CBI August 2024

Pakistan's Power Player: The Global Vision of Ahmar Azam

“I don't think there is a better business in the world where you get a faster, more productive, and rewarding return on effort than the fitness industry.”

Ahmar Azam, CEO, TriFit

Welcome

Welcome to the Global Village: Like the Olympics, the fitness industry can bring the world together.

CEO's Column: Our research strategy is taking a huge leap forward.

Features

Pakinstan's Power Player: After guiding Saudi-based Leejam Sports to a successful IPO, Ahmar Azam set his sights on his native Pakistan, a "virgin market" that was ripe for a new fitness concept. Azam founded TriFit from his base in Karachi, and he and his team quickly built it into Pakistan’s biggest fitness brand. Azam, who’s also a member of the HFA board, now plans on taking TriFit to other countries in the region.

Meet the 2024 HFA Rising Stars: After a hiatus of four years, CBI is once again excited to revive our Rising Stars series. This popular annual feature recognizes accomplished and promising fitness professionals around the world who are making a difference.

How AI Is Transforming Fitness Apps:
Learn how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing engagement and personalization in fitness technology.

Shaping the Future of Youth Fitness: With sedentary lifestyles leading to a childhood obesity crisis, the fitness industry is poised to make a difference in the lives of millions.

News & Know How

News: Meet Olympians training at HFA member facilities; we remember Steve Spearman; budget chains bring star power to their marketing campaigns; Retro Fitness has big plans; NY Times reports on how luxury brands are impacting real estate; the HFA PAC teams up with the Newtown Athletic Club for a fundraiser; and more news.

International News: A preview of the 2024 HFA Global Report reveals a global industry on the upswing, and Planet Fitness expands into Europe.

Research Roundup: How physical activity is a solution for the "loneliness epidemic." Studies on bone health show why exercise is essential for those on weight loss treatments.

Innovations

Community Outreach: Following its tagline, "Survival of the Littlest," British Swim School partners with fitness facilities with pools across the U.S. and Canada to teach water survival skills and swim stroke development to children and adults of all ages.

Product Spotlight: All about SportsArt’s SA WELL+.

Industry Partner News: The latest news from top suppliers.

Health & Fitness Report

Leadership: The HFA is in a new season of growth, and the wins for our industry are just getting started, explains board chair Chris Smith.

Best Practices: Staff training, motivation, and creating a fun environment are the ingredients needed to ensure consumer experiences are top notch.

Advocacy: Our industry is an essential component of healthcare, and our values must represent this mission.

HFA Team Spotlight: Meet Pamela Kufahl, senior director of communications for the Health & Fitness Association.