LIFTS Episode 29 - Franchising Challenges in Fitness: A LIFTS Discussion on Xponential's Issues

On this AI-focussed episode of the LIFTS podcast, Escape Fitness CEO, Matthew Januszek and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks are joined by guest, Eric Malzone, founder of The Future of Fitness podcast, to discuss all things AI technology.  They debate the opportunities and challenges surrounding AI, the rapid pace at which the technology is not only evolving, but learning from us, and the impact that this level of smart technology can have on all aspects of the fitness industry.  Key topics discussed include: ●       How AI has actually driven the need for more content. ●       OpenAI striking a deal with Reddit to train its AI with posts. ●       The impact of AI on creators and authenticity. ●       The introduction of Pencil AI, a tool that makes ads with generative AI. ●       The dual nature of AI’s influence on marketing. ●       Kabata raised $5 million to further develop its AI-powered dumbbells. ====================================================== Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at [email protected] for advertising opportunities. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog: https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog (US) https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue (UK)  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/ 0:00 Intro 07:53 AI advancements and their impact on content creation 14:15 AI’s impact on marketing and trust 22:41 AI-powered dumbbells and their potential in the fitness industry 26:36 AI technologies wider reach into other sectors 30:03 AI’s impact on creators, loss of identity and monetization opportunities

Discussing the current state of the commercial fitness industry, highlighting both volatility and evolution.  Bryan O’Rourke, CEO of Core Health & Fitness joins us for the 31st episode of LIFTS with hosts Matthew Januszek, CEO of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks.  Throughout the interview they discuss the need for leaders to adapt and innovate to stay ahead of the curve, with Brian emphasizing the challenges of maintaining profitability in a rapidly changing market.  Topics discussed include: Near-term economic pressures and volatility in the fitness industry. Consolidation trends in the commercial club and supplier sectors. Evolving consumer behaviors and shifting motivations for fitness. Removing barriers to entry through innovative business models and programming. Long-term health and wellness macro trends despite short-term industry challenges. ukactive Consumer Engagement Insight Report - https://www.ukactive.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Consumer-Engagement-at-uka-On-the-road-to-Vision-2030.pdf  ====================================================== Support fitness industry news by sponsoring future LIFTS episodes. Contact us at [email protected] for advertising opportunities. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog: https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog (US) https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue (UK)  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/   0:00 Intro 4:24 State of the global commercial fitness industry 9:44 Impact on the rise in interest rates have on new openings? 16:32 Embracing shifting consumer behaviours with at home fitness 19:43 Macro trends: Health and Wellness 24:13 ukactive consumer engagement insight report - the barriers to joining gyms 27:34 Final Thoughts

On this week’s episode of the Escape Your Limits podcast, we are joined by Dr. Rand McCain, aka ‘The Longevity Doctor’ to explore whether death is predetermined by genetics or whether we can make informed lifestyle choices that extend health span and override the influence of our genes. Dr. McClain earned his medical degree at Western University and completed his internship at the University of Southern California’s Keck School of Medicine Residency Program (U.S.C. California Hospital) and has spent his professional life redefining what it means to be in optimal health. Having established his own practice, Regenerative and Sports Medicine Dr. McClain supports his patients (many of which are A-List celebrities and world-class athletes) through the application of cutting edge treatments and philosophies including bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), hyperbaric oxygen therapy, cryotherapy, platelet rich plasma and stem cell therapies.  In his recent book, ‘Cheating Death: The New Science of Living Longer and Better’, Dr. McClain reveals fresh, science-backed approach to genetics, natural aging, and proactive medical treatments and discusses how to access to these therapies to jumpstart their body’s regenerative processes. Bolstered with research and recovery stories from real people, Cheating Death gives readers the tools to live healthier, longer lives.  In this podcast, Dr. McClain talks extensively about: ●       Fitness trends and nutrition principles past and present. ●       Biological age versus Chronological age. ●       Key bio markers for predicting healthy longevity. ●       Anti-aging supplements. ●       The effect of NAD on energy and sleep. ●       Polyphenols and their role in fighting inflammation and cancer. ●       Sleep hygiene habits. ●       Cold Therapy and heat shock proteins to boost health. ●       Air quality's impact on health. ●       Testosterone replacement therapy. Debunking myths. ●       Fasting and its effects on cortisol.       The role of genetics  and emerging tech in a long and healthy life.   To learn more about Dr. Rand McClain, click here: https://drrandmcclain.com/ https://psrmed.com/ ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/ 0:00       Intro 0:33       Weightlifting for performance and aesthetics 2:38       The impact Schwarzenegger had on bodybuilding 3:53       Fitness trends and nutrition principles past and present 7:41       Verify the source: don’t believe everything you see or read 13:06    The misconception that body building icons are in competition shape 12 months of the year 17:26    The inspiration behind the book ‘Cheating Death’ 19:06    Biological age versus chronological  age 24:58    Key bio markers for predicting healthy longevity 38:26    Anti-aging supplements, including vitamin D3 and B 42:33    The effect of NAD on energy and sleep 46:06    Poly phenols and their potential to fight inflammation and cancer 49:07    Creating good sleep hygiene habits 56:52    The effects of growth hormones on sleep 1:00:05 Cold Therapy and heat shock proteins to improve blood flow and general health 1:02:40 Air quality's impact on health, with a focus on nitric oxide and its benefits 1:10:09 Testosterone replacement therapy and the risks 1:24:00 The effects of fasting on cortisol 1:30:52 The role of genetics in a long and healthy life 1:35:40 Emerging tech and therapies that will significantly impact health span 1:38:46 Regenerating nerves and recovering from paralysis using stem cells

Welcome back to the latest episode of LIFTS, this week Matthew Januszek, CEO of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks speak with John Ford, Chief Product Officer at EGYM.  John has a vast knowledge of the fitness technology industry, he is a board member of the Fitness Industry Technology Council. Our first topic this week is around the recent announcement from Planet Fitness, who for the first time in 26 years have raised their membership fees.  This leads into a wider discussion around personalized fitness plans and assessments, incorporating technology to enhance user and member experience. Topics discussed include: The rationale behind Planet Fitness raising its membership fee for the first time in 26 years and its implications for the industry. How gyms are incorporating technology to enhance user experience and differentiate their services. The growing importance of personalized fitness plans and assessments in modern fitness regimes. The role of professional management and executive changes in driving innovation and adaptability in gyms. The expansion strategies of fitness companies like Whoop into new markets, such as the Middle East, and the impact on their growth. ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/   0:00 Intro 1:42 Planet Fitness increasing membership fees for the first time in 26 years 12:17 Technology and it’s importance to enhance the user experience 19:10 Whoop moving into the Middle East and the usage of wearable and data collection 27:24 Beachbody partnersghip with Dr B, a telehealth provider.  The growing intersection of fitness and healthcare 36:27 Final thoughts

Welcome back to LIFTS, on this special episode, Matthew Januszek, CEO of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks discuss the recent changes at Xponential Fitness and the departure of Anthony Geisler with Jon Canarick, Managing Partner at North Castle Partners, they are the leading small cap consumer private equity firm focused in the Healthy, Active, and Sustainable Living sectors.  During this conversation, Jon offers his views on the potential impact of Anthony Geisler's departure from Xponential, particularly on brand acquisition efforts and the process of selling new franchises.   They delve deeper into insights around the lack of proof points and data available for potential franchises to properly assess the likelihood of success in a specific location.  Topics discussed include: ●       Anthony Geisler's departure from Xponential and its potential impact. ●       The lack of sufficient proof points and location-specific performance data provided to potential franchisees before large-scale sales begin. ●       Variability in boutique fitness studio build costs and revenue potentials. ●       Lessons learned from Xponential and F45's rapid expansion strategies.      Outlook on the fitness industry and opportunities for brands. ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/   0:00 Intro 1:27 The changes at Xponential Fitness 09:20 Investment in brands and the impact of rapid growth 12:35 Boutique fitness models and build out costs 16:25 Lack of proof points and how to educate potential investors opening up in the fitness market 18:37 The regulations required by franchises 23:37 How the impact of the news from Xponential will impact expansion strategies 32:38 Final thoughts

On this week's episode of LIFTS, Matthew Januszek, CEO of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks speak with Bruce Smith, Founder of Hydrow, the leading connected rower that brings the on-water experience of rowing straight to your home. They discuss Hydrow's recent developments, including the acquisition of a digital resistance training company aimed at transforming strength training. Bruce shares his vision of combining rowing, strength and other modalities into a single connected fitness platform.  He also offers his perspective on Peloton's challenges and potential paths forward under new leadership. They explore topics like motivation, incentives, and how technology can be leveraged to improve long-term user adherence. They also consider trends in the industry, such as the growing emphasis on whole health and wellness. Topics discussed include: ●       Hydrow's acquisition of a digital resistance company and plans to integrate strength training. ●       Peloton's leadership changes and challenges. ●       Using technology and data to better understand user motivation and incentivization. ●       The growing trend of whole health and wellness among fitness brands.  ●       Predictions for the future of connected fitness, including potential consolidation in the industry.   ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/   0:00 Intro 2:39 Who are Hydrow 6:59 New Strength Training Technology 12:19 The Challenges facing Peloton and how to turn it around with a North Star 17:42 Future Fitness Motivators 20:44 The role of celebrity endorsements 23:15 Science Daily – Research on immediate rewards increasing long-term activity 29:06 How important is it brands embrace Whole Health Living? 30:36 Final thoughts

On this week’s episode of LIFTS. Escape Fitness CEO, Matthew Januszek and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks sit down one on one to discuss their thoughts on the changing landscape of the health and fitness industry. They explore opportunities for partnering brands with the LIFTS podcast and examine challenges faced by companies like Stages. Matthew and Mo also dive into trends in wellness offerings, industry consolidation, and how brands can better serve evolving consumer needs. Tune in to hear their insights on navigating change and pursuing new opportunities for progress in this dynamic sector. Topics discussed include: ●       Partnering brands with the LIFTS podcast. ●       New product launch of Escape Fitness' GLUTE BOX. ●       Challenges faced by indoor cycling brand Stages during the pandemic. ●       Trends in wellness offerings like recovery spaces and personalized programs. Industry consolidation and how gyms and suppliers can differentiate their services. ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/   0:00 Intro 1:31 Why and How to be a part of the LIFTS podcasts 4:58 New Product Launch – the Escape GLUTE BOX 6:34 The Struggles of Stages in Indoor Cycling 13:32 Fitness Industry Consolidation and Innovation 19:18 Equinox partnering with Pumpkin Health to offer personalization 21:37 Trends in Wellness, Recovery, and Premium Offerings 30:50 Health and Fitness Association Report Insights

On this LIFTS podcast Escape Fitness CEO, Matthew Januszek and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks sit down with one of the industry’s most experienced strategic leaders, 2023 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Mid-Atlantic and President & CEO for [solidcore], Mr. Bryan Myers. In this podcast, we discuss our thoughts on the industry post-FIBO, as well as recent headlines making waves within the industry including the launch of HYROX365, findings from The Global Wellness Economy report, and the mental and emotional factors associated with weight and body image. Topics discussed include:    The growth of FIBO as an international fitness trade show. ●       The success of HYROX and the launch of HYROX365. ●       Findings of The Global Wellness Economy report. ●       The controversial advice from ‘fat activist’ Virginia Sole-Smith. ●       The mental and emotional factors associated with weight. ●       The challenges of parenting healthy lifestyles in modern society. ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/   0:00 Intro 4:23 The growth of Hyrox and its partnerships 9:41 Fitness and wellness entrepreneurship in the US 12:22 The Global Wellness Economy Report 15:12 US healthcare spending and outcomes 18:44 Mental and emotional weight in relation to body image 23:53 Challenges of parenting in modern society 28:46 Wellness, consciousness and investing in health

On this LIFTS podcast Escape Fitness CEO, Matthew Januszek sits down with one of the industry’s most forward thinking and straight talking physiologists and wellbeing consultants. In this episode, our guest shares his thoughts on a need to redefine ‘fitness’ and ‘wellness’ and  move away from a focus on selling processes in favor of outcomes. He also discusses this take on the introduction of GLP-1s and shares the three health markers be believes to be the best predictors of longevity. Join us in welcoming Oliver Patrick to LIFTS. Topics discussed include: ●       The need to redefine the language we use to describe the ‘fitness’ industry. ●       The value in selling outcomes rather than process. ●       Importance of benchmarking and tracking health and performance improvement. ●       Three key measures of health: VO2 Max, Skeletal Mass and Mobility. ●       Integrating fitness and healthcare, with a focus on GLP-1 and its impact on muscle mass and             health. Lobbying and its impact on healthcare policy. ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S, recorded live at EuropeActive Health and Fitness Forum in Cologne. Here, hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of Sweatworks are joined by some of the industry’s most respected and successful influencers, insight experts and investors to talk about the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories shaping the future of the sector. On this episode, our hosts dive into the detail with: Karsten Hollasch, Global Private Equity Leader Financial Advisory, Herman Rutgers Ambassador,  EuropeActive, Ian Mullane, Founder and CEO, Keepme.ai, Utku Toprakseven, Chief Product Officer, 4Global, Eric Falardeau, Partner, Montreal Global Leader, McKinsey’s Fitness & Wellness Group and Jop Gerritsen, Partner, Amsterdam  Topics discussed include: ●       Fitness trends at home, outdoors and in-club. ●       The impact of VAT reduction on market penetration. ●       Digital tools, wearables and the potential in the European market. ●       2030 European participation targets. Can we reach them? ●       The impact of AI in the fitness industry. ●       Using AI generated data in fitness industry, with a focus on privacy and value exchange. ●       Data in evidencing the value of physical activity in a preventative health care system. ●       Using social value as a metric to measure the health impact of physical activity. ●       Three ways AI can support the fitness industry’s growth right now: Classical AI, Copilot (Chatbot)      and Automated Content Generation. ●       Decarbonizing the fitness industry, potential for cost savings and environmental impact. ●       Do consumers make buying decisions based on the sustainability of the goods and services? ====================================================== Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on your notifications so you never miss a new video when it’s published: https://www.youtube.com/user/EscapeFitness Shop gym equipment: https://escapefitness.com/shop View our full catalog:  https://escapefitness.com/support/catalog https://escapefitness.com/support/catalogue  ====================================================== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Escapefitness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/escapefitness Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/escapefitness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/escapefitness/   0:00 Intro 1:00 Karsten Hollasch & Herman Rutgers 22:56 Ian Mullane | CEO of Keepme.ai 40:57 Eric Falardeau & Jop Gerritsen | McKinsey & Company 1:06:41 Utku Toprakseven | Chief Product Officer of 4Global