March 12-14, 2025 | Las Vegas, Nevada
A New Era of Global Wellness
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Conference Track
Research & Advocacy
The research and advocacy track connects fitness industry leaders with cutting-edge health and fitness industry information and insights so they can stay ahead of the curve. Plug in to this track to learn about:
- The forces that shape the health and fitness industry on a local, national, and global level
- The latest insights on threats the industry is facing
- HFA's powerful advocacy work and how you can get involved
- The latest industry data and trends that are driving the future of the health and fitness industry
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Studio
- The exciting expansion that’s taking place in this space
- Ways that top brands have accelerated their growth
- Employer branding that attracts top talent and creates appealing career trajectories
- Creating community hubs where members feel a sense of belonging
Studio Sessions
- MAR 12
- MAR 13
- MAR 14
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9:15 am - 10:15 am
The State of the Boutique Fitness Industry
With Boutique Fitness on track to be an 80+ Billion Dollar industry by 2030, it's time we dove deep into what's driving our growth and what obstacles stand to hinder that success. Join Lise Kuecker, Founder of Studio Grow, as she breaks down industry insights from the modalities that are shining, the metrics that are struggling, the team and staffing needs we must address and marketing strategies that are working today. We'll share data from over 4300 studios in 43 countries alongside our analysis of major studies and reports.
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Lise Kuecker
Founder & CEO, Studio Grow
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1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Operational Excellence: The Rise of Burn Boot Camp
Burn Boot Camp has streamlined key operational efficiencies to fuel its rapid growth. By refining its franchise model, the brand ensures consistency across locations while empowering franchisees with essential tools for success. Rigorous staff training aligns trainers with the brand’s ethos, and technology optimizes scheduling, performance tracking, and management. Scalable marketing campaigns and a strong community-driven culture maintain a unified brand identity, engaging members through local promotions and word-of-mouth. Data-driven decisions optimize class schedules, membership trends, and staffing, enabling franchisees to stay ahead of market demands. These efficiencies have allowed Burn Boot Camp to expand quickly while maintaining high service standards and a loyal, engaged community.
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Amber Burke
COO, Burn Boot Camp
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Matt Morris
VP Fitness, Burn Boot Camp
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Melanie Skinner
Chair of Franchise Advisory Council, Burn Boot Camp
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2:45 PM - 3:45 PM
Embracing a Niche: MADabolic’s Disruptive Approach to Understanding Core Customers
By focusing on a specific market segment and deliberately choosing not to appeal to everyone, MADabolic has created a highly effective, targeted brand that resonates deeply with its ideal clientele. Rather than spreading resources thin, MADabolic’s niche approach has led to greater growth, stronger community engagement, and higher member loyalty. Attendees will learn how embracing a niche strategy allows fitness businesses to build expertise, streamline their offerings, and drive measurable results. This session will challenge conventional thinking around the idea that broader is always better and demonstrate how refining your focus can lead to big rewards in an ever-competitive fitness landscape.
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Brandon Cullen
Chief Concept Officer, MADabolic
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4:00 PM - 4:45 PM
Employer Branding: Elevating Your Team’s Role as Health Professionals
At Discover Strength, team members aren’t just personal trainers—they’re recognized as Exercise Physiologists, professionals on par with allied health care providers like doctors, dentists, and nurses. This session will explore how to build a strong employer brand that positions your team as essential health experts. Luke will share how competitive pay, shared client models, clear career progression, and continuous professional development can help attract top talent, boost retention, and elevate the reputation of your entire team. Learn how to create an empowering environment that not only advances the careers of your employees but also raises the bar for the fitness industry as a whole.
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Luke Carlson
CEO, Discover Strength
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1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Creating the Third Space: Building Community in Your Studio
Understand the concept of the "third space" and how studios can become vital community hubs that foster connection, engagement, and personal growth. Discover new and creative wellness programs that go beyond physical fitness to address mental, emotional, and social well-being. See how these programs can enhance the member experience and build a cohesive community.
A Panel Discussion
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Lauren McAlister
Co-founder, McAlister Training
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Michael McAlister
Co-founder, McAlister Training
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Anna Rounaja
Owner, Hukka Oy
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2:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Strategic Financial Planning: Preparing Your Studio for a Profitable Exit
This session provides critical insights on preparing your business for a successful exit, even if selling is not on the immediate horizon. The key to maximizing the value of your business lies in running operations smoothly—making your business attractive to potential buyers before you ever decide to sell. Topics will include strategies for showing consistent profit on tax returns, dealing with landlords, and understanding how lease terms can impact a sale. It will also share the importance of creating a business that operates without your direct involvement, a crucial factor for potential buyers looking for an easy transition. Learn how to align your financial and operational practices now to ensure you’re ready for a profitable exit when the time comes.
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Mitch McGinley
President, Boutique Fitness Broker
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11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Workshop Time
This interactive workshop session offers a unique opportunity to apply the insights and strategies from the Studio Track to your own business. Join our expert speakers for group consultations, where you can discuss specific challenges, refine your action plan, and receive personalized guidance to take your studio to the next level. Don’t miss the chance to turn your learnings into actionable steps with the support of industry leaders.
Select Speakers From Studio Track
conference tracks
unlock performance
Get the most out of the conference by organizing your experience around any one of eight educational tracks. Each track features unique, informative sessions led by industry experts, designed to help your business thrive!
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Staff management
Build & Lead Your Team
Discover strategies for effective recruitment, team development, inclusive practices, and performance management to foster a motivated and high-performing team.
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Sales & Marketing
Connect with Consumers
Learn to attract and retain clients, create compelling campaigns, and drive revenue with innovative strategies and proven techniques from club and studio owners, operators, and fitness professionals from around the world.
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Research & Advocacy
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Analyze HFA’s industry-leading research on global wellness, price elasticity, and consumer trends. Learn more about HFA's powerful advocacy work on the local, national, and global stages, and how you can get involved.
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Technology & Operations
Optimize Your Operations
Dive into tools and systems that enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and integrate technology to elevate your business performance.
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Programming
Innovate Your Offerings
Create impactful fitness programs that engage and inspire. Learn to design, implement, and refine programs that meet diverse client needs and keep your offerings fresh and effective.
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Retention & Experience
Maximize Client Loyalty & Satisfaction
Discover techniques to enhance the client experience, increase retention rates, and build lasting relationships through customer delight.
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Leadership & Career Growth
Expand Your Horizons
Unlock your potential with leadership insights and career development strategies. Gain skills to lead effectively, navigate career transitions, and drive personal and professional growth.
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Studio
Elevate Your Studio
Discover the latest trends shaping the boutique fitness industry, from the expansion of large franchised brands to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by independent, single-location studios.