Remembering Will Phillips

It’s with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Will Phillips, the founder of REX Roundtables. Will passed peacefully last week, surrounded by his family, after complications from surgery.

There are very few people in the global fitness industry who have had the widespread and lasting impact that Will had over his 30-plus years of service. His influence touched thousands of lives and transformed countless businesses.

“In simple terms, if there was no Will Phillips, there would be no REX Roundtables,” said Eddie Tock, the CEO of REX. “What Will initiated back in 1989 has grown to over 350 members and 400 REX Roundtable meetings across the U.S., Australia and Europe per year. That’s an extraordinary legacy.”

Will officially retired in May 2020, having led over 2,800 working sessions and corporate retreats with top fitness industry leaders. He was a regular presenter on the global stage and authored more than 400 management briefings for health club executives.

When he stepped away, industry icon Joe Cirulli said, “I’ve always thought of Will as having my own personal Obi-Wan Kenobi.” Blair McHaney from MXMetrics shared, “Because of Will, my life is better, my family’s life is better and all of our employees’ lives are better.” Brent Darden, REX Chair and former Roundtable member, added, “Will had an indelible and long-lasting influence on the fitness industry.”

Will’s legacy lives on through the structure, collaboration and impact of every REX meeting around the world.

A memorial service will be held for Will on June 14 — place and details to be determined.