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HALO Talks: Elevating Wellness

The HALO Talks podcast is hosted by Pete Moore, the Managing Partner & Founder of Integrity Square, the leading boutique investment bank in the HALO sector (Health, Active, Lifestyle, Outdoors.) HALO Talks are a collection of the fitness industry’s most recognized and respected founders and key executives seeking positive change through the products and services they deliver.

The podcast focus is the vision and mission behind the business, how the guests found their purpose, lessons learned along the way, and expectations for the future.

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  2. Episode #482: Creating an Immersive Running Experience | With Ethan Blauner of Sid's Gym

Episode #482: Creating an Immersive Running Experience | With Ethan Blauner of Sid's Gym

Mar 8, 2024

Ethan Blauner's story begins in the tumultuous period of the pandemic when the doors of the (unfortunately now defunct) Switch Playground--like many big box and boutique gyms across the globe--shuttered and left trainers wandering in an uncertain fitness landscape. As routines crumbled, Ethan faced the challenge that rattled the entire industry . . . the abrupt transition from physical spaces to a virtual existence where the workout mat was to become the new gym floor.

It was during this time of redefinition that serendipity struck. A client proposed the idea of virtual fitness classes. Skeptical but intrepid, Ethan ventured into the relatively unknown domain of digital fitness instruction. With a yoga mat as the sole requisite, he pioneered "core day," a bodyweight-centric regimen designed for the digital crowd.

The inaugural week was a testament to the potential of this newfound format. Ethan managed to draw an impressive attendance, with 15 to 20 virtual participants, ready to exercise from the solitude of their homes. The success of that first class marked the beginning of a new era for Ethan, a reinvention borne out of necessity that showcased his adaptability and his unwavering commitment to fostering fitness, even in times of global uncertainty.

Blauner delves into the founding of his new concept, Sid's Gym, and the innovative indoor running simulators that set it apart. When it comes to new innovations in treadmill technology, he states, "If you're on a normal treadmill, you're staring at a mirror in front of you and nothing's moving, it's kind of a weird thing for your brain because you're moving your body, but your surroundings stay the same. On our treadmill, you feel like you're moving through space, even though you're not. Our brains are not equipped to actually realize that we're running on a treadmill. And basically 5 minutes into the run, you're fully immersed. You forget that you're on the treadmill."

Key themes discussed

  • Veteran trainer adapts to teaching online classes.
  • Virtual experiences blend with in-person training.
  • Maximizing space, smaller classes facilitate community building.
  • Program aims to provide consistency and results.
  • Understanding and catering to unique fitness goals.
  • Encourage gyms to tap into event planners.

A few key takeaways:

1. Blauner found success and community building by adapting to the pandemic, transitioning to online fitness classes, and creating a sense of togetherness during a challenging time.

2. The evolution of boutique fitness in New York City post-pandemic involves incorporating a virtual experience with a focus on personalized, intimate classes, and community building, while recognizing the importance of in-person training for the unique atmosphere it provides.

3. The concept of Sid's Gym incorporates indoor running simulators with immersive technology, providing a unique training experience that simulates outdoor terrain and aims to revolutionize traditional treadmill workouts.

4. Ethan emphasizes the importance of understanding individual goals and creating a tailored experience for each member, prioritizing personalized coaching, community building, and tracking progress to deliver a more engaging and effective fitness experience.

5. The episode highlights the potential for a new era in boutique fitness, emphasizing the use of unique technology and community-centered approaches to provide a more comprehensive and fulfilling fitness experience.

Click here to download transcript. 

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