HALO Talks: Elevating Wellness
Business
Ethan Blauner's story begins in the tumultuous period of the pandemic when the doors of the (unfortunately now defunct) Switch Playground--like many big box and boutique gyms across the globe--shuttered and left trainers wandering in an uncertain fitness landscape. As routines crumbled, Ethan faced the challenge that rattled the entire industry . . . the abrupt transition from physical spaces to a virtual existence where the workout mat was to become the new gym floor.
It was during this time of redefinition that serendipity struck. A client proposed the idea of virtual fitness classes. Skeptical but intrepid, Ethan ventured into the relatively unknown domain of digital fitness instruction. With a yoga mat as the sole requisite, he pioneered "core day," a bodyweight-centric regimen designed for the digital crowd.
The inaugural week was a testament to the potential of this newfound format. Ethan managed to draw an impressive attendance, with 15 to 20 virtual participants, ready to exercise from the solitude of their homes. The success of that first class marked the beginning of a new era for Ethan, a reinvention borne out of necessity that showcased his adaptability and his unwavering commitment to fostering fitness, even in times of global uncertainty.
Blauner delves into the founding of his new concept, Sid's Gym, and the innovative indoor running simulators that set it apart. When it comes to new innovations in treadmill technology, he states, "If you're on a normal treadmill, you're staring at a mirror in front of you and nothing's moving, it's kind of a weird thing for your brain because you're moving your body, but your surroundings stay the same. On our treadmill, you feel like you're moving through space, even though you're not. Our brains are not equipped to actually realize that we're running on a treadmill. And basically 5 minutes into the run, you're fully immersed. You forget that you're on the treadmill."
Key themes discussed
A few key takeaways:
1. Blauner found success and community building by adapting to the pandemic, transitioning to online fitness classes, and creating a sense of togetherness during a challenging time.
2. The evolution of boutique fitness in New York City post-pandemic involves incorporating a virtual experience with a focus on personalized, intimate classes, and community building, while recognizing the importance of in-person training for the unique atmosphere it provides.
3. The concept of Sid's Gym incorporates indoor running simulators with immersive technology, providing a unique training experience that simulates outdoor terrain and aims to revolutionize traditional treadmill workouts.
4. Ethan emphasizes the importance of understanding individual goals and creating a tailored experience for each member, prioritizing personalized coaching, community building, and tracking progress to deliver a more engaging and effective fitness experience.
5. The episode highlights the potential for a new era in boutique fitness, emphasizing the use of unique technology and community-centered approaches to provide a more comprehensive and fulfilling fitness experience.
Click here to download transcript.
Resources:
Connect With Us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehaloadvisors/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Integritysquare
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@halotalks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrity-square/
Website: https://www.halotalks.com
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: www.ratethispodcast.com/halotalks and don't forget to check out the HALO Academy for Executive Education opportunities.
Episode #474: Exercise as Medicine-Dr. Kenneth Cooper's Trailblazing Insights on Preventive Health
Episode #473: An Inside Look at Underwater Torpedo League and Deep End Fitness with Prime Hall
Episode #472: Folk Revival-David Cantor Discusses Heirloom Ingredients, Sustainability, and the Acorn Revolution.
Episode #471: Lee Braun of Perspire Sauna Studios Talks All Things Franchising
Episode #470: Uniting Fitness Businesses-Dom D'Alexander's Somble Vision for Coaches and Studios
Episode #469: From the Court to the Boardroom-Josh Bonhotal's Impact in Sports and Venture Investing
Episode #468: Fitness Club Marketing with VR-Valuable Insights from Zvi Goffer of CampusVR
Episode #467: From Engineer to Entrepreneur: Dixie Grace's Boiled Peanut Odyssey
Episode #466: The Science of Reaxing-Jeremy Strom's Take on Unpredictable Stimuli Training
Episode #465: Unlocking CBD Success-A Conversation with Josh Forkner from Flex CBD
Episode #464: ICON Meals-Todd Abrams Reveals the Passion, Perseverance, and Strategy Behind the Brand's Success
Episode #463: Navigating Early Stage Investments-Kiva Dickinson Discusses Signals for VC Backing
Episode #462: Elevating Fitness Experiences with Jack Thomas-Fit Guide's Innovations and Expansion Strategies
Episode #461: Creating Community Through Fitness-Dane McCarthy Discusses Squad-Based Training
Episode #460: Saving and Growing Tangerine Yoga - Laura Adelson's Entrepreneurial Journey
Episode #459: Tackling the Energy Drink Market-Gary Kleinman of Electrolyte Boost
Episode #458: The Science of Training Young Athletes-Expert Perspectives with Bill Parisi
Episode #457: Centered Ai-The Future of Productivity with Steven Puri
Episode #456: Maximizing Studio Success-Strategic Tips for Boutique Owners with Maura Vella
Episode #455: Creating Personalized Social Media for Franchisees-Chuck Goetschel from Rallio
Create your
podcast in
minutes
It is Free
The Commercial Edge: Unleash the Power of People
The emPOWERed Half Hour
Aligned Money Show
Gorse Culture PODcast : The H.R. Detective Agency!
HCI Leadership Revolution
The Ramsey Show
Planet Money