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Los Angeles TheFitExpo 2025: The Ultimate Fitness Party Returns to the West Coast

The largest fitness gathering is back, transforming Los Angeles into a vibrant hub of strength, wellness, and community spirit on January 25th and 26th, 2025. Featuring hundreds of exhibitors and multiple competition zones, TheFitExpo brings together fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and industry pioneers under one roof. This high-energy celebration features everything from bodybuilding showcases to cooking demonstrations, creating an electric atmosphere where passion for fitness meets practical knowledge. 

The 2025 edition promises to be bigger and better, offering attendees a chance to sample cutting-edge products, participate in hands-on workshops, and connect with renowned athletes and fitness personalities. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a fitness fanatic, or someone just beginning their wellness journey, the Expo delivers an unforgettable experience filled with muscle, motivation, and countless opportunities to discover new aspects of fitness that spark your interest. 

More Than Just an Expo — It’s a Fitness Revolution 

TheFitExpo has been the cornerstone event where fitness dreams have been boundless for over two decades. This powerhouse gathering features dedicated competition areas, transforming the venue into an arena of athletic excellence. Attendees can witness everything from strength competitions to graceful fitness routines while participating in group training sessions led by elite coaches. The Expo’s diverse lineup ensures something for everyone — from those seeking to build muscle to individuals wanting to network within the health and wellness community. 

What sets this event apart is its blend of education and entertainment. Celebrity chef cooking demonstrations help attendees elevate their meal prep game. At the same time, hands-on workshops with top-tier trainers provide practical skills you can immediately apply to your clients’ or your own workout routine. The Expo floor buzzes with energy as participants tackle challenges for prizes, sample new products, and connect with new people and brands offering show-exclusive discounts and products. 

Unlock Your Ultimate FitExpo Experience

Walking through the doors opens up a world of possibilities for meaningful connections and professional growth. Each conversation, whether at a workshop, during a competition break, or between sampling sessions, could spark your next breakthrough or business venture. The vibrant atmosphere encourages organic networking, where fitness enthusiasts, industry veterans, and newcomers share their passion and expertise. These face-to-face interactions often lead to lasting partnerships, mentorship opportunities, and the kind of support system that helps propel careers forward. 

Don’t miss the “Try & Buy” equipment testing area in the Group Training Zone, offering hands-on experience with the latest equipment. This area of the event is dedicated to fitness and health coaches. The GTZ is “Where Fun Meets Serious Fitness”.  With programming from show opening to show closing, attendees are encourage to come dressed to workout and plan on winning cash & prizes.  

For those interested in the competitive side of fitness, the Angels Competition Bikini Fashion Show, Armored Combat, or various competitions like the Hurdle Jump Competitions will be of interest. You can even train like a movie star after learning Michael B. Jordan’s personal trainer from the CREED films, Corey Calliet who brings attendees the “Rocky Challenge”. And don’t forget CEC opportunities for certified coaches and trainers. From Zumba to women’s health lenses, the education portion is not to be missed. 

Be sure to stop by booth #540 to meet the Coach360 team! We’re thrilled to welcome familiar faces and new friends to our space. Snap photos with Coach360 influencers and discover how our community can support your health and wellness career. Our team can’t wait to share stories, offer guidance, and connect with fellow wellness enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts

The magic of TheFitExpo lies in its ability to bring people from every corner of the fitness world together. Those moments between the scheduled events — the spontaneous conversations, the shared excitement over a competition, or the collective energy during a group workout — create connections that last far beyond the Expo weekend. It’s where seasoned pros and newcomers find inspiration in unexpected places, whether through a new training technique or an encounter with their fitness idol. 

These few days in Los Angeles offer more than just a fitness showcase; they represent a chance to be part of something bigger and better. TheFitExpo creates an environment where everyone can push their boundaries and discover new possibilities in their fitness career or journey by bringing together the best in competition, education, and innovation. Whether seeking knowledge, motivation, new connections, or simply wanting to be part of the West Coast’s largest fitness event, TheFitExpo promises to deliver an experience that will fuel your passion for wellness long after the event ends. 

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

From Calling to Creation: Justin Roethlingshoefer’s Path to Health Integration

At eight years old, Justin Roethlingshoefer received a divine calling to tackle global health issues. While most children dream of becoming the next President or a basketball player, Justin’s path was clear – he would become the redemption story for health. This calling from childhood planted the seed for what would become a groundbreaking approach to integrated wellness. 

His journey, shaped by personal struggles, led him through advanced degrees, working with professional athletes, and ultimately to creating OWN IT. This comprehensive health solution merges cutting-edge technology with personalized care, addressing wellness at its most fundamental level: the cellular structure of human health. 

Anything but Ordinary 

Justin’s route to founding OWN IT wasn’t linear. His early challenges with weight, body image, and learning differences evolved into a deep fascination with human performance and an inability to accept answers at face value. This curiosity drove him to pursue extensive education in exercise science, physiology, and massage therapy. His time in the NHL provided crucial insights into athlete care, but ultimately, it was his personal health crisis that truly illuminated the gaps in traditional healthcare approaches. 

“Why” became a staple in his vocabulary, pushing boundaries, asking questions, and needing to know more and more. Though he was the epitome of health on the outside, he was still struggling internally and knew something was off with his health. His own research led him to find cellular deficiencies, low VO2 max, and heart rate variability. When doctors gave him a life expectancy of 35 due to pre-cancerous polyps and an ulcer, Justin applied the comprehensive approach he formulated during his time with the NHL and applied it to his own healing. This unlocked the interconnected nature of health issues and led to the foundation of OWN IT’s methodology. 

This is what prompted Justin to understand this is a human issue. In 2020, he heard God again while kayaking. Justin shared, “This was meant to holistically integrate everything from a health standpoint together. Your strength coach, your nutritionist, your functional medicine doctor, your concierge team, your mindset coaches. All in one place, so we can now create hyper-personalized solutions for people to create real change in their lives right down to a cellular level.” And from that, OWN IT was born. 

OWN IT and the Coaching Experience

What happens when we truly own our health? OWN IT is the answer—Justin’s way of bringing a holistic, data-driven, science-backed solution to health care. Justin shared, “We become this true holistically integrated space where there’s nothing unturned. We do all of your testing, all of your technology, and all of your biometric variables. We are heavily focused on relationships and accountability. We cover every aspect of what you’d be looking for.” And he isn’t exaggerating. OWN IT offers: 

OWN IT represents a new paradigm in client care for health and wellness professionals. Justin’s approach demonstrates the value of expanding beyond traditional fitness metrics to include comprehensive markers. This offers coaches and trainers insights into developing more holistic practices that consider nutrition, sleep, mindset, accountability, and cellular health. 

The success of this integrated approach highlights the growing demand for wellness professionals who can address multiple aspects of health. By understanding how various health components interconnect, trainers can enhance their offerings and create more impactful client relationships. 

Human wellness has many components, including mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional, and it is impossible to disassociate any piece when it comes to overall health. Justin’s calling to bring the whole solution to one space rather than trying to piece it together has seen significant success. 

Final Thoughts

Success in health transformation lies in understanding the intricate dance between various wellness components. Like a band where each instrument’s role is crucial in the overall sound we hear, proper health emerges when all the elements work in harmony — from cellular function to sleep patterns to emotional well-being. 

This orchestrated approach to wellness reminds us that the most powerful solutions sometimes come from personal struggles transformed into professional purposes. It demonstrates how adversity can spark innovation, especially when paired with an unwavering dedication to improving human health. 

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

Exploring the Versatility of TRX Suspension Training

TRX has changed the fitness world with its innovative approach to suspension training. Invented in the late 90’s, TRX has grown from a makeshift solution to a globally recognized fitness brand. This versatile system allows the user to utilize body weight for effective resistance training workouts. Suitable for any fitness level, TRX offers full-body workouts to enhance strength, stability, and flexibility while reducing the strain caused by many other forms of exercise. 

Beyond its core product, TRX has expanded its influence through comprehensive continuing education programs. It offers a wide variety of courses to health and fitness professionals to increase their knowledge and expand their skill sets, including the recent TRX Rehab Essentials course for healthcare professionals. TRX continues to adapt to a shifting landscape, providing accessible and effective training solutions for a diverse industry. 

About TRX & Suspension Training

Like many extraordinary inventions, TRX, short for Total Resistance eXercise, was created out of a need. Established by Randy Hetrick, a former U.S. Navy SEAL, in the late ’90s, the first iteration of TRX was developed with a jiu-jitsu belt and parachute webbing as a hack for Hetrick to maintain his fitness. He refined the design when he returned home and officially established the company in 2004.

Suspension training involves using a system made of straps and handles anchored to a fixed point. This allows the user to utilize their body weight to engage in resistance exercise. The TRX Suspension Trainer is their original product, which consists of adjustable straps with handles and cradles that can accommodate feet. 

Suspension training is suitable for:

Suspension training is beneficial for people of all fitness levels and can be accommodated to fit the needs of each individual. TRX is set apart for its ability to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, adaptability just by changing angle or position, low-impact workouts that lower stress on joints and ligaments, and its versatility to take it on the go, set it up almost anywhere, and the limited space it requires. 

TRX has become a well-recognized fitness brand for a reason. Its effectiveness, versatility, low maintenance, and tailored approach to fitness make it accessible to a wide variety of audiences who have come to know and love the brand.

Continuing Education with TRX

TRX offers many continuing education opportunities, both in-person and online options. They include courses such as:

One of their recent and exciting launches has been their TRX Rehab Essentials course. This course is designed to be a comprehensive program for healthcare professionals and rehab specialists looking to incorporate TRX training into their offerings. It covers TRX Principles, techniques, and exercises for rehabilitating musculoskeletal conditions.

The curriculum encompasses the history and benefits of TRX, safety considerations, exercise selection and progression, and integration into rehab protocols. Delivered as a self-paced online course, it features multimedia modules, instructional videos, and interactive quizzes to improve learning and retention. 

This is the perfect continuing education opportunity for physical therapists, occupational therapists, certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, trainers, and other health and fitness professionals. It is essential to remember to stay within your profession’s scope of practice. 

This course empowers professionals to expand their approach to injury recovery and functional rehabilitation using the TRX suspension training protocol. TRX Rehab Essentials is a powerful tool in any professional arsenal to optimize rehab outcomes and improve the effectiveness of your existing protocols. It offers a unique resource to expand skills, help clients heal, and feel good about the difference you make in each client’s rehabilitation journey.

How to Utilize Continuing Education in Business

Once you obtain the skills, it’s time to put them to work. If you recently finished a continuing education program and are ready to start a new group, let Marketplace by Coach360 set you up for success. Launching in October of 2024, Marketplace by Coach360 is an ecosystem hub bringing together coaches, studios, and consumers in one space. 

Marketplace by Coach360 is a comprehensive platform connecting health and wellness professionals with consumers. This ecosystem streamlines success for all parties involved: studios can find talented staff, coaches, and trainers can build their client base, and consumers can easily discover training options tailored to their interests. By fostering these connections, Marketplace creates an accessible environment where everyone in the health and wellness community can thrive together.

Final Thoughts

TRX is a powerful tool of innovation born from necessity. Its simple yet versatile design, consisting of adjustable straps and handles, has profoundly impacted the fitness world. TRX offers a remarkably effective full-body workout that adapts to all fitness levels by influencing the force of body weight for resistance training. The system’s genius lies in its simplicity, allowing users to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously while improving strength, stability, and flexibility. 

TRX’s commitment to education, exemplified by courses like the TRX Rehab Essentials, allows fitness professionals to expand their skills and improve client outcomes. Platforms like Marketplace by Coach360 present exciting opportunities for professionals to utilize their TRX expertise, connect with clients, and build thriving businesses. TRX’s journey from a military fitness hack to a global fitness phenomenon underscores the enduring appeal of smart, adaptable exercise solutions.

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

Market Your Fitness Business: Strategic Planning Guide for Personal Trainers

The fitness industry demands more than excellent coaching skills; it necessitates strategic thinking and careful planning to build a sustainable business. As digital platforms grow and client expectations shift, fitness professionals must adapt their marketing approaches to stay competitive and attract ideal clients. Understanding how to set clear goals and map client journeys has become essential for coaches looking to grow their practice.

Today’s health and wellness professionals face unique challenges in marketing their services effectively. From standing out in a crowded digital space to creating meaningful connections online with potential clients, success requires a blend of strategic planning and authentic engagement. This guide breaks down key elements of marketing success and provides actionable steps for fitness professionals ready to level up their business game.

SMART Goals & the Client Journey 

Setting goals without a clear framework often leads to scattered efforts and disappointing results. The SMART method (specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, timely) provides coaches with a structured approach to goal-setting that transforms vague aspirations into actionable plans. For example, rather than aiming to “get more clients,” a SMART goal might be to “acquire ten new long-term clients through Instagram marketing within the next three months.”

Client journey mapping takes this planning one step further by helping coaches understand each stage of their client’s experience. From initial awareness through consideration, decision-making, and ultimately becoming a loyal client, mapping these touchpoints reveals opportunities to improve engagement and retention. This allows trainers to create targeted content and experiences that resonate with potential clients at each journey stage.

SMART goals are only one way to identify goals and assess current marketing efforts. To learn other tactics and ways, visit TrueCoach, where you can find the full story that inspired this piece.

Marketing for Trainers and Coaches

Strategic marketing planning directly impacts fitness professionals’ ability to grow and sustain their businesses. Clients expect increasingly personalized experiences and seamless interactions across multiple platforms. Coaches must leverage traditional and digital marketing tools while maintaining authentic connections with their audience.

By implementing SMART goals and understanding the client experience, trainers can create more effective marketing strategies that directly connect to their target audience and address their needs. This might mean developing specific content for different client phases, using automation tools to communicate consistently, or creating engaging social media campaigns that showcase their expertise and personality.

The ability to track and measure marketing efforts also provides coaches with valuable insights into what resonates with their audience. Trainers can refine their approach and allocate resources more effectively by monitoring metrics like engagement rates, acquisition costs, and retention numbers. This data-driven strategy helps create sustainable growth while maintaining the personal touch that puts the “personal” in personal training.

Final Thoughts 

Success in fitness marketing isn’t just about following trends; it’s about understanding your unique value and communicating it effectively to those who need your services the most. When coaches take time to set clear goals and understand their clients’ journey, they create a foundation for authentic growth that extends beyond simple metrics.

Marketing in the health and wellness industry is ultimately about building relationships and trust. By approaching it with intention and strategy, coaches can create more meaningful connections that transform their business and the lives of their clients. Blending strategic thinking with genuine care for client success is an undeniable recipe for success.

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

The Future of Hair Loss Solutions: A Holistic Journey to Confidence

Wellness encompasses every aspect of our being—mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health all intertwine to create our daily experience. When one element feels off-balance, it can impact our entire sense of self. Hair loss affects millions and can quietly erode self-confidence and self-image, yet many suffer in silence or settle for generic solutions that fall short of their needs.

Enter Happy Head, created by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Ben and Dr. Sean Behnam. These brothers combined their dermatology and hair transplant surgery expertise to develop personalized hair growth solutions that address each individual’s unique needs. Drawing from years of clinical experience and thousands of successful cases, they recognized that no two people’s hair loss journeys are identical. Their approach brings science-backed hope to those experiencing hair loss, offering customized solutions to their clients. 

The Science of Happy Head

Dr. Ben and Dr. Sean aren’t just dermatologists; they’re specialists who have dedicated their careers to understanding and treating hair loss. Dr. Ben is a leading dermatologist, and Dr. Sean is a top-rated hair transplant surgeon. Both have extensive research published in leading medical journals, and they bring their expertise and specialized training in scalp and hair health to everything they do. Dermatologists are the only physicians specializing in treating the scalp, hair loss, and hair growth. Their board certification reflects their extensive training, which includes 1,400 hours of specialized education in these areas. This expertise sets them apart from other practitioners who treat hair-related conditions.

Their approach combines proactive and reactive solutions, recognizing that hair loss isn’t an inevitability but a condition that can be treated with the right expertise and consistency. This medical foundation is what sets Happy Head apart. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all treatments, they create customized solutions based on comprehensive factors, including age, gender, medical history, and specific hair growth goals. Each treatment plan is reviewed and prescribed by a board-certified dermatologist, ensuring the highest level of specialized care. 

Happy Head offers solutions, including oral medications, topical treatments, or a powerful combination bundle. They’ve also developed a hair care line featuring specialized shampoo, conditioner, supplements, and a derma roller to support optimal hair growth and scalp health. Each treatment plan is reviewed and prescribed by a board-certified dermatologist, delivering the highest level of specialized care on the market.   

Empowering Health and Wellness Professionals

For health and wellness professionals, Happy Head presents an opportunity to expand their impact on clients’ overall well-being. Hair loss affects nearly 85% of men and 50% of women, making it a common concern that often goes unaddressed in traditional fitness and wellness settings. Coaches and trainers can help clients access solutions that complement their broader wellness journey by understanding and recommending Happy Head’s physician-directed approach. 

The Happy Head process mirrors other successful health transformations; it requires consistency and patience, with noticeable results typically appearing within three to six months of dedicated use. Happy Head’s subscription model delivers customized prescriptions monthly, with ongoing access to board-certified dermatologists who can adjust treatments as needed. This concierge-style service ensures clients receive continuous support and expert guidance at the highest level throughout their hair restoration journey. 

For coaches genuinely passionate about the topic, Happy Head may also provide a financial opportunity that pays forward by helping clients feel their best and introducing a new revenue stream and service to their offerings. 

Final Thoughts

Transforming lives isn’t just about changing appearances; it’s about restoring confidence and helping people reconnect with their authentic selves. When someone no longer feels the need to hide under a hat or worry about their hair loss progressing, they gain more than just a fuller head of hair — they reclaim their sense of self. 

By combining medical expertise with personalized care, Happy Head exemplifies how specialized knowledge and genuine commitment to individual needs can create lasting positive changes. This approach to hair restoration reflects a more profound truth about wellness: when we address health concerns with care, precision, and professional guidance, we create the foundation for sustainable transformation inside and out.

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

2024 A Year in Review: Hottest Wellness Happenings

What an extraordinary year of transformation in the health and wellness industry! As we look back on 2024, four game-changing trends have reshaped how we think about and deliver wellness services. From business launches to innovative approaches to client care, this year has set the stage for an even more exciting future in 2025. 

At the forefront of this evolution was the launch of the Coach360 newsletter and its groundbreaking Marketplace by Coach360 platform, which changed how professionals connect, grow, and find talent and careers within the wellness industry. But that’s just the beginning of what made 2024 truly remarkable. We’ve witnessed the emergence of four influential trends that are redefining our industry: the rise of multifaceted training approaches, the clever ways technology integrates into client care, an increased focus on continuing education, and a growing emphasis on longevity-focused wellness. 

Let’s dive into how these trends reshaped the industry and why they’re here to stay. 

Holistic Coaching Approaches

The days of focusing only on workouts and training are over. We’re seeing a fundamental change in how we care for ourselves and others. While exercise is still paramount, several other factors, including mental health, sleep, nutrition, and recovery, can be just as important. Coaches and trainers continue to expand their knowledge and offerings to ensure their clients are at their healthiest by approaching health from a multi-point stance. 

Forward-thinking coaches and trainers adapt to this holistic perspective by expanding their expertise beyond exercise programming. They’re becoming well-versed in sleep science, nutrition fundamentals, stress management techniques, and recovery and mobility modalities. This integrated approach recognizes that optimal health isn’t achieved through isolated interventions but through carefully orchestrating multiple wellness components working harmoniously to support overall health and longevity. 

Data-Driven Tracking & AI

As technology progresses and becomes more readily available, tracking virtually every health indicator has become possible, enabling more accurate and personal health outcomes. Whether looking at DNA and blood work, using bod pods, wearables tracking heart rate, V02 max, sleep, or recovery, or tracking mobility, there is nary a piece of information you can’t get stats on. This advancement drives coaches and trainers to work with their clients on an even more individual level, create personalized plans, and see improved outcomes from many viewpoints. 

Artificial Intelligence isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, and when utilized correctly, it can significantly impact how businesses operate. Through advanced algorithms and machine learning, AI enables trainers and coaches to develop personalized workout plans tailored to individual client needs and goals. The technology excels at analyzing vast amounts of client data, from performance metrics to engagement patterns, providing valuable insights for program optimization. 

AI streamlines marketing efforts by identifying target audiences, automating social media posting, and optimizing content delivery. Business operations benefit from AI scheduling systems, automated client communications, and website optimization tools. This technological advancement allows fitness professionals to automate routine tasks like administrative duties, providing them the time and attention to pursue the pieces of the business they are passionate about. As these capabilities grow, the health and wellness industry will continue to grow and transform businesses’ operations and success. 

Continuing Education

Learning always stays in style, especially in the health and wellness industry; the limits are boundless. Professionals recognize that expanded knowledge translates directly to enhanced client outcomes and more revenue opportunities. Leading certification bodies like ACE, NCSF, ISSA, and NASM continued to expand their educational offerings, while specialized providers like ProNatal Fitness and BAMmetrics are carving out valuable niches in targeted areas like fitness and pregnancy as well as metrics-based mobility training, respectively. 

This educational renaissance opened new doors for fitness professionals to differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market. By pursuing advanced certifications and specialized training, not to mention attending any health and fitness event where opportunities to grow and learn are endless, trainers and coaches can better serve distinct populations with specific needs. This commitment to ongoing learning elevates a professional’s credibility and empowers them to drive meaningful change in their communities and the world. 

Longevity-Focused Wellness

There was a major focus on the shift in perspective from extending lifespan to optimizing healthspan — the period in which people are functional and healthy within their lifespan. This shift reflected a growing understanding that living longer is most meaningful when paired with vitality, capability, and independence. 

The emphasis on healthspan catalyzed a resurgence in maintaining lean muscle mass as research highlights its crucial role in longevity and overall health. Fitness professionals increasingly incorporate resistance training and protein intake strategies into programming regardless of client goals. 

Functional movement training has also gained prominence this year as people recognize the importance of maintaining mobility and strength for daily activities. This trend is linked to a surge in low-impact workout modalities, such as Pilates, swimming, walking, and modified strength training. These modalities allow clients to build strength while minimizing joint stress and promoting sustainable long-term exercise habits that increase healthspan. 

Final Thoughts

The fitness industry’s year-in-review for 2024 showcases a powerful convergence of technology and human-centered solutions. From Marketplace by Coach360 to an increased awareness around healthspan, these shifts are solving long-standing challenges while elevating the quality of service delivery. The seamless integration of business operations with personalized client experiences marks a significant step forward in how fitness businesses grow and operate. 

What stands out most is the industry’s shift toward comprehensive, integrated solutions that prioritize operational excellence and human connection. By combining advanced technology with deep industry expertise and knowledge, these shifts are helping health professionals focus on what matters most—creating meaningful impact in their clients’ lives while building sustainable, thriving businesses. This sophisticated integration of multiple wellness components, supported by advanced training and technology, has set new standards for success in health and wellness in 2025 and for years to come. 

We had a great time launching Coach360 and Marketplace by Coach360 this year, and we’re looking forward to seeing what 2025 brings to the health and wellness industry and all of you!

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

Connected Health & Fitness Summit 2025: LA’s Premier Wellness Industry Conference

Los Angeles is set to host an impressive gathering of wellness creators this year as Connected Health and Fitness Summit marks its sixth annual event this February. This three-day convergence brings together visionaries from boutique gyms, top-tier brands, hospitality moguls, and tech giants. With powerhouse brands like Meta and Adidas contributing their vision and wisdom, the 2025 Summit promises to reshape health and wellness integration possibilities. 

Beyond the keynote speeches and panel discussions, this year’s Summit introduces groundbreaking additions to its lineup. The Innovation Showcase, the inaugural Connected Health and Fitness Awards, and the introduction of Pre-Day workshops, activities, and networking reflect a fresh approach to professional connection, setting the stage for three days of meaningful collaboration among 450+ industry leaders and veterans. 

Connected Health and Fitness Summit 2025

The Connected Health and Fitness Summit returns for its sixth year, bringing three exciting days of learning, networking, and growth to Los Angeles, California, from February 11th through the 13th. This year’s event is more expansive than ever, broadening its scope into wellness and holistic spaces beyond traditional fitness sectors. Attendees will discover new opportunities across the health and wellness spectrum, from meditation and sleep to spas, hotels, pharmaceuticals, and holistic wellness practices. 

Join an elite gathering of over 450 industry leaders, where C-suite executives represent 60% of the distinguished individuals. This dynamic forum spans the wellness ecosystem—gyms, boutiques, and clubs; pharma and healthcare; apparel brands and sports nutrition; spas, hotels, and wellness centers; investors and service providers; and wearables, apps, Connected Fitness, and blue-chip companies. Through thought-provoking panel discussions, you’ll gain actionable insights into emerging trends while forging valuable relationships that can shape the future of your business. 

Unique Chances to Be Tap In

Participants can look forward to a panel discussion with Nike, Gymshark, and Adidas for the first time. They can also look forward to hearing from Google, Meta, FitBit, Better Health, WHOOP, and Equinox. New this year is the Innovation Showcase, a panel where eight companies will pitch their idea or product to top industry leaders and key investors. Another new and exciting opportunity is the Warm-Up at the Pre-Day. Kick off the Summit with pre-day workshops, a hike, and a cocktail reception to get an extra day to network, connect, and meet with other attendees before the festivities take off. 

One of the most exciting things to look forward to this year is the Connected Health and Fitness Summit Awards. This award show will recognize industry leaders across six prestigious categories: Holistic Wellness Champion, Fitness Experience Innovator, Personalization Prodigy, Community Wellness Advocate, Digital Wellness Software Leader, and Fit-Tech Hardware Excellence. The application deadline has been pushed back to January 10th, 2025, so there is still time to apply! The event promises to celebrate fitness and wellness royalty, recognizing the industry’s most innovative and impactful contributors.

Connected Health and Fitness Summit prioritizes excellence through carefully curated experiences. The Summit creates an environment rich with valuable networking opportunities by bringing together influential industry leaders and decision-makers from renowned brands. The meticulously planned program delivers practical, meaningful content to drive inspiration across the entire health and fitness landscape. With attendees representing diverse cross sections of the industry, professionals from every specialty will find relevant insights and connections that align with their specific interests. 

Final Thoughts 

Professional success in health and fitness hinges on meaningful connections and fresh perspectives—elements that flourish at events like the Connected Health and Fitness Summit. From casual conversations during the pre-day hike to focused discussions with C-suite leaders, these in-person exchanges spark ideas and partnerships that emerge differently in person than online. The Summit’s diverse mix of tech giants, boutique studios, and wellness brands creates a unique environment where unexpected collaborations take root. 

These three days in Los Angeles offer more than networking. This event provides a space where industry veterans and rising stars can reimagine what’s possible in health and wellness, pushing boundaries and daring to reach new heights. Whether gaining insights from top brands like Nike and Google, discovering the future of wellness through the Innovation Showcase, or shaking hands and building your network, participants leave equipped with practical strategies and bold new visions for growth. This combination of learning and relationship-building propels the industry forward in ways that benefit the entire ecosystem.

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

Fitness Formula Clubs: Inside Chicago’s Premier Wellness Education Leader

Fitness Formula Clubs has transformed how Chicago thinks about wellness education, setting new industry standards through their revolutionary approach to trainer development and member care. For nearly four decades, these clubs have cultivated an environment where professional excellence directly fuels member success, anchored by their ACE and NASM-credentialed training program — the first of its kind in the health club industry. This commitment to excellence extends throughout their ten premium Chicagoland locations, where cutting-edge facilities meet exceptional service. 

Beyond the stunning amenities and state-of-the-art equipment, Fitness Formula Clubs true distinction lies in their comprehensive vision of health and wellness. Members gain access to an integrated ecosystem of services from specialized nutritional therapy and over 100 weekly group fitness classes. This approach, guided by core values, has established FFC as more than a gym, it is a complete wellness destination where members and staff thrive together. 

Fitness Formula Clubs

Fitness Formula ClubsSince 1984, Fitness Formula Clubs has established itself as Chicago’s premier health and wellness facility, operating ten upscale locations across the Chicagoland area. CEO Gale Landers founded Fitness Formula, the largest privately owned reciprocal usage provider of holistic health and fitness services.

Fitness Formula Clubs distinguishes itself through its commitment to five core values: improvement, safety, friendliness, superior service, and integrity, demonstrated through its extensive array of impressive services, positive customer reception, and commitment to surpassing the average and providing a top-notch experience to its clients. 

The club offers corporate wellness programs, over 100 signature group fitness classes weekly, nutrition therapy, spa treatments, personal training, and medically based rehabilitation programs. It is a truly holistic, all-in-one space for health and wellness needs. They’ve reinvested ten million dollars back into equipment so they’re always leading and have the most up-to-date offerings for their clientele. 

With a dedicated staff of over 900 professionals, FFC delivers its members individualized attention and results-driven programming. Each location provides state-of-the-art equipment, professional-led fitness classes, training, and amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, recovery lounges, and full-service spas. FFC’s continuous improvement of facilities, equipment, and programming ensures members receive an unmatched health club experience. 

Careers with Fitness Formula Clubs 

Careers with Fitness Formula Clubs For trainers who are enthusiastic about education and growth opportunities, Fitness Formula has the career path of a lifetime. Fitness Formula puts its customers at the forefront of everything it does, so new trainers and employees undergo hospitality training programs to elevate member experience. I spoke with Jon Baraglia, the Senior Regional Director Of Club Operations and Fitness at FFC and he shared the highlights of working as a trainer at the Fitness Formula Clubs.

Jon shared, “Any place can get dumbbells and treadmills, but the differentiator is how you treat your customers, how you interact with your customers, and the results you get your customers… If our members use the club and get results, they’re typically happier, stay longer, and refer friends.” For that reason, Fitness Formula ensures their trainers and coaches are on a path of endless education and constantly working to grow and bring new things to the clubs.

This is very evident through the offered education opportunities:

As Jon shared all of the fantastic education perks offered “I care so much about every single one of these people we hire, and if they are not successful, it’s a failure on us. We can’t win unless they win.” The attitude that Fitness Formula has toward their trainers and employees is unlike any else out there, truly pushing for top-tier excellence. You can find all available Fitness Formula career openings posted now on Marketplace by Coach360.

Final Thoughts

Fitness Formula Clubs has redefined what a modern health club can achieve through its expansive vision of wellness and staff excellence. By investing heavily in trainer education and professional development, including their groundbreaking credentialed onboarding program, Formula Fitness Clubs has built a workforce that delivers exceptional results for their members. Their commitment goes far beyond standard certififcations, offering substantial educational reimbursement and partnerships with elite fitness organizations. 

The club’s success stems from a simple but powerful principle: member results drive everything. With over 900 professionals across ten premium locations, the Club combines high-end amenities with personalized attention and medical-grade services. This investment in human capital, combined with avant garde facilities and medical-grade services, has established FFC as more than a gym chain — it’s a cornerstone of wellness in the Chicagoland area. 

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

Level Up Your Fitness Game: ISSA’s Career-Ready Certification Promise

For almost four decades, the International Sports Science Association (ISSA) has been leading fitness education efforts, setting the standard for professional development in the industry. As a leader in digital learning, ISSA seamlessly combines scientific principles with hands-on application across its over 50 certification courses. With half a million graduates across 176 countries and partnerships with 10,000 U.S. gym locations, ISSA’s global influence is undeniable.

What sets ISSA apart is its unwavering commitment to student success, exemplified by its industry-first job guarantee and exceptional support services. The organization has evolved from its cornerstone Certified Personal Training course to offer specialized courses, including innovative offerings like DNA-Based Coaching. Through this extensive curriculum and dedication to excellence, ISSA continues to shape the future of fitness education one professional at a time. 

ISSA

ISSA stands at the forefront of digital learning in the health and fitness sector, blending scientific rigor with practical application in every certification it offers. They share an unparalleled network with over 10,000 gym locations across the United States, which speaks volumes to their promise to help ISSA-certified professionals find work they love. 

Looking ahead, ISSA is driven by an ambitious goal to connect 100 million people to the power of healthy living by 2030. What truly distinguishes ISSA in this competitive market is its unwavering commitment to its students. This is evident in the industry-first job guarantee and the consistently top-rated student support services that position it as the field’s most highly regarded certification provider.

Bountiful Opportunities to Learn and Grow

ISSA has expanded from its foundational Certified Personal Training program to create a comprehensive roster of professional certifications. Its curriculum now encompasses everything from CPT en Español (a Spanish CPT course) to advanced specializations like Exercise Recovery Specialist and Group Fitness Training. The breadth of ISSA’s offerings—spanning over 50 distinct certifications, including the acclaimed 200-hour yoga instructor program—reflects the commitment to meeting the diverse needs of modern wellness professionals. 

Today’s trainers are increasingly seeking ways to elevate their careers and deliver exceptional value to their clients. They seek expertise beyond traditional workout instruction and pursue advanced specializations in areas such as Glute Specialist, Strength and Conditioning, and DNA-Based Coaching. This allows coaches to establish themselves as holistic wellness experts able to address their clients’ complete health journey and give them niche offerings to expand their business, capitalize as experts in a specialized area, increase rates, and provide premium services. You can see which programs were awarded spots in Coach360’s Top 24 Specializations Report for 2024. 

Ross Weaver, former NFL player, began a career in fitness after retiring his football pads. Through ISSA, Weaver holds ISSA certifications in Personal Training, Corrective Exercise, Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning, Youth Fitness, and Exercise Recovery. Ross was most impressed with the comprehensive nature of ISSA’s training approach compared to his previous experiences. “I absolutely love ISSA’s tests and the way the study material is broken down,” he explained. “Unlike other certifications, ISSA wants us to really know what we are doing instead of just passing tests. The quizzes and case scenarios helped me understand the material deeply, which is crucial when training athletes safely.”

ISSA’s commitment to advancing professional development in the fitness industry continues to evolve, with exciting new initiatives on the horizon. Working to expand Spanish offerings and a revised CPT course to bring the most advanced information available to ISSA Certified Professionals. With exciting things on the horizon for ISSA, the one thing guaranteed is that it will be with a high level of professionalism that prepares its trainers to succeed in a busy industry. 

Final Thoughts

After 35 years in business, ISSA remains a leader in professional development, creating pathways for success that combine cutting-edge knowledge with practical business practices. This dedication to continuous learning and professional advancement ensures that certified professionals are well-positioned to meet the sophisticated needs of today’s health-seekers. 

ISSA’s commitment to building successful, sustainable careers for its certified pros shows its belief in its education systems, preparing individuals to embark on a life-changing journey as leaders at the intersection of leadership and health. ISSA is so committed to excellence that it offers a job placement guarantee for its CPT graduates, utilizing its network to leverage jobs for its certified pros. Or your money back, guaranteed.

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

Stocking Stuffer Gift Guide: Five Stocking Stuffer Gifts for the Health-Obsessed

The quest for optimal health extends beyond expensive gym memberships and the big-ticket items that dominate wish lists. Sometimes, the most impactful wellness tools come in small packages, perfect for stuffing stockings and thoughtful, small gifts. From innovative recovery solutions to portable breathing coaches, this curated collection spotlights five exceptional health and wellness products that punch well above their compact size. 

While spa treatments and home exercise equipment get a lot of attention, these carefully selected stocking stuffers address the subtler aspects of a well-rounded wellness routine. Whether you’re shopping for a dedicated fitness enthusiast or someone new to the journey, these practical gifts demonstrate that transformative tools don’t always require significant space or investment. 

Start the Year With Health at the Forefront

The tradition of making New Year’s resolutions take on deeper meaning when we understand that a single choice can cascade into life-altering changes. What starts as a small decision can fundamentally reshape our daily routines and, ultimately, our lives. Each positive choice reinforces our commitment to change and builds momentum toward lasting transformation. 

This coming year offers fresh opportunities to reimagine our approach to health and fitness, with thoughtful stocking stuffers serving as physical reminders of our wellness goals. These items are more than just gifts, they’re tangible ways to commit to our future selves. These small but purposeful items help weave wellness into the fabric of our daily lives, making healthy choices feel less like obligations and more like stepping stones towards the lives we imagine.

Top Wellness Stocking Stuffers

  1. Muscle & Joint ReliefMuscle & Joint Relief

Punch Gunk: Half the battle of a tough workout is the recovery portion afterwards, but with Punch Gunk you no longer have to fear DOMS  or sore joints. Punch Gunk provides fast, effective relief to accelerate recovery, diminish pain, and offers maximum bioavailability so you can get the most out of your recovery product. Not to mention it’s a natural product including potent ingredients like willow bark, licorice root, kava, and arnica to name a few. 

Who It’s Good For: Those who experience joint or muscle stiffness and soreness post-workout, or in life. It’s also great for anyone who wants a natural product who doesn’t like the greasy viscosity of most recovery salves and balms. 

  1. Protein Flavor SamplesProtein Flavor Samples

Transparent Labs Whey Isolate Variety Pack: This variety pack includes five fan-favorite flavors of Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate: Milk Chocolate, French Vanilla, Strawberry Milkshake, Chocolate Peanut Butter, and Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie. Each flavor packs 28 grams of protein per serving derived from grass-fed cows. 

Who It’s Good For: This is the perfect sample pack for someone who doesn’t want to commit to one flavor, travels often, or is always on the go. The versatility of the flavors offers a fun and unique selection, so protein never gets boring. 

  1. Peptide Packets Peptide Packets

MAKE Wellness: Peptides for every purpose. MAKE Wellness has designed and implemented these products using Bioactive Precision Peptides™ —small amino acid fragments derived from natural plant and animal sources that influence body processes beyond their nutritional value. These science-backed supplements address various aspects of health, including sleep, energy, hydration, weight management, relaxation, and longevity, focusing on natural and practical solutions. 

Who It’s Good For: These are great for anyone! The expansiveness of these supplements ensures there is something for any health enthusiast. They’re also in convenient packaging, making them easy to take any time and anywhere. 

  1. Foot Restoration KitsFoot Restoration Kits

The Foot Collective: Most shoes today are not designed with the human foot in mind—toes crunch or cross each other, arches aren’t as strong as they need to be, and foot function decreases with the adherence to modern footwear. This set from Foot Collective includes a pair of toe spacers, a cork mobility ball, a toe resistance band, and lifetime access to The Foot Collective Digital Training System. 

Who It’s Good For: Anyone who wants to improve foot mobility, balance, posture, and alignment. It’s also great for anyone who likes to do a solid warm-up to engage their feet before heavy lifts or long hikes or for anyone who experiences foot pain. 

  1. Breathing & Meditation DeviceBreathing & Meditation Device

moonbird: moonbird is a handheld breathing coach that uses patented Tactile Guidance™ technology to guide users through calming breathwork exercises. The device expands and contracts to signal inhalation and exhalation patterns and pairs with an included app to provide real-time biofeedback of heart rate and heart rate variability. It offers preset and custom breathing exercises to reduce stress, anxiety, and sleep problems within 30 days.  

Who It’s Good For: Anyone interested in engaging with breathwork to see how it may change their mental health or sleeping concerns. It’s also an excellent gift for anyone, as breath is the foundation of life.

Final Thoughts 

Small wellness tools impact daily health routines, making these stocking stuffers particularly valuable for anyone committed to their well-being. From clever breathing coaches to targeted muscle recovery solutions, each item serves a specific purpose in supporting various aspects of health. 

These carefully chosen gifts reflect a more profound understanding that sustainable wellness comes from consistent, small actions rather than dramatic gestures. By selecting tools that seamlessly integrate into daily routines, gift-givers can help their loved ones build lasting healthy habits that extend far beyond the holiday season. The real value of these items lies not in their size but in their potential to support lifestyle changes through practical, everyday use.

About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.

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