. This might involve adopting new management techniques, re-engineering business processes, or embracing emerging digital trends in personalized fitness.

In addition to driving technological and operational advancements, Adam explains that a culture of innovation can have a broader impact on organizational culture and employee engagement. When employees feel empowered to contribute their ideas and take ownership of innovation initiatives, they are more likely to feel valued, motivated, and engaged. This can lead to higher levels of job satisfaction, retention, and productivity, as well as a stronger sense of collective purpose and camaraderie among team members.

Leverage Digital Technology To Enhance Personalization

In today’s digital age, the importance of personalization cannot be overstated, particularly in industries where customer engagement and retention are paramount. This sentiment is especially true in the digital fitness sector, where leveraging technology to offer personalized experiences can make all the difference in attracting and retaining customers. With an increasing array of options available to consumers, businesses in this industry must go the extra mile to meet individual preferences and provide tailored solutions.

One of the most significant advantages of personalization in the digital fitness realm is the ability to offer customized workouts and experiences to users. Personalization extends beyond just workout recommendations. Digital fitness platforms can leverage user data to personalize various aspects of the user experience, from interface customization to targeted recommendations for additional services or products.

Furthermore, personalization is crucial in fostering a sense of connection and community within digital fitness platforms. By curating content and experiences that resonate with each user’s interests and goals, businesses can create a sense of belonging and camaraderie among users, encouraging them to engage more actively with the platform and each other. This strengthens customer loyalty and creates valuable opportunities for user-generated content and social interaction, further enhancing the overall user experience.

Data And Digital Personalized Fitness Trends

With the proliferation of smart fitness equipment and wearable devices, gym-goers can now access various interactive tools and personalized guidance to optimize their workouts. For instance, smart treadmills and strength-training machines equipped with AI-driven sensors can provide real-time feedback on form, technique, and performance, helping users maximize their efforts and minimize the risk of injury.

By collecting and analyzing data from various sources, such as wearable devices, mobile apps, and online platforms, fitness providers can gain valuable insights into user behavior, preferences, and performance metrics. This data-driven approach allows them to identify digital trends in personalized fitness, track progress, and optimize training programs, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of their services and improving client satisfaction.

Through AI-powered algorithms and machine learning techniques, Adam breaks down how fitness platforms can analyze vast amounts of data to anticipate user needs, preferences, and goals and deliver tailored recommendations for workouts, nutrition plans, and lifestyle changes. This level of personalization enhances the user experience and increases engagement and adherence to fitness routines, ultimately leading to better outcomes and long-term success.

Challenges in Personalized Fitness

One of the foremost hurdles businesses face in embracing digital trends in personalized fitness is the need to keep pace with the rapid evolution of technology. With breakthroughs occurring at an unprecedented rate, staying abreast of emerging trends and advancements is crucial for ensuring organizational relevance and competitiveness. However, this requires a considerable investment of time and resources in research, training, and development to understand the implications of new technologies and their potential impact on business operations.

As the demand for digital trends in personalized fitness continues to rise, competition for top-tier talent has become increasingly fierce, making it challenging for organizations to recruit and retain skilled professionals. Moreover, the rapid pace of technological change means that the skills required to remain agile and competitive will constantly evolve, requiring ongoing investments in training and development programs to upskill existing employees and fill critical talent gaps.

“If you want your team to be agile you need to be agile, as a leader. Be okay with quick changes.”

~ Adam Zeitsiff, CIO, L.A. Fitness ~

Navigating the complex regulatory landscape and addressing cybersecurity threats are ongoing challenges that CEOs and CIOs must contend with. With data privacy regulations becoming stricter and cybersecurity threats becoming more sophisticated and pervasive, ensuring compliance and safeguarding sensitive information has become a top priority for organizations across industries. This requires robust cybersecurity measures, proactive risk management strategies, and continuous monitoring and adaptation to stay ahead of emerging threats and regulatory changes.

Talent & Career Advice For A Digital Future

Continuous learning is essential for individuals aspiring to be in technology and leadership development roles, and to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving fitness industry. Understanding the intersection between strategy and technology is crucial for aligning initiatives with business objectives and driving innovation. Learning from other industries provides valuable insights and perspectives that can inform decision-making and problem-solving. Embracing diverse perspectives fosters innovation and enhances decision quality, leading to better outcomes in technology and leadership roles.

“Leverage other industries. Don’t get so hyper-focused on what fitness is doing that you forget you can learn from other industries.”

~ Adam Zeitsiff, CIO, L.A. Fitness ~

Technology increasingly intersects with various sectors, from healthcare and finance to retail and entertainment. By studying digital trends in personalized fitness and how technology is being utilized in different industries, aspiring tech leaders can gain fresh perspectives and identify innovative solutions that can be applied to their industries.

Furthermore, valuing diverse perspectives in decision-making processes is essential for fostering innovation and driving positive outcomes in technology and leadership roles. Embracing diversity of thought, background, and experience can lead to more creative problem-solving, better risk management, and enhanced decision quality. This involves actively seeking input from individuals with diverse perspectives and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment, and embracing a culture of openness, respect, and empathy.

Create Your Personalized Fitness Strategy Now

From embracing innovation to navigating challenges and providing valuable career advice, Adam underscores the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and strategic thinking in harnessing the power of technology when handling digital trends for personalized fitness. As organizations and individuals strive to stay ahead in an increasingly digital world, the insights shared here serve as valuable guiding principles for driving innovation, fostering inclusivity, and achieving sustainable growth in the ever-evolving technological landscape.

About LA Fitness

LA Fitness is one of the fastest-growing health club chains, with over 700 locations across 27 U.S. states and Canada. The company was founded in 1984 and is based in Irvine, California.The company’s mission is to help as many people as possible to achieve the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, offering its members the widest range of amenities and the friendliest service at an affordable price. 

Additional Resources:

Paul Bowman on LinkedIn

Adam Zeitsiff on LinkedIn

L.A. Fitness

The post Role Of Personalized Fitness & Innovation In Holistic Health appeared first on Wexer.

The fusion of Wexer’s cutting-edge virtual fitness technology with CFW’s expertly tailored fitness initiatives promises to redefine employee well-being in the corporate world. This article delves into the details of this partnership and explores how it stands to benefit CFW’s corporate clients.

Wexer’s platform is renowned for its dynamic offering, including Video On-Demand and Livestream content, complemented by an enhanced mobile app and web-player experience. This partnership enables CFW to leverage Wexer’s virtual fitness technology, enriching their fitness programs and offering a more comprehensive wellness solution. The significance of this collaboration extends beyond the immediate benefits of diverse and accessible fitness content. The changes in the corporate world reveals employees can “thrive” with a well-being approach, but only 33% of the need is met, as discussed in the Gallup global report. It represents a shift towards a more integrative approach to employee health and wellness, particularly in hybrid work cultures.

 

“This partnership further cements our commitment to provide the most advanced tools and resources for our corporate clients, their employees, and our members in a continuously developing industry.” By teaming up with Wexer, CFW aims to enhance its offerings with virtual fitness technology, providing organisations with integrative strategies that support an equitable benefit to impact the emerging health needs of hybrid work cultures.”

~ Elisa Denning, Senior Director of Marketing & PR for CFW ~

Specialising in custom fitness management, CFW is dedicated to addressing common health challenges faced by corporate employees, such as stress, prolonged sitting, and the struggle to maintain a work-life balance during long hours and commutes. Whether the need is for onsite, remote, or a blend of both fitness solutions, CFW possesses the tools and expertise to connect with employees and inspire a culture of health and productivity within your company.

The benefits of this partnership for CFW’s corporate clients are manifold. First, the integration of Wexer’s virtual fitness technology into CFW’s programs offers a seamless and flexible fitness experience that can cater to the diverse needs and schedules of employees. Whether working from the office or home, employees will have access to a wide range of fitness content that can be tailored to their personal fitness goals and preferences. This accessibility is crucial in promoting regular physical activity, which is a key component of overall well-being.

Furthermore, the partnership underscores the importance of mental health in the corporate wellness equation. The comprehensive fitness and wellness solutions provided through this collaboration can also contribute to stress reduction, improved mental clarity, and increased productivity. By addressing both physical and mental health, CFW’s corporate clients can expect to see a more holistic improvement in employee well-being. Read more in this article: Future Of Corporate Wellness Must Focus On Employee Well-Being.

“With this exclusive partnership we are able to reach more customers in the growing corporate market. We see huge potential in how we can help CFW’s members by helping them prioritise their health by actively using digital content to improve their wellbeing.” 

~ Rudys Santana, Head of Customer Success ~

The integration of Wexer’s technology also offers CFW the ability to track engagement and gather data on the utilisation of fitness programs. This data-driven approach can help corporate clients identify trends, measure the impact of wellness initiatives, and tailor programs to better meet the needs of their employees. It ensures that wellness programs are not just a perk but a pivotal part of the company’s culture and strategy for employee engagement and retention.

The partnership between Wexer and CFW marks a significant advancement in the realm of corporate wellness. By combining Wexer’s innovative virtual fitness technology with CFW’s expertise in customised corporate fitness programs, this collaboration offers a forward-thinking solution to the complex challenge of maintaining employee well-being in a hybrid work environment.

For CFW’s corporate clients, Wexer’s content enhances their wellness offerings but also reinforces their commitment to the health and well-being of their employees. In a time when the importance of wellness is increasingly recognised, this collaboration is a testament to the potential of technology and tailored fitness initiatives to create healthier, happier, and more productive workspaces.

Ready to learn how to take advantage of the 2024 Corporate Wellness Trends? Let us help you utilise your data, virtual technology, and AI to develop your corporate fitness and wellness content strategy. Email us: INFO@WEXER.COM

About Corporate Fitness Works (CFW)

Corporate Fitness Works is at the forefront of delivering innovative fitness management solutions tailored to the modern workforce’s evolving needs. Recognising the diversity of today’s work environments, CFW seamlessly integrates digital platforms with services to offer onsite, remote, and hybrid fitness and wellness solutions. This approach ensures equitable access to wellness benefits for all employees, thereby enhancing a company’s ability to attract and retain a healthy workforce. With over 35 years of experience, CFW has mastered the art of engaging employees in health and productivity initiatives, irrespective of their work location—be it through an energising midday spin class or a rejuvenating desk side stretch break. 

The post Wexer & Corporate Fitness Works Unite for Corporate Wellness appeared first on Wexer.

With a mission to offer an all-in-one solution for smooth business operations, WellnessLiving prioritizes customer experiences and utilizes data to drive growth.

The Heart of WellnessLiving: Empowering Businesses with Data-Driven Insights

WellnessLiving stands out as a software company with a heart, focusing on the success of fitness and wellness businesses. By transforming data into actionable insights, they empower business owners to elevate member experiences, leading to improved retention rates and reduced churn. Moreover, these insights can optimize marketing campaigns and guide strategic decisions, propelling businesses towards sustainable growth.

WellnessLiving’s dedication to serving its clients was highlighted when it received recognition in 2021 and 2022 as one of the Deloitte Technology Fast 500, attesting to their rapid growth and commitment to customer success.

Len credits the company’s 272% revenue growth to their customer-focused approach and vision to provide the fitness and wellness industry with the tools, resources, and support they need to manage and grow their businesses—a truly all-in-one solution.

From Fitness Enthusiast to Business Innovator: Len’s Journey

Len’s journey to co-founding WellnessLiving is both inspiring and relatable. Once a competitive tennis player turned fitness enthusiast, Len embarked on a path to fitness entrepreneurship. He transitioned from a boot camp fitness business to creating WellnessLiving with a partner. This software platform began as a marketing tool for partner studios, which eventually evolved into the comprehensive solution it is today. 

Overcoming the Fear of Change: Embracing Business Management Software

For many fitness business owners, the prospect of implementing new software can be intimidating. However, as Len explains, embracing change is crucial for business evolution. Transitioning to business management software allows entrepreneurs to align with their goals, fostering collaboration with senior leadership and paving the way for growth. WellnessLiving’s approach emphasizes partnership and empathy, positioning them as a software company with a heart.

Transforming Data into Actionable Insights

Data holds the key to unlocking business potential, and WellnessLiving recognizes the significance of turning data into actionable insights. By tapping into data analytics, fitness businesses can gain a deeper understanding of their members’ behaviors and preferences. This information can then drive strategic decisions, enhance service offerings, and boost member satisfaction. WellnessLiving’s commitment to its customers extends beyond software, aiming to cultivate growth through informed choices.

Developing AI-Powered Solutions for Member Churn

“One of the biggest challenges for any fitness organization is member churn, a member not continuing the following month. If you have a leaky bucket, pouring water in it will never fill it up. So our challenge was how can we leverage data, AI, and machine learning to help businesses manage churn more efficiently.”

— Len Fridman —

Collaborating with York University’s machine learning lab, they developed the Isaac AI Assistant. This innovative tool predicts members with a high probability of churning, enabling proactive outreach and personalized communication. Utilizing AI and machine learning, WellnessLiving equips businesses with the means to build stronger member relationships, increase retention, and reduce churn effectively.

Predicting The Future of AI in the Fitness Industry

Len envisions a future where AI plays a pivotal role in the fitness industry. As AI technology advances, fitness businesses can anticipate more robust data insights and actionable recommendations. 

WellnessLiving’s commitment to user-friendly interfaces ensures that businesses can effortlessly access and utilize AI-generated insights. The ability to tailor dashboards and access real-time data and statistics empowers business owners to make informed decisions promptly.

“It is vital to have an easy to use and customisable dashboard that allows you to quickly see trends in your business to make important business decisions. WellnessLiving is famous for is having that ability to customise the dashboard and having a variety of graphs and statistics that you can actually drill down.”

— Len Fridman —

Creating Personalization and Omnichannel Experiences

Personalization is the key to engaging members effectively. Len emphasizes the importance of understanding member preferences, purchase behaviors, and class attendance. With a strong focus on creating seamless experiences, WellnessLiving advocates for an omnichannel approach. This approach integrates all customer touchpoints, ensuring a consistent and unified experience across physical locations, apps, websites, and virtual classes. By offering flexibility and convenience, fitness businesses can enhance member engagement and loyalty.

“If you want to continue scaling your business, you really must have a firm grasp on your members, which products they’re buying, and what classes they’re taking so you can make educated business decisions. If you have thousands of members and you want to send out targeted email campaigns, you have to segment your market to tailor your solutions to what they actually want.”

— Len Fridman —

Intrigued by the insights shared by Len? WellnessLiving invites fitness business owners to explore their platform through a demo. With an impressive conversion rate, the likelihood of joining the WellnessLiving family is high. By embracing data-driven strategies and leveraging cutting-edge technology, you can position your fitness business for scalable growth and enduring success.

Contact us at Wexer and we can share a wealth of knowledge on how data can drive growth in the fitness industry. From overcoming the fear of change to harnessing the power of AI and creating seamless member experiences, these strategies can transform your fitness business and pave the way for sustained growth. As the industry evolves, embracing data-driven approaches will be instrumental to achieving success and staying ahead of the curve.

Find out how Wexer’s unparalleled data, technology and content library can help you leverage your data to benefit your business in 2023: info@wexer.com

More Info:

Len Fridman on LinkedIn

Wexer Podcast 22

The post Leveraging Data to Scale Your Fitness Business Growth  appeared first on Wexer.

As founder of The Huffington Post, Arianna Huffington has long been a thought leader and trailblazer. A recent Quartz article served to remind us of exactly this fact. Because it was way back in 2016 that Huffington created Thrive Global – a company that, as the home page of its website boldly states, is “on a mission to end the burnout epidemic”. Thrive Global’s is working to “debunk the collective delusion that burnout is the price we must pay for success”.

Indeed, in a recent Deloitte survey, 95% of executives agreed they should be responsible for employee wellbeing, while 83 per cent said they would increase their responsibility to it over the next two years.

Yet increase it they must, because there remains a significant gap between appreciation in principle of the value of employee wellbeing versus acting on ensuring wellbeing is embedded at the heart of a business.

Corporate Wellness Is In Everyone’s Best Interest 

The same Deloitte report found that around one in three employees and executives are constantly struggling with fatigue and poor mental health. That 57% of employees and 69%of executives are seriously considering quitting for a more supportive job. That on average 72% would be more likely to stay with their company if it better supported their wellbeing. And that 68% of employees and 81% of the C-suite see improving their wellbeing as more important than advancing their career.

Yet in spite of all this, obstacles still stand in the way of doing things that would help – taking micro-breaks during the day, finishing work at a reasonable hour, taking a proper lunch break and getting good quality sleep, for example. The most commonly quoted issues: having a heavy workload or stressful job (30 per cent) and/or not having enough time because of long working hours (27%).

It doesn’t help that C-suite executives consistently underestimate how much employees are actually struggling with their wellbeing, or that – while 91% of executives believe their employees look positively on their company’s wellbeing efforts – in fact only 56% of employees believe their employer cares about their wellbeing.

Companies must tune in far better to their workforces’ needs, then act on them.

And it really is in everyone’s best interests. Even as long ago as 2016 – before issues were compounded by the pandemic and the challenges of hybrid working – a study by Global Corporate Challenge found that employees may miss an average of four days annually, but that they’re unproductive for almost 58 days a year. This presenteeism was reported to cost businesses 10 times more than absenteeism.

As Huffington explains: “Employee wellbeing and mental health improve business metrics like retention, attrition, productivity and healthcare costs.”

How to Start Corporate Wellness

The 2022 Employee Wellness Industry Trends Report by Wellable Labs highlights some interesting shifts in focus among organisations already striving to deliver corporate wellness.

• On-demand fitness is hot, appreciated for its flexibility and affordability, and is seeing a scaling up of investment
• On-site classes and reimbursement of gym membership are being dialled back
• Mental health is a top priority and an area where more resource is being added, including meditation, mindfulness and stress management
• Companies appreciate the importance of proper sleep, but have yet to find the resources they need to support their employees in this way

It almost reads like a who’s who of the Wexer offering, with our Mobile ecosystem putting world-class wellness content – covering all of these areas and more – in people’s hands wherever and whenever they need it, through any connected device.

Because it’s all very well encouraging micro-breaks and proper lunch hours, but you do also need to hand your employees the tools to turn these into wellness breaks.

That might be as simple as easing and re-mobilising their bodies after sitting at a desk all day. It might be achieving a moment of calm during their commute, re-energising during their lunch hour by getting their heart pumping, or winding down at the end of a busy day.

Whatever they need, they’ll find it in our ever-growing, market-leading corporate wellness library. We have a huge collection of mind-body and meditation classes. We have relaxation sessions and guided stretching. We’ve partnered with Sweat Factor to offer its fantastic Office Fit series, as well as Self-Care by Sweat Factor. Mind123 takes a holistic, educational approach to all facets and contributors to wellbeing. And we even plug the gap identified by Wellable Labs, providing content around sleep in the shape of Sweat Factor’s Sleep Stories.

And that’s without touching on the vast library of health and fitness content – from cardio and strength to dance, cycling, HIIT and far, far more besides – to get those endorphins flowing, stress released and mental focus regained.

Wexer is here to help you create a first-class corporate wellness for to improve employee wellbeing.

Read more here or get in touch at info@wexer.com

The post Corporate Wellness Strategies: How to Take the Leap to ‘Nailing It’ appeared first on Wexer.

The partnership will see Wexer Virtual technology harnessed to make Hanu’s world-class content available for on-demand, 24/7 use in gyms, hotels and residential developments across the American continent. End users will be able to enjoy more than 20 different training disciplines, all automatically programmed and customised for each location.

José Antonio Condell, CEO and co-founder of Hanu, says the company has identified strong opportunities within “off-peak hours in gyms, multi-purpose rooms within residential buildings and hotels, and hotel guestrooms”, with the Wexer-Hanu partnership now set to “enable and make profitable the spaces that are under-used for much of the day”.

Felipe Apablaza, Hanu Co-Founder and CEO of DMOOV Fitness Clubs & RFA Fitness Equipment, adds: “Our extensive research into the innovative, disruptive technologies within the health, fitness and wellness industry brought us to Wexer. We are delighted that this partnership will bring our platform and content to an even broader audience.”

“This unique solution for the Latin American market presents fantastic opportunities for both Wexer and Hanu,” confirms Robert Louw, Chief Growth Officer at Wexer. “Adding Hanu’s full range of high-quality content allows us to even better penetrate and serve Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking markets with content that immediately resonates with local audiences.

“Meanwhile, Hanu benefits from a new distribution channel that brings with it significant growth opportunities, both in terms of verticals and geographical territories.

“It is a win-win for both our companies, but also for gyms, hotels, residential developments and consumers alike as this fantastic content becomes available through our platform.”

For more information, get in touch at info@wexer.com

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McKinsey & Company is a global management consulting firm. Eric specializes in the global fitness and health industry. He shares his expert perspective on the current state and future trajectory of the fitness industry. He delves into the critical aspects like the opportunities emerging fitness business models will provide, how fitness business models will need to include digital transformation to expand into emerging markets, the potential impact of weight loss pills, and how the fitness industry has changed after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Current State of the Fitness Industry

Before delving into emerging fitness business models, it’s essential to understand the current state of the fitness industry. Eric Falardeau provides a macro-view, highlighting a significant issue in the industry. He points out that many fitness models today cost between 10-30 euros or dollars, which, in his opinion, leaves a considerable amount of money on the table. This observation underscores the need for innovation and the exploration of new business models that can extract more value from each customer relationship.

“At a macro-view, I think the sector is leaving a lot of money on the table by having such a high share of humans move through models that cost between 10-30 euros/dollars today.”

~ Eric Falardeau, Partner, McKinsey & Company ~

Fitness Business Model Opportunities

In an era of emerging markets and rapid digital innovation, the fitness and health industry has not remained immune to the winds of transformation. As technology advances and new markets emerge, fitness businesses are presented with both challenges and opportunities. To navigate this shifting landscape effectively, it’s crucial to understand the emerging fitness business models that can maximize growth and profit.

Being aware of emerging opportunities to provide new innovative fitness business models will play a pivotal role in a a fitness business ability to thrive and adapt to changing consumer needs. Critically assessing whether there are unmet needs within the industry and whether a business has found a viable model that sets it apart from competitors is crucial for making informed decisions about where and how to allocate resources.

Consumers are spending more on health, fitness, and wellness than they ever have before. Future of wellness in 2030 shows a $1.5 trillion market globally—and it’s growing at a clip of 5 to 10 percent each year. McKinsey research shows that consumers are most interested in six wellness categories: health, fitness, nutrition, appearance, sleep, and mindfulness.

Eric shared consumers are clearly looking at health and wellness as one of the most important things in their life now. Therefore, the industry needs to realize the possibility of people paying 5, 10, 20, 30 dollars/euros more for something that is helping them move or live as healthy as possible.

The Role of Information and Technology

Eric emphasizes the transformative potential of information and technology in the fitness industry. He believes that this sector is uniquely positioned to benefit from these advancements, as they can have a substantial impact on overall value creation and member solutions. In an era where wearable fitness tech, data analytics, and personalized fitness apps are becoming increasingly prevalent, businesses that harness the power of information and technology stand to thrive.

“This is one of the sectors for which information and technology can have the most impact on overall value creation and overall member solutions.”

~ Eric Falardeau, Partner, McKinsey & Company ~

Embracing New Business Models

One of the key takeaways from the interview is the importance of embracing new business models. Eric Falardeau urges the fitness sector to explore innovative ways of creating more value for customers. He points out that the industry should not be limited by traditional pricing models and that it’s entirely reasonable for individuals to invest more in their health and fitness. This sentiment challenges the notion that the mid-tier pricing model is no longer viable in today’s market.

The fitness and health industry is undergoing a paradigm shift, and one of the most significant shifts involves transitioning from a “push” model to a “pull” model. This means that instead of merely pushing out existing solutions and services, businesses in the industry need to adopt a more customer-centric approach. They must empathize with the end user and focus on understanding their specific needs and preferences. This shift is vital for staying relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving market.

Another crucial paradigm shift revolves around reevaluating and strengthening business models. With increasing competition, fitness companies must stress-test their models to ensure they can withstand tougher market conditions. The shift here is from complacency to a proactive and competitive mindset, where businesses continuously innovate and adapt their models to maintain their position as leaders.

In essence, business model considerations encompass the ability to navigate the complex terrain of digital transformation while ensuring that the chosen approach aligns with the unique needs and expectations of the target audience.

The Importance of Digital Transformation

To thrive in the modern fitness landscape, businesses must adapt to the era of digital transformation. Eric emphasizes the need for fitness business models to incorporate digital elements to expand into emerging markets effectively. This shift involves not only offering digital fitness content but also leveraging technology for customer engagement, data collection, and personalization.

It’s evident that digital transformation is no longer an option, but it’s essential to have a clear digital strategy.

AI-powered marketing tools enable fitness businesses to understand their customers better than ever before. By analyzing user data, preferences, and behavior, AI can help tailor marketing campaigns to individual needs, increasing the likelihood of customer engagement. This personalization is crucial in a competitive market where customer acquisition costs are a significant concern.

Moreover, AI has the potential to enhance customer engagement itself. For example, personalized fitness plans and workout recommendations based on user data can keep members motivated and engaged in their fitness journey. Chatbots and virtual trainers powered by AI can provide instant assistance and guidance, creating a more immersive and responsive fitness experience.

Digital transformation extends beyond marketing and engagement. It involves leveraging data and technology to improve operational efficiency and deliver better services. This includes streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing the overall customer experience. By embracing digital transformation and AI, fitness operators can stay competitive, evolve their business models, and ultimately provide greater value to their customers.

Emerging Markets: China and India

One of the most exciting aspects of the fitness and health industry’s evolution is the emergence of new markets, particularly in countries like China and India. These populous nations are witnessing a surge in fitness and health consciousness, presenting a goldmine of opportunities for fitness businesses. As per industry reports, the fitness industry in China is projected to reach a staggering $22.8 billion by 2025. McKenzie research has shown the Chinese have an increase in spending, particularly in categories that are focused on health and lifestyle.

In traditional fitness, with a substantial portion of the population yet to be tapped, the scope for growth is immense. However, to seize these opportunities, fitness business models must adapt to the unique characteristics of these markets. This adaptation involves understanding cultural nuances, tailoring fitness offerings, and, of course, embracing digital transformation to reach a broader audience.

Digital and Virtual Fitness Increase Post-COVID

The fitness industry, like many others, underwent a significant transformation in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns and social distancing measures prompted a surge in demand for digital fitness solutions, as people sought ways to stay active and healthy from the safety of their homes. This shift accelerated the adoption of online fitness classes, virtual personal training, and connected fitness equipment.

While the pandemic posed immense challenges, it also highlighted the resilience and adaptability of the fitness industry. Businesses that quickly pivoted to offer digital solutions not only survived but thrived during these challenging times. This resulted in a “Leaders Take Most” principle, where the leaders who were quick to adapt, innovate, and maintain their brand presence not only retained their existing members but also attracted new ones. This dynamic has allowed them to capture a larger share of the market, leaving smaller players struggling to keep up.

As the world emerges from the pandemic, the lessons learned from this period are invaluable. Fitness business models that continue to offer digital options are likely to maintain a competitive edge in the post-COVID-19 era.

The Importance of Purpose and Passion

Eric emphasizes the significance of purpose and passion in the fitness industry. He believes that businesses driven by a genuine desire to improve people’s lives are better poised for success. When fitness professionals and entrepreneurs are passionate about their work, they are more likely to innovate, adapt, and create solutions that resonate with customers.

In conclusion, the fitness and health industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by emerging markets and digital transformation. Fitness business models that can adapt to these changes, harness the power of information and technology, and offer value to customers are poised for growth and profit. The future of the fitness industry is not only about physical health but also about embracing the digital age, catering to emerging markets, and fostering a sense of purpose and passion for improving lives. As Eric Falardeau suggests, this industry has abundant opportunities for those willing to innovate and create more value from each customer relationship. It’s time for fitness businesses to unlock their growth potential in this dynamic landscape.

The Eric’s insights serve as a valuable resource for industry professionals seeking to navigate the fitness and health sector’s ever-changing landscape. The fitness industry needs to continue to evolve and bring more meaningful value to customers by embracing innovation and technology.

Find out how Wexer’s unparalleled data, technology and extensive library of wellness and fitness content can help you leverage your date to benefit of your business in 2023

More Info:

Contact: info@wexer.com

Paul Bowman, CEO of Wexer

Eric Falardeau, Partner at McKinsey & Company

McKinsey & Company

Podcast 25

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Flexit is a company at the forefront of revolutionizing the way we approach fitness. We’ll share Cohen’s insights and wisdom as he sheds light on the evolving landscape of fitness and well-being.

In the fast-paced world we live in, fitness and wellness have undergone a remarkable transformation. No longer confined to traditional gym spaces and one-size-fits-all routines, the fitness landscape is now a dynamic arena driven by personalization and technology.

The Changing Landscape of Fitness

The fitness landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. Traditional brick-and-mortar gyms, which once held a dominant position in the industry, are witnessing a significant shift in their status as the primary fitness option. In their place, we’re witnessing the rise of more flexible and personalized fitness choices that cater to the evolving needs and preferences of consumers.

One of the key drivers of this transformation is the surging popularity of digital fitness platforms. These platforms offer a diverse range of workout routines, fitness classes, and wellness programs that are accessible from the comfort of one’s home or virtually anywhere with an internet connection. This accessibility has been especially crucial in recent times when the world has faced lockdowns and restrictions due to the global pandemic. As people sought ways to maintain their fitness routines while adhering to social distancing guidelines, digital fitness platforms emerged as a savior.

To remain competitive and relevant, fitness businesses must be in tune with the shifting preferences of consumers. This means embracing digital solutions, offering flexible options, and continuously innovating to provide engaging and effective fitness experiences. As the fitness industry continues to evolve, those who can successfully navigate these changes are poised to thrive in this dynamic and ever-changing landscape.

Holistic Wellness and The Future of Fitness

The concept of holistic health and wellness takes center stage as a fundamental principle guiding the evolving fitness landscape. It signifies a broader and more comprehensive approach to well-being that extends beyond mere physical fitness. Holistic health and wellness acknowledge the intricate interplay between various facets of an individual’s life, including physical, mental, and emotional aspects, to foster a state of complete and harmonious well-being.

Within this context, fitness is not solely about sculpting one’s body or achieving physical prowess; it’s about achieving balance and harmony in all aspects of life. The importance of holistic health and wellness is mirrored in the types of fitness offerings gaining popularity. Digital platforms like Flexit provide users with a range of options, from yoga and meditation to strength training and cardio workouts. These offerings cater to individuals looking to cultivate not only their physical prowess but also their mental and emotional well-being.

Furthermore, holistic wellness is not confined to physical exercise alone. It encompasses nutrition, stress management, sleep quality, and mental health. In an era where stress and mental health issues are prevalent, the holistic approach encourages individuals to address these concerns alongside their physical fitness goals. This holistic perspective aligns with the evolving preferences of fitness enthusiasts who seek to enrich their lives physically, mentally, and emotionally, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and balanced existence.

Challenges and Opportunities

With the rise of digital fitness platforms and on-demand workouts, brick-and-mortar gyms are facing increasing competition. They must adapt to these changing consumer preferences and find innovative ways to differentiate themselves from other digital fitness services. This challenge necessitates a reevaluation of their business models, potentially incorporating technology and personalized experiences to remain relevant.

However, this disruption also presents a wealth of opportunities for both established fitness businesses and newcomers. There is a growing demand for personalized fitness experiences. This opens the door for fitness entrepreneurs to create niche offerings that cater to specific demographics or interests within the fitness world.

The emphasis on holistic health and wellness presents opportunities for businesses to offer comprehensive wellness solutions that extend beyond physical exercise. Integrating nutrition, stress management, mental health support, and recovery services into fitness offerings can set businesses apart and address the growing desire for a more holistic approach to well-being.

The Future of Fitness

Digital fitness platforms and on-demand workouts have taken center stage, catering to the demands of consumers who seek convenience and tailored fitness experiences. This shift suggests that the future of fitness will be increasingly characterized by accessibility and individualization.

Platforms like Flexit, with their ability to connect users with fitness professionals from around the world, exemplify the transformative power of technology in breaking down geographical barriers and expanding the reach of fitness services.

The future of fitness promises to be a multifaceted and tech-driven domain, with a strong emphasis on personalization and holistic well-being. Those who can adapt to these trends, leverage technology effectively, and provide comprehensive wellness experiences are poised to lead the way in this ever-changing industry.

The Role of Flexit

Flexit emerges as a prominent player that exemplifies the changing dynamics of the fitness industry. This platform exemplifies the essence of adaptability and flexibility, which are key elements in the modern fitness experience. Whether you’re interested in yoga, strength training, cardio, or any other form of exercise, Flexit provides a diverse array of options, allowing users to choose workouts that align with their personal preferences and goals.

One of the standout features of Flexit is its flexibility in terms of scheduling and location. Users can select workouts that fit seamlessly into their daily routines, whether they prefer to exercise in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening. Additionally, the platform allows individuals to work out in the comfort of their own homes, a local park, or any other convenient location.

Flexit represents a fundamental shift in the way fitness is approached and consumed. It adapts to the modern consumer’s desire for personalized and flexible fitness experiences, breaking free from the constraints of traditional gym memberships. As the fitness landscape continues to evolve, Flexit serves as a prime example of how innovative digital platforms are reshaping the industry to meet the demands of today’s fitness enthusiasts.

The fitness industry is during a significant transformation. Flexibility, personalization, and technology are reshaping the way we approach fitness and well-being. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast seeking a more tailored experience, or a fitness operator looking to adapt and thrive in this changing landscape, the insights shared by Cohen offer valuable guidance.

As we look to the future, one thing is certain: the fitness world will continue to evolve, and those who embrace innovation and prioritize holistic wellness will lead the way to a healthier, happier tomorrow.

Find out how Wexer’s unparalleled data, technology and extensive library holistic wellness and fitness content can help you leverage your date to benefit of your business in 2023

More Info: info@wexer.com

Podcast 23

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The Smart Fit digital solutions allow customers to be well-guided by trainers to work out both inside or outside the gym, through the Smart Fit App and Smart Fit GO (an on-demand workout platform).

About Thiago Somera

Thiago’s has a long history of international trade marketing and supply chain experience.Smart Fit entered the Latin American market in 2009 with the high volume, low cost fitness model. He was able to grow Smart Fit’s infrastructure to support their growth with physical clubs and digital platforms.

How Smart Fit Expanded Beyond Boundaries

Smart Fit’s journey began in 1996 as a premium operation, and in just 14 years, they expanded to an astounding 1400 clubs. However, this rapid expansion didn’t come without challenges. The company faced the daunting task of breaking into local markets that were not initially ready for such growth. Nevertheless, Smart Fit took on the challenge head-on, propelling the fitness industry forward in these regions.

Building The Smart Fit Infrastructure And Culture

One of the biggest challenges Smart Fit encountered was upgrading their supply chain to match the pace of their expansion. This required teaching how to construct and adapt quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively. Today, with an improved infrastructure, Smart Fit’s supply chain builds an impressive 200 clubs per year, a testament to their dedication to operational excellence.

Keys To Growing A Digital Brand

Smart Fit has a strong culture of innovation with the goals of constantly improving the customer experience and the productivity of clubs.

Let’s explore the digital concepts that allowed Smart Fit to build their brands into a successful synergy between their physical gyms and digital offerings. Their customer-driven and data-driven culture leverages digital offerings to engage customers and stay ahead in the fitness market. 

Embrace the Digital Wave

Even before the pandemic, Smart Fit had its eyes set on digital trends. They launched their digital offerings, inspired by the success of platforms like Peloton, Wexer, and The Daily Burn in the US. Interestingly, Smart Fit took a different approach by not directly connecting their digital product with their physical gyms. They recognized that the customers engaging with their digital platform had slightly different needs and preferences than those who visited the gym.

Synergy Between Digital and Physical Offerings

To maintain a clear distinction between their digital and physical offerings, Smart Fit kept a separate brand and entity for their digital platform. This strategic decision allowed them to tap into different customer segments and avoid unnecessary cost overlap. The crossover between the two platforms was minimal, demonstrating the unique preferences of their customers across these channels.

Customer Confidence and Lifetime Value

Smart Fit recognized the importance of building customer confidence and understanding how it impacts lifetime value. They observed that less confident customers tend to engage more with digital products, while more confident ones frequent physical gyms. This insight allowed them to track lifetime value without being directly connected to the club and its systems.

Simplicity and Convenience

Thiago emphasized the significance of providing a hassle-free experience for customers. This experience is not just during membership sign-up but also when they decide to leave. Easy entry and exit processes ensure that customers feel in control and appreciated, ultimately leading to better retention and brand loyalty.

A Culture of Healthy Competition

Smart Fit boasts a unique company culture that fosters both collaboration and competition. The fitness directors share valuable experiences, product ideas, and industry insights while maintaining a healthy competitive spirit. This balance enables Smart Fit to innovate and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Hyper-Personalization and Micro-Influencers

Smart Fit’s commitment to offering personalized fitness solutions is evident through their 150+ different programs, each tailored for specific personas or avatars. Additionally, they leverage micro-influencers on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to promote their products. This symbiotic relationship benefits both the influencers and Smart Fit, creating a circle of benefits.

Staying Agile During a Global Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic was a challenging period for all businesses, and Smart Fit was no exception. However, their ability to pivot quickly and adapt allowed them to grow a digital brand and retain a strong customer base. Thiago acknowledged that the pandemic was a shaking moment, but the approach they took proved effective in weathering the storm.

Embracing the Future with Technology

Smart Fit’s focus on technology is not just about flashy features; it’s about enhancing the overall fitness experience for customers, regardless of where they engage. Thiago emphasized that technology should bring meaningful improvements.

Smart Fit and Wexer share a similar vision about the power of agility, innovation, and customer-centricity in the fitness industry. By staying ahead of digital trends, embracing change, and continuously improving their products and services, Smart Fit carved a unique path to success. As the fitness industry continues to evolve, Smart Fit serves as an inspiration for other fitness operators to adapt, innovate, and thrive.

Contact Wexer to see how we can help you deliver a better fitness experience by growing a digital brand to deliver what your members want anytime and anywhere.

More Info:

Wexer Digital Fitness Key To Staying Relevent

Smart Fit

Wexer Podcast 21

The post The Secret To Growing A Digital Brand To 500K Subscribers   appeared first on Wexer.

In this episode, Liz Clark, the President & CEO of IHRSA (International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association), shares how It’s time to include fitness as another important component of preventative healthcare and create legislation to support the inclusion of fitness.  

As the world grapples with the enduring effects of a global pandemic and as technology becomes increasingly intertwined with daily life, the dynamics are driving the fitness sector to become intertwined with preventive health and general well-being. Preventive healthcare should include a holistic and proactive approach to fitness, including the ability to improve the physical, mental, and social well-being of the population.

The mission of IHRSA, the Global Health & Fitness Association, is to grow, promote, and protect the health and fitness industry and to provide its members with the benefits that will help them be more successful. IHRSA and its members—health and fitness clubs, gyms, studios, sports and aquatic facilities, and industry partners—are dedicated to making the world healthier through regular exercise. In addition, IHRSA’s advocacy team is fighting to pass the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, federal legislation that incentivizes physical activity and lowers consumer costs.

Navigating Industry Challenges During COVID-19

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic proved an unprecedented hurdle for the industry, creating an environment for fitness businesses to reimagine their role within the healthcare continuum. During the pandemic, the fitness industry struggled to gain recognition as an essential part of preventative healthcare. This lack of recognition impacted the industry’s ability to operate and receive support, resulting in significant operational challenges, with gym closures, canceled trade shows, and financial difficulties. 

Recovery required strategic changes to adapt to the new environment and create a focus on advocacy and policy. This highlighted a need to proactively engage with policymakers to ensure the industry’s survival.

Advocacy and Legislative Progress within the Fitness Industry

Advocacy plays a pivotal role in shaping the fitness industry’s trajectory. IHRSA’s concerted efforts include collaborating with state alliances and legislators to forge policies that bolster fitness centers and endorse preventive healthcare initiatives. Liz underscores the organization’s legislative success and accomplishments that underscore the far-reaching impact of cohesive industry action.

In addition, IHRSA’s advocacy team is fighting to pass the Personal Health Investment Today (PHIT) Act, federal legislation that incentivizes physical activity and lowers consumer costs. Specifically, the PHIT Act would allow healthcare dollars to be used for gym memberships. The federal exemption is needed for gym memberships, giving added importance to collaborating and aligning the fitness industry with the wellness and nutrition sectors.

Fitness as Preventative Healthcare

Positioning the fitness industry as a cornerstone of preventive healthcare is a central goal for Liz Clark and URSA. Liz underscores the necessity for policymakers to acknowledge that fitness centers contribute significantly to holistic well-being by providing health benefits from physical fitness. Fitness should be recognized as a major industry that contribute more benefits to overall health, wellness, and preventative healthcare.

Fitness can play a role in addressing health crises. The increasing prioritization of exercise for mental health benefits has resulted in many adaptations within the industry to support mental well-being through exercise. The industry’s impact on overall health and physical fitness can also contribute to addressing fitness-related challenges in the military.

The industry’s evolution beyond traditional fitness embraces wellness and healthy aging. It is constantly working toward offering services that cater to holistic health. The connection between exercise and nutrition as complementary aspects of preventive healthcare and the collaboration between fitness and other sectors to address comprehensive health needs is critical to this continued evolution.

Technology and AI Role In The Fitness Industry

Technology and AI have played an increasingly significant role in the fitness industry. With the advancement of technology, many fitness professionals and companies have turned to virtual platforms to offer fitness and wellness sessions, classes, and consultations. With an internet connection, people can access fitness and wellness guidance from home or anywhere.

Some fitness apps and platforms use AI algorithms to create personalized fitness plans and workouts for users. These algorithms consider personalized fitness goals, physical conditions, and sometimes available equipment. AI continuously learns from the user’s feedback and progress to adapt the workout plans over time. Wearable devices equipped with sensors and AI capabilities can track various fitness metrics, including heart rate, steps taken, calories burned, and even sleep patterns. Users can monitor their progress and make informed decisions to improve their lifestyle.

In diet and nutrition, AI fitness apps can analyze users’ dietary preferences, restrictions, and goals to recommend personalized meal plans. They can also track calorie intake and nutritional content, providing real-time feedback and suggestions.

AI can process and analyze large amounts of data generated by users and fitness equipment. This analysis can offer valuable insights into trends, helping fitness professionals design more effective programs and personalized fitness plans. AI fitness technology can also help analyze movement patterns to prevent injuries during workouts. By comparing the user’s movements against established biomechanical principles, it can provide insights or alerts to avoid strain or incorrect postures and aid in preventative healthcare.

The Transformation of Fitness As Preventative Healthcare

The fitness industry has undergone a profound transformation in response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. The shift from focusing on physical appearance to holistic well-being and fitness as a way to prevent healthcare conditions marks a significant and positive change. This evolution highlights the industry’s adaptability and commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its clientele.

The emphasis on mental health and well-being and the integration of technology, AI fitness, and virtual platforms has expanded access to more personalized fitness resources. The industry’s recognition of gender diversity and the promotion of female leadership further reflect its progressive outlook and dedication to inclusivity.

“We saw some interesting data come out last year that for the first time, people are working out first and foremost to take care of their mental health, second to improving something with their physique.”

~ Liz Clark, President & CEO of IHRSA

Ultimately, those working in the fitness industry have a passion for enhancing lives. It is a testimony to the resilience, responsiveness, and unwavering commitment of the fitness industry. As individuals increasingly prioritize their well-being and legislation supports the fitness industry as part of the solution, the synergy between fitness, wellness, and healthcare will soon shape the future of global healthcare.

Find out how Wexer’s unparalleled fitness and wellness content library can help you align fitness as preventive healthcare by contacting us at info@wexer.com.

Additional Resources:

IHRSA

Liz Clark

info@ihrsa.org

Podcast 22

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Integrity Square’s mission is to advise, connect, and empower fast-growing companies, exceptional entrepreneurs, seasoned executives, and capital providers in the $4.2T Health, Active Lifestyle, and Outdoors (HALO) sector.

His education in finance from Harvard Business School and his passion for fitness and sport, are what ultimately led Pete to a business deal with Gold’s Gym brand in 1999. In 2010, he morphed the two finance and fitness competencies into Integrity Square. Pete is also the host of a leading business-to-business podcast, HALO Talks for fitness professionals.

Tune in to hear Pete share unique insights about the financial side of the fitness business, consolidation, and hybridization, and the relevance of the attention economy. This information is pertinent to your fitness business and will inspire you to upgrade your business playbook.

Pete Moore discusses the challenges facing the health club industry and the opportunities that lie in acquisitions. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s business model and aligning it with all facets of the operation.

Empowering Fitness Entrepreneurs

A passionate advocate for education in the fitness industry, Pete Moore shares insights into the Halo Academy. This unique program empowers fitness executives with the necessary knowledge to market their businesses effectively. We educate them on the financial side of this business and if we can educate more executives, we can get more capital. They can talk to people who have done it before. It’s a huge learning curve because you have to understand the language if you don’t come from the traditional roots of club management.

“The first thing I say to entrepreneurs is — How do you run your playbook? —- We wrote a book called Time to Win Again, which basically said if you’re a football team or a soccer team you have to have a strategy. You have a playbook. What’s your offensive strategy? And that strategy needs to be aligned in all facets.”

— Pete Moore —

The Role of Private Equity In The Fitness Industry

Discussing the role of private equity in the fitness space, Pete sheds light on the sources of funding backing growth scenarios. Most of the private equity that is backing companies in any growth scenario is coming from universities, endowment funds, pension funds, hedge funds, and retirement funds. 

Private equity money is important because it allows investors to get better returns that the stock market. One example Pete share is how Crunch’s private equity money came from the State of California’s pension plan, enabling them to obtain a better return than other investment alternative available.

Fitness Business Consolidation and Its Challenges

Pete Moore highlights levels of consolidation in the fitness industry. One approach is to go into a market by buying an established business, build thier prototype model around it, and then renovate whatever the clubs they bought. 

Then there are private equity firms that are backing consolidation plays, but they’re being very prudent about what they’re paying. It all comes down to unit economics for private equity guys. How much does it cost to build, how quickly does it ramp up, how soon can we sell it, what is the return, and then move on to the next one. So you have to focus on unit economics.

There is a lot of impact from pricing and tight debt markets on consolidation decisions.The debt markets are very tight right now because of Silicon Valley Bank and First Republic. Also, interest rates are getting higher to the point where if you’re an entrepreneur and you want to do a deal, you’ve got to be very careful about what rates you’re locking in for growth. Some of these debt facilities are 10 -15%, but 15% is a lot of money. Realize at the end of the day that there’s a big debt security and there’s no equity left for you guys. 

Hybridization and Leveraging Technology

The discussion delves into the significance of hybridization in fitness, where technology and human interactions work together to enhance member experiences. We emphasize the importance of using technology to understand and motivate members. Leverage technology to improve member experiences and building lasting relationships beyond the club walls.

You have to view hybridization and technology as weapons, and your javelin is your relationship with your members. This relationship needs to go outside of the four walls here and you need to be in a position to provide outcomes. You must understand what they are viewing, give them what they want, and then you can enhance their fitness experience. 

“Our research keeps pointing back to the fact that everyone wants outcomes. The fitness industry keeps talking in membership terms, but members want outcomes. And there is the disconnect. If you can relate the product to the outcome they want to achieve, you can hook them.”

— Paul Bowman —

To provide the best combined experience, our industry will really need to do great things. We can establish personal and physical relationships with people, and we can micro-target with the hybridization. 

“The point is we have to dial it back to how do we foster relationships, how do we help people, how do you get results. Hybridization is a no brainer because everyone’s got their cell phone. That’s basically all they stare at all day. So, if you’re not relevant on that phone, you’re not relevant anywhere.”

— Pete Moore —

Each fitness evangelist or group exercise instructor can be responsible for 50 to 250 of your members. Give them some showtime and realize that they could affect a larger majority of your members.

One example is we realized that 1,000 members were affiliated with three trainers, and those three trainers were only doing one session a week. So we weren’t serving a majority of the members because they couldn’t get access to that person. 

The digital and technology platforms within a club can allow more access to group exercise instructors and personal trainers and can help to scale their business. So getting people online allows you to provide more alignment. 

The Future Of The Fitness Business

Moore’s predictions for the future of fitness offer intriguing insights. From regional changes to club locations and subleasing areas, the industry’s transformation is expected to be driven by member preferences.

There’s going to be further segmentation and there’s going to be winners in each category. There are going to be 100 to 200 regional changes in U.S. fitness club locations, and they’re going to listen to their members to find out what they want. Everyone’s got to be working together to provide what members want. They may sublease areas or have profit centers inside to increase member  

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the fitness industry has led to a surge in bricks-and-mortar fitness and the potential of digital platforms to get closer to members.

Building Value and Selling a Business

Pete shares the importance of building value in a fitness business and avoiding stagnation. Many people get into the fitness industry because they are passionate about fitness, but they have no clue about how to build value to sell a business. So he shares valuable guidance for entrepreneurs on how to plan for a successful exit strategy.

Paul Bowman and Pete Moore share a treasure trove of knowledge for fitness enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Pete’s journey from investment banking to the fitness industry, along with his founding of Integrity Square and the Halo Academy, offers invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. His insights into consolidation, hybridization, and the future of fitness provide a roadmap for industry players to navigate the evolving landscape successfully. As the industry continues to adapt and innovate, these valuable insights will prove essential in shaping the future of the fitness world.

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Podcast 20

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