Now is the time for action! Tell Congress the industry needs relief. Support the Health & Fitness Recovery Act.
Coronavirus Leadership Strategy & Finance State Alliances
With the next wave of COVID-19 forcing world governments to consider shutdowns again, we've put together eight steps gyms can take to help keep their clubs open or reopen as soon as possible.
IHRSA’s Take 5: COVID-19 Vaccine News & the Fitness Industry [VIDEO]
This week, IHRSA Interim President & CEO Brent Darden discusses news of a COVID-19 vaccine, introduces the Global Health & Fitness Alliance, shares data from ClubIntel, REX Roundtable, McKinsey & Company, and more.
Medical & Fitness Experts: Gyms Are Crucial to Fight COVID-19
The physical, mental, and emotional damage from the pandemic is increasing nationwide. Experts are pushing data and facts to keep gyms open as part of a solution to fight the negative effects brought on by the virus, lockdowns, and isolation.
Medical Experts on the Safety & Value of Clubs
Physicians say a healthy lifestyle is the closest thing to a vaccine we have, and give more reasons to prove health clubs are safe and essential.
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Survival of the Fittest: Leading During a Pandemic [WEBINAR]
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IHRSA’s Take 5: Health Clubs & COVID-19 Contact Tracing [VIDEO]
Could health clubs play a role in COVID-19 contact tracing? Plus the latest check-in data, an update on letters to U.S. governors, new studies from the U.K. and Boston University, and more!
Challenges & Opportunities in Leadership as Gyms Reopen
In the final part of our series with Catic Wellness Group Owner Loni Wang, we cover the topic of leadership. Below are the challenges and opportunities that she faced.
Resiliency & Innovation Are the Future of the Fitness Industry
"It's time to innovate or fold," writes Crystal Washington, futurist, technology strategist, and IHRSA Innovation Summit keynote speaker. Learn her perspective on the way ahead for the fitness industry.
IHRSA’s Take 5: Fighting to Keep Clubs Open [VIDEO]
IHRSA continues to fight to keep clubs open around the globe and promote the message that exercise is essential—now more than ever.
A Healthy Nation Needs Exercise & Quality Healthcare
America was unhealthy before the pandemic, now it’s out of control. One expert hopes to see healthcare reform by promoting physical activity in the future.
IHRSA’s Take 5: Deep Dive on Data [VIDEO]
This week, IHRSA Interim President & CEO Brent Darden shares research findings on current club revenues, revenue projections for 2021, and information on online bookings and appointments. He also gives an update on the presidential debate, the Health & Fitness Recovery Act of 2020 (H.R. 8485), and more.
IHRSA’s Take 5: Thanks & Gratitude
This week, IHRSA Interim President & CEO Brent Darden not only shares updates on IHRSA and the industry, but also takes a moment to give thanks and share what he is grateful for.
IHRSA’s Take 5: Insight into the COVID Era Fitness Consumer [VIDEO]
This week, IHRSA Interim President & CEO Brent Darden shares a message from U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, new research findings, as well as more information from a recent COVID-19 outbreak.
IHRSA’s Take 5: Telling the Story that Health Clubs Are Safe [VIDEO]
On this week’s Take 5, IHRSA Interim President & CEO Brent Darden shares how clubs are helping to tell the public that they are safe. He also shares updates on research, The Health & Fitness Recovery Act of 2020, and more.
IHRSA’s Take 5 with Interim CEO Brent Darden: October 7, 2020 [VIDEO]
In the first installment of a new weekly video update, Darden covers legislation to save the fitness industry, state fitness alliances, a health club air quality study, and more.
9 Focus Areas for Your Health Club’s Future Success
It’s time to push the throttle in order to secure success and longevity. With that in mind, we’ve put together nine focus areas that you should keep your eye on to guarantee your club’s success in the future.
Lockdowns Cause Severe Mental & Physical Health Consequences
Lori Deemer, M.D., concludes that social isolation, decreased physical activity, and loss of function—all factors of the pandemic—are leading Americans to an unhealthy future.
Health Clubs Are Valuable, Policymakers Need to Make Changes
Some health and fitness clubs in the U.S. have been closed since March. One doctor believes it’s time that policymakers see—once and for all—how important clubs are to overall health.
Paralympian Josh Sundquist Is Set to Motivate Fitness Industry
“In these times more than ever, we need the ability to get back up when we fall,” says Sundquist, who will share his inspiring story at the IHRSA Innovation Summit on September 17.
Doctor Says Gyms Can Help Prevent COVID-19 & Lessen Its Impact
Robert Sallis, M.D., says, “Whatever it takes to get places where people can exercise and be active to open, we have to do it, it's an essential part of life.”
Cancer Expert: Working with the Fitness Industry the 'Holy Grail’
Cancer research experts have a vision for the future where cancer treatments include tailored exercise prescriptions.
IHRSA Tells U.S. Governors to Reopen Clubs, Provides Framework
As states begin opening their economies, IHRSA and U.S. fitness clubs make the case that health clubs are vital and well-prepared for opening as soon as safely possible. IHRSA lays out four areas of focus to safely and successfully reopen clubs across the country.
IHRSA Names SportsArt 2020 Associate Member of Year [VIDEO]
The Associate Member of the Year Award is presented annually to recognize an IHRSA member for their significant contributions to the advancement of the health club industry.
IHRSA Honors Richard Bilton with President’s Award [VIDEO]
Richard Bilton, owner and president of Companhia Athletica, has served on the IHRSA board of directors and was instrumental in helping IHRSA launch IHRSA / Fitness Brasil in 2000.
FFC Oak Park Honored with the 2020 IHRSA Outstanding Community Service Award [VIDEO]
FFC Oak Park has demonstrated a passion for helping people, through event hosting, sponsorship, and generous giving.
Paula Neubert Recognized with the 2020 IHRSA Woman Leader Award [VIDEO]
We celebrate the legacy of Julie Main by offering the Woman Leader Award to a woman who exemplifies Julie's qualities of leadership and drive.
IHRSA Ramps Up Fight for Fitness Industry at Federal Level
America’s fitness industry is one of the hardest hit by the forced closures mandated by the coronavirus crisis. To ensure the inclusion of every health and fitness club in relief efforts, IHRSA and industry leaders are ramping up federal lobbying.
6 Survival Tips for the Fitness Industry from Theo Hendriks [VIDEO]
Industry veteran Theo Hendriks says to survive this crisis, don't be too proud to share your problem, and communicate, communicate, communicate.
Fitness Industry Veteran on the Opportunity for a Fresh Start
“Pushing the reset button and planning your revival will help ensure a successful future,” writes Brent Darden to gyms struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Fitness Industry Leaders & a Greater Sense of Purpose
You can help position the industry for decades of success by getting involved and being the leader the industry needs.
Presenting the 2020 IHRSA Rising Stars
CBI and IHRSA are pleased to present 20 of the industry’s most accomplished and promising young fitness professionals.
Fitness Industry Leaders Focus on Planning for the Future
Being a leader means you can “advocate for one of the best products being ‘sold,’” according to ILC member Paula Neubert.
Netflix Exec to Lead Gender Inequality Talk at IHRSA 2020
Michelle P. King, director of inclusion at Netflix, will discuss gender inequality in the workplace at the 11th Annual IHRSA Women’s Leadership Summit, sponsored by Club Automation.
Fitness & Accessibility: Why It Is Important
The IHRSA Expert Series shares knowledge, tips, and experience to help you grow, protect, and promote your business and the whole health and fitness industry.
IHRSA 2020 Speaker Opens Window on Tomorrow in Tech
Crystal Washington, an author, futurist, and charming guide to all-things-internet, will “Imagine the Future” with the attendees of IHRSA 2020.
Scott Stratten on What to Expect at IHRSA 2020 Keynote [VIDEO]
Scott Stratten, business provocateur and president of UnMarketing, Inc., gives us a sneak peek at his IHRSA 2020 keynote, "UnSelling: The New Customer Experience."
Business Provocateur: Gyms Must ‘UnLearn’ to See Big Picture
Author, UnLearning expert, and business provocateur Scott Stratten will define and describe “The New Customer Experience” during IHRSA 2020.
Advocacy Can Positively Impact Your Gym’s Bottom Line
It is critically important for club operators to know about pending litigation, court decisions, and legislation that impacts their business, says Mark Durall, general manager at Olympic Athletic Club.
Presenting IHRSA’s 2020 Women Who Inspire
IHRSA and CBI are proud to highlight 20 women who have made the industry what it is today and are defining what it will be tomorrow.
Doing Nothing Could Mean the Downfall of Your Health Club
Protect the profitability of your health club and become a fitness leader at the same time with this advice from Dr. David Rehr, professor and director of the Center for Business Civic Engagement at George Mason University.
IHRSA Convention Reignites Gym Owner’s Love for Training
Scott Gillespie of Saco Sport & Fitness recalls the day he rediscovered his passion for training at one of his first IHRSA conventions.
Paralympic Athlete Inspires with Motto ‘One More Thing, One More Time’
Author and comedian Josh Sundquist will discuss the meaning behind and the importance of “1mt1mt” at IHRSA 2020.
Want to Succeed in the Fitness Industry? Ignore the Status Quo
Every facet of the industry can have an impact on someone’s life. You “have the opportunity to make a career of helping people help themselves,” says David Van Daff of Fusionetics.
How One Health Club Manager Saved His Club Thousands
Olympic Athletic Club General Manager Mark Durall saw a problem brewing and took steps to stop it. What happened next saved his club and the industry time and money—and it’s something anyone could do.
The Fitness Industry 'Enhances the Lives of Millions'
The fitness industry impacts lives every day, going “far beyond the calories burned, the inches lost or gained, dumbbells, treadmills, and walls,” according to ILC member Anna Welsh.
5 Ways Gyms Can Effectively Communicate with Politicians
Your local and national legislators want to hear from you. IHRSA Assistant Vice President of Government Relations Jeff Perkins has some advice on the best ways to reach with lawmakers.
How to Hack Today’s Competitive Fitness Market
Two IHRSA European Congress speakers share their strategies to lead strong teams in a changing world and unlock the secrets of elite sellers.
Surround Yourself with a Team that Betters Your Health Club
Surround yourself with the best people and build a stellar team by first recognizing your own strengths and weakness, Steve Capezzone of Healthtrax International advises.
Get Un-Stuck From a Career Rut with Clarity
How do you realize your career goals when you have no direction? Debbie Peterson breaks it down.
Good Fitness Industry Leaders Give More Details & Direction
People do not operate the same way. Give your staff the details and tools they need in order to succeed, advises ILC member Karen Raisch-Siegel of LifeWorks of Southwest General.
Congressman to Fitness Industry: Your Voice is Important
It’s vital health clubs build a relationship with their representatives and senators, but don’t just take our word for it. Congressman Ron Kind agrees and he’s been sponsoring the PHIT Act for 10 years.
4 Lessons from Leaders in the European Health Club Market
Award-winning fitness industry professionals share their insights on how to create a successful club brand.
In the World of Fitness Franchises, the Mini-mogul Rises
These three franchise leaders spotlight how ownership of small chains of fitness franchises is quickly becoming the new normal.
Lessons in Fitness Leadership: Great People Deliver Great Experiences
To deliver experiences that go beyond members’ expectations, you need to first cultivate a team of great people, says Derek Gallup, EVP of GFORCES at UFC Gym.
The Fitness Industry Needs to Begin with the End in Mind
Starting your journey with the end in mind isn’t the only advice Lynne Brick of Brick Bodies has, but it’s one everyone in the fitness industry needs to remember.
Make a Difference by Leading the Fight at Your Health Club
From the front desk staff to the CEO, every health club employee plays a part in making a difference in the big fight against the global physical inactivity epidemic.
Lifelong Learning: The IHRSA Institute
Past IHRSA Institute attendees share what made the event one to remember and one to experience.
IHRSA Institute Scholarships Fuel Professional Development
The next generation of health club leaders can take their career to the next level by attending The IHRSA Institute. And two scholarships can help you get there.
Be the Leader Who Shapes the Future of the Fitness Industry
The industry is in a state of change unlike anything Healthplex Sports Club General Manager Dennis Mathias says he has experienced—making it an exciting time to be a business leader.
5 Ways International Organizations Can Help Drive Gym Usage
Growing your business is great for your bottom line, but it's also great for the health of your community and the world. That's why even if you're a small town health club, international organizations could help your business.
Presenting the 2019 IHRSA Rising Stars
IHRSA and CBI are pleased to introduce 22 of the industry’s most accomplished and promising young fitness professionals.
When Leading, Remember Every Problem Has a Solution
For Greta Wagner, every crisis is just a problem ready to be solved. The trick is reminding yourself that one way or another, the solution will always come. Move through each challenge calmly, and never be afraid to ask for help.
For This Fitness Industry Leader, It’s All About Positivity
For Rochester Athletic Club’s Matt Remick, the ability to spread positivity and impact members’ lives is what makes being a leader in the fitness industry so rewarding.
Seize Opportunities to Influence the Fitness Industry
Michele Melkerson-Granryd uses her voice to influence and shape the future direction of the industry as an IHRSA board member and a member of the ILC.
The Health Club CEO Shaking Up Fitness Industry Stereotypes
In-Shape CEO Francesca Schuler is here to challenge your preconceptions about fitness industry employees, career paths, and leaders.
Aspiring Fitness Leaders Should Be ‘Hungry’ Students
HealthQuest’s Wade Williams says “being a hungry student of the industry” will help you continually grow and evolve as a business leader in the fitness industry.
3 Ways for Women Leaders to Aim Higher
What can be done to get more women in positions of leadership in the fitness industry? Helen Durkin, J.D., IHRSA’s executive vice president of public policy, has some ideas.
Step Out of the Background to Become a Fitness Leader
Working behind the scenes is great, but according to Larry Conner, you must also lead by networking with others in the industry and in the community.
How European Fitness Leaders Can Thrive in Times of Change
European health clubs have faced several changes in the past year. While change can be challenging, it’s also an opportunity for savvy business leaders.
Respect That Everyone Has a Different Fitness Vision
Helping to make members’ lives better is the most fulfilling part of being a business leader in the fitness industry, says Universal Athletic Club’s Rick Casselbury.
Evolution Architect: Gold’s Gym CEO Shares Secrets to Success
Brandon Bean was given the task of evolving the world’s most venerable brand while protecting its unique legacy.
Have You Discovered Your Leadership Purpose?
Once you connect your personal purpose to the work that you do, everything changes.
How One Entrepreneur Rode the Yoga Wave to Success
Colin Grant, the CEO of the Pure Group, which has 35 yoga and fitness facilities in South Asia, has never considered failure an option.
The IHRSA Institute Advantage: Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders
The IHRSA Institute, a highly focused ‘leadership boot camp,’ will give you all the tools you need to take your club and career to the next level.
6 Ways IHRSA Is Inspiring Industry Leaders to Think Bigger
Fitness industry leaders can use these six strategies to think bigger than ever before and take their businesses to new heights.
3 Habits of Highly Effective Fitness Industry Leaders
Above all, highly effective fitness industry leaders are proactive—especially when it comes to their health club's culture.
How Kristen Green Became the Role Model She Never Had
The recipient of the 2018 IHRSA Woman Leader Award in honor of Julie Main leads by example and by offering the kind of support she lacked early on.
IHRSA 2018 Keynote: To Persevere, Keep Your 'Eyes Wide Open'
Losing his sight yielded unique insights that allowed Isaac Lidsky to succeed at life. He'll tell how at IHRSA 2018.
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3 Steps to Building a Fierce People Culture in Your Gym
Learn how to take the pulse of your gym and jump into building a fierce people culture.
What's Your Leadership Communication Style?
Understanding how you, and your employees, communicate is vital to your success as a leader—especially in the fitness industry.
Presenting the 2018 IHRSA Rising Stars
IHRSA and Club Business International are pleased to introduce our readers to 22 of the industry’s true “Rising Stars.”
3 Ways Your Gym Can Create a Supportive Workplace for Women
We asked five fitness industry leaders (who just so happen to be women) to share their thoughts on how gyms can foster a supportive environment for female employees.
IHRSA 2018 Keynote Wants to Help Gym Operators Get Creative
Entrepreneur and jazz virtuoso Josh Linkner will explore the connection between improvisation and innovation in his IHRSA 2018 keynote address.
IHRSA 2018 Keynote Explains How to Make Great Ideas Happen
Leah Busque, the founder of TaskRabbit and an on-demand service star, knows how to turn brilliant epiphanies into reality.
Differentiate Your Health Club by Breaking Free of Industry Norms
When clubs stop doing things the way they've always been done, they start winning.
The Fitness Industry Is ‘Innovative at Its Core’
IHRSA 2018 keynote speaker Lisa Bodell, the founder of futurethink, insists that you need to sacrifice the status quo in order to create space for true innovation.
Be an Effective Fitness Leader by ‘Meeting People Where They Are’
For ACE's Graham Melstrand, the most fulfilling part of being a business leader in the fitness industry is creating "more meaningful relationships with the healthcare and public health communities."
Lead and ‘Manage From a Position of Strength’ to Grow Your Fitness Business
Luke Carlson of Discover Strength tells us that "being a manager or a leader is ... the most important calling or work that we can engage in."
Anytime Fitness Leaders Aim to Make Work a 'Wonderful, Rich Experience'
The company’s CEO praises employees who cry at work, and the president hams it up as Star Trek’s Captain Kirk in satirical videos.
Advice for Fitness Leaders: ‘If You’re Going to Expand, Do So Carefully’
Dave Bundy, owner of the Global Fitness Center, tells us the most fulfilling part of being a business leader in the fitness industry is "working in an industry where most people want to be there every day and are excited about helping more people get active."
Young Fitness Industry Leaders Should ‘Reflect on What You’ve Accomplished’
Brad Wilkins, senior vice president of operations at Cooper Aerobics, reminds fitness industry leaders to "stop every once in a while and reflect on what you’ve accomplished."
5 Woman Leaders Share Advice for Overcoming Challenges in the Fitness Industry
Women have been making strides in the fitness industry, but not without facing challenges along the way. We asked five recipients of IHRSA's Woman Leader Award to share their advice.
'Be Open and Humble' to Lead Club Members to Fitness Goals
Mark Miller, COO with Merritt Clubs, explains that you won't know everything starting out, and that's okay. Stay open and humble and you can make a major impact on individual and community lives.
Learn to Lead by 'Staying in Rock-Solid Contact with Positive People'
Midtown Athletic Clubs COO Jon Brady gives advice on working in the fitness industry and shares what the most fulfilling part of being in the fitness industry is for him.
Grow Your Business and Leadership Expertise by Building Relationships Early
The Atlantic Club COO Kevin McHugh takes us back in time, sharing the one piece of leadership advice he wishes he had when starting out in the fitness industry.
Why Being a Patient Leader Can Yield Better Results
CEO of Little Rock Athletic Club, Frank Lawrence, shares his business expertise and what's been the most fulfilling part of being an industry leader.
4 Trailblazing Women in the Fitness Industry
The fitness industry has produced—and benefited from—many strong, pioneering women. It was hard to pick just four!
4 Fitness Business Leadership Strategies from IHRSA 2017
The IHRSA International Convention & Trade Show brings together influential health and fitness industry leaders every year, where they share tips and tricks on leading the field and your company to the top.
Why You Should Turn Your Health Club Employees into Followers
From big box stores to mom-and-pop shops, employees are apt to goof around when their boss’ back is turned. But it doesn't have to be that way at your club.
6 Ways to Be a Leader in the Health Club Industry
Being a leader is more than just owning a successful business. Meredith Poppler offers her thoughts on what people can do to become industry leaders.
Why Mentors Were Critical to Mo Hagan’s Success at GoodLife Fitness
IHRSA’s 2016 Woman Leader Award recipient has spent 32 years striving to provide a GoodLife for all of the citizens of Canada.
8 Experts Offer Advice on Becoming a More Effective Fitness Leader
There's a lot of advice on how to be a leader out there, but not all applies to the fitness industry. That's why we spoke to successful club owners and fitness professionals.
Expand the Depth and Breath of Your Knowledge to Lead Effectively
"While you need to have a passion for fitness, you also need a solid understanding as to what ultimately drives profitability," says Janine Williams of Leisure Sports.
Lead by “Walking the Talk” and Working Out Every Day
Jim Worthington of Newtown Athletic Club tells us that a benefit of being a leader is “there is something to be learned from everyone…Innovation and inspiration comes when it is often least expected and often it can be found in unusual places.”
Why the Fitness Industry Needs Owners Who Can Lead
Business owners must spend some time away from operational discussions and engage in larger, creative conversations to effectively lead the industry into the future.
