CBI July 2024

Chris Smith Takes the Reins

“Growth for the HFA will be driven by a balance of advocacy, research, and education, ensuring that we stay relevant and engaged globally with lawmakers, decision makers, and other stakeholders.”

Chris Smith

Welcome

First You Survive, Then You Thrive: The Health & Fitness Association is busier than ever with multiple initiatives and projects in motion.

CEO's Column: The HFA strategic plan takes shape

Features

Bringing a Growth Mindset to the Global Industry: After serving four years on the HFA board, Chris Smith, CEO and president of Fitness World Canada, was elected chair of the association on June 3. In this exclusive interview, the Vancouver-based entrepreneur explains his approach to launching successful businesses and shares his vision for a stronger, more influential global fitness industry.

Making Healthcare Referrals Profitable:
In this follow-up from last month, we go deeper into the healthcare insurance reimbursement system and shed light on the complex processes that operators will encounter in providing this vital service to members.

Strength Training's Reigning Dominance: The weight room has never been busier, and operators and industry suppliers are working overtime to meet the demand for advanced strength equipment and programming. Here are the latest innovations.

News & Know How

News: The HFA seats a new board and chair; Sean Tan is named director Asia-Pacific for the HFA; a new interactive map on the recent economic impact report is launched; WHO releases an alarming report on the global health crises; the fourth annual Congressional Physical Activity Challenge has a new champ; and much more news.

International News: Investors line up to ride the wave of Europe’s thriving fitness market, and PureGym reaches an impressive milestone.

Research Roundup: Leisure DB's State of the UK Fitness Industry Report 2024 found that penetration and gym memberships have not only surpassed pre-pandemic levels in the UK, but reached all-time highs.

Influencer: Technogym founder and President Nerio Alessandri reflects on the company’s nearly 30-year history of serving the Olympic Games.

Innovations

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

Club Innovations: How David Energy's innovative service will help facilities save on operation costs.

Content Marketing Plus: Life Fitness reimagines cardio training.

Industry Partner News: The latest news from top suppliers.

Health & Fitness Report

Leadership: New Chair Chris Smith on building a larger, more global HFA.

Best Practices: How to create a first-rate medical fitness facility.

Advocacy: The HFA team builds its international advocacy strategy.

HFA Team Spotlight: Meet Ru Kazi, membership coordinator for the Health & Fitness Association.