Active Management

Category: Industry News

  • Ailish Hanley Appointed to AUSactive Board as Non-Executive Director

    Ailish Hanley Appointed to AUSactive Board as Non-Executive Director

    AUSactive is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Ailish Hanley as a Non-Executive Director to its Board, bringing with her a wealth of experience in strategy, governance, advocacy, and public policy.

    With a professional background spanning executive and non-executive leadership roles, Ailish Hanley offers a unique blend of commercial insight and purpose-driven advocacy.

    She is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and has served on industry associations and working committees, providing her with deep understanding of member organisations and stakeholder engagement.

    AUSactive Chair Emmett Williams said the appointment would further strengthen the AUSactive board given Ailish’s depth of experience.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Ailish to the AUSactive Board. Her background in corporate governance, public policy, and reputation management, combined with her passion for health and fitness, makes her an exceptional fit for our association,” Mr Williams said.

    “Ailish’s strategic mindset and advocacy experience will help strengthen AUSactive’s voice in driving greater recognition and support for our sector.”

    Ms Hanley said she was honoured to be joining the AUSactive Board and looked forward to contributing to the association’s mission.

    “I am a passionate advocate for the critical role that personal fitness plays in helping Australians of all ages to live longer, healthier lives,” Ms Hanley said.

    “I’m excited to contribute my experience in governance, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to support the continued growth and impact of the organisation.”

    Hanley’s career spans leadership roles in global companies including Bayer, Danone and Diageo with responsibility for strategic public affairs, advocacy and reputation building. This includes successfully engaging with Federal and state governments to secure funding and policy change in areas such as chronic health, preventative health, and women’s health.

    Her appointment reflects AUSactive’s commitment to strong governance, diversity, and strategic leadership as it continues to advocate for the health and wellbeing of all Australians through greater physical activity.

  • AUSactive CEO Barrie Elvish Announces Retirement After Transformative Tenure

    AUSactive CEO Barrie Elvish Announces Retirement After Transformative Tenure

    AUSactive has announced the retirement of its Chief Executive Officer, Barrie Elvish, who has served the organisation with distinction since January 2019.

    Initially joining as Interim CEO for six months to address significant challenges, Barrie’s leadership and vision quickly proved invaluable, resulting in a tenure that transformed AUSactive into the dynamic, forward-focused organisation it is today.

    Upon his arrival, Barrie was met with declining revenues, disengaged membership, excessive overheads, and a breakdown in trust between the Board and staff.

    With an unwavering commitment to transparency and collaboration, he rapidly assessed the situation, rebuilt confidence among stakeholders, and spearheaded the development of a renewed strategic direction.

    Throughout his time at the helm, Barrie demonstrated exceptional leadership—fostering a strong relationship with the Board, empowering the AUSactive team, and reinforcing financial sustainability.

    AUSactive Deputy Chair, Jayne Blake, said Barrie’s contributions would leave a lasting legacy.

    “Barrie’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative. He brought clarity and stability during a time of uncertainty and positioned AUSactive as a powerful advocate for the industry,” Ms Blake said.

    “His ability to unite stakeholders, inspire progress, and lead with integrity will be felt for many years to come. On behalf of the Board, we thank him deeply for his service and wish him every success in the next chapter of his journey.

    “His influence extended beyond the organisation, strengthening connections both nationally and internationally while earning the respect and trust of industry leaders.”

    A key milestone under Barrie’s leadership was his pivotal role in driving constitutional reform, ensuring all membership categories—including small businesses and AUSReps—were fully represented at the Board level.

    He also led AUSactive’s advocacy efforts, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he became a vital bridge between the fitness industry and government. His tireless efforts helped secure recognition of gyms as essential services in Queensland, reinforcing the critical role of physical activity in public health and wellbeing.

    Recognising the need for a future-focused approach post-COVID, Barrie guided the organisation in redefining its strategic direction to emphasise preventative health and advocate for both mental and physical wellbeing.

    His leadership was also instrumental in the successful rebranding of Fitness Australia to AUSactive, marking a significant evolution in the organisation’s purpose and reach.Barrie Elvish

    Barrie’s impact on advocacy has been profound, with AUSactive’s presence in Canberra stronger than ever. His ability to navigate political landscapes, build trust with federal and state governments, and elevate the profile of AUSactive has firmly positioned the organisation as a leading voice in the health and fitness sector.

    Among his many achievements, securing NDIS provider status and fostering relationships with health insurers and the broader healthcare industry stand out as a testament to his strategic acumen.

    Barrie’s leadership style—defined by decisiveness, eloquence, and authenticity—has been fundamental to AUSactive’s success. Known for his ability to articulate complex issues with clarity, his passion for the industry, and his unwavering integrity, he has set a high benchmark for leadership in the sector.

    As Barrie steps down, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and momentum. While his successor will undoubtedly have big shoes to fill, thanks to Barrie’s transformative leadership, AUSactive is well-positioned for continued growth and impact.

    On behalf of the Board, staff, and members, AUSactive extends its deepest gratitude to Barrie for his outstanding service and contributions.

  • A New Era of Fitness Leadership: REX Leadership Academy 2025

    A New Era of Fitness Leadership: REX Leadership Academy 2025

    The health and fitness industry is set to witness a transformative event with the introduction of the REX Leadership Academy, scheduled for July 15-17, 2025, at the Crotonville Conference Centre in Ossining, New York. This immersive, two-and-a-half-day program is meticulously designed to equip industry leaders with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of health and fitness management.​

    Revitalizing Leadership Training in the Industry

    Historically, IHRSA offered similar leadership institutes aimed at enhancing the competencies of health club executives. However, with the discontinuation of such programs, a noticeable void emerged in the industry. Recognizing this gap, REX Roundtables has taken the initiative to revitalize and elevate leadership training through the REX Leadership Academy. This endeavor aligns with REX’s commitment to fostering continuous improvement and excellence within the health and fitness sector.​

    A Comprehensive Curriculum for Diverse Roles

    The academy’s curriculum is tailored to address the multifaceted challenges faced by professionals in the health and fitness industry. It is particularly beneficial for:​

    • Club or Studio Owners: Strategies to enhance business operations, boost member retention, and drive profitability.
    • Club or Studio Managers: Leadership techniques to inspire teams, streamline operations, and achieve organizational goals.​
    • Spa Owners or Managers: Gain specialized insights on enhancing client experience, optimizing operational efficiency, and driving profitability within the spa and wellness sector.
    • Department Managers: Skills to lead departments effectively and contribute to overarching business success.​
    • Aspiring Business Leaders: Fundamental leadership principles to accelerate career progression in the industry.​

    Key topics encompass Sales, Marketing & Personal Training; Leadership & Strategy; Culture & Customer Experience; Operations & Programming; Networking & One-on-One Sessions; and Financial Management.​

    REX Faculty and Guest Speakers

    The REX Leadership Academy boasts a distinguished lineup of faculty and guest speakers, each bringing a wealth of experience and expertise:​

    • Eddie Tock: Host & REX CEO, renowned for his strategic insights in the fitness industry.​
    • Allison Flatley: REX Chair, celebrated for her leadership in health club management.​
    • Brent Darden: REX Chair, former IHRSA interim President & CEO, with extensive industry knowledge.​
    • Justin Tamsett: REX Chair, an international speaker known for his expertise in member engagement.​
    • Frank Ancharski: REX Chair, specializing in operational excellence and customer experience.​
    • Mary Laudati: REX Chair, with a focus on marketing and sales.
    • Dan Duran: REX Chair, Personal Training Manager Roundtable and VP of Lionel University Global.​
    • Mark Miller: REX Chair, recognized for his work in organizational culture and leadership.​
    • Danielle Krischik: Keynote Speaker. Partner, Chief Strategy Officer at Knight Agency, offering expertise in strategic marketing.​
    • Frank Lawrence: CEO of Little Rock Athletic Centers, bringing financial insights from club operations.​
    • Mark Harrington Jr.: President of Healthworks Fitness, GymIt, and Republic Fitness, known for innovative business strategies.​
    • Lesley Carr: VP of Fitness at Healthworks and Republic Fitness, with a focus on fitness programming and leadership.​

    These industry luminaries will share their knowledge through keynote speeches, interactive sessions, and panel discussions, providing attendees with actionable strategies and a comprehensive understanding of effective leadership in the health and fitness domain.​

    An Engaging and Interactive Agenda

    The academy’s agenda is structured to maximize learning and networking opportunities:​

    https://rexleadershipacademy.com/#agenda

    Optional guided tours of clubs and studios in New York City are available on July 17-18, offering practical insights into successful operations.​

    A Commitment to Building a Leadership Community

    Beyond the structured sessions, the REX Leadership Academy emphasizes the creation of a supportive community among participants. The academy fosters an environment of honesty and openness, encouraging attendees to share experiences, challenges, and solutions. This collaborative approach ensures that the learning extends beyond the event, providing ongoing support and networking opportunities.​

    Limited Enrollment for Personalized Experience

    To maintain an intimate and interactive setting, enrollment is capped at 80 attendees. This limitation ensures personalized attention and fosters meaningful connections among participants and faculty. Prospective attendees are encouraged to secure their spots promptly to benefit from this unparalleled leadership development opportunity.​

     

    The REX Leadership Academy represents a pivotal moment for leadership development in the health and fitness industry. By bridging the gap left by previous programs, it offers a comprehensive, immersive experience designed to empower current and aspiring leaders. With its robust curriculum, esteemed faculty, and commitment to community building, the academy is poised to set a new standard for excellence in industry leadership training.

    For more information and to register, visit the official REX Leadership Academy website or contact Eddie Tock:

    https://rexleadershipacademy.com/
    [email protected]
    (914)-643-3207

  • Myzone Strengthens Marketing Team With Key Appointment

    Myzone Strengthens Marketing Team With Key Appointment

    Myzone has made another significant addition to its team as it prepares for a new phase of growth and expansion. Jo Walker has been appointed as Head of Brand and Communications, bringing a wealth of experience in fitness and wellness within the SaaS sector.

    Walker has held senior marketing roles at Xplor Technologies and EverCommerce, and most recently served as Chief Marketing Officer at BOX12. Her expertise in building brands and driving data-driven strategies means she is well placed to help shape Myzone’s next chapter.

    Walker says: “Myzone has built a strong foundation as a globally recognised brand, and I’m excited to bring fresh energy and perspective to contribute its next stage of growth. I’m focused on expanding Myzone’s global reach, strengthening its position as a leader in connected fitness, and ensuring we continue to make movement a movement. With a clear vision and an incredible community, I look forward to leveraging my experience to elevate the brand, drive strategic impact, and help more people get active through the Myzone ecosystem.”

    Reporting to Global Marketing Director Tom Davies, Walker is the latest in a series of key appointments made by the leading wearable fitness technology brand, aimed at driving product development and business growth.

    Davies says: “We’re thrilled to welcome Jo to the team at such a pivotal time for Myzone. Over the last few months, we’ve been strengthening our global team to position the business for long-term success. Each of our recent appointments has an impressive track record in their field, and together they will help drive innovation, accelerate growth and deliver real value to our customers.”

    Myzone is focused on expanding the brand’s worldwide reach and influence, supporting industry bodies, club operators and international governments in their bid to tackle the world’s inactivity crisis via connecting the world through effort and movement.

    The Myzone team will be attending FIBO, April 10-13, Cologne Exhibition Centre and will be exhibiting in Hall 7 on stand C04.

    For more information about Myzone visit: myzone.org.

  • First-of-Its-Kind Study Reveals the State of Call-Back Services in Australian Membership Sales

    First-of-Its-Kind Study Reveals the State of Call-Back Services in Australian Membership Sales

    Without structured call-back processes, fitness operators are leaving high-intent leads unengaged and losing potential revenue.

    Keepme has published a comprehensive study showing that Australian gym operators are struggling to engage leads effectively, leading to lost revenue opportunities. The findings across 50 brands representing 1861 locations highlights major inefficiencies in call-back availability, follow-up speed, and response quality – issues that directly impact conversion rates and business growth.

    Among the key Australian findings:

    • 0% of operators actively advertised a call-back function.
    • 66% required a manual request via a contact form.

    With zero operators actively promoting call-backs, the study confirms that lead follow-up is far from a priority in the Australian fitness industry despite overwhelming evidence that fast, structured responses directly improve conversion rates.

    “These studies highlight a massive missed opportunity in the Australian fitness industry. Without structured, instant lead engagement, operators are losing prospects before they even get the chance to convert them,” said Hilary McGuckin, Director of Marketing at Keepme. “Keepme Antares ensures every inquiry gets an instant response, keeping prospects engaged while their intent is at its highest. In fact, our customers are seeing a 60% conversion rate on leads to tours and tripling their visitor-to-lead conversion rates simply by eliminating response delays.”

    Fixing the Problem with Keepme Antares

    The study reinforces what many gym operators already suspect: manual lead handling is inefficient and costing them business. Keepme Antares eliminates this problem by:

    • Automating call-backs to happen instantly – before the lead can go cold.
    • Providing structured, AI-driven responses that feel personal and natural.
    • Using multi-channel follow-ups (email, SMS, WhatsApp) to keep prospects engaged.
    • Freeing up sales teams to focus on in-person conversions rather than chasing cold leads.

    With response times in the study ranging from a best-case 1 minute 22 seconds to a worst-case 5,657 minutes (nearly four days), the opportunity cost is clear. If a prospect doesn’t receive an immediate response, they will likely sign up elsewhere.

    “Speed and consistency are everything in lead conversion, yet this study shows most Australian gyms are relying on slow, manual processes that leave prospects waiting,” said Matt McCallum, Growth Marketing Manager at Keepme. “Keepme Antares ensures that every inquiry is handled instantly and efficiently, converting more leads without adding extra workload to sales teams. One leading APAC fitness chain went from a 13.97% lead-to-tour conversion rate to 38% in just seven days – a 2.72x increase without hiring a single extra sales rep.”

    AI-Powered Engagement is the Future

    Australian gym operators who continue relying on outdated, manual lead follow-ups will struggle to compete. Those who embrace AI-driven solutions will gain a significant edge in lead conversion, cost efficiency, and long-term revenue growth.

    With Keepme Antares already delivering measurable results, the question is clear: Will Australian gyms adapt or will they continue losing prospects to faster competitors?

    Download the Full Australia Report

    For full insights from the Australian study, visit: https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0hhtLs0

  • The countdown is on for AUSactive’s first XBA Live this month

    The countdown is on for AUSactive’s first XBA Live this month

    AUSactive will host its first XBA Live in Melbourne, an event designed to offer a transformative experience for fitness businesses and if you’re looking to give your business the edge this year, it’s one event not to be missed.
    Hosted at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday 29th March 2025, the program already includes an impressive lineup of guest speakers including Tony De Leede – Founder, Wellness Solutions; William Tuffley – Partner, Sports & Private Clients at BDO;  Dr Marc Cohen – Medical Doctor, University Professor, Author and Entrepreneur and Dr Betul Sekendiz – Associate Professor of Business and Sports Management at ICMS.
    AUSactive CEO Barrie Elvish said XBA Live was the perfect event to kick off the 2025 events program given the all-round business focus and emphasis on providing valuable insights to help owners and operators take their business to the next level.
    “AUSactive is thrilled to announce our first event of 2025, XBA Live, which is part of our new members-only ConnectX business network and administration program. The first XBA Live has been designed to support our members and the industry to operate more effectively and efficiently,” Mr Elvish said.
    “At XBA Live, attendees will gain valuable insights into managing risks, leveraging technology, boosting profitability, and tapping into emerging opportunities from a high calibre lineup of guest speakers and panelists.
    “The one-day event is ideal for independent gym owners, franchisee, boutique studio operators, and fitness entrepreneurs looking to take their businesses to the next level. It’s a fantastic opportunity to future-proof your business and connect with the best minds in the industry.”
     
    XBA Live 2025 Event Details
    Key Topics Include:
    1. Work Health & Safety (WHS): Beyond Compliance: Discover strategies to identify and manage common risks in fitness facilities, engage staff and members in creating a culture of safety, and implement proactive policies to protect your business.
    2. Wellness Trends and Market Opportunities: Explore the rise of recovery services like saunas, ice baths, and mindfulness spaces, and learn how personalised wellness experiences and contrast therapy are reshaping member expectations.
    3. Marketing and Member Engagement: Master the art of creating authentic social media content, craft a compelling brand story to showcase your unique selling points, and implement strategies to build long-term member loyalty.
    For more information about and to purchase tickets to the XBA Live event on Saturday 29 March head to https://events.humanitix.com/ausactive-xba-live
  • Fernwood Fitness and Qualified Trainers (QT) Announce New Partnership

    Fernwood Fitness and Qualified Trainers (QT) Announce New Partnership

    Fernwood Fitness, one of Australia’s premier fitness brands with over 70 locations, has joined forces with Qualified Trainers (QT) as a preferred supplier for compliance oversight and group fitness management. This partnership promises to streamline operations, tighten compliance protocols, and elevate the group fitness experience for both staff and members.

    Streamlining Compliance Across the Business

    Ensuring compliance is paramount for any fitness facility. With QT, Fernwood Fitness clubs can effortlessly track the qualifications and certifications of its instructors and trainers, guaranteeing that essential credentials—such as First Aid, CPR, Blue Card, and insurance—remain current. QT’s standalone compliance tool keeps track of these certifications in real time, eliminating manual checks and significantly reducing the risk of oversight.

    Elevating the Group Fitness Experience

    Group fitness is central to Fernwood Fitness’s business model and ensuring an exceptional member experience has always been a top priority. By leveraging QT’s platform, clubs can minimise administrative tasks and focus on delivering high-quality classes. Real-time timetable management enables staff to easily create, update, and fill schedules. In the event of an instructor’s last-minute absence, QT makes it simple to find a qualified substitute, ensuring a seamless experience for members and preventing class cancellations.

    Advanced Reporting for Informed Decision-Making

    QT’s advanced reporting features offer in-depth insights into class attendance, instructor performance, and return on investment (ROI) based on capacity versus attendance. These valuable metrics empower gym owners and managers to make data-driven decisions, refine their class offerings, and further enrich the member experience.

    Enthusiastic Endorsement from Fernwood Fitness

    “We’re excited to partner with Qualified Trainers as our preferred supplier for compliance, cover-management, and group fitness management. QT will not only support Fernwood Fitness clubs in tracking certifications and compliance, but also helps streamline the entire group fitness process, including managing class covers and providing advanced reporting. This comprehensive approach ensures that our clubs run smoothly, and more importantly, helps us deliver the best possible experience to our members.”
    — Belinda Amir Wheaton, General Manager of Fernwood Fitness

    The Vision Behind QT

    Founded by experienced gym operators Jason Edwards (right) and Jay Ramsden (left), QT was built to address the common challenges gym owners face—such as compliance, scheduling, and payroll. Their mission is to provide a platform that simplifies group fitness management while keeping compliance at the forefront, allowing gyms to focus on delivering outstanding experiences for their members.

    The Future of Group Fitness Management with QT

    As QT continues to expand, it remains committed to delivering innovative, integrated solutions that help gym owners streamline their operations and enhance member experiences. Qualified Trainers (QT) brings together compliance tracking, scheduling, cover management, and advanced reporting in one platform—and with a soon-to-launch payroll feature, gyms have everything they need to thrive while guiding members toward their fitness goals. 

    For more information on Qualified Trainers (QT) or to schedule a demo, please visit QualifiedTrainers.com or contact [email protected]

  • AUSactive 2025 National Awards Nominations Now Open

    AUSactive 2025 National Awards Nominations Now Open

    28 individual, business, industry supplier, and community categories on offer

    Nominations are now open for the highly anticipated 2025 AUSactive National Awards, the ultimate celebration of excellence, innovation, and leadership in Australia’s health and fitness industry—this is your chance to shine and be recognised among the best!

    With 28 categories spanning individuals, businesses, community initiatives, and industry suppliers, this year’s program is set to showcase the full breadth of talent driving AUSactive’s commitment to a healthier, more active nation.

    The National Awards represent the highest level of recognition in Australia’s active health and fitness sector while celebrating outstanding accomplishments, pioneering innovation, and a deep commitment to promoting healthier, more active lifestyles.
    AUSactive CEO Barrie Elvish said the Awards shine a spotlight on the extraordinary people and programs working behind the scenes to keep Australians moving.
    “The AUSactive Awards are about more than recognition—they’re about celebrating the passion and dedication that fuel our industry every day,” Mr Elvish said.
    Mr Elvish observed the Awards aim to raise the bar for excellence in the fitness industry by recognising outstanding quality, innovation, and leadership.
    “We are thrilled to announce nominations are now open for this year’s AUSactive National Awards. The awards spotlight individuals and businesses that exemplify exceptional talent and dedication, helping to shape the future of the industry,” Mr Elvish said.
    “A key focus is also on promoting fitness and exercise as a dynamic and rewarding career path by fostering connections and celebrating achievements.”
    Now in its 13th year, the AUSactive National Awards have become a career-defining platform for individuals and organisations committed to creating lasting impact.
    After a sold-out Gala in 2024, this year’s event promises to be even bigger, with industry leaders from across the country coming together to recognise excellence and celebrate the future of active health.
    “Individual categories honor top personal trainers, educators, and instructors in Pilates, yoga, aqua fitness, and more. The business awards recognise outstanding independent operators, franchises, and industry-leading providers.
     “Our popular community-focused categories highlight programs making a difference through inclusion, mental health awareness, and social impact.
    “Finally, our supplier awards which are a relatively new addition to our awards program highlight innovation and excellence in fitness equipment, technology, and wellness solutions, showcasing those shaping the future of the industry,” Mr Elvish said.
    2025 AUSactive Awards Key Dates
    Nominations
    Award Nominations Open
    Monday
    10 March 2025
    Award Nominations Close
    Monday
    5 May 2025
    Judging & Voting
    People’s Choice Voting Opens
    Monday
    5 May 2025
    Judging Begins
    Monday
    12 May 2025
    Judging & People’s Choice Voting Closes
    Monday
    9 June 2025
    Award Finalists Announced
    June 2025
    Gala Event
     
     
    2025 National Awards Gala
    Friday
    19 September 2025
    2025 Award Categories

    Individual Categories
    1. Personal Trainer of the Year
    2. Group Exercise Instructor and/or Leader of the Year
    3. Educator of the Year
    4. Aqua Exercise Professional of the Year
    5. Pilates Professional of the Year
    6. Student of the Year
    7. Yoga Professional of the Year
    8. Manager of the Year
    9. Tai Chi Professional of the Year
    10. Yoga Therapist of the Year
     Business Categories
    1. CEC provider of the Year
    1. Independent Business of the Year
    2. Leisure Centre of The Year
    3. Multiservice Business of the Year
    4. Franchise Group and/ or Brand of the Year
    1. Franchisee of the Year
    2. Pilates Business of the Year
    3. Yoga Business of the Year
    4. Quality Accredited Business of the Year
      Community Categories
    1. Social Value & Community Impact Award
    2. Most Inclusive and/or Diverse Program
    3. Mental Health Awareness Award
    4. Industry Innovation Award
    Industry Suppliers Categories
    1. Most Innovative & Best Technology Integration Supplier: Awarded to the supplier that has introduced the most innovative product or service and has effectively integrated technology into their fitness products or services to enhance user experience and outcomes.
    2. Best Strength Equipment Supplier: Awarded to the supplier that provides the most robust, innovative, and user-friendly strength training equipment. This category focuses on products that facilitate effective strength training, including weight machines, free weights, and functional training equipment.
    3. Best Wellness Equipment Supplier: Recognising the supplier that offers outstanding wellness-focused equipment designed to enhance holistic health. This includes equipment for Yoga, Pilates, stretching, recovery, and other modalities aimed at improving overall well-being.
    4. Best Commercial Cardio Equipment Supplier: Awarded to the supplier that excels in providing high-quality, durable, and technologically advanced cardio equipment for commercial use. This category focuses on treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and other cardio machines that are essential for fitness facilities.
    For more information on 2024 AUSactive National Awards Program, eligibility and to enter visit awards.ausactive.org.au
  • Bodyfit Unveils Exciting Expansion at Glebe’s Tramsheds with new Group Fitness Studio

    Bodyfit Unveils Exciting Expansion at Glebe’s Tramsheds with new Group Fitness Studio

    A New Era of Affordable Wellness, Fitness and Recovery for Sydney’s Inner West

    The Bodyfit Group, home of Sydney’s favourite community fitness and wellness clubs, is thrilled to announce the opening of its newly expanded facilities, including a new group fitness studio at Tramsheds in Glebe, Sydney. The expansion promises to provide an all-in-one wellness hub, offering members the perfect environment to train, recover, and connect with a full mind and body experience in one space.

    Located in the heart of the vibrant Tramsheds precinct, the newly expanded Bodyfit club features a state-of-the-art, 650 square metre space, offering premium facilities designed to cater to diverse fitness and wellness needs. The expansion reflects Bodyfit’s commitment to providing a holistic approach to health, bringing together strength training, recovery amenities, and community-driven group fitness programs.

    “We’re incredibly excited to welcome our members to this new chapter at Bodyfit Glebe. This expansion is more than just a larger space – it’s about providing our community with a one-stop affordable destination for fitness, recovery, and mental well-being. Our goal is to create a place where everyone feels supported, motivated, and empowered to reach their full potential by delivering value, variety and flexible options to our members,” said Nat Grosvenor, CEO, Bodyfit.

    Key Features of the Expansion:

    • All-in-One Wellness & Training Hub: A space where members can train, recover, and connect, all under one roof for a full mind and body experience, whether it’s working on strength, functional fitness, or mental well-being.

    • Elevated Training: The expanded group fitness studio offers a wide range of dynamic classes, from high-energy Les Mills workouts to calming yoga, and strengthening Pilates sessions. Members can also continue this at home via Bodyfit’s ‘Feel Good’ app based training which includes meditation, breath work, dance and more.

    • Essential Recovery: With the addition of a luxury sauna and ice bath, the new space provides top-tier performance recovery options, helping members achieve mental clarity and optimise their training results.

    • Strength and Functionality: Functional fitness alongside traditional strength training equipment ensures that Bodyfit caters to all fitness goals, from building muscle to improving mobility and overall functionality.

    • Community Connection: At Bodyfit, creating a welcoming, supportive environment is important. The Tramsheds expansion will continue to prioritise inclusivity and motivation, offering a space where members feel connected and encouraged by one another.

    Bodyfit’s memberships embody the team’s dedication to providing holistic health and wellness with unbeatable value and affordability, variety and flexibility. Members who enjoy Bodyfit’s Got it in One membership receive free crèche services and unlimited group fitness classes in-studio, as well as 24/7 online workouts via Bodyfit’s ‘Feel Good’ app based training which includes meditation, breath work, stretch, dance and more, plus on-site gym facilities, saunas, and access to all Bodyfit clubs across Sydney. 

    “Whether you’re powering through a high-energy Les Mills class, finding your flow in yoga, or taking time to recover in our sauna and ice bath, we’ve designed this space to meet the diverse needs of our community. At Bodyfit, strength, functionality, and recovery go hand in hand, and our focus remains on building a supportive and motivating community where everyone feels welcome and empowered to reach their goals,” Nat continued. 

    The opening of the new Group Fitness Studio day also coincided with Bodyfit Day, celebrating Bodyfit’s 12 years of community, fitness and wellness across all clubs. 

    Bodyfit Glebe is located at Tramsheds, Shop 8A/1 Dalgal Wy, Forest Lodge NSW 2037.

  • Escape Fitness Sets New Blueprint For Strength Training With The Launch Of LOAD

    Escape Fitness Sets New Blueprint For Strength Training With The Launch Of LOAD

     

    Escape Fitness, a global leader in innovative fitness solutions, has unveiled Octagon LOAD or “LOAD”, a groundbreaking strength and functional training system. Developed from years of industry expertise and global insights, LOAD addresses critical challenges faced by fitness facilities, offering a versatile, safe and engaging, results-driven solution that meets the rising demand for strength training.  

    Matthew Januszek, Escape Fitness USA, CEO, explains: “Strength training is no longer the reserve of elite athletes or bodybuilders; it’s a cornerstone of fitness for people of all ages and abilities. After 3 years of research and conversations with leading operators, athletes, and coaches, built on a lifetime of experience working in the fitness industry, Escape Fitness has created a pioneering circuit-based system for the general population that efficiently stimulates muscle.” 

    Designed and manufactured at the Escape Technologies facility in the UK by Escape’s in-house team of specialist engineers, LOAD combines the benefits of traditional plate-loaded machines with advanced variable resistance technology. High-tensile resistance bands promote continuous muscle engagement throughout movements, particularly at the end range of motion, maximizing strength gains.  

    All movements are performed in a standing position which activates the entire kinetic chain. This holistic approach builds strength using natural movement sequences, promoting superior muscle growth and strength efficiently and safely.  

    “The hypertrophy benefits are outstanding,” adds Januszek. “Contributions from the variable resistance training include optimized muscle engagement, consistent muscle activation and faster muscle fatigue, all help to breakthrough performance plateaus by challenging muscles in new ways whilst also limiting the risk of injury. The fact that all movements are performed in a standing position means glutes, abs, quads and hamstrings are also engaged – optimizing training time and providing a full body workout.” 

    LOAD is engineered to cater for everyone. Its design supports multiple stance positions—neutral, split, staggered and single-leg as well as various grip adjustments, enabling users to target specific muscle groups while enhancing stability and strength.  

    The ability to train across the entire force-velocity curve allows users to develop both power and speed, setting LOAD apart from traditional strength equipment. Its compact design is ideal for facilities with limited floor space, while innovative features appeal to a wide range of users. 

    Safety is a key focus of LOAD. The variable resistance system allows controlled load adjustments, minimizing injury risks and ensuring progressive overload for continuous improvement. This makes LOAD an excellent option for injury rehabilitation and for older adults or beginners who may feel intimidated by traditional strength equipment. 

    For gym operators, personal trainers and fitness stakeholders, LOAD represents an investment that delivers measurable benefits. It’s not just about lifting weights—it’s about training smarter, safer and more effectively. By integrating LOAD into training facilities, operators can meet the growing demand for strength training while providing an unparalleled member experience.  

    The Octagon LOAD range launches with five ‘STATIONS’: LIFT, DRIVE, ROW, SQUAT and PRESS. All stations can be standalone or connected, with options to integrate equipment storage. The incorporation of resistance bands enables quick and easy resistance adjustments between sets and a reduction in the number of plates that need to be changed and stored. 

    Frames are manufactured from a mild steel box section BSEN10025 with handles made from 304/1.4301 stainless steel. This makes LOAD ideal for indoor studios. An optional galvanized paint finish is available, providing full weatherproofing for outdoor use. Frames can also be fully customized to reflect operator branding and color palette. 

    Januszek adds: “Working with one of the world’s most experienced and respected fitness educators, Tommy Matthews, we have developed a comprehensive suite of LOAD education materials available both in-person and digitally.” Januszek adds. “We are also developing content for our MARS digital training system, so users will be able to access digital content anytime to help them execute movements safely and effectively.  

    LOAD is installed and already being piloted at Gold’s Gym, California, USA and The Waterfront Leisure Complex, Greenock, UK, managed by Inverclyde Leisure.  

    Click here to read the full Inverclyde Leisure case study. 

    To learn more about Octagon LOAD and how it could enhance your facility and training offer, visit www.escapefitness.com or contact the team to arrange a demonstration.