Alan Loyd, the executive director of Beacon Health and Fitness, discusses his experience in the fitness industry, particularly in medical fitness. Beacon Health and Fitness operates three locations in Indiana and Michigan, serving around 17,000 members.
Loyd explains the growth of medical fitness, especially post-COVID, and how Beacon integrates clinical services like physical therapy and sports medicine into its facilities. A key feature of their approach is the Wellness Surround Care Team, an interdisciplinary committee of fitness and medical professionals — including personal trainers, dietitians, physical therapists and a medical director — that collaborates to provide comprehensive member care.
The team meets regularly to discuss specific member cases, ensuring continuity of care and creating referral opportunities. This model benefits members by streamlining their healthcare journey while also elevating fitness professionals by integrating them into the clinical care process.
For those looking to enter medical fitness, Loyd advises starting with passionate physicians and physical therapists who believe in fitness, rather than focusing solely on institutions. He emphasizes that a physician champion should lead these initiatives, fostering collaboration and ensuring all team members feel valued.
