LIFTS Episode 72 - AI in Fitness: Industry Leaders Discuss Practical Applications Beyond the Hype | FIBO 2025

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mohammed Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended FIBO in Cologne, Germany. (correct location?) In part 1 of this episode, Matthew and Mohammed are joined by: Gregory Gird, Marketing Manager of Octiv Grace McNamara, Partnerships Direcetor EMEA at Elfie Klaus Mueller, CEO at Wictory.ai This episode covers: Importance of data quality for effective AI implementation. Evidence-based AI development and addressing historical bias in research data. Privacy concerns, data governance, and building consumer trust. Data sovereignty and regional compliance considerations. AI's potential to accelerate personalised healthcare and fitness recommendations. Strategic partnerships to enhance AI capabilities. To learn more about FIBO, click here: https://www.fibo.com ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 06:14 AI and Generative AI in Practical Perspectives 12:19 Challenges and Ethical Considerations in AI Implementation 24:02 Privacy, Compliance, and Consumer Trust in AI 38:09 Future Trends and Exciting AI Applications

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories.  Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended PerformX 2025.  In this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by Tim Gray, Founder & CEO of The Health Optimisation Summit. This episode covers: Biohacking industry growth. Balancing extreme practices with health fundamentals. Tim's personal biohacking journey. Limitations of traditional healthcare. Importance of data-driven health decisions. Potential for gyms to leverage health data. Navigating health supplements and products. Experimental biohacking practices. Future trends in longevity and biohacking. Crucial role of sleep in health optimisation. To learn more about Tim Gray, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-gray-biohacker-health-optimisation/ To learn more about PerformX Live, click here: https://performx-live.com/ ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 01:11 The Role of Fundamentals in Health Optimization 06:58 Balancing Biohacking Labels and Practical Appointments 09:48 Trust and Credibility in Health Information 14:13 Leveraging Data and Technology in Fitness 28:07 Navigating Health Products and Supplements 35:37 Experimental Biohacking and Personal Experience 37:57 The Future of Biohacking and Longevity

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended EHFF 2025 in Cologne, Germany. In part 2 of this episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by: Michelle Dand, Head of Fitness Product and Programming of David Lloyd. Benjamin Roth, Co-Founder and CEO of Urban Sports Club. Jim Pisani, CEO and Board Member of Life Fitness Hammer Strength. David Stalker, Ambassador for EuropeActive.   This episode covers: Evolution of branded group fitness programming at premium clubs in response to boutique competition. The rise of budget boutique fitness concepts in Europe and their rapid scaling approach. Equipment manufacturing strategy and the renewed focus on both cardio and strength equipment. Impact of global political climate and tariffs on fitness equipment production and pricing. The industry's decade-long transition from fitness-focused to health-focused approaches. The importance of offering multiple fitness modalities to meet diverse consumer preferences. To learn more about EHFF, click here: https://www.europeactive.eu/ ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 02:36 David Lloyd’s Response to Market Trends 05:00 Challenges and Lessons from Standalone Boutiques 07:28 Budget Boutique Market and Its Impact 27:58 Life Fitness and Hammer Strength’s Evolution 41:35 Impact of Global Political Climate on Business 49:37 David Stalker’s Reflections on Industry Growth 50:55 Mentorship and Advisory Roles 52:09 Future of the Fitness Industry

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories.   Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended EHFF 2025 in Cologne, Germany.   In part 1 of this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by: Herman Rutgers, Ambassador at EuropeActive Stefan Ludwig, Partner, Leiter Sport Business Gruppe at Deloitte Deutschland Elaine Jobson, CEO and MD of Jetts Australia Conor O'Loughlin, Chief Revenue Officer of ABC Fitness Mike Escobedo, Chief Customer Officer, ABC Fitness   This episode covers: European fitness market growth and trends, highlighting mergers, acquisitions, and membership increases. Consumer behaviour shifts towards hybrid fitness, mental health awareness, and holistic wellness approaches. Deloitte's comprehensive market report revealing key performance indicators and industry insights. Impact of emerging technologies and personalization in fitness experiences. International market expansion strategies and challenges for fitness brands. Future fitness trends focusing on Gen Z and Gen Alpha expectations, technology integration, and comprehensive health solutions.   To learn more about EHFF, click here: https://www.europeactive.eu/ ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 02:40 Consumer Behaviour and Mental Health 05:33 Deloitte's European Market Report 08:43 Key KPIs and Market Expansion 13:02 Consumer Fragmentation and Market Opportunities 19:01 Supply Side Fragmentation and Innovation 24:24 Jetts Fitness Market Strategy 31:40 Challenges and Opportunities in Franchising 35:41 Member Experience and Future Trends 39:08 ABC Fitness's International Expansion  

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories.  Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended PerformX 2025.  In this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by Richard Boyd, Director or Global Wellness Designs. This episode covers: COVID-19's impact on personal training industry. Shift in trainer authority due to increased consumer knowledge. Balancing technology and human connection in PT. AI integration in program design and PT's evolving role. Expanding PT roles and compensation models. Social media and influencers' effect on PT industry. Trend towards comprehensive wellness services in gyms. To learn more about Richard Boyd, click here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-boyd-44034339/ To learn more about PerformX Live, click here: https://performx-live.com/ ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 02:55 Shift in Trainer Authority and Consumer Education 04:35 Technology and Human Connection in Personal Training 06:41 Future of Personal Training and AI Integration 07:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Personal Training Education 12:06 Compensation and Role Evolution for Personal Trainers 15:57 Impact of Social Media and Influencers on PT Industry 20:00 Adapting PT Models to Meet Consumer Needs 25:12 The Role of Empathy and Assessment in PT 30:03 GLP-1 and Its Impact on PT Industry

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended Connected Health & Fitness Summit event in Los Angeles.  Thank you to our sponsor, Flex (withflex.com) of these LIFTS episodes. Flex is the holistic solution for accepting HSA/FSA. They work with their partners to navigate the regulatory and compliance landscape.  In this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by Carl Daikeler, CEO of The Beachbody Company.   This episode covers: Beachbody's founding and early successes. Transition from VHS to digital subscriptions. Creating effective, results-driven fitness programs. Developing "Super Trainers" and 90-day program structures. Disrupting lifestyle priorities. Challenges of digital and subscription models. Adapting to changing demographics. Shift from multi-level marketing to direct-to-consumer. Engaging different generations.   To learn more about BODi, click here: https://www.beachbodyondemand.com/   To learn more about the Connected Health & Fitness Summit, click here: https://connectedhealthandfitness.com ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 03:14 Evolution of Beachbody and Digital Transformation 04:56 Challenges and Lessons Learnt in the Fitness Industry 07:42 Developing Super Trainers and Program Structure 12:33 Disrupting Lifestyles and Priorities 14:56 Challenges of Going Digital Subscription Models 21: 35 Adapting to Changing Demographics and Preferences 44:36 Transitioning from Multi-Level Marketing to Direct-to-Consumer 50:26 Personal Health and Wellness Habits

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories.     Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks, CSO of ABC Fitness attended HFA 2025 in Las Vegas.     In this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by: ● Kathleen Ferguson, founder and CEO of Coach 360. ● Jarrod Saracco, President/Owner of Health Club Doctor. ● Nicole Dunn, CEO of Dunn Pellier Media, Inc. ● Debra Strougo, Fitness Founder. ● Natalia Karbasova, Founder & CEO of FitTech Club. ● Julian Barnes, Co-Founder and CEO of BFS. ● Jarron Aizen, CEO & Founder of Hapana. ● Ross Campbell, Founder & CEO at Beyond Activ. ● Jolin Ma, COO at Beyond Activ.   This episode covers: ● Challenges in emerging markets. ● Community building through industry events and gatherings. ● AI's role in fitness-enhancing efficiency but not replacing human connection. ● The value of community and diverse perspectives in the fitness industry. ● Women's strength training trends and the rise of female-focused equipment. ● Growing focus on women's health needs in fitness and media.   To learn more about HFA, click here: https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show ====================================================== 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 1:33 Kathleen Ferguson, founder and CEO of Coach 360 9:47 Jarrod Saracco, President/Owner of Health Club Doctor 21:01 Nicole Dunn and Debra Strougo 33:11 Natalia Karbasova, Founder & CEO of FitTech Club 44:38 Intro to Athletech News cocktail party 44:50 Jolin Ma and Ross Campbell of Beyond Activ 58:51 Julian Barnes and Jarron Aizen

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories.  Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks, CSO of ABC Fitness attended HFA 2025 in Las Vegas.  In this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by Finn Hegarty, Chief Product Officer, ABC Fitness and Mike Hansen, Chief Growth Officer, SweatWorks. Taking to the floor of the show, they discuss what they have seen at this year’s event and the key messages and themes within the fitness industry today.  This episode covers: Wellness and Recovery Trends: Cold plunge to Red light therapy. Shifting from fitness to wellness. Recovery is becoming a primary fitness focus, not just exercise. AI is revolutionizing fitness through data-driven personalization. Women’s fitness equipment represents a significant market opportunity. To learn more about ABC Fitness, click here: https://abcfitness.com/ To learn more about HFA, click here: https://hub.healthandfitness.org/hfa-show ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 01:00 Wellness Trends Exploration 03:50 Equipment and Innovation Landscape 06:45 Technology and AI in Fitness 09:50 Measuring Member Progress 12:30 Industry Standout Moments 15:37 Closing Reflections

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories. Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended PerformX 2025. In this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by Jeff Zwiefel, Executive Director of MIORA Longevity & Performance at Life Time.   This episode covers: Longevity and healthspan focus. Consumer empowerment in health. Evolution of personal trainer roles. Lifetime's "healthy way of life" concept. MIORA: Lifetime's longevity program. Challenges in implementing longevity services. Democratizing recovery across market segments. Premium pricing for value-added services. Scaling and staffing recovery services. To learn more about Life Time, click here: https://www.lifetime.life/ To learn more about PerformX Live, click here: https://performx-live.com/ ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 04:56 Consumer and Business Perspectives on Longevity 07:02 Consumer Empowerment and Personalisation 10:11 Role of Personal Trainers in Longevity 11:55 Lifetime’s Evolution and Philosophy  17:10 Lifetime’s Longevity and Performance Program 21:06 Challenges and Learnings in Longevity Programs 24:02 Democratizing Longevity and Recovery  32:22 Managing Membership Prices and Value Addition  37:51 Staffing and Scaling Recovery and Rejuvenation Services

Welcome to the latest episode of L.I.F.T.S – your bite-sized dose of the Latest Industry Fitness Trends and Stories.  Hosts Matthew Januszek, Co-Founder of Escape Fitness and Mo Iqbal, Founder & CEO of SweatWorks attended PerformX 2025.  In this LIFTS episode, Matthew and Mo are joined by Dan Summerson, Managing Director of Everlast Gyms at Frasers Group.  This episode covers: Dan's career progression to Everlast. Everlast's hybrid fitness model. Focus on younger demographics. Modern environment and social media impact. Innovation and open culture. Wearables and data integration. Boutique experience in big box settings. Leadership approach and organizational dynamics To learn more about Everlast Gyms, click here: https://www.everlastgyms.com/ To learn more about PerformX Live, click here: https://performx-live.com/ ====================================================== 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/   00:00 Intro 05:55 Transition to Everlast and Hybrid Model 08:52 Economic Model and Retail Integration 19:32 Membership and Market Segmentation 23:53 Innovation and Relevance 27:29 Wearables and Data Integration 30:37 Future Vision and Strategic Planning 33:21 Building a Boutique Experience in a Big Box Gym 36:16 Leadership and Team Dynamics