The health and fitness industry is mourning the loss of Rick Caro, a pioneer and one of the founding leaders of the Health & Fitness Association (HFA). Rick passed away on August 30 after spending the day at the United States Open Tennis Championship, a sport he greatly enjoyed.
Rick’s influence on the health and fitness sector is unmatched. As president of Management Vision, he advised more than 1,700 clubs, suppliers and organizations, helping to establish credibility and professionalism across the industry. He was instrumental in the creation of the IHRSA, now the HFA, where he served as the second president.
He was also an early advocate for strengthening the industry’s financial foundation. Rick introduced Wall Street to the business of health clubs, educating financial markets on industry operations and paving the way for greater access to financing. His work ultimately led to increased investment and long-term growth for club operators nationwide.
Throughout his career, Rick authored The Guide to Successful Power Facility Management, conducted some of the most comprehensive studies on club business performance, and mentored countless owners, operators and executives. His passion for data-driven insights and his dedication to professional standards elevated the industry and set a strong foundation for the leaders who followed.
In recognition of his lifetime of service, Rick was inducted into the inaugural class of the Health & Fitness Hall of Fame in March 2025.
Rick was also a valued voice to Club Solutions Magazine. He shared his expertise with our readers and connected us with influential voices across the industry. His thought leadership and generosity helped us fulfill our mission to provide operators and decision-makers with trusted resources to grow their businesses.
“Rick was not only a visionary leader but also a dear friend and mentor to me,” said Liz Clark, the president and CEO of the HFA, in a statement. “From the moment I became CEO, Rick was there with encouragement, wisdom and steady guidance. I am deeply grateful for the time, care, and perspective he shared with me. His generosity of spirit and unwavering commitment to helping others succeed left an indelible mark on my life and on the lives of so many in our industry. We will miss him dearly, but his legacy will live on in the institutions he built and the leaders he inspired.”
We at Club Solutions extend our deepest sympathies to Rick’s wife Sue, his family and the many friends and colleagues who had the privilege of working alongside him. While the industry has lost one of its greatest champions, Rick’s influence and leadership will continue to guide and inspire generations to come.
