1. Core Health and Fitness Takes Legal Action Against Unlawful Conspiracy
Core Health and Fitness, a global manufacturer and distributor of fitness equipment, has filed a lawsuit in the U.S. Federal District Court for the Central District of California. The company alleges a conspiracy involving inflated logistics and installation costs for its fitness equipment. Core Health and Fitness CEO Bryan O'Rourke emphasized the company’s commitment to protecting its 1,700 professionals and its customers from misconduct that harms the fitness industry’s integrity.
2. F45 Collaborates with REP Fitness to Launch New Functional Training Frame
F45 Training has partnered with REP Fitness to introduce an innovative functional training frame to its global franchise network over the next six months. The equipment, featuring a power rack, barbell, Athena™ cable system, and landmine attachments, enhances F45's high-intensity training sessions by incorporating strength-building exercises like squats and deadlifts. REP Fitness Co-CEO Ryan McGrotty expressed enthusiasm for redefining group fitness with this collaboration, which includes over 400 new exercise variations tailored for the equipment.
3. Novo Nordisk Launches GLP-1 Weight Loss Drug in China
Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide injection, branded as Wegovy® (诺和盈®), officially entered the Chinese market on November 17, 2024. This GLP-1 receptor agonist supports long-term weight management and has shown an average weight reduction of 17% in clinical trials. Aimed at obese and overweight adults with associated health conditions, the drug is available via authorized hospitals and pharmacies. Despite its prescription-only status, the drug has generated significant online discussions and interest, underscoring its potential to shape China’s growing weight-loss industry.
4. University Student Dies From Traumatic Head Injury in Gym Accident
A tragic gym accident claimed the life of 21-year-old medical student Mohammed Farraj at the University of East Anglia's Sportspark in Norwich on October 16. Emergency services responded, but Farraj was pronounced dead on-site due to a head injury caused by unspecified gym equipment. The incident has prompted an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Concerns about the lack of equipment usage guidance in gyms have also surfaced, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety protocols.
5. Decathlon Plans €100 Million Expansion in Germany
French sports retail giant Decathlon has announced a €100 million investment to increase its German store count from 86 to over 150 by 2027. The strategy includes modernizing existing stores, opening new locations in urban centers like Hamburg, and introducing smaller stores focused on specific sports. Despite facing stiff competition from Intersport and Sport 2000, Decathlon aims to strengthen its market position by enhancing accessibility and leveraging underutilized retail spaces in city centers.
6. Strength Training App Ladder Raises $105 Million
Ladder, a U.S.-based strength training app, secured $105 million in new funding, including $15 million in Series B and $90 million in growth investment. Backed by General Catalyst and other investors, Ladder plans to expand into corporate health management, launch an Android version of its app, and develop branded apparel. With a community-focused platform offering personalized training programs and AI-driven features, Ladder continues to set new benchmarks in the digital fitness space.
7. FightCamp Unveils Kick-Tracking Technology Amid Tyson Comeback Fight
FightCamp, the interactive boxing and kickboxing platform, introduced its latest innovation: kick-tracking technology, during Mike Tyson’s exhibition match against Jake Paul on November 16. The new feature measures kick speed, quality, and intensity, complementing FightCamp's existing punch-tracking capabilities. To celebrate Black Friday, FightCamp is offering discounts on its training packages, further boosting its reputation as a leader in connected home fitness solutions.
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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