Tag: fitness

2025 The Year Group Fitness and Mega Stars have the same OPPORTUNITY.

Tricia Madden

New Year’s Programming Manifesto: Igniting the Fire of Group Fitness in 2025

Over the past two years, we’ve witnessed a cultural revival that’s pulsating through generations both young and old. Thousands save up and eagerly queue for hours, not for a fleeting moment of entertainment, but for a shared, immersive experience. This isn’t just about the concerts of mega-popstars or the electric atmosphere at the venues of burgeoning artists. It’s about something profoundly connective and undeniably magnetic. This realization dawned on me at a Meghan Trainor concert, amidst a sea of dancing, singing, and exuberantly sweating fans: this is the modern-day essence of group fitness!

Why Group Fitness is Poised for a Resurgence

The scene at these concerts—packed rooms, booming music, and synchronized movement—mirrors a vibrant group fitness class. There’s an addictive energy when people move together, driven by the same beat and sharing the same space. Every generation, from Boomers to Gen Z, is craving this communal energy more than ever. It’s clear: Group Fitness is set to explode in popularity once again.

How We Can Harness This Phenomenon

Step #1: Great Music

Music is the heartbeat of any group fitness class. With platforms like Fit Radio, Yes! Music, Spotify, and iTunes, it’s never been easier to pull people into your fitness space with the right playlist.

Step #2: Simple, Inclusive Movement Patterns

Let’s get loud about this: people don’t judge a group exercise (GX) class by the complexity of the moves. What sticks is the feeling of unity—the collective energy when everyone moves together. Simple movements ensure that anyone, regardless of their fitness level, can join in and find joy in the motion.

Step #3: Creating a Welcoming Environment

The allure of a Taylor Swift or Beyoncé concert isn’t just the performance; it’s the atmosphere. Attendees are drawn by the promise of a community vibe and a sense of belonging. This is where we, as group fitness professionals, can excel. Our expertise lies in fostering environments where everyone feels seen and valued—from sparking conversations to recognizing every participant by name.

The Role of Fit Pro Programming

At Fit Pro, particularly with our new Ever FLEXED program aimed at athletically aging adults, we provide you with the blueprint, choreography, and playlists. This support allows you to focus on crafting that irresistible class atmosphere. Your members should feel that each session is curated with excellent music, thoughtful programming, and a welcoming community vibe—a place that feels like home.

The VIP list in your classes should always include the newcomers, ensuring that everyone, from first timers to regulars, feels like they belong.

Conclusion

As we step into the new year, let’s commit to transforming our group fitness classes into not just workouts, but memorable experiences that resonate with the vibrant energy of a live concert. This is more than fitness; it’s about creating moments of joy and community in every session. Let’s make 2025 the year we all truly move in unison, not just in our classes, but in our spirits.

Ideas? Need Education at your facility? Want help building your GX department?

tricia.murphy.madden@gmail.com @murphmadden

AI + Fitness: Making Trainers Superhuman (But Not Replacing Their Charm)

Tricia Madden

How AI Enhances Personas and Grows Membership

As we transition into the next phase of fitness where artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and other technological advancements intersect with our industry, it’s crucial for fitness businesses to understand the importance of branding. At the core of this brand identity should be persona-driven experts who interact with members and clients, creating a more personalized and engaging experience. This approach not only enhances customer satisfaction but also strengthens brand loyalty.

Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a pivotal role in enhancing these personas, making trainers even more effective in engaging with members and clients. While AI can analyze vast amounts of data to tailor workout plans and recommendations to individual preferences and needs, it complements rather than replaces the human touch. AI-driven platforms can match clients with the perfect persona trainer, enhancing the personalized experience and fostering deeper connections. By automating routine tasks, AI allows trainers to focus more on building relationships and delivering high-quality, personalized guidance. This synergy between advanced technology and human expertise not only improves the overall client experience but also attracts and retains more members, driving growth and loyalty for the fitness brand.

Exploring Persona Diversity

Below, we explore a variety of personas that can be applied across all departments—from personal training (PT) and group exercise (GX) to staffing, sales, and leadership roles within your fitness brand:

  1. The Everyman: This trainer is relatable and understanding, making them neither aspirational nor polarizing. They embody values of belonging and connection, making everyone feel welcome and understood.
  2. The Hero: The Hero is the team captain who is steady and uplifting. They lead by example, inspiring clients with their honesty and bravery. This aspirational figure is the type of person clients want to listen to and who will cheer them on.
  3. The Ruler: The Ruler is a powerhouse, operating with precision and potency. They are the strength training genius with perfectly crafted workouts aimed at making clients stronger. Serious about programming effectively, they embody values of leadership and responsibility.
  4. The Explorer: This trainer is the outdoor enthusiast, the adventure who is chasing the next great challenge. They embody values of restlessness, ambition, and pioneering.
  5. The Jester: This is our entertainer & comedian who is vibrant & dynamic who believes working out should be fun, and they epitomize that. They embody values of humor and irreverence.
  6. The Sage: This our fitness Guru and a master of the physical body for one. Perfect for someone looking to prevent injury, correct posture, form, or imbalances. This trainer embodies knowledge, wisdom, and intelligence.
  7. The Magician: This is our guide who is both visionary and inspirational with inspirational wisdom. They are experienced in life and in modality. They embody values of charisma and spirituality.
  8. The Lover: This is your cheerleader who is warm and compassionate. The one who always believes even when others may not. They embody values of passion, warmth, and idealism.
  9. The Outlaw: This trainer is the rebel who doesn’t fit in a box. They are just as effective with their unconventional ways that keep you guessing. They embody values iconoclasm and nonconforming.
  10. The Innocent: The lighthearted trainer who leads with kindness and an open heart. This trainer embodies key values of simplicity and optimism.
  11. The Creator: The laid back trainer who toes the balance of openness and go at your own pace. This trainer embodies creativity and imagination.
  12. The Caregiver: This trainer strives for inner harmony and forgiveness. They embody values of nurturing and compassion.

In Conclusion!

Incorporating these personas into your fitness brand can significantly enhance the way your business interacts with clients and members. By understanding and leveraging the diverse strengths of each persona, you can create a more engaging, supportive, and personalized fitness experience. This not only helps in retaining clients but also in building a strong, recognizable brand that stands out in the ever-evolving fitness industry.