Future of Fitness
We are putting a shoulder into the fitness industry and pushing it forward into the modern digital age. Eric Malzone, a 14-year industry veteran, entrepreneur, advisor, and coach, interviews the brightest movers and shakers in the fitness and health industries. Interviewing some of the industry's top executives, entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders, topics will vary covering cutting edge technology, entrepreneurship, hot industry trends, and so much more. If you're in or around the industry, this is how you keep your edge sharp.
info_outline
Evelyn Webster - Test, Fail, Repeat: SoulCycle's Practical Approach to AI Implementation
08/09/2025
Evelyn Webster - Test, Fail, Repeat: SoulCycle's Practical Approach to AI Implementation
In this episode of The Future of Fitness, host Eric Malzone sits down with Evelyn Webster, CEO of SoulCycle, to explore the shifting dynamics of fitness and wellness in a post-pandemic world and how evolving consumer behavior is shaping the industry’s future. Evelyn shares how SoulCycle is redefining wellness beyond the bike, embracing experiential spending, and strengthening its emotional connection with riders to build lasting loyalty. She dives into the brand’s innovative use of AI and technology to personalize the customer journey—such as matching riders with instructors who play their favorite music, a strategy that has doubled new customer retention. The conversation also highlights SoulCycle’s brand strategy, the importance of investing in talent, expanding into retail beyond apparel, and forming strategic partnerships to reach new audiences. With a strong emphasis on a test-and-learn mindset, Evelyn offers valuable insights on driving growth, enhancing customer experience, and staying relevant in a rapidly changing wellness landscape.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37727360
info_outline
Royi Metser - Smart Shoes That Coach: Avelo's Biomechanical Revolution
08/03/2025
Royi Metser - Smart Shoes That Coach: Avelo's Biomechanical Revolution
In this episode of The Future of Fitness, host Eric Malzone welcomes guest Royi Metser, founder and CEO of Avelo, to discuss his journey in creating an innovative running product at Avelo Running. Metser shares his personal motivation rooted in a period of unfitness during the COVID-19 pandemic that led to an obsession with improving running performance. He emphasizes the importance of creating a vertically integrated smart running shoe that combines hardware and software to offer real-time data, injury prevention, and enhanced performance for runners. The conversation delves into the biomechanics of running, the persistent high rate of running-related injuries, and how Avelo’s product aims to address these issues by quantifying biomechanical load and providing personalized coaching. Metser also touches on his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of balancing hardware and software development, and the excitement surrounding their active Kickstarter campaign.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37644915
info_outline
Michael Ramsey - The Black Sheep of Pilates: How Strong Pilates is Breaking All the Rules
07/29/2025
Michael Ramsey - The Black Sheep of Pilates: How Strong Pilates is Breaking All the Rules
In this conversation, Michael Ramsey, co-founder of Strong Pilates, shares his journey from personal trainer to entrepreneur in the boutique fitness space. He discusses the unique offerings of Strong Pilates, which combines strength training with traditional Pilates and cardio, creating a comprehensive workout experience. Michael highlights the importance of member satisfaction, the franchise model's success, and the brand's rapid expansion. He also addresses industry challenges, the need for innovation, and the significance of building brand equity in a competitive market.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37574325
info_outline
Amber Martinez - Scaling Culture: The 21% Profit Strategy Most Fitness Brands Miss
07/24/2025
Amber Martinez - Scaling Culture: The 21% Profit Strategy Most Fitness Brands Miss
In this conversation, Amber Martinez shares her extensive journey in the fitness industry, emphasizing the critical role of people in business success. She discusses her evolution from a front desk employee to a leader in various capacities, highlighting the importance of culture, operations, and sales integration. Amber provides insights on scaling culture, measuring the impact of people and culture, and establishing standards for accountability. She also addresses the challenges of navigating personality assessments in hiring and the necessity of selling the importance of culture to business leaders. Finally, Amber discusses the implications of AI on company culture and the importance of networking and collaboration in the industry. https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37517545
info_outline
Power Moves: Tim Green - TeamUp's Custom Branded Apps and AI-Powered Lead Management
07/21/2025
Power Moves: Tim Green - TeamUp's Custom Branded Apps and AI-Powered Lead Management
In this special episode of Power Moves, host Eric interviews Tim Green to discuss the latest updates and offerings from Team Up, a leading gym management software. The conversation highlights two major new products: a custom branded app for gyms and enhanced lead management tools. The custom app allows gym owners to create personalized applications with two-way messaging and other customizable features. The upgraded lead management system incorporates AI to streamline operations and improve customer engagement. They also touch on future developments, including resource management tools to help gyms optimize their space for additional revenue streams. Tim provides insights into the resilient gym industry and emphasizes the transformational potential of AI for small business owners.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37453235
info_outline
Julie Cartwright - 300% Digital Growth and 22 Studios: Pvolve's Omni-Channel Strategy
07/19/2025
Julie Cartwright - 300% Digital Growth and 22 Studios: Pvolve's Omni-Channel Strategy
In this episode, Eric Malzone sits down with Julie Cartwright, President of Pvolve, to dive into the brand’s rapid growth and evolution. Julie shares how Pvolve is redefining fitness through its unique combination of functional movement and resistance-based training. They discuss the company’s expanding franchise footprint, the surge in digital subscriptions, and how the brand stays focused on serving a specific audience. From leadership challenges to the power of community, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at Pvolve’s innovative business model and commitment to a holistic fitness experience.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37453150
info_outline
Mike Goscinski - 27 Words That Could Change Everything: The PHIT Act's Legislative Journey
07/14/2025
Mike Goscinski - 27 Words That Could Change Everything: The PHIT Act's Legislative Journey
In this episode, we sit down with Mike Goscinski from the Health and Fitness Association to explore the dynamic shifts in the fitness industry. Discover how the 2025 consumer report highlights a significant increase in fitness facility visits, with 96 million Americans contributing $59.6 billion to the US economy. Mike shares insights into the growing engagement of Gen Z and Gen Alpha, who now represent 30.8% of fitness members, viewing fitness as an essential part of their lifestyle rather than a luxury. We delve into the diverse options available for physical activity, which are driving increased participation across all demographics. Mike discusses the association's policy advocacy efforts, including the PHIT Act, which aims to redefine fitness as preventive health. Learn about the exciting opportunities on the horizon, such as the upcoming European Congress in Amsterdam, where global advocacy and industry collaboration will take center stage. Join us for an enlightening conversation on how the Health and Fitness Association is shaping the future of fitness and what it means for you.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37383565
info_outline
Lise Kuecker - The State of Boutique: M&A Activity, Pilates Trends, and Opening Strategies
07/09/2025
Lise Kuecker - The State of Boutique: M&A Activity, Pilates Trends, and Opening Strategies
In this episode of the Future of Fitness podcast, Lise Kuecker, CEO and founder of Studio Grow, discusses the evolving landscape of boutique fitness. The conversation covers a wide array of topics, including innovation in the fitness space, the professionalization of boutique fitness, the impact of major acquisitions, and the promising growth of Pilates. Lise also highlights the importance of strategic openings for long-term success and touches on the trend of smaller markets offering more profitable opportunities. Tune in for insights into the future of fitness, industry rebranding, and much more. LINKS- https://podcastcollective.io/
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37303210
info_outline
Justin Santamaria - Scaling the Human Touch: AI The Future of Fitness Coaching
06/29/2025
Justin Santamaria - Scaling the Human Touch: AI The Future of Fitness Coaching
In this episode, Justin Santamaria discusses the evolution and impact of remote fitness coaching. Starting with his background at Apple and Airbnb, Justin shares how his past experiences in developing cutting-edge communications technology helped shape the foundation of a new approach to personal training. The conversation highlights the integration of human coaching with advanced AI tools, emphasizing the importance of human connection and personalized guidance in fitness. With insights into the potential of AI to revolutionize coaching, Justin explains how technology can scale personal training and make high-quality coaching more accessible. The discussion also explores the implications of AI on various industries, the balance between AI and human elements, and the future possibilities in the fitness domain. LINKS- https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37206895
info_outline
Emre Ozgur - Safe Sweat: The Anti-Group Fitness Model Built to Scale
06/24/2025
Emre Ozgur - Safe Sweat: The Anti-Group Fitness Model Built to Scale
In this episode, Emre Ozgur, CEO and co-founder of Safe Sweat, joins the discussion on the Future of Fitness to introduce his innovative concept of private fitness suites. Based in Vancouver, Safe Sweat offers personalized workout experiences featuring private rooms, customizable environments, and advanced fitness equipment—without the pressure of typical group classes. Emre shares his journey from athlete and fitness operator to entrepreneur, as he builds a new fitness model designed to attract a broader demographic. He also explains the strategic decision to franchise Safe Sweat due to high demand, highlighting the model’s advantages: lower operating costs and an emphasis on mental and physical well-being over conventional fitness metrics. Emre offers insights into the scalability of this approach and its potential to reshape the fitness industry. LINKS-
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37129985
info_outline
Anthony Vennare - The Future of Fitt Insider
06/19/2025
Anthony Vennare - The Future of Fitt Insider
In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Anthony discuss the recent rebranding of Fitt Insider, exploring its evolution from a newsletter to a comprehensive holding company. They delve into the importance of community, mental health, and the challenges facing the fitness industry, including the need for investment and authentic connections. Anthony shares his vision for the future of Fitt Insider, emphasizing the importance of holistic health and the role of media in shaping the industry. The discussion highlights the need for fresh ideas and new voices in fitness, as well as the potential for innovative gym models that foster community and support mental health. LINKS >> https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37086565
info_outline
Panel Discussion - AI in Fitness: Separating Signal from Noise with Industry Leaders
06/14/2025
Panel Discussion - AI in Fitness: Separating Signal from Noise with Industry Leaders
In this episode, Eric Malzone moderates a powerhouse panel on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the fitness industry. Featuring insights from Taylor Nakamura (Fit19), Spencer Honeyman (Vi), and Florian Sauter (EGYM), this discussion dives deep into real-world AI applications, from retention strategies to personalized training and operational efficiency. Whether you're a multi-location gym operator or a solo fitness entrepreneur, you'll walk away with actionable AI insights to help you drive member retention, increase revenue, and improve your core offerings. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 🤖 AI Beyond the Buzzwords: Understand the distinction between generative AI, predictive analytics, and machine learning—and how each is driving innovation in fitness. 📊 Data-Driven Retention: Learn how top operators are using third-party behavior data and AI to predict churn, prioritize outreach, and boost member retention. 💼 AI for Everyone: Discover how AI is leveling the playing field—empowering even small clubs with tools once exclusive to enterprise-level fitness brands. 🧠 Precision Targeting: See how companies like Vi leverage data to personalize marketing and PT upsells based on real-world consumer behavior. 🧼 Operational Gains: Hear how AI helps manage online reviews and identify service trends to enhance local club operations. 🏋️ Product-Centric Innovation: Explore EGYM’s data-rich approach to improving member outcomes directly on the gym floor through AI-assisted onboarding and assessments. 💡 Getting Started with AI: Advice for fitness operators feeling overwhelmed—how to identify high-impact areas (like retention) and test small-scale implementations before scaling. LINKS >>
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/37009245
info_outline
Power Moves: Andy Peat & Jason Moore - Snap Fitness rolls out Spren’s AI coaches and body composition to 1,100 gyms worldwide
06/13/2025
Power Moves: Andy Peat & Jason Moore - Snap Fitness rolls out Spren’s AI coaches and body composition to 1,100 gyms worldwide
Eric Malzone is joined by Andy, Pete and Jason Moore, CEO of SPREN, to discuss a groundbreaking partnership between Lyft Brands and SPREN. This collaboration aims to integrate advanced body composition analysis technology with gym experiences, coaching services, and on-demand content. Andy and Jason delve into how this innovative approach will enhance user engagement, retention, and overall fitness outcomes through a unique combination of smartphone-based body scanning, AI-driven coaching, and personalized nutrition plans. They emphasize the seamless blend of technology and personal trainers to provide 24/7 support, making fitness more accessible and effective for everyone.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36913130
info_outline
Paul Byrne - Navigating MAHA: The Future of Fitness in American Healthcare
06/09/2025
Paul Byrne - Navigating MAHA: The Future of Fitness in American Healthcare
In this episode, Eric welcomes back Paul Byrne to discuss the significant topics surrounding the 'Make America Healthy Again' (MAHA) movement, tariffs, and their impacts on the fitness industry. Paul shares his extensive background in the fitness business, notably with Precor and Harrison Company. The discussion delves into the health crisis in America, highlighting alarming statistics about chronic diseases and obesity. Paul outlines the roles and initiatives of key players in the MAHA movement, including RFK Jr., Marty Makary, and Jay Bhattacharya, and their goals to improve national health through science-based approaches. The conversation also touches on the potential opportunities and challenges for the fitness industry amid these new health agendas and the current economic landscape influenced by tariffs. The episode provides insights into possible future trends and the importance of education in promoting healthier lifestyles. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36913055
info_outline
Rick Mayo - Strength First: Simplifying the Modern Fitness Prescription
06/04/2025
Rick Mayo - Strength First: Simplifying the Modern Fitness Prescription
In this engaging conversation, Eric Malzone and Rick Mayo discuss the evolution of the fitness industry, focusing on the growth of Alloy, a successful fitness franchise. They explore the challenges and opportunities in the market, emphasizing the importance of returning to fundamental fitness principles. Rick shares insights on the modern fitness prescription, advocating for strength training as a foundation and the significance of understanding cardiovascular training. The discussion also highlights common misconceptions in fitness, particularly the 'garbage zone' of training, and offers practical strategies for achieving longevity and health. In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Rick Mayo discuss the evolving landscape of health and fitness, particularly focusing on the importance of tailored training for different age groups, the balance between competitive sports and general health, and the increasing awareness of health and wellness among consumers. They also explore the implications of new health policies and the role of GLP-1 medications in weight management and overall wellness. The discussion emphasizes the need for fitness professionals to adapt to these changes and prioritize the health of future generations. LINKS:
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36859090
info_outline
Juliet Starrett & Alex Alimanestianu - Quarterly Reports: The Big Five, HUGE Industry Transactions, & Casey Means as Surgeon General
05/30/2025
Juliet Starrett & Alex Alimanestianu - Quarterly Reports: The Big Five, HUGE Industry Transactions, & Casey Means as Surgeon General
In this conversation, Eric Malzone, Juliet Starrett, and Alex discuss recent transactions in the fitness industry, including Crunch and EoS, and analyze quarterly reports from major companies like Peloton, Planet Fitness, and Lifetime Fitness. They explore the challenges and strategies these companies face in a fluctuating economic environment, highlighting Peloton's struggle to grow despite cutting costs, Planet Fitness's impressive membership growth, and Lifetime's strong financial performance. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI in the fitness sector and the evolving landscape of gym memberships. In this conversation, Eric Malzone, Alex, and Juliet Starrett discuss the transformative impact of AI on personal health, the financial state of fitness companies, leadership changes, and the role of the Surgeon General in public health. They explore the intersection of individual health optimization and public health, emphasizing the need for educational initiatives in schools to combat obesity and promote healthier lifestyles. The discussion also highlights the success of Garmin in the fitness market and the overall optimism in the fitness industry despite challenges. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36766220
info_outline
Dr. Bob Gabbay - The Future of GLP-1s
05/25/2025
Dr. Bob Gabbay - The Future of GLP-1s
In this conversation, Dr. Bob Gabbay discusses the evolution and impact of GLP-1 medications on weight loss and fitness. He highlights the importance of integrating lifestyle changes with medication, the current state of GLP-1 treatments, and the role of fitness professionals in supporting patients. The discussion also touches on the future of healthcare, technological innovations, and the potential of exercise mimetics. Takeaways GLP-1 medications have been around for 20 years but have recently exploded in popularity. The evolution of GLP-1 treatments has led to significant weight loss results, with newer medications achieving up to 22% weight loss. Lifestyle changes remain crucial for individuals using GLP-1 medications, complementing their effects. Statistics show that one in eight Americans have tried GLP-1 medications, but many stop within a year due to side effects or expectations. Common side effects of GLP-1 medications include nausea and gastrointestinal issues, with muscle wasting being a significant concern. Fitness professionals have a vital role in educating and supporting patients using GLP-1 medications. Technological innovations, such as AI and digital health tools, are transforming healthcare and patient engagement. The future of healthcare may see a greater integration of fitness professionals into the healthcare ecosystem. Exercise mimetics are being explored as a way to stimulate muscle growth without traditional exercise. By 2030, there is hope for improved access to GLP-1 medications and a shift in societal attitudes towards treating obesity as a disease. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36697800
info_outline
Power Moves: Julian Barnes - BFS 2024 State of The Industry Report
05/23/2025
Power Moves: Julian Barnes - BFS 2024 State of The Industry Report
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
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36697500
info_outline
Edward Hertzman - Athletech's Innovation Summit
05/20/2025
Edward Hertzman - Athletech's Innovation Summit
In this conversation, Eric Malzone and Edward Hertzman discuss the evolving landscape of the fitness industry, focusing on the impact of media, the need for rebranding, and the significance of upcoming events like the CEO Summit and Innovation Summit. They explore how the industry is adapting to economic challenges, the role of AI in media, and the importance of personalized experiences for attendees. The discussion highlights the necessity for collaboration and communication among industry leaders to foster growth and innovation. In this conversation, Edward Hertzman discusses the dynamics of the fitness industry, emphasizing the importance of smaller voices and independent operators in providing valuable insights. He highlights the growing role of science in business claims and the need for radical transparency in transactions. The discussion also touches on content consumption trends, innovative experiences at industry events, and the significance of networking, particularly in New York. Hertzman reflects on the challenges of collaboration versus competition within the industry and the evolving landscape of B2B media. LINKS: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ https://egym.com/int
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36622010
info_outline
Marco Benitez - The Wearable Data Problem: How Rook is Creating a Universal Language for Health Tech
05/15/2025
Marco Benitez - The Wearable Data Problem: How Rook is Creating a Universal Language for Health Tech
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:
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36559540
info_outline
Tom Dowd - From Revamp to Rebrand: The F45 Renaissance
05/10/2025
Tom Dowd - From Revamp to Rebrand: The F45 Renaissance
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:
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36484140
info_outline
Sam O'Keefe - Unlocking the $150 Billion HSA/FSA Opportunity
05/05/2025
Sam O'Keefe - Unlocking the $150 Billion HSA/FSA Opportunity
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:
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36434525
info_outline
Darren MacDonald - The Future of Tonal
04/30/2025
Darren MacDonald - The Future of Tonal
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:
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36369650
info_outline
Dana Milkie - Smart Strength and AI: EGYM's North American Strategy
04/25/2025
Dana Milkie - Smart Strength and AI: EGYM's North American Strategy
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: Learn more about EGYM -
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36302515
info_outline
David Knies - The 5 Forces Driving the Next Trillion Dollars in Wellness
04/20/2025
David Knies - The 5 Forces Driving the Next Trillion Dollars in Wellness
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 >>
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36229010
info_outline
Dr. Gloria Winters - The YMCA's Vision for Preventative Healthcare
04/15/2025
Dr. Gloria Winters - The YMCA's Vision for Preventative Healthcare
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 >>
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36108310
info_outline
Tim Green - TeamUp & The Golden Age of Fitness Entrepreneurship
04/10/2025
Tim Green - TeamUp & The Golden Age of Fitness Entrepreneurship
In this engaging conversation, Eric Malzone and Tim Green discuss the evolving landscape of the fitness industry, focusing on the importance of community, technology, and the opportunities for new businesses. They explore how fitness has transformed from a simple workout space to a community hub, the role of technology in enhancing user experience, and the significance of retention over acquisition in building a loyal customer base. Tim shares insights on the future of group fitness, the impact of AI, and the potential for new entrants in the market, emphasizing the need for personal connections in fitness. Takeaways It's a very positive time for the fitness industry. Community is essential for fitness businesses. Retention is more important than acquisition. Technology is transforming the fitness experience. The human instructor remains vital in fitness. Fitness professionals are now tribe leaders. There's a growing appreciation for long-term fitness. Automation can enhance access to fitness. New business opportunities are emerging in fitness. AI will play a significant role in the future of fitness.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36065950
info_outline
Eric Litman - Aescape & The Future of Wellness Robotics
04/05/2025
Eric Litman - Aescape & The Future of Wellness Robotics
In this conversation, Eric Litman discusses the innovative field of wellness robotics, particularly focusing on the on-demand massage experience provided by Aescape. He shares insights into the technology behind the massage robots, the consumer experience, funding challenges, market reception, and the demographics of users. The discussion also touches on the go-to-market strategy, partnerships, and the future of wellness robotics, addressing concerns about job displacement and the importance of human connection in the wellness industry. takeaways: Wellness robotics is revolutionizing the massage experience. The consumer experience is designed to be on-demand and personalized. Technology integration is complex but essential for safety and effectiveness. Funding for deep tech projects is challenging but crucial for growth. The user demographic includes early adopters and those who typically avoid massages. Partnerships with luxury gyms and hotels are key to market strategy. The goal is to make wellness robotics accessible to a broader audience. Inspirations for wellness robotics come from surgical robotics and connected health devices. The future of wellness robotics includes preventative healthcare and seamless integration into daily life. Job displacement concerns exist, but automation can enhance human roles in wellness.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/36002080
info_outline
Heather Dietrick - Outside Interactive: Inspire, Activate, Celebrate
03/31/2025
Heather Dietrick - Outside Interactive: Inspire, Activate, Celebrate
In this episode of The Future of Fitness, Heather Dietrick, Chief Media Officer at Outside Interactive, shares her journey from law school to leadership roles at Gawker Media and The Daily Beast, and now to shaping the future of outdoor media. She dives into the benefits of outdoor activities for both mental and physical well-being and how Outside Interactive combines inspiring content with practical tools to help people get outside. Heather also explores the shifting media landscape, the role of emerging technologies, the power of user-generated content, and the company’s strategic vision. Plus, she shares her take on the growing popularity of GLP-1 medications and how they might encourage more people to embrace the outdoors, along with insights on the evolving world of brand partnerships in this dynamic industry.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/35932345
info_outline
Dr. Noura Abul-Husn - 23andMe's Total Health: the Integration of AI and Genetics
03/26/2025
Dr. Noura Abul-Husn - 23andMe's Total Health: the Integration of AI and Genetics
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Noura Abul-Husn discusses the rapidly evolving field of genomics and its implications for personalized health and wellness. She shares her journey from a physician scientist to a senior role at 23andMe, emphasizing the importance of genetic testing in preventive healthcare. The discussion covers the current state of consumer awareness regarding genetics, the integration of AI in genomic data interpretation, and the innovative Total Health initiative by 23andMe. Dr. Abul-Husn also addresses the potential of GLP-1 medications in obesity management and the critical need for data privacy in genomics. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of genomics in shaping the future of healthcare and wellness. Takeaways Genomics is becoming essential for personalized health services. Genetic testing can reveal important health insights for everyone. Consumer awareness of genetics is increasing rapidly. Preventive measures based on genetic insights can improve health outcomes. AI is crucial for interpreting complex genomic data. 23andMe's Total Health initiative offers actionable genetic insights. The customer journey with 23andMe includes personalized consultations. Fitness professionals can leverage genetic insights for better client outcomes. Healthspan is more important than lifespan; quality of life matters. Data privacy in genomics is a significant concern that needs addressing.
/episode/index/show/futureoffitness/id/35851475