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European Fitness Market Trends In 2025 & Beyond LIVE From Portugal With Bryan O'Rourke

Fitness + Technology

Release Date: 12/08/2025

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In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O’Rourke shares his keynote, “European Fitness Market Trends In 2025 And Beyond” live from the SC Fitness Annual Convention in Portugal. Bryan shares the spotlight for what’s next in the European fitness market and the key differentiators needed for successful operators. Whether you lead a gym, studio, supplier brand, or digital platform, this talk is designed to expand your perspective and prepare you for what’s ahead.

To view the slideshow, go to: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/european-fitness-market-trends-2025-bryan-orourke-keynote-sc-fitness-conference/284499398

Apply for the 2025 Innovation Awards: https://www.fittechcouncil.org/fitc-innovation-award-2025

One Powerful Quote:

11:51: “The quality of your thinking determines the quality of your life.”

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

6:57: Bryan opens by emphasizing thinking big as the first major trend.

15:54: Bryan discusses the opportunities and challenges shaping the growth of the European fitness market, highlighting the importance of leaders distinguishing between strong ideas and effective execution.

19:14: Bryan expands on the role of capital as markets scale and mature in response to continued industry growth.

21:13: Bryan addresses evolving customer expectations, noting the growing demand for both digitization and human connection in the fitness experience.

30:01: Bryan examines current technology, AI hype cycles, and their implications for the industry.

37:03: Bryan reflects on the importance of people and collaboration, underscoring the theme of working together to achieve greater impact.

45:05: Bryan concludes by summarizing the key points from his talk.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://elementgyms.pt/

https://www.solinca.pt/

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163