2 min readEnhancewell
Are you the same person you were when you started in the fitness industry? If the answer is yes, how's that working for you? Fitness is a dynamic field, and trainers must adapt and evolve to get ahead.
At Athletech's DISRUPT 2024, John Bauer, Content Developer and Co-Host of Trainers Talking Truths Podcast, ISSA, and Raphael Konforti, Head of Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, hosted a session on "The Future of Health Clubs and Personal Training." With 2025 just around the corner, it's vital that we embrace the insights shared and let them inspire our journey ahead.
Wearable tech and data-driven training
How many of your clients wear an Apple Watch, Oura Ring, or other wearable tech? A 2024 study shows that more than 1/3 of Americans own wearable tech— and the number's probably much higher among those who regularly attend the gym. Your client already has a wealth of information about their health. Work together with the data to advise training and recovery tips and help your client understand the why behind the trends they're seeing.
Training for longevity— not just muscles or weight loss
In 1950, only 8% of the population was over 65. By 2050, that percentage is set to hit 22%. According to the CDC, more than 25% of adults 65+ fall each year, and 319,000 of those will result in hospitalizations for hip fractures. While some seek training for fat loss and muscle gain, Bauer suggests gyms "offer longevity-focused training programs that include balance, mobility, and functional movement." Lifespans are improving, but trainers have a unique opportunity to help their clients enhance their healthspan, or the amount of time someone feels fit and healthy.
Nutrition and recovery for a holistic experience
Just a few short years ago, trainers were expected to assign tasks and motivate their clients as they completed repetitions. John Bauer says, "Gone are the days, now I think, of succeeding in this industry with an exercise-only approach. The recognition of what a trainer was back then is so much different now." Instead of solely counting pushups, a trainer must be prepared to offer advice on all things wellness— including nutrition and recovery. Don't limit your sessions to what happens within the gym's walls. Consider how to make the time between sessions more meaningful for your client.
Don't ever stop bettering yourself
In the not-so-distant future, people will be able to rely on ChatGPT for fitness tutorials and instructions on how to utilize equipment at the gym. Continuing your education and diversifying your skillset will make you a better trainer and unable to replace with artificial intelligence. Konforti advises: "What was a great trainer before is now the expectation of a trainer today." Surpass expectations by improving yourself so you can help your clients improve themselves.
Hybrid training model
One final point. Fitness is no longer an either/or scenario. Gym members want it all. As we shared last month, the future of fitness is hybrid— with options for in-person attention and online flexibility.
Do you need help future-proofing your fitness business? Trust the team at Enhancewell Consulting to help you assess your current situation and make a plan to grow in 2025 and beyond.