Partnerships & Adaptation Push Fitness Industry Through 2021

After another roller coaster pandemic-filled year, the fitness industry has plenty of achievements to celebrate, innovations to share with the world, and more.

Can you believe another—COVID—year has passed by? I, personally, can’t wait to get back to a world more similar to where we were pre-pandemic. But, with all the bad and devastating stories we’re seeing, there’s just as much positivity spreading globally.

There’s a lot we can discuss about 2021, but we’re going to keep this uplifting. So, put your rose-colored glasses on and join me in reviewing some of 2021’s highlights for the fitness industry.

Fitness Industry Growth in 2021

Throughout 2021, there were many uncertainties. One crucial factor to push through the crises was unifying the fitness industry—establishing one powerful voice and forging partnerships. In 2021, the global fitness industry formed an alliance to support the growth and provide innovative solutions for the industry. Plus, meeting the needs of club operators in Mexico and China became possible with the addition of new IHRSA representatives and services.

IHRSA and ChinaFit announced a Strategic Membership Licensing Agreement to expand IHRSA knowledge and services in China.

Record growth hit FITBENCH for its five-year anniversary, as World Gym commemorated its 45th anniversary. Inspire360 reached a huge milestone, delivering over 25 million continuing education units (CEUs). And the Fort Athletic Club opened its doors for the first time.

More examples of industry growth include:

Fitness Industry Innovation in 2021

Growing or developing hybrid fitness options continues to increase in popularity and necessity for the fitness industry. Glofox and Intelivideo teamed up to provide global on-demand, livestream, and digital fitness platform offerings. World Gym International expanded its on-demand training platform with SoulBody Fitness workouts. Software and technology to assist operators in managing the day-to-day business are taking off—Plan2Play launched a software solution.

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TRUE Fitness revealed its new Stryker Slat treadmill.

Various innovations from clubs throughout the year:

Fitness Industry Good Deeds in 2021

Supporting the entire health and fitness industry and forging relationships was a crucial piece of 2021. Promoting minority- and women-owned businesses, spreading diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, and delivering educational content were some of the ways the industry worked together this year.

Amanda Lee, General Manager of Planet Fitness, Olympia, WA, Alizabeth Ashton, 18-year-old antibullying scholarship winner, and James Pope, Regional Manager of Planet Fitness.

Per usual, even an ongoing pandemic couldn’t keep the fitness industry from helping their community. Myzone teamed up with the Women in Fitness Association (WIFA) for its Run the World campaign to empower women in the fitness industry and raise money for charity and Planet Fitness commits to expand accessible exercise equipment in its facilities.

More generous contributions from fitness facilities:

Fitness Industry Reach in 2021

To address the financial impact COVID-19 has had on the fitness industry, more than 150 members of Congress signed on to support the bipartisan GYMS Act in 2021. We can’t forget that governments worldwide are slowly understanding our industry’s importance. Moving forward, the industry will continue to foster collaborations with medical, science, and health professionals to collaborate and expand the critical role of exercise for overall health and well-being.

After the pandemic’s negative impact on mental health, fitness brands are utilizing this opportunity to prove how exercise can improve mental wellness and are focused on equipping fitness professionals with knowledge and resources. Hyperice and Core joined forces to offer a holistic approach to mental and physical wellness. And the 5th annual World Wellness Weekend focused more on mental health and immunity.

This year, the fitness industry was also recognized for the following:

Although thousands of health and fitness facilities were forced to close their doors over the past two years due to the pandemic, there’s still hope. The industry is resilient and slowly but surely our unified voice is catching up to Congress and government officials. As we close the door to 2021, here’s a review of advocacy accomplishments that lay the groundwork for success in 2022.

Sami Smith is IHRSA's Senior Manager of Digital Communications, working to shape the organization's image on various digital platforms. On a typical day, she creates content, delivers impactful communications, and executes targeted marketing efforts to keep IHRSA at the forefront of the industry. Outside of the office, you can find her exploring new destinations, indulging in food, or participating in just about any sport.