YOUR REGULAR ONLINE UPDATE FOR THE UK FITNESSISSUESCENE1MayWEEKLY Issue 112 - 9 September 2022 Active Nation partners with Wexer to launch Active Nation Anywhere–page4 Australian fitness brand launches in UK – page 5
F R I D A Y 1 8 T H N O V E M B E R 2 0 2 2 , T H E A T H E N A , L E I C E S T E R N O M I N AT I O N S C LO S E TO D AY S P O N S O R S H I P P A C K A G E S A R E A V A I L A B L E C a l l 0 1 2 2 6 7 3 4 6 0 5 o r e m a i l t b @ s c r i p t m e d i a g r o u p . c o . u k f o r d e t a i l s S P O N S O R E D B Y
www.workout-uk.co.uk
FUNXTION raised €5.8million in equity capital from their current shareholders and Lexar Partners in August.
“Funxtion are leaders in the digital transformation of the fitness industry worldwide, and the founders’ product and vision support our passion for investing in businesses that use innovation to help people live healthier lives,” added Sander van Woerden, founding partner at Lexar Partners.
Joel Attwal, founder of Fitalike, said: “The past few years have very much disrupted how we live, work, and play, and many of us are struggling to settle back into an exercise routine. “However, staying fit is more important than ever, with increasing amounts of research finding close links between exercise levels and disease prevalence. “We can’t afford to let the pandemic throw us off track. It’s time to get back to it, put ourselves first, and support each other as we all strive to become better, stronger, healthier versions of ourselves”.
Fitalike was born from its founder’s own mental health journey, when he was encouraged by a friend to head to the gym. He gave it a try and discovered just how much a good friend and a good workout session, could help. He decided to combine the two into one comprehensive app to help others. Individuals can use the app to find new friends or personal trainers, while professionals can sign up to reach new clients and earn extra income. For a limited time, the Fitalike Premium Plan is available for free in order to give back to the community.
PELOTON Commercial has welcomed a new Precor StairClimber to its premium fitness equipment portfolio. The Precor StairClimber is designed to cater for exercisers of all shapes, sizes and fitness levels with thoughtful, easy-to-negotiate step-on and step-off platforms, its trade-marked Dynamic Step Control – which creates a consistent step for each exerciser’s size and speed – and a range of between 20 and 165 steps per minute. It also has a unique design feature that protects both the machine and users’ personalAnythingbelongings.droppedthrough a gap in the steps falls onto the ‘lost item slide’ and is returned to the user at the foot of the StairClimber, rather than getting lost in the workings of the machine. Part of Precor’s 800 line of products, the StairClimber is available in both Black Pearl or Storm Grey colourways to match Precor’s other cardio and strength equipment.TheStairClimber, which is the only USmade StairClimber, has been three years inItdevelopment.wasputthrough its paces with testing beyond industry standards, negotiating 30 different assessments and more than 10,000 hours of lab and field trials pre launch to ensure its durable, high-performance components withstand the test of time.
The Mental Health Foundation advocates for exercise as a way to enhance mental health, with even short 10-minute bursts of activity known to have a positive impact on mood and energy.
Peloton Commercial launches Precor StairClimber
Paul Hopkinson ph@scriptmediagroup.co.ukAssistantstudiomanager: Scott Firth Salessf@scriptmediagroup.co.ukandmarketingdirector:
The launch of Fitalike comes at a time when exercise levels are notoriously low. Reports show that physical activity dropped by one third during the pandemic.
ANYONE needing a little extra support to hit the gym can now tap into the benefits of a good workout and a great friend with the launch of a new community-minded app. Fitalike is a dynamic new fitness, sports, and wellbeing app that matches users with other like-minded individuals, or with professional trainers and coaches who can help them achieve their own fitness goals. The app makes it easy to find new workout buddies, locate local trainers and coaches, and share personal achievements and fitness journeys, providing extra motivation and turning what could feel like a chore into a fun, encouraging and inspiring community.
WORKOUT WEEKLY 3
“Hyper-personalised content is the future of the fitness industry,” aid Ernst de Neef, co-founder and CEO of Funxtion. “By offering customised, data-powered fitness content, gyms can appeal to their members on a more personal level.”Theequity capital will also go towards enriching their digital fitness content and marketing and sales to rapidly expand Funxtion’s presence in their current markets and new territories, including the United States. Funxtion is excited to be backed by Lexar Partners, the growth equity investment firm focused on the digital world of tomorrow that are enthused about the technological market opportunities in the fitness industry.
Funxtion fuelled by €5.8m investment
And while things are beginning to return to normal, research from Sport England finds that many aspects –including feelings of anxiety and a disruption to habit – are preventing people from restarting their sport activities. Fitalike is designed to make it easier and more enjoyable to exercise and focus on health, with help from new friends.
Scott Trinder, Peloton Commercial UK sales leader – clubs and other verticals, said: “Our premium StairClimber turns small steps into giant leaps, enabling operators to stay one step ahead thanks to a range of important benefits. “It’s all about our vision to ensure fitness is foremost by providing the best fitness experience possible, whether that’s ease of use for the exerciser, with the largest step surface in the industry or reliability and simplicity for the operator, through features including Dynamic Step Control™, an Active Status Light and a maintenance-free driver system based on our proven Elliptical components.”
The Amsterdam-based company will heavily invest in the intelligence of their platform, particularly in the areas of data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to help gym operators provide hyperpersonalised member experiences.
“We are pleased to support Funxtion in their plans to accelerate the innovation of their platform and to grow 10x in the next few years.”
Tony Barry Tel: 01226 tb@scriptmediagroup.co.uk734605
Publishing manager: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 dm@scriptmediagroup.co.uk734407Studiomanager:
Attwal hopes that Fitalike will play a significant role not only in boosting physical health, but in improving mental health and wellbeing, too. Reports of mental health issues are on the rise. In 2019, mental health conditions affected roughly 10 per cent of the UK population. By 2021, this had almost doubled.
New app builds fitness communities to support health and wellbeing
Thearea.newly completed second phase saw the largest investment with more than £79,500 spent on Life Fitness equipment to replace the centre’s old cardio machines. This includes a total of seven new treadmills, five cross trainers, three upright bikes, two recumbent bikes and a
Operator and council invest more than £118,000 in leisure centre
CROSBY Leisure Centre, operated by leading leisure provider Parkwood Leisure on behalf of Sefton Council, has completed phase two of its gym refurbishment, which has seen its health suite spa transformed into an extended gym
Lee Carnwell, general manager at Crosby Leisure Centre, said: “We are really excited about the gym refurbishments, and the additional benefits it will have on the local community and our members’ fitness journeys.“Therefurbishments have already received great feedback, and the continued investment shows our commitment to providing members with a positive experience that caters for a wide range of people’s needs. “After a tough few years for the fitness industry, we are proud to have bounced back so positively, with visitor numbers continuing to grow.” Phase one of the refurbishments were completed earlier this year in partnership with maintenance contractor Seddon Construction, marking the official opening of the new strength room gym extension.Hammer Strength equipment including a HD Elite Half Rack with platform, a dual adjustable pulley, and adjustable benches were installed, alongside new dumbbells and weight plates. A functional training area was also built, with new equipment including punch bags and battle ropes. Phase three of the facility’s renovations will take place next year, with a further £70,000 investment to include resistance equipment upgrades, plus 31 new indoor cycles from ICG® to enhance members’ group cycling experience.
Following this, new Life Fitness resistance equipment has also been introduced including a multi-jungle cable system, replacement resistance for the smith machine, an arm curl, hip abductor/adductor machines, an Olympic lifting rack and dual adjustable pulley system. £12,500 was spent on new flooring throughout the upper level of the gym which is home to the cardio and resistance area.
Active Nation partners with Wexer to launch Active Nation Anywhere
The introduction of this new mobile app breaks down barriers to participation, enabling everyone to work out on their terms.
The white label app has been produced in partnership with Wexer, making Active Nation the first operator in the UK to adopt Wexer’s new mobile app product revealed earlier this year. Karen Mason, senior customer experience manager at Wexer, added: “Our white labelled Web Player has been integral to Active Nation’s community engagement strategy for several years so when we started development on our new white label mobile app, the organisation was an obvious partner to launch to market in the UK. “All Web Player content and features – including live-streamed, on-demand, own brand content and Class of the Day are all now accessible via the app, creating a seamless user experience for those wanting to tap into content via a mobile device.
The app will be promoted to Active Nation’s membership and user community but is also available to everyone via a download from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
“Delivering easy access, quality content direct to people not only supports our facility users but also provides a new channel through which we can engage those who do not current have a relationship with our brand, extending our influencer to a much wider segment of the community.“Wealsosee this as an opportunity to better engage with the corporate market. Offering Active Nation Anywhere as part of an employee wellbeing package provides corporations with a simple, costeffective means of delivering highly professional fitness content to their workforce, wherever they are located. “We can also tie in use of our facilities in locations where it makes geographical sense to do so.
WORKOUT WEEKLY4
“The Wexer white label app also enables us to send those who opt in, automated push notifications. The app collects behaviour data so we can create target groups and ensure they receive only information of relevance to them. “This creates a highly personal experience for the user and helps us to build a stronger relationship between our brand and the individual.”
“If we are to get a higher percentage of this nation moving, we need to make it as simple as possible for people to access the support and content they need to succeed,” said Stuart Martin, managing director, Active“PhysicalNation.facilities remain the go-to destination for many people who want to get involved in structured activity but they are not for everyone.
PowerMill.
ACTIVE Nation has launched its first mobile app as part of its ongoing strategy to extend reach and influence beyond the walls of physical leisureActivefacilities.NationAnywhere delivers a huge and varied library of workouts and classes directly to the palm of subscribers via either an Apple or an Android mobile device. With a mix of regularly updated, self-produced content performed by its very own in-house instructor team, Active Nation Anywhere will also offer a huge library of content provided by some of the world’s best known fitness brands, giving subscribers the flexibility to work out in a style they enjoy, whenever they are able, from wherever they choose.
“The app also offers enhanced casting functionality, enabling users to cast cross-platform via an AirPlay or Chromecast-enabled device.” Active Nation is committed to empowering everyone to improve their health and wellbeing through regular physical activity.
WORKOUT WEEKLY 5
“The UK market is pumping, and with our strong and solid business foundations proven with over 200 locations worldwide, we are now ready to bring our world-class training programmes, practices, and education to every major town and city.”BFT is a proven, robust and attractive investment with low start-up costs and overheads, high margins per member and minimal operating costs. With a minimum investment of £130,000 and compelling cash flow opportunity, franchisees will be provided with a state-of-the-art training system and ongoing support prior to and after opening, from operations and logistics to HR, legal and finances. All gym equipment is provided, and the industry leading, progressive programmes along with bespoke technology are constantly being evolved and developed to ensure members stay engaged. The imminent launch of studios in the Midlands and London are headed up by franchisees who have experienced the difference at BFT and are passionate about bringing that to their local community.
BODY Fit Training, Australia’s fastest-growing fitness franchise, has announced the launch of its UK opportunity as it continues to expand its global footprint. The brand’s community-based functional training and strengthbased programme is combined with a proven and robust business model, with low set-up costs and high margins, and has been industry recognised with consecutive 2020 and 2021 APAC Franchise of the Year awarded by Fit Summit. Part of the Xponential Fitness portfolio, BFT has created a truly premium training experience for everyone to be able to benefit from, and a worldwide community that is uplifting and supportive. Offering more than just a cardioaerobics workout, the brand uses science and technology-based training techniques to drive positive outcomes for its 45,000+ global members across its 200+ studios in an inclusive, coach-led group environment.
Founded in 2017 in Australia by fitness industry veteran Cameron Falloon, BFT specialises in progressive 50-minute functional strength, cardio, and conditioningbased classes across 13 different workout programmes, each designed to reduce fat and create lean muscle. Members are also able to track their progress through the centre’s bespoke heart rate monitor system – ‘BFT³’, giving each participant the ability to compare their performance to past sessions, and ensure they are getting maximal results from each programme.“Withmore people aspiring to a healthier and active lifestyle, now is the perfect time to share the essence of BFT which makes professional training accessible to the everyday person,” said Cameron Falloon, who is also the joint CEO of BFT. “We are so much more than a gym – we deliver proven elite high performance group training methods that are tailored to delivering the best results for every and any stage of fitness, while building an inclusive community environment. “By expanding BFT into the UK market now, franchisees will have a unique chance to get in on the ground level of a premium and indemand service with strong profit potential. Spreading our resultsdriven progressive group training to the world is fast becoming a reality for BFT. “In the UK there are more than 7,000 gyms and the market value is just under £5billion, so owning a BFT franchise will enable you to capitalise on this trending fitness industry.
“We are a fresh, exciting and innovative brand with a cutting-edge training system, which combined with our commitment that is based on fairness and support to help our franchisees succeed, creates the right formula for success.
Australian fitness brand launches in UK
Book your free places today at https://tomorrows-workout.co.uk/delegate-booking/ Exhibitior opportunities are available by calling Tony Barry on 01226 734605.
Lianne Clark, Business development manager, Active IQ Lianne Clark is an experienced business and fitness professional with a comprehensive industry background working for national gym chains, local authorities and equipment suppliers. She’s passionate about championing active wellness and has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities which face the sector. At Active IQ, Lianne works closely with her centres across the Midlands and east of England to help their businesses grow and their learners to succeed.
David is well known for his unique industry knowledge and is in demand for his expert media commentary and public speaking. Helping businesses and individuals with the invaluable intelligence needed to make key decisions, David leads them through analysis into action, achievement and competitive advantage.Healsoworks with leading journalists and publications to spark debate within and create support for the leisure, fitness, consultancy and financial industries and is the recognised go-to for market trends, data and insight.
Webbington Hotel and Spa
A serial entrepreneur, and a Workout columnist for the past 20 years, Dave is a straight-talking Australian based in the UK who has the unique ability of being both a club operator and a supplier.Charliehas
Axbridge, 2HU
Mike Hind MBE, CEO of MAS Body Gym and founder of Macro Based Diner Dave Wright, founder of Myzone and CFM
Dave Wright is the creator and global CEO of Myzone, the CEO and owner of Creative Fitness Marketing and the co-owner of the Voyage Fitness brand in Australia. Not only is he the chair of UKActive’s Supplier Council but his product, Myzone, is enjoyed in more than 8,000 facilities by more than two million people in 84 countries.
always had passion for both fitness and business, having started his career in the fitness industry at just 18 years old, with a marketing role for a renowned Gym and PT Studio. After building up a wealth of knowledge and know-how, Charlie met Ben Davis (founder of Fitness Marketing Agency) and began the next stage of his career.
Charlie has been with the Fitness Marketing Agency since its conception in 2015, working alongside Ben to grow the business to what it is today – a hugely successful agency that supports over 300 clients, from independent gym owners and corporate gyms to personal trainers and online coaches.
Charlie Horton, marketing and sales manager, Fitness Marketing Agency
Mike was awarded the “Outstanding Achievement Award” in 2018 by the National Fitness Awards for outstanding contribution within the fitness industry. His client list includes Premier League and international footballers, European champion boxers, professional bikini athletes and TV stars. But with this, Mike’s main focus is always on the public… In 2019 at The National Fitness Awards, Mike and his team won an amazing three awards. With Mike being crowned ‘UK’s Best Personal Trainer’ for the third consecutive year which is something that has never been done. Mike’s client Dibsy walked away winning the ‘Member Achievement’ Award and Mike’s meal prep company winning the ‘Innovation in Fitness and Nutrition’ Award. In 2020 Mike was recognised in the Queens Birthday honours and was awarded an MBE for his services to his community.
Mike has been training people for over 12 years, in that time he has been recognised as one of the most respected and renowned coaches in the UK being crowned ‘The Best Personal Trainer in the UK’ by the National Fitness Awards. His work has been broadcast across the globe and he became a household name when he took on “Dibsy” the 40 stone guy, Mike offered him a FREE life saving year-long programme.
FMA provides such businesses with marketing tools and resources to aid in lead generation, conversion, sales and ultimately, growth. As marketing and sales manager, Charlie oversees and nurtures the sales and marketing team whilst driving the marketing forward for FMA, as a business. Charlie can often be found speaking at leading industry events, including Independent Gym Owner Conference, where he shares his quick and effective marketing and sales tools. He specialises in generating leads and client acquisitions.
BS26
David Minton, founding director, The Leisure Database Company
Wednesday, September 21
Speakers to include
WEEKLY WORKOUT6
TOMORROW'S WORKOUT Book your FREE tickets T he Trade Fitness Event of the Year for the South West of England, brought to you by Workout Magazine BOOKING FORM Delegates attending (Please print in block capitals) Title Name Surname Job Title Booked By: Ms/Mr/Mrs/ Position Organisation......................................................................................................................................................................... Address................................................................................................................................................................................. Post code Email......................................................................................................... Tel....................................................................... Please sign and date here to indicate you have read and accept the booking conditions: Sig nature Date: BOOKING CONDITIONS Script Media Group is committed to protecting your personal data. By attending our events, we provide you with an opportunity to meet and engage with our exhibitors. Our events create business to business relationships and give access to relevant industry people, products and services. We share your business information with the exhibitors and speakers so that they can review the companies that have attended today's event, we DO NOT share personal information without your consent. D Please tick to receive a regular copy of Workout magazine D Please tick to receive information from exhibitors Workout Conferences, Script Media Group Ltd, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, 570 2AS Tel:01226 734412 Fax: 01226 734478
Lunch & refreshmentsExhibitionincluded Book now for FREE Brought to you by magazine THE FITNESS EVENT OF THE YEAR Visit Tomorrow’s Workout 2022 Bristol and South West and find all you need in one place • Over 50 key exhibitors with the latest equipment and services • Speaker panel packed with ideas for your business • New products to improve your spend per member Register now for your FREE PLACE at: www.tomorrows-workout.co.uk21st SEPTEMBER2022 WebbingtonHotel&SpaBristol
