This week's fitness equipment industry news highlights key developments, including the European College of Sports Science Annual Congress in Glasgow and CoverMe Fitness's launch in Australia. Etenon Fitness becomes Precor's new distributor in Spain and Portugal, while Technogym introduces sustainable fitness equipment. A tragic gym accident in Indonesia raises safety concerns. SALTER reports 15% growth in H1 2024, and Melbourne Airport opens its first health club, Higher State, amid a wellness travel boom. The travel fitness market continues to expand as more travelers seek fitness solutions on the go.
1. European College of Sports Science Annual Congress Kicks Off in Glasgow
This week, around 3,000 sports scientists have gathered in Glasgow, Scotland, for the European College of Sports Science (ECSS) Annual Congress. Hosted at the University of the West of Scotland, the event will run from July 2nd to 5th and is expected to contribute approximately £5 million to the local economy. The congress includes plenary sessions, masterclasses, special interest group meetings, and the SportEx exhibition, showcasing the latest in sports science and fitness equipment. This congress is a key event for academics and professionals to share and debate the latest research and insights in sport and physical activity.
2. CoverMe Fitness Launches in the Australian Market
CoverMe Fitness, a studio management app designed specifically for the fitness industry, has made its debut in Australia. Led by industry veteran Tony Zonato, CoverMe aims to revolutionize studio management by offering a comprehensive platform for recruiting, recognizing, rewarding, and managing group exercise staff. In the UK, CoverMe has already been adopted by over 100 clubs and 4,500 instructors, boasting a 100% retention rate and a 97% class cover record. This innovative app is expected to significantly enhance the efficiency and satisfaction of fitness studios across Australia.
3. Etenon Fitness Becomes New Distributor for Precor in Iberia
Etenon Fitness has been appointed as the new distributor for Precor products in Spain and Portugal. This strategic alliance aims to expand Precor's presence in the Iberian market by leveraging Etenon Fitness's extensive portfolio and expertise. The partnership will enhance Precor's capabilities and services, ensuring a strong local presence and synergy between the brands. Etenon Fitness, the largest distributor of professional fitness equipment in Spain, will handle sales, marketing, installation, and service support, ensuring that Precor's products receive the best possible promotion and support in the region.
4. Tragic Incident in Indonesia Highlights Gym Safety Concerns
A tragic accident occurred in a gym in Lombok, Indonesia, where a 22-year-old woman fell from a third-floor window while using a treadmill. The incident has raised significant concerns about gym safety, particularly regarding the placement of equipment near windows. Local authorities have intervened, and the gym's operating license is under review. This unfortunate event underscores the importance of proper safety measures and space design in fitness facilities to prevent such accidents and ensure the well-being of gym users.
5. Spanish Fitness Equipment Brand SALTER Reports 15% Growth in H1 2024
SALTER, a renowned Spanish fitness equipment brand, reported a 15% growth in the first half of 2024. General Manager Marta Pedro attributed this success to the overall positive state of the fitness industry. SALTER has been expanding its product offerings and recently provided equipment for multiple municipal sports centers in Madrid. The company continues to innovate with new product lines, including the FENX cardiovascular training and Essence Connect strength training series. With a strong focus on customer needs and market trends, SALTER aims to set new benchmarks in the Iberian fitness market.
6. Technogym Uses Recycled Plastics for New Fitness Equipment
Italian fitness equipment giant Technogym has announced the use of recycled plastics in its new Excite Line products. This sustainable approach includes up to 70% recycled materials in the plastic components, significantly reducing CO2 emissions. The new Excite Run also features reduced energy consumption. Technogym's collaboration with Sirmax Group, a leading thermoplastic producer, ensures that environmental impact is considered from the design stage. This innovation highlights Technogym's commitment to sustainability and positions it as a leader in environmentally-friendly fitness equipment.
7. Melbourne Airport Adds Full-Service Gym Amid Wellness Travel Boom
Melbourne Airport has launched its first health club and wellness center, Higher State, catering to travelers, hotel guests, airport staff, and local residents. The facility offers a full gym setup with functional training, personal training, group exercise classes, reformer Pilates, yoga, and top-notch recovery amenities. Managed by Belgravia Leisure, Higher State aims to enhance the travel experience by addressing common issues such as fatigue and jet lag. This addition is part of a growing trend in wellness-related travel, with similar facilities emerging in airports around the world.
By Roger Yao (cs01@fitqs.com) from Shanghai, China
Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the fitness equipment industry in next week's report.
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