Fitness Industry Intelligence The Career Network for Health, Fitness & Performance

Five Gifts for the Strength Training Fanatic

The awareness of the importance of lean muscle mass is astonishing. It is one of the greatest indicators of longevity and a key factor for healthy aging and function. The desire for more strength and muscle increases as the evidence surrounding its significant role in health accumulates. Regardless of how it’s accomplished, building lean muscle mass is a trend we’re bringing into 2025 without hesitation. 

Whether you’re buying a gift for your friend who is obsessed with F45, your mom who is just beginning her journey, or your friend who is a competitive bodybuilder, the gift of strength is unparalleled. Creativity and thoughtful gifts exist for every strength training enthusiast on your list, and Coach360 has compiled a list of some of the best options available on the market this holiday season. 

New Year, More Strength

Move over, cardio; this year is all about strength! As Les Mills reported earlier this year, strength training was the number one most popular workout among Gen Z in 2022, and it’s only gaining momentum. More generations are turning to strength training for its numerous benefits, including increased lean muscle mass, improved mental health outcomes, better sleep, improved mood, and higher self-esteem. 

With so many reasons to strength train, 2025 will undoubtedly see the push for more strength training options. That makes holiday gift-giving a no-brainer, as there is no more terrific way to celebrate the new year than with good health. Here is a list of the top five gifts for strength training enthusiasts.

Top Strength Training Gifts

  1. Suspension Set

    TRX® Suspension Set

TRX® Home2 System: Give your favorite lifter the gift of strength training anywhere, anytime with TRX® Home2 System. The versatility, portability, and ease of TRX® make it the perfect gift for anyone passionate about strength training and who likes to work out at home or on the go. You only need an anchor spot and this epic suspension set for a fantastic workout.     

Who It’s Good For: This is the perfect gift for anyone who loves a versatile workout with minimal equipment. It’s also a great choice for strength-building enthusiasts who travel a lot. 

  1. Adjustable Weights

    Adjustable Weights

Echelon Strength Adjustable Dumbbells 752: These adjustable weights from Echelon are adjustable, meaning they take up very little space but offer unlimited opportunities to strength train. The weights range between seven and 52.5 pounds per dumbbell, and intuitive locking pins and a stand to complete the bundle. 

Who It’s Good For: These dumbbells are the perfect gift for those without a gym membership or those who want the ease of working out at home without buying too much equipment. 

  1. Strength Training Wearable

Beast Sensor: The Beast Sensor is a no-nonsense gift for the data-driven analytical lifter. This sensor is a real-time tracking device that measures strength, power, and speed during weight-lifting exercises, providing immediate feedback to your device to optimize training performance. It offers workout analysis through detailed movement analytics, tracks progress over time and allows users to adjust their parameters based on specific goals. It also includes collaborative features for trainers, such as workout planning, leaderboards, and athlete management. 

Who It’s Good For: Beat Sensor is ideal for serious strength athletes, competitive weightlifters, and professional trainers who want to optimize their training through data-driven insights. 

  1. Cooling Shaker BottleCooling Shaker Bottle

Ice Shaker Shaker Bottle: Gone are the days of warm mid-workout BCAA and pre-workout drinks. Ice Shaker’s double-wall insulated protein shaker bottles fix the issue of lukewarm beverages. The bottle keeps drinks cold for over 30 hours, comes in hundreds of designs, and even offers customizable options. 

Who It’s Good For: This bottle is excellent for anyone who drinks supplements like pre-workout, intra-workout, post-workout, or protein shakes. It is a simple solution designed to maximize the enjoyability of drinks regardless of how long it takes to drink them. 

  1. Mobility & Recovery ToolMobility & Recovery Tool

Aletha Health: The Mark by Aletha Health is a therapeutic self-massage tool designed to target and release tension in the psoas and iliacus muscles. It helps users find relief from various types of pain, including lower back, hip, knee, and foot issues. This ergonomically designed device mimicking a therapist’s touch provides immediate muscle relaxation in 90 seconds. It is a trusted solution for healthcare practitioners and athletes seeking to improve mobility, posture, and core stability.

Who It’s Good For: Any fitness enthusiast who loves recovery tools will love this tool. It is the perfect gift for those who lift heavy, run, or put a lot of stress on the body and need speedy relief. 

Final Thoughts 

Investing in quality fitness equipment supports a loved one’s wellness journey while providing practical tools they’ll use repeatedly. From tracking performance metrics to enhancing recovery efforts, these carefully selected items cater to strength enthusiasts at every level of their fitness progression. 

As we embrace the spotlight perpetually fixed on strength training, these tools do more than fill the gift-giving obligation. They empower recipients to pursue their strength goals with greater efficiency and enjoyment. Whether they’re a dedicated powerlifter or just beginning to explore the world of resistance training, these presents demonstrate your understanding of their passion while contributing meaningfully to their 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.

Building Healthier Communities Through ACE Fitness Specializations

The American Council on Exercise is a nonprofit organization that has shaped fitness education and professional development benchmarks using proven methods to create comprehensive programming. Their work connects scientific research with practical training methods, preparing experts who can work with diverse populations across various needs. Offerings from ACE include respected NCCA-accredited certifications, in-depth specialty courses, and ongoing learning resources that transform health and fitness enthusiasts into skilled professionals who change the world. 

Their impact reaches beyond teaching and certification, merging with their partnerships with leaders in government and science and affecting community groups to make movement accessible for everyone. This critical vision means ACE Certified Trainers and Coaches enter the field ready to create real change. Whether working with individuals or groups or contributing to broader public health initiatives, ACE is the leader of the bunch. 

American Council on Exercise 

The American Council on Exercise, better known as ACE, is the leading nonprofit certification organization preparing health and fitness enthusiasts with the education and skills to become the future of the personal training and coaching industry. These NCCA-accredited certifications are only a portion of what ACE has to offer. They provide unlimited growth opportunities to further your education through bundled courses, continuing education courses, live webinars, and a monthly digital magazine with topical issues. 

ACE is not only a certifying organization but also partners with like-minded organizations, research institutions, fitness leaders, community organizations, and policymakers on both state and federal levels to drive change, increase accessibility, and improve public health outcomes through physical activity. ACE is committed to making movement equally accessible to all, promoting prosperous and healthy lives.

Specialization Courses

ACE has two specialization courses in Coach360’s Top 24 Specializations Report for 2024. The Corrective Exercise Specialist and Behavior Change Certifications provide Certified Personal Trainers the opportunity to grow in their understanding and expand their client offerings, creating a more specific approach to training clients who need this type of attention and service. 

Corrective Exercise: As an ACE Corrective Exercise Specialist, trainers will acquire valuable tools to elevate their practice and deliver outstanding client results. They’ll gain mastery in supporting injured individuals and navigating chronic health challenges, guiding them through safe exercise advancement. The curriculum spotlights the art of building bridges with medical teams, showing trainers how to facilitate treatment continuity. 

It will include a deep dive into functional anatomy and perfect movement screening abilities, spotting physical imbalances and limitations in clients. Through step-by-step program design instruction, professionals learn to create structured and progressive exercise plans that align with clinical best practices while staying within their scope of practice. 

This course allows trainers to craft personalized programs that address each client’s unique needs, goals, and place in their journey. By integrating medical knowledge with practical exercise implementation, trainers will be equipped to confidently serve a broader range of clients.  

ACE Behavior Change Specialist: This course will unlock transformative strategies to guide each practice. Trainers will discover proven methods for steering individuals through challenging lifestyle shifts, making difficult transitions achievable. The training equips professionals with vital interpersonal techniques, enabling them to forge genuine bonds and establish trust with those under their guidance, leading to better outcomes. 

The course explores powerful cognitive behavior coaching tactics, uncovering ways to spark lasting behavioral shifts in clients. ACE Behavior Change Specialists can learn to conduct motivational interviews to help clients map out measurable milestones that inspire action and celebrate progress. 

Notable behavior change experts lead this course and address creating change for clients of various backgrounds. By mastering these dynamic tools, coaches can break down barriers, support their clients, and create meaningful and sustainable changes. 

Final Thoughts

When health and fitness professionals enter education through ACE, they join a movement that ripples far beyond any gym or studio. ACE certifications and specializations aren’t just boxes to check or CEUs to gather; they’re gateways to changing clients’ lives while gaining expert knowledge. By grounding their practice in scientific research and proven methods, professionals develop the expertise to guide clients through unique wellness journeys.

ACE is committed to ongoing education, which reflects a crucial truth: the science of human movement never stands still. As professionals grow through these programs, they increase their understanding with cutting-edge research, connect with like-minded individuals, and build skills that transform their lives and those of others. Whether crafting recovery plans for injured individuals, designing workouts for seniors, or helping busy professionals improve their daily habits, ACE provides the foundation to make a real difference in every community.

About Evelyn Kelly
Evelyn is a degree qualified nutritionist and personal trainer. Her expertise are in woman’s health, helping women embrace their bodies throughout the peri and menopausal years. Evelyn also has a keen interest in sports nutrition and has worked with athletes at a local CrossFit gym based in Melbourne Australia. Her hobbies include strength training and is an avid road bike cyclist.

Aqua Fitness Revolution: Why Investors and Entrepreneurs are Diving into Aqua Exercise Programs

The use of water for health and wellness is no new concept. With evidence of Romans utilizing bathhouses for exercise, relaxation, and recovery, it is a long-standing tradition to use water for its health benefits. In fact, the term “hydrotherapy” derives from Greek roots and was used as a healing treatment during the Greek and Egyptian periods. 

Long before saunas and cold plunges were mainstream for their healing benefits, Hippocrates prescribed the same treatment to bring harmony and balance to the body. While most people don’t deny the healing and powerful ways that water can transform wellness, many still think of aquatic fitness as a group of people who are 50+ moving around in a pool in a synchronized choreography for their daily exercise. Luckily, the future of aqua fitness is evolving to meet modern needs, and the opportunity is here to take, presenting a fruitful and meaningful way to grow in the fitness industry. 

Aqua Fitness

Aqua fitness emerged in the 1980s as a low-impact exercise option, gaining attention and popularity among seniors, those with injuries, and anyone needing joint-friendly workouts. Water’s natural resistance provides practical strength training, while its buoyancy reduces stress on the joints. The activity peaked in the 1990s, with water aerobics classes becoming a pivotal fitness center staple. 

While mainstream interest dwindled in the 2000s, aqua fitness is poised for resurgence due to the emergence of interest in low-impact exercise options and increased awareness around joint health and mobility. The business potential is compelling: minimal equipment costs, ability to serve a diverse demographic of clients, and year-round indoor operation abilities. Since the turn of the century, modern variations have incorporated HIIT and resistance training to garner more attention from the younger population. At the same time, healthcare partnerships blossom opportunities for therapeutic programs that offer additional revenue streams. 

“Transforming pool spaces into thriving wellness hubs through innovative Aquafitness solutions is not just evolution—it’s a smart investment in the future of health and business!” – Julie-ann James, Founder of Aqua Global.

The future of fitness will continue incorporating aqua fitness and will grow significantly as healthcare emphasizes the benefits of low-impact workouts. With predictions that the aqua gym equipment market size will grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.6% between now and 2030, this is an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs who want the ability to stand out through specialized programs for various demographics. 

Aqua Global 

With long-standing scientific and anecdotal evidence about water’s health benefits, it’s no wonder the resurgence of aqua fitness is happening. Aqua Global is one company that recognizes the opportunity within the space to bring aqua fitness to the masses. Under Aqua Global are five sister companies, each aiming to turn Aqua Fitness into a thriving business. 

Aqua Wellness Franchising: Comprehensive aquatic programs for fitness, wellness, and swimming across all age groups, maintaining industry leadership through innovative programming and consistent delivery. They provide ongoing support to franchise owners while optimizing pool usage and creating a sustainable business model. 

Aqua Consultancy: This service assists pool facility owners in transforming their space into a thriving wellness destination with specialized aquatics programming and innovative space optimization strategies. 

Education and Learning: A comprehensive Development Program providing trainers, educators, and aquatics staff with globally recognized certifications through strategic partnerships. They are focused on innovative techniques in swim instruction, water safety, and aquatic fitness. 

Aqua Real Estate: Through close collaboration, they create custom aquatic facilities that optimize wellness, fitness, and swimming experiences for all, managing the entire process from initial design through final implementation. 

Aqua Virtual: Aqua Global stands at the forefront of digital aquatic innovation, transforming traditional pool fitness through virtual content delivery and a large-screen interactive experience. Their collaboration with Hydrohex showcases their commitment to scalable, culturally adapted aquatic fitness programs, allowing facilities to offer customized virtual classes. 

Through its five interconnected divisions, Aqua Global is positioned to revamp the fitness aquatics industry by addressing every market aspect. This approach, combined with their commitment to innovation and accessibility, makes them uniquely positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for water-based fitness. Aqua Global’s integrated ecosystem offers a scalable model that could reshape how people engage with aquatic fitness worldwide as aqua fitness continues to trend upward. 

Final Thoughts

With so many long-standing, well-known benefits of aqua fitness, it’s safe to say the low-impact exercise’s resurgence will make a splash. The industry is positioned for significant growth, driven by increasing awareness of joint health and the versatility of programming. Companies like Aqua Global are leading this charge by modernizing traditional water exercises with technology and well-rounded business solutions. 

The future of aqua fitness extends beyond the stereotypical senior water aerobics class, encompassing high-intensity training, therapeutic programming, and virtual content delivery. With projected market growth and minimal barriers to entry, entrepreneurs and coaches alike have a unique opportunity to dive into this evolving sector of fitness while serving diverse demographics and multiple revenue streams.

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.

Body Recomposition Expert Lindsey Greeley: From Bodybuilder to Transformative Fitness Coach

What started as a goal to dominate competitive bodybuilding became a life-long pursuit of education, adaptation, and a career that changes lives. Lindsey Greeley didn’t take a linear path to finding online success as a body recomposition coach. Still, each stop along her journey set her up to help others succeed in healthy, functional bodies. As a body recomposition specialist, Lindsey knows the work it takes to create a body transformation and that it requires work on the inside and outside. 

With a gift for transforming mindsets and unlocking potential, Lindsey guides clients and fellow coaches toward breakthrough moments in their fitness journeys. Her meticulously developed recomposition protocol, refined through two years and countless hours, has evolved into a group on Marketplace by Coach360. This comprehensive curriculum empowers coaches to master the intricate balance of physical transformation while nurturing their clients’ deeper relationship with health and wellness. 

Lindsey Greeley

Most people won’t look death in the face in their 20s, but that’s precisely where Lindsey found herself after competing in bodybuilding for seven years and coming off of a steroid cycle. It’s been a long voyage since that day, but Lindsey is not shy about sharing her past and how it has brought her to this incredible space she occupies now as a trainer. Her story has taken her coast to coast from New York to Los Angeles; on a whim trip to visit her sister in LA, she updated her resume on the flight and landed with many interested parties, including F45, where she still coaches today. 

Moving to LA solidified her belief in herself and her knowledge that she was meant to do amazing things in her personal training career. One of her favorite parts of training is changing the story around why we work out; it’s not necessarily about how we look but how we feel about ourselves. Her passion for helping people look beyond the scale or at superficial goals and dig deep into their purpose is evident. 

Lindsey shared that it is about flipping people’s perspectives around body recomposition and realizing it is a lifestyle choice. It is meant to be a marathon, not a sprint. There isn’t one goal to work towards, like a wedding or vacation body; this is about doing it for yourself because you deserve a strong, resilient, healthy body. 

Lindsey’s love for full-body recomposition sets her apart as a trainer. While many coaches are focused on helping their clients build strength and muscle or lose weight and fat, Lindsey marries the two to create a comprehensive approach to completely change people’s bodies and how they feel about them. 

Body Recomposition Group

Body recomposition involves changing the amounts of various body components, most commonly the fat versus muscle distribution. It allows the individual to improve their physique functionally and aesthetically. Usually, this change takes place through a holistic approach of resistance training, nutritional changes, cardio, and other lifestyle adjustments such as sleep and water intake. 

The benefits of improved body recomposition include improved metabolic health, better functional strength, boosted self-esteem, psychological benefits, and enhanced everyday function and quality of life. Luckily, body recomposition doesn’t need to be complicated when you have the help of a professional like Lindsey. She has built a program over the last two years that has been tested on many clients, proving that body recomposition is an effective and powerful way to claim confidence and health. 

Lindsey is leading a program through Marketplace by Coach360 for trainers and coaches who want to learn more about body recomposition. This group will explore a comprehensive approach to transforming clients’ bodies through a body recomposition lens and all that it comes with. In addition to the education piece, Lindsey created this group as a communal space where coaches and trainers can check in, help each other problem-solve, and provide their lived experiences to have an open dialogue to learn and grow individually and together. 

This collaborative environment fosters open dialogue and mutual growth. It allows professionals to enhance their expertise while building a supportive network of like-minded practitioners committed to transforming lives through evidence-based body recomposition principles. 

Final Thoughts

Lindsey Greeley’s impact extends beyond traditional training methods. After her bodybuilding career, she faced a life-threatening health crisis and became a transformative force in the fitness industry. Her comprehensive approach to body recomposition, developed through years of hands-on experience, demonstrates the powerful intersection of physical and mental transformation. 

Through her creative group on Marketplace by Coach360, Greeley is now expanding her influence by educating fellow trainers in the nuances of body recomposition. This collaborative space allows coaches to share experiences, troubleshoot challenges, and grow together while mastering the holistic elements that drive sustainable change. Her message transcends superficial goals, emphasizing that strength and health are lifelong pursuits worthy of patient, dedicated effort.

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.

Marketplace by Coach360: The Ultimate Platform for Staffing and Career Growth in 2025

Marketplace by Coach360 is a transformative digital platform that is changing the foundation of how fitness professionals build their careers and connect with job opportunities. This inventive ecosystem combines passion coaches, premier fitness facilities, and dedicated health enthusiasts in one seamless environment. This simplifies the hiring process for professionals and employers, placing qualified talent in positions that align with their skills and aspirations. 

The platform’s rapid growth has created an exciting surge in employment opportunities across the fitness industry. New positions emerge daily, from personal trainer and group fitness instructors to wellness coordinators and facility managers. Whether an experienced professional seeking advancement or newly certified and ready to launch your career, Marketplace by Coach360 offers unprecedented access to roles at leading gyms, boutique studios, and wellness centers. The platform’s matching system ensures talent connects with opportunities that foster professional growth and service excellence.

Marketplace By Coach360

For fitness professionals, Marketplace by Coach360 opens doors to diverse career paths, from boutique fitness studios to national gym chains. Coaches can showcase their expertise through groups and access premium positions with industry-leading brands. The platform provides invaluable connection opportunities and tools to grow your business or professional resume on your terms. 

Facility owners gain access to a curated pool of certified coaches and trainers, each bringing a certain standard of professional excellence. This quality-focused approach helps facilities enhance their service offerings while reducing recruitment challenges that have proven to be an issue. 

What sets Marketplace apart is its commitment to fostering lasting connections within the fitness community. This isn’t just a job board—it’s a dynamic space where careers flourish, businesses grow, and fitness communities thrive. With opportunities ranging from personal training to group fitness instructor, studio manager, performance coach, nutritionist, and beyond, Marketplace by Coach360 is shaping the future of fitness careers while maintaining the highest standards of professional excellence. 

Current Opportunities 

Since its launch, Marketplace by Coach360 has gained momentum, and new and exciting opportunities have abundantly emerged from some of the best gyms, studios, and workout facilities nationwide. Whether you’re looking for a new role, a place to find clients for your group, or great help for your facility, Marketplace by Coach360 is the hub for all fitness career needs. 

With so many fantastic opportunities currently available through Marketplace by Coach360, the time for career growth is now.   

Final Thoughts 

Marketplace by Coach360 is invaluable for fitness professionals ready to take charge of their careers. From powerhouse brands like F45 and Burn Boot Camp to boutique fitness studios like JETSET and Pvolve, this platform makes it easier for passionate professionals to find the communities where they’ll make the most significant impact. 

Behind every great gym is a team of talented, qualified professionals who create transformative experiences for their clients. Through Coach360’s innovative platform, these professionals find their perfect fit, whether leading high-energy boot camps, designing personalized training programs, or bringing new life to established fitness brands. The result? More substantial facilities, inspired coaches, and communities of people achieving their fitness goals.

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.

Ultimate Biohacking Holiday Gift Guide: Tools for Better Living in 2025

The world of biohacking isn’t just for the knowledgeable few anymore. Biohacking has become a popular topic of conversation and practice in the health and wellness industry because of its simple nature, which can create significant change. We’re constantly looking for more ways to optimize our minds and bodies, and biohacking has developed a multifaceted approach to increasing longevity and wellness. 

Forget the generic gifts this holiday season. There is no better way to show your loved ones you care than by gifting them something that could genuinely transform their health and overall well-being. These gifts are an investment in someone’s self, leveling up their health in 2025 in ways they may have never imagined. 

Biohacking For The Holidays 

Biohacking, often called “DIY biology,” is about making strategic lifestyle tweaks that significantly improve how we feel and function. It’s not just about fancy gadgets or extreme protocols; sometimes, it’s as simple as catching the morning sun in your eyes first thing or avoiding blue light before bed.  Biohacking is so powerful that it’s entirely customizable for your life and goals, whether you’re attempting better sleep, boosting brain power, or maximizing physical performance. 

We’re living at the most heightened time in self-optimization. In real-time, we can track everything from sleep cycles to stress cycles, recovery rates, and even mobility. With all of this data at our fingertips (or in our apps), we can make smarter choices about our health and see their impact on our overall health. As we head into 2025, there is no better way to show someone you care than by gifting them ways to invest in better health. 

Top Biohacking Gifts for 2025

  1. Barefoot Shoes Barefoot Shoes 

Vivobarefoot Shoes

Since 2012, Vivobarefoot has been creating shoes that bring humans closer to nature and make the most “barefoot” experience possible while wearing shoes. They’re designed to be thin, wide, and flexible so feet can move as intended. The sensory connection between feet, brain, and movement allows for better function and a healthier kinetic chain. 

Who It’s Good For: Great for anyone wanting to improve their connection to movement and those who walk, hike, and run. It’s also an excellent option for those who want to feel more connected during their lifts, who dislike the feeling of wearing regular shoes, and anyone interested in improving foot health. 

  1. Clean Water

Hydroviv: As humans are comprised of about 70% water, drinking high-quality water without contaminants is one of the easiest ways to boost health. With many options on the market, it’s important to look for those that filter contaminants that the EPA doesn’t list, including Hydroviv, which filters for things like PFAS chemicals. The EPA often has a set limit on the amount of a contaminant, but these numbers squeak by at alarming rates. You can find a list of tap water contaminants here. 

Who It’s Good For: This is for anyone and everyone. Safe drinking water can be a total game-changer for health and longevity. When our water systems are filled with pollutants that affect health (cancer, reproductive health, etc), the best option is to keep it filtered and safe for consumption.

  1. Acupressure MatAcupressure Mat

WTHN Acupressure Mat Set: Acupressure has long been a favorite practice in Traditional Chinese Medicine for improved health. Acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but instead of needles, pressure is used from either a hand, instrument, or tool like an acupressure mat. This mat set from WTHN allows for the benefits of acupressure without the cost or time associated with going to a practitioner, leading to potentially better sleep, improved recovery, less stress, and reduced pain. 

Who It’s Good For: The perfect gift under $100 for anyone looking to improve sleep, mental clarity, and recovery efforts in 2025. It’s also great for those who love tactile healing techniques but don’t have the time or resources to do it as often as they like. 

  1. Happy LampHappy Lamp

Verilux: As we enter winter, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is at its all-time high. The sun is out less often and for shorter periods, leading to less vitamin D, more depression and anxiety, and less time spent outdoors. Luckily, light lamps from Verilux allow for a mini boost by simulating the effects of natural light without exposure to UV rays.

Who It’s Good For: Those living in places that experience harsher winters, minimal access to natural light during the winter months, and anyone who suffers from SAD during the winter months. 

  1. Customized VitaminsCustomized Vitamins

Persona Vitamins: This company requires a five-minute assessment of lifestyle choices, goals, diet, allergies, medication, and doctor suggestions before creating a customized supplement plan. With Persona Nutrition, you can utilize the app to track your experience and monitor health-related goals.

Who It’s Good For: Those who take their health and wellness seriously down to the tiny details of which micronutrients they need. It’s also great for those who love to track meticulously and are motivated by science-backed data. 

Final Thoughts 

Biohacking has moved beyond a fad and has become a practical way to address better health. These gifts offer tangible ways to improve sleep, nutrition, movement, and health, and each is backed by science. Each option provides a unique path to better health through cleaner water, natural movement, or personalized supplements. 

Most importantly, giving the gift of better health shows you care about your loved one’s quality of life. Instead of giving a gift that will sit around or be forgotten, these biohacking gifts can help someone improve their daily functional living, providing a meaningful opportunity to help those you care for feel their best this upcoming year.  

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 Yoga Teacher to Tech Innovator: How Laura Munkholm’s Walla is Upgrading Fitness Studio Management

From teaching yoga alongside a corporate career to creating game-changing fitness studio management software, Laura Munkholm’s path is one of client obsession and creating unflinchingly robust solutions to one of the industry’s most pressing needs. Her extensive background exposed a crucial reality: studio owners were being held back by fragmented, inadequate technology solutions. This firsthand experience sparked a vision for transformation. 

Enter Walla, a product far beyond just another software platform. Born from Laura’s mission to empower studio owners, Walla is a full-bodied solution combining practical tools with intuitive guidance. Like having a dedicated business coach available 24/7, it streamlines everything from scheduling and check-ins to marketing and financial reporting — all while maintaining the personal touch that makes boutique fitness special. 

Laura Munkholm

Laura Munkholm’s journey in the fitness space spans almost two decades. What began as teaching yoga alongside her corporate career in her early 20s evolved into a leadership role at YogaSix, where she helped manage their first few locations. After countless hours running operations, her expertise led her to a seven-year consulting career, working with hundreds of fitness studios globally. Through this experience, she identified a critical gap in the industry. Studios were struggling with inadequate technology solutions for operating their businesses. 

This insight sparked a partnership and a new mission: creating comprehensive studio management software that is a genuinely all-in-one platform. They aimed to empower studio owners to achieve their business goals and provide a system to do it efficiently. Welcome to Walla, the platform for the future of boutique fitness that supports studios with scheduling and checking people in, but also with the marketing, sales, financial and operational reporting, and everything that goes along with running a studio.

All-In-One with Walla 

Founded in 2020, Walla’s timing proved perfect, allowing the team to focus on building revolutionary software with top talent. “Walla is almost like a coach alongside you. Not just a piece of software.” Laura explains, and the clients agree—it’s like having a software and business coach who shows up to every single shift to work eagerly all in one space. 

As a true all-in-one solution, Walla eliminates the need for external integrations. Everything lives in one space, from newsletters and automation to text messaging and staff management, making it the most comprehensive fitness software on the market. Through a quick two-minute survey, the platform even personalizes communication and support for each client’s journey. 

Walla is a powerful software. But powerful doesn’t have to mean complicated. Its robustness expands across many spaces but is easy to navigate. One of the things I loved most when learning about Walla was that it serves as a digital front desk coach, maintaining consistency across all instructors. When clients arrive, instructors instantly access personality insights and preferences from the clients’ initial two-minute survey, enabling personalized experiences regardless of who’s teaching the class. This seamless information sharing ensures every class feels tailored and familiar, even with substitutes or new coaches and trainers. 

What stands out most is Laura’s obsession with creating software that clients absolutely love and rave about, not just use. Built from the ground up by those who worked in the space and intimately understood the industry’s gaps, Walla maintains an impressive 95% client retention rate. This success stems from some of their core values, including an obsession with client feedback and viewing every single client as a partner each step of the way.

Final Thoughts

The fitness industry has long been about human connection and transformation. Walla brings that spirit to studio management software, seamlessly connecting business operations with a personal touch. Walla has emerged as the answer to what happens when industry expertise marries client-obsessed motivation. The platform’s success proves that sometimes, the best solutions come from those who have lived the challenges firsthand. 

The future of boutique fitness is a blend of operational excellence and genuine human connection. By utilizing software that amplifies rather than replaces that human touch, Walla is helping write the next chapter for an industry where “personal” is at the forefront of everything. Laura’s relentless pursuit of creating happy, successful customers is a beautiful reminder of the importance of a people-first mentality and viewing your clients as partners.

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.

Forest Bathing: Nature’s Greatest Secret for Boosting Health

In the depths of Japan’s lush forests lies an ancient wisdom that modern science is finally catching up to. Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, emerged in 1982 as Japan’s antidote to the mounting pressures of urban life by capitalizing on the profound healing power of being among the trees. Far more than just a walk in the woods, this mindful practice invites us to slow down and immerse ourselves fully in the health benefits that nature provides in endless quantities. 

The science behind forest bathing reveals that time spent among trees can fundamentally transform our well-being, from boosting our immune system and lowering stress hormones to increasing creativity and improving mental clarity. As research continues to reveal the remarkable ways trees benefit human health, there is no time to get lost in nature like the present.

Forest Bathing

Known as Shinrin-yoku, it is the act of immersing oneself in the forest for better overall wellness. This Japanese practice has grown since its conception in 1982. Now, it is regular for Japanese natives and visitors alike to spend time in Japan’s vast forests looking for improved mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Japan has 34 national parks within its borders, covering 68.41% of its landmass in 2021. 

Forest bathing requires using all five senses to be present in the current moment. 

The multisensory experience of Shinrin-Yoku requires presence: no phone, camera, or distractions, grounding you at the moment and allowing you to “be here now.” The point is to wander slowly, allowing yourself to be absorbed into Mother Nature’s healing powers. The meditative practice of being present and immersed monumentally benefits mental health and gratitude. Physical activity incredibly benefits overall health, but when done intentionally in nature, the benefits are multifold beyond what you may imagine. 

Benefits of Shinrin-Yoku Practices

The benefits of spending time in nature have been globalized since 1982 when science solidified the benefits of forest bathing. During the coronavirus pandemic, groups like Iceland’s Forest Service encouraged their citizens to go outside and hug a tree for five minutes as one solution to isolation, combat stress, and improve health. 

According to Dr. Qing Li, the author of “Forest Bathing: How Trees Can Help You Find Health and Happiness,” the benefits of forest bathing may include activating the parasympathetic system for reduced stress, decreased blood pressure, and stress hormones, better sleep, reduced anxiety, improved overall mood, boost immune function, and enhanced creativity and focus—and that’s just the start of the list. 

The benefits of forest bathing are multidimensional and more abundant than seems possible. The best part? Forest bathing is free, available at any time if you’re near a forest or some woods, and has immense benefits for overall health. Luckily, this act isn’t negated as a shared experience, so grab a friend, partner, or loved one and find your way to the woods. 

Final Thoughts 

Research shows that forest bathing can have impressive health benefits. One of the most beautiful parts of forest bathing is that it doesn’t require expensive equipment, a membership, or anything beyond your time and willingness to show up. Making a conscious choice to get lost in nature is one of the most basic and profound ways to improve physical health factors.

While the physical benefits are numerous, forest bathing also increases our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. There is no denying the secondary power of immersing ourselves in an interconnected ecosystem to remind us that we are part of an extensive network of living things. If you’re seeking stress relief, better sleep, a moment of clarity, or a simple act of self-love, it’s time to get into the trees. 

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 Local Gym to Global Movement: How Redefining Strength is Transforming Women’s Fitness

What began as a local personal training venture quickly shifted into something far more revolutionary: a global movement challenging how women view their relationship with strength. Breaking free from the “skinny” mindset, Cori Lefkowith’s vision for Redefining Strength transcended traditional gym walls, expanding into the digital realm with perfect timing – just before the world needed it more. Her approach? Raw honesty wrapped in genuine care, demonstrating that true transformation can use a little of both. 

Lefkowith transformed a simple ebook into a comprehensive wellness sphere through divinely aligned foresight and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. But unlike the countless digital fitness platforms that popped up during the pandemic, Redefining Strength wasn’t just another workout repository. It became a sanctuary where women could reimagine their potential, guided by specialized coaches who understood that building strength meant more than lifting heavier weights; it was about reshaping mindsets, habits, and, ultimately, lives. 

Cori Lefkowith 

In 2014, Cori Lefkowith founded Redefining Strength, an in-person personal training business. She prospectively extended beyond gym walls and expanded her reach through online activities, creating blog posts and videos that allow clients to maintain their fitness outside of scheduled workout times. 

The business’s evolution into online coaching proved visionary, launching just before the COVID–19 pandemic. While the transition to a digital platform presented challenges, it opened new growth opportunities. When asked about transitioning to being remote, Cori said, “Growth is always hard.” What began as a simple ebook evolved into a holistic wellness program offering online workouts and expanding to include diagnostics, nutrition, mindset, and fitness elements. A diverse coaching team enriches the program, bringing specialized knowledge in niche focuses like endurance training and competition prep. 

Cori’s philosophy is rooted in the power of daily choices and accountability: “You’re changing every single day whether you recognize it or not; the goal is to change the direction you’re moving in.” She believes each decision guides us down a specific path and encourages members to make choices leading to better health, community, and self-commitment. Through this approach, she empowers individuals to invest in themselves with each choice they make. 

Redefining Strength

Redefining Strength’s name embodies its core mission. Historically, strength hasn’t always been commonly associated with women’s fitness goals. For generations, women’s relationships with their bodies were dominated by society’s demands to live by the scale and its restrictive beauty standards dictated by appearance. 

Today, with growing awareness about the health benefits of lean muscle and a cultural shift from “skinny to strong, “communities like Redefining Strength find women actively empowering each other to build strength physically, mentally, and emotionally. This transformation creates a powerful chain reaction: when women prioritize their health, they influence their families’ (given or chosen) wellness habits, impacting entire communities.

Through its global network of clients and trainers, Redefining Strength comprises 99% women. It has cultivated an international movement where women support and uplift each other, making each person feel seen, heard, and valued.

One of the ways Cori fosters this type of community is through tough love. Cori is firm on leading with kindness rather than niceness, the difference being that nice sounds like what you want to hear, and kind sounds like what you need to hear. Holding each other accountable to showing up and doing their best even on the hard days, pushing clients out of their current comfort zones, and leading with a client-first, feedback-oriented culture are a few of the ways Cori leads Redefining Strength with kindness, accountability, and action. 

If this culture and mission sound interesting, check out Redefining Strength’s open positions on Marketplace by Coach360. 

Final Thoughts

Redefining Strength isn’t just about building a successful fitness business; it’s about dismantling generations of restrictive thinking about how women “should” behave, act, or show up. Under Lefkowith’s leadership, women can reassess that narrative and redefine what is possible when accountability and empowerment connect for more remarkable outcomes. 

When kindness overpowers niceness, and women decide to invest in themselves fully, this movement grows and proves that true strength multiples when shared, creating waves of positive change that extend through families and communities worldwide. For those inspired by this vision of fitness rooted in genuine transformation rather than temporary fixes, Redefining Strength offers more than just job opportunities. It provides a chance to be part of a revolution in women’s and global 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.

Coach to Owner: New IMPACT-X Performance Franchise Offers Holistic Four-Pillar Approach

There are boundless opportunities throughout the fitness industry for those bold enough to seize them. Every day brings new changes that can expand your impact and transform lives, with franchising opportunities offering a powerful path to scaling your business and influence. Success in this field is limited only by your vision and determination to make a difference. 

One place where you can make a difference, find success, and create lasting impact is IMPACT-X Performance, a franchise that exemplifies this entrepreneurial spirit. Through the strategic partnership between Todd Durkin and Journey 333 franchise owners Travis and Cyndy Barnes, IMPACT-X Performance has established six locations before officially beginning operations. This unprecedented pre-launch success demonstrates the strength of their business model and the immense potential within the industry for those ready to take their desire to help others to the next level.

Impact-X Performance 

Veteran fitness industry leader Todd Durkin has guided Travis and Cyndy Barnes’ business development for over a decade. Their successful partnership led to the creation of IMPACT-X Performance, where Todd recognized Travis’s potential as Chief Operations Officer after watching him go from running a personal training business and relying on unemployment checks to a successful franchisor. 

The Barneses have a proven track record: 80% of its fitness franchise owners started as entry-level fitness professionals under their guidance. IMPACT-X Performance builds on this success with its Four-Pillar-Franchise Opportunity, designed for fitness professionals ready to transition from coaching to business ownership. 

“Our mission is to empower individuals to live healthier, happier lives by providing a transformative fitness & coaching experience beyond physical exercise,” says IMPACT-X Performance CEO & co-founder Todd Durkin. “We are creating a space where people can connect and be inspired to ‘Be The Light’ in their own lives and their communities.”

IMPACT-X Performance integrates fitness, recovery, life coaching, and faith.  “We are the only fitness franchise to integrate this “All-In-One” training solution seamlessly,” says IMPACT-X Performance COO Travis Barnes. “Our approach is focused on nurturing the whole person.”

IMPACT-X Performance Opportunities 

If the Four-Pillar Opportunity resonates with you, there are several benefits to joining Todd, Travis, and Cyndy in their mission to create a ripple effect of change in the health and wellness community. You can find these listed on Marketplace by Coach360, where incredible, life-changing job opportunities like this one await you. 

With IMPACT-X Performance, you can expect the following:

“We are more than just a fitness franchise; we are a community of lighthouses, shining light into darkness,” said Todd Durkin. “If you’re passionate about helping others and want to be part of a movement dedicated to transforming lives, then IMPACT-X Performance is where you belong.”

The franchise model is also designed for those who aspire to own a successful business without necessarily working in it, thanks to comprehensive support systems for hiring and operations.

Final Thoughts

IMPACT-X Performance represents a groundbreaking development in fitness franchising, distinguished by its Four-Pillar approach integrating fitness, recovery, life coaching, and faith. With the success of six locations secured, the business model has already demonstrated remarkable market potential.

The franchise offers a unique opportunity for fitness professionals to transition into business ownership, supported by industry veterans Todd, Travis, and Cyndy. Their track record of developing entry-level fitness professionals into successful franchise owners, combined with their “Be the Light” philosophy and robust operational support, positions IMPACT-X Performance as a promising venture for both hands-on operators and passive investors looking to make a meaningful impact in the health and wellness industry. 

For more information, go to https://impactxfranchise.com.

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