Couldn’t make it to Vegas or just want to hear what industry leaders took away from The HFA Show 2025? Here are the biggest takeaways.
In a dynamic panel discussion, industry leaders gathered to share their key takeaways from the educational sessions of The HFA Show 2025, offering rich insight into where the fitness industry is headed — and what club operators can do to stay ahead.
One major theme echoed throughout the conversation: the gym is no longer just a place to work out. As David Van Daff emphasized in his session, the gym has become a “third space” — a community hub that lives between home and work. It’s a place for connection, recovery and learning healthy habits. This sentiment resonated deeply, especially in the post-pandemic era, where the social aspect of fitness has become just as important as physical movement.
Hospitality was another standout topic, particularly in a session hosted by Fit Guide, a company that evaluates fitness studios around the world. The session highlighted the difference between customer service and hospitality: while the former is reactive, hospitality is proactive and anticipatory. The panel discussed the importance of being intentional with staff training — from how instructors greet members to the way they follow up post-class. Small touchpoints like using names, offering clear expectations and checking in after sessions can significantly impact member experience.
Culture and internal engagement also took center stage. One panelist reflected on a session that underscored the idea that when you obsess over your people, they’ll care more deeply about the business. With employee engagement slipping nationally, leaders were encouraged to double down on listening, feedback, and creating environments where teams feel inspired and supported. Tools like engagement surveys, whether formal platforms or simple one-on-one check-ins, can offer invaluable insight into team morale and connection.
Finally, an international perspective brought attention to the global effort in fitness advocacy. From the U.S. to Brazil, leaders are uniting to give the fitness industry a stronger voice in public health conversations. Collaboration across borders, languages and cultures is opening new doors for impact.
From community to culture to customer experience, the panel made one thing clear: the future of fitness is personal, intentional and deeply human.
