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 #375: Derek Flanzraich, Ness, CEO
Episode #374: The Importance Of Referrals And Reviews In Driving Business, with Andre Cvijovic, Referrerizer-CEO
Episode #373: John, Klein, CEO and Co-founder, Pause Studio
Episode #372: Sue Hitzmann, MELT Method, Founder
Episode #371: Dan Rubenstein, PUPS Pet Club, CEO and Founder
Episode #370: Sumner Hanna, Senior Instructor at SoulCycle, Designer and Co-Founder, Sumner Leigh Athletics
Episode #369: Sean Graham, Backspin Pickleball Club, Founder
Episode #368: Eric Casaburi, SEROTONIN Anti-Aging Centers
Episode #367: Eric Posner, Swerve Fitness, Co-Founder
Episode #366: Alex Dzierbicki, Cultivate Advisors
Episode #365: Brandon Cullen, MADabolic, CEO
Episode #364: April Berg, Aruna Project, Co-Founder & Customer Experience Director
Episode #363: Roger S. Harvey, WEARELVEL5 CORP, Founder & Awareness Coach
Episode #362: Matt Spielman, Inflection Point Partners, Founder
Episode #361: Amira Polack, Struct Club, CEO
Episode #360: Perry Kamel, DNA Vibe, CEO
Episode #359: Virginia Carnesale, Stage, CEO
Episode #358: Bryan Clay, Eat The Frog Fitness, Founder
Episode #357: Daniel Tobon, iVIK Holdings, CEO
Episode #356: Alessandro Biggi & Francesco Brachetti, Avocaderia
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