UPDATES FROM OUR INDUSTRY PARTNERS
CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS
American College of Sports Medicine
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) are collaborating to present the ACSM & ACE Health & Fitness Summit on March 6-8, 2027, in Chicago. Attendees can learn from researchers, educators, and practitioners about program design, behavior change, performance, business development, and the impact of exercise on overall health and wellness. “By partnering with ACE and bringing the Summit back in person in 2027 (after a virtual-only experience in 2026), we’re fostering deeper learning, stronger connections, and new opportunities for professional growth,” says Katie Feltman, CAE, CEO of ACSM.
American Council on Exercise
The American Council on Exercise (ACE) has announced the 10 members of its 2026 Scientific Advisory Panel (SAP). They advise ACE on emerging health and exercise topics based on their research or current practice. The SAP also helps ACE share evidence-based information with health and exercise professionals and the public. “We are honored to have assembled an esteemed group of scientists willing to share their expertise,” says Cedric X. Bryant, Ph.D., FACSM, CEO of ACE. “Their insights uniquely position ACE to provide health and fitness professionals—and the public—with timely, practical, science-based information they can trust.”
British Swim School
Marking its 45th anniversary, British Swim School has launched a national campaign to close lifelong swim gaps. Jump On In emphasizes the importance of water safety and swim confidence for children and adults. "We know drowning prevention requires awareness, access, and action," says Ashley Gundlach, president of British Swim School. "Jump On In is our invitation to all communities to prioritize water safety together in a fun and life-changing way." The campaign runs on digital platforms, national video, and social media, and British Swim School is sharing a family-friendly playlist. To reinforce its message, the organization has a new tagline: “Every Age. Every Stage.”
National Academy of Sports Medicine
The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) has updated its Certified Nutrition Coach (CNC) program to give fitness professionals and wellness coaches current nutrition science, advanced behavior-change principles, and practical tools. The updated CNC program features a 23-chapter dynamic learning experience on a newly enhanced digital platform. Leading industry experts collaborated with NASM to develop the content. It includes cookbooks, infographics, and handouts for both coach and client use. “From the rise of weight-loss medications to a focus on healthspan, coaches today face complex questions that require evidence-based answers,” says Mike Fantigrassi, head of product at NASM.
EQUIPMENT
Balanced Body
Balanced Body has equipped Westover Hills Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center, a skilled nursing facility in San Antonio, Texas, with an on-site, full-service Pilates studio. Seven therapists completed 80 hours of Balanced Body education to lead sessions. By integrating a range of Balanced Body Pilates equipment into its rehabilitation, the facility is delivering measurable improvements in patients’ mobility, posture, balance, and confidence. “Westover Hills is pioneering what rehabilitation can look like,” says Ken Endelman, founder and CEO of Balanced Body. “Their clinical commitment and Pilates programming are producing life-changing results for people with limited mobility or chronic conditions.”
Echelon Fitness
Echelon Fitness debuted several new commercial and consumer innovations at The HFA Show 2026. Among them: the Alpine Incline treadmill, a stairmill with red light therapy, the Meridian Reformer, and several Strength IQ machines. The company is also launching the Reflect 60 large-format smart fitness mirror, a versatile cryo/heat compression solution, the FitHub connected fitness system, and the Workout Builder AI App. “We’re proud to showcase a fully integrated ecosystem to drive engagement, performance, and long-term retention,” says Lou Lentine, founder and CEO of Echelon Fitness. “Echelon is redefining what connected fitness looks like.”
Ecore
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has signed a partnership agreement with Ecore Athletic as its Official Athletic Rubber Flooring Provider. “This partnership aligns with our mission to elevate athletic spaces with flooring that performs at the highest level while supporting sustainability and long-term investment for institutions,” says David Sides, the vice president of strategic partnerships at Ecore. “NAIA schools deserve surfaces that support their athletes, their communities, and their futures.” Adds Jim Carr, NAIA president and CEO, “Ecore will provide NAIA institutions with exceptional flooring options that will help them prioritize student-athlete performance and sustainability.”
EGYM
At The HFA Show 2026, EGYM premiered its new Smart Strength Series 3 machine line alongside a fully connected fitness and well-being operating system. The new strength line features enhanced ergonomics, fully integrated software, and a contemporary design. EGYM’s new operating system seamlessly connects the training floor, data intelligence, and business management, making progress stable, measurable, and scalable. Its new Longevity Training Program uses scientific data on strength, mobility, and cardio to create personalized paths for members, keeping them engaged. “We’re building the operating system that drives lasting results,” says Philipp Roesch-Schlanderer, co-founder and CEO of EGYM.
Eleiko
The International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) has appointed Eleiko as the sole supplier of weightlifting equipment for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Eleiko will provide all competition, warm-up, and training equipment for the Olympic weightlifting program. “The quality of equipment, the innovative technology, and the commitment of the Eleiko team guarantee we will have a great Olympic competition in Los Angeles,” says Mohammed Jalood, president of IWF. Adds Erik Blomberg, CEO of Eleiko Group, “The IWF and Eleiko continue a collaboration spanning decades, with a shared commitment to the growth, integrity, and future of weightlifting worldwide.”
Life Fitness
Named for Life Fitness founder Augie Nieto and Hammer Strength founder Gary Jones, the new Nieto-Jones Innovation Center in Schaumburg, Illinois, is a hub for biomechanics, engineering, and design to create the latest fitness equipment. At the center’s grand opening, the company announced a strengthened partnership with Harper College to conduct research and product testing with faculty and students at the college’s Performance Insights Lab. “We are ensuring that the spirit of innovation defined by Augie and Gary continues to drive our product development,” says Daniel Wille, chief product officer at Life Fitness / Hammer Strength.
Matrix Fitness
Matrix Fitness has expanded its UK sales team with Andrea Oliver and James Bent in senior national account roles, as well as Tom Edge, Freya Davis, and Fiona Crockett as sales executives. Formerly at Inspace Fitness and Pulse Fitness, Oliver serves as senior national key account manager. Bent, who previously worked at Technogym and Precor, is the senior national account manager. “The expansion of our UK sales team is a direct result of the continued trust our customers place in Matrix and the success we’re seeing across all sectors,” says Matthew Pengelly, CEO of Matrix Fitness UK.
Merrithew
Merrithew and Life Fitness / Hammer Strength have partnered to bring Merrithew’s premium Pilates equipment and studio solutions into the Life Fitness portfolio in the United States. This expands access to Merrithew’s Pilates solutions across commercial fitness, hospitality, corporate wellness, and institutional markets. It includes dedicated account management for Life Fitness referrals, studio design consultation, turnkey project support, and post-install service. Education packages and instructor training are optional offerings. “By aligning with Life Fitness / Hammer Strength, we can reach more facilities while maintaining our quality, consistency, and disciplined, market-led approach,” says Jim Heidenreich, CEO of Merrithew.
Precor
Precor | Peloton debuted its Commercial Business Unit (CBU) at The HFA Show 2026, introducing the first Peloton equipment for high-traffic fitness environments. Engineered by Precor, the connected bike and treadmill feature Peloton’s software system and design. The products should begin shipping in fall 2026. “We are bringing together Precor’s commercial engineering and global reach with Peloton’s content and connected experience,” says Ean Reves, president of Precor and general manager of the CBU. Precor also showcased its new Discover GHD bench and decline chest press, the Resolute Strength inner/outer thigh machine, and the next evolution of the Glutebuilder.
Skelcore
Skelcore has appointed Roy Simonson, founder of Cybex Eagle, as head of product design, and Hillis Lake, founding member of Freemotion Ground Zero Fitness, as head of US sales. Simonson, who designed some of the earliest biomechanically advanced strength machines, will lead the development of a new generation of equipment to create a new training category. The Simonson-designed product line will integrate advanced biomechanics, variable resistance pathways, and performance feedback. Lake, who has decades of commercial experience and relationships, will support Skelcore’s expansion across commercial, hospitality, and boutique segments. Skelcore operates in 60 countries.
Technogym
The new Technogym AI Ecosystem combines generative artificial intelligence with a dataset of more than 38 million connected users to redefine personalized wellness. The always-accessible Technogym AI coach provides users with adaptive programs that evolve over time based on progress, data, and goals for better results. The coach also offers guidance on training, nutrition, and recovery. For operators and trainers, the AI assistant supports workout programming and simplifies operational tasks. Trainers can automate program personalization, which allows them to dedicate more time to coaching and human connection. And the system analyzes user behavior and identifies potential dropouts.
Wattbike
Wattbike has formed a new partnership with Hybrid Racer. Exercisers can now use the Wattbike Hub App to access the Hybrid Racer Training Program, an eight-week structured plan designed by hybrid racing coaches. The program is designed to improve aerobic capacity, sharpen pacing strategy, and prepare athletes for race day through two targeted Wattbike sessions per week, alongside performance testing, including a benchmark six-minute average watts test. “We’re helping athletes develop endurance, manage fatigue, and prepare for competition in a way that supports long-term progress, not burnout,” says Stephen Loftus, CEO of Wattbike.
RECOVERY/WELLNESS
Hyperice
Hyperice’s new Hypervolt 3 line of advanced percussion massage technology includes the Hypervolt Go 3, Hypervolt 3, and Hypervolt 3 Pro. They help users massage away tension, loosen muscle knots, maintain range of motion, accelerate warm-up, and recover faster. Each device features an extended battery life and head attachments that are 33% larger to cover more surface area. They come with a carry case and are FSA/HSA-eligible in the United States. “Whether you’re a professional athlete or an everyday athlete, the Hypervolt 3 line provides the most accessible premium percussion massage gun experience,” says Jim Huether, CEO of Hyperice.
TECHNOLOGY/PROGRAMMING
ABC Fitness
ABC Fitness and Gym Launch are creating an integrated growth model that helps gyms, studios, and health clubs scale profitably. The new product combines Gym Launch’s business coaching model and growth strategies with ABC Fitness’ scalable software infrastructure. This streamlines operations, drives quality leads at a lower cost, incorporates AI-driven insights to anticipate churn and optimize retention, and embeds coaching intelligence into the same dashboard. “With Gym Launch, we’re connecting growth strategy with execution inside the same ecosystem, which opens doors for our current and new customers’ growth,” says Mohammed Iqbal, chief strategy officer at ABC Fitness.
Daxko
Daxko Elevate Wellness is a new turnkey partner program that enables fitness organizations to provide physician-guided metabolic health services—including medically supervised weight management, hormone therapy, peptide therapies, and longevity programs—through licensed, third-party clinical partners. The program allows fitness operators to support participating members through coaching, strength training, and accountability programs, while they receive clinical services through secure telemedicine third-party consultations. This provides fitness centers with a new revenue opportunity. “Elevate Wellness gives operators a responsible way to participate in medically guided wellness while keeping clinical care with licensed medical providers,” says Jeff VanDixhorn, CEO of Daxko.
EcoFit Networks
EcoFit Networks and Insight Capital Finance have formed a strategic alliance in which EcoFit’s real-time equipment data will integrate with Insight’s AMOS (Asset Management Operating System) platform. This enables gym operators to monitor performance, usage trends, and maintenance needs in real time. By combining EcoFit’s on‑machine data with AMOS lifecycle and financial planning tools, operators gain clearer visibility into equipment health to inform their decisions about replacement timing and capital planning. “Together, we will be delivering a connected, smart‑facility ecosystem that improves operational efficiency and elevates the member experience,” says Philip Rankine, co-founder and COO of EcoFit.
FitGrid
FitGrid has formed a strategic partnership with Studio Grow, a leading consulting firm for boutique fitness and wellness brands. Adopting FitGrid as its core comparative intelligence layer, Studio Grow now has access to standardized metrics, cross-booking-platform benchmarks, and differentiated performance signals in the platform-agnostic system. Studio Grow coaches can use this information to evaluate and advise clients with anonymized knowledge about how they compare relative to peers, competitors, and market conditions. Plus, Studio Grow’s clients can use FitGrid’s execution layer to help them understand performance and implement actions informed by how the broader market is behaving.
Fitness On Demand
Fitness On Demand has expanded its platform with an updated real-time heart-rate training experience to increase engagement through gamification, personalized feedback, and the effort-based FIT Points rewards. By integrating with members’ wearable devices, the platform turns workouts into measurable, data-driven experiences. The heart-rate training feature includes visual displays of performance on smartwatches and in-club screens, using color-coded heart-rate zones, real-time scoring, and in-app rewards to enhance engagement. “These updates deliver real-time feedback, performance tracking, and data-driven motivation that make workouts more personal and rewarding,” says Andy Peat, CEO of Fitness On Demand.
Flex
Flex, an HSA/FSA payments platform, has partnered with Equinox to enable Equinox members to use HSA and FSA funds for select eligible offerings, including membership dues, personal training, recovery experiences, and some programs related to women’s health and longevity. By enabling HSA and FSA spending at the moment of decision, Flex removes friction and follow-up from the purchase process. Flex handles eligibility, compliance, and payment behind the scenes. “Our role is to preserve the Equinox experience, making it effortless for members to use their health benefits while we handle compliance and complexity,” says Sam O’Keefe, CEO of Flex.
Les Mills
Les Mills and Life Fitness / Hammer Strength have formed a new strategic partnership in which Les Mills is the Official Cycle Content Partner of Life Fitness, while Life Fitness is the Official Bike Partner of Les Mills for its cycle programs. The collaboration enables clubs, partners, and operators to deliver more connected fitness experiences at scale, across a range of environments. “Together, we’re building a foundation for the future, rooted in shared values, proven expertise, and a long-term vision to elevate the role fitness plays in people’s lives,” says Phillip Mills, managing director of Les Mills.
Myzone
Myzone unveiled three product innovations at The HFA Show 2026. Among them: Myzone will offer strength tracking, expanding its effort-based approach beyond cardio to recognize and reward resistance workouts. A new integration with Garmin allows Garmin smartwatch users to connect their workouts directly to the Myzone ecosystem via Myzone Go. And the new Myzone Switch 2.0 wearable device, worn on the chest, arm, or wrist, improves comfort, durability, accuracy, and usability. “We’re recognizing more types of effort, connecting with more wearable technology, and making our platform accessible to more people,” says Jay Worthy, CEO of Myzone.
Wellhub
Wellhub has named tennis champion Andre Agassi its global ambassador of well-being to amplify the message that high performance, whether in sport or at work, is only possible when physical, mental, and emotional well-being move together. “When people feel physically strong, mentally clear, and emotionally connected to what they’re doing, they not only perform better—they build something that endures,” Agassi says. Adds Leandro Caldeira, CMO of Wellhub, “Well-being is about creating conditions where people can perform consistently without burning out.” The company also recently launched a global brand campaign that emphasizes balance, recovery, and sustainable results.
Health & Fitness Business is a publication of
Health & Fitness Business (HFB) is the leading health and fitness industry publication. Published monthly by the Health & Fitness Association (HFA) and distributed free to the industry, HFB offers analysis of the opportunities, challenges, issues, and news that impact the industry.
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