Lise Kuecker - The State of Boutique: M&A Activity, Pilates Trends, and Opening Strategies

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.   https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/  https://egym.com/int 

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://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/

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/

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- https://goteamup.com/  https://podcastcollective.io/  

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

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 >> https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/  https://egym.com/int  

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.   https://podcastcollective.io/  

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  

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: https://goteamup.com/ https://podcastcollective.io/ 

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