Ep 323 - 1Rebel: Reimagining Boutique Fitness | Co-founder James Balfour

Welcome to a very special episode of LIFTS. Today, hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks, meet with David Minton to discuss key takeaways from his pioneering ‘State of The UK Fitness Industry 2024 Report’. David is founder of The Leisure Database Company, a market intelligence company that produces the UK fitness industry’s most valuable and comprehensive annual audit, The State of The UK Industry Report.  This year, for the first time, thanks to a commercial collaboration with many leading industry suppliers, The Leisure Database has made its annual industry report available to everyone, free of charge, to democratize fitness data in the interests of sector growth and prosperity. In this special episode, we discuss the key report findings, explore the implications of these findings for the future of the sector and dive into how the sector might evolve to raise market penetration above its current level. Topics discussed include: Overview of the State of the UK Fitness Industry Report 2024. Takeout trends from the report, focused on value growth, penetration and data.  Expanding the report to include more health focused data points. Premiumization and cost variation within the sector. Market penetration and the disparity between public and private sector. Public sector segmentation. Fitness industry trends, including gym openings and closings, demographics, and market growth opportunities. The blueprint for a ‘dream gym.’  AI potential disruption and the democratization of education. The evolution of the fitness industry: opportunities and challenges. To download your copy of the State of the UK Fitness Industry Report, click here: https://www.leisuredb.com/publications To learn more about David Minton, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-minton-5b094a19/ ====================================================== 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 1:00       Overview of the State of the UK Fitness Industry Report 10:15    Takeout trends from the report, focused on value growth, penetration and data 13:35    Expanding the report to include more health focused data points 15:27    Premiumization and cost variation within the sector 18:28    Market penetration and the disparity between public and private sector 22:42    Public sector segmentation explained 27:54    Fitness industry trends, including gym openings and closings, demographics, and market growth opportunities.    37:39    What does a ‘dream gym look like? 39:29    AI potential disruption and the democratization of education 44:26    The evolution of the fitness industry: opportunities and challenges

On this week’s episode of the Escape Your Limits podcast, we are joined by Shawn Ray aka ‘The Giant Killer’, former professional bodybuilder, 13-time Mr. Olympia Finalist and one of the most rebellious, outspoken athletes in the sport still to this day.  Not one to shy away from speaking openly and honestly, this episode takes a deep dive into the significance of performance in bodybuilding, ethical implications, overcoming setbacks, and balancing bodybuilding with other aspects of life. Shawn Ray talks openly about his experience and insights on the evolution of bodybuilding, the impact of social media, and the importance of mentors. Ray also discusses the risks of injury, health problems, and death, as well as the growing trend of bodybuilders relying on teams of trainers, nutritionists, and other support staff. Ray emphasizes the need for balance and prioritizing self-reliance, personal responsibility, and appreciation in fostering meaningful connections. In this highlights video, Shawn Ray talks about: How the passion began with a magazine on a newsstand. The role of self-doubt and ego in bodybuilding. Rising to the occasion when things get tough. The importance of a mentor in career success. Breaking down ego and building up confidence. To learn more about Shawn Ray, click here: instagram.com/shawnrayifbbpro buildwithpros.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 2:21       Manifesting bodybuilding dreams through self-belief 10:24    The benefits of having a mentor 13:06    The importance of posing in bodybuilding 18:33    Father-son relationship and entrepreneurship 25:05    Bodybuilding, Olympia and relationships 31:18    Ronnie Coleman’s rise to Mr Olympia 33:29    Bodybuilding career, goals and personal growth 39:23    The importance of balance between life and work 42:31    Sacrifices and health risks of being a bodybuilder 47:54    The ethics of supplements in bodybuilding 53:28    Drug use and the lack of accountability 1:01:53 Bodybuilding physiques and divisions 1:06:36 Challenging traditional bodybuilding norms 1:08:19 Bodybuilding prize money and promoter challenges 1:20:00 The benefits of social media platforms for personal branding

On this LIFTS podcast, Escape Fitness CEO, Matthew Januszek and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks are joined by guests, Austin Cohen,  Founder and CEO, FlexIt and Justin Turetsky, part of the founding team and COO, FlexIt This episode dives into the personalization and data-led fitness experiences taking New York City by storm! This fast-paced debate explores the ethics and safety of genetically modified foods and dissects the evolving dynamics of authenticity and pragmatism in marketing and influencer engagement. The session wraps up with a passionate conversation on the pursuit of excellence and the game-changing impact of surrounding oneself with exceptional people. Key topics discussed include: Fitness trends driving sector growth in NYC. Consumer willingness to pay a premium for personalization. Trends with staying power versus fads. Genetically modified food – new trend or clever marketing of age-old processes? NYC culture and its effect on consumer food choices. Is influencer and social media marketing still a powerful tool? The power of authenticity. Entrepreneurship: the pursuit of excellence. ====================================================== 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 3:35       Fitness trends in NYC, including premium offerings and high-end experiences. 7:01       Upward trend in consumer willingness to pay a premium for personalization 11:29    Trends with staying power versus fads 13:07    Genetically modified food – new trend or clever marketing of age-old process? 21:53    NYC culture and its effect on food choices      23:13    Is influencer and social media marketing still prevalent and relevant? 27:00    The power of authenticity 29:47    Entrepreneurship, product development and market execution

On this LIFTS podcast, Escape Fitness CEO, Matthew Januszek and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks are joined by guest, Ty Menzies, global CEO of Lift Brands, an international franchise organization that is parent brand to Snap Fitness. This episode discusses how the industry has had to adapt to the current hybrid work environment, fitness trends versus fads, GLP-1s as well as the barriers to fitness and the changes that the boutique industry has gone through and the shift towards digital solutions, including the integration of AI technology to hyper-personalize content and the member experience.  Key topics discussed include: The change in consumer behaviour post-COVID. The influence of a more educated consumer. Digital versus in-person fitness demand. How franchising is being impacted by mergers and acquisitions. Fitness trends vs. fads that come and go. Ozempic-specific foods and training programs. Using AI to hyper-personalize and individualize content. ====================================================== 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 4:42 Fitness trends, consumer habits and digital solutions 11:31 Snap Fitness’s strategies for differentiation and growth 15:24 Impact of mergers and acquisitions on fitness franchising 18:15 Fitness trends vs fads that come and go 19:58 Weight loss drugs and barriers to exercise 24:02 Using AI for personalized experiences and business operations 26:48 AI personalization and focus on consumer needs

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