The Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) has announced the appointment of four distinguished leaders to its Board of Directors, strengthening its national voice at a pivotal moment for the Canadian fitness industry.

As fitness continues to emerge as a critical pillar of public health, prevention, and community wellbeing, FIC is expanding its leadership with individuals who bring operational excellence, entrepreneurial thinking, and a shared commitment to advancing the sector.

Joining the Board are:
Kelly Thorne, SVP Operations at MOVATI Athletic;
Luke Doran, President & COO of Sweat and Tonic;
Pauline Caballero, Co-Founder of Power Yoga Canada;
and Tonya Faganely, VP Fitness Management at LIVunLtd Canada.

Each brings a distinct perspective—from national operations and premium fitness innovation to entrepreneurship and managed fitness services—reflecting the breadth and evolution of today’s industry.

For Thorne, the opportunity is both strategic and necessary.

“The fitness sector needs a strong, recognizable national presence—one that is respected by policymakers, trusted by Canadians, and embraced by operators and professionals across the country.”

She sees FIC playing a central role in unifying the industry, advancing standards, strengthening collaboration, and becoming a trusted hub for data, best practices, and national alignment.

At the same time, the industry faces a significant challenge: ensuring cohesion and credibility in a rapidly evolving environment. Thorne is focused on advancing consistent standards, strengthening data-driven advocacy, and deepening integration between the Council and the broader fitness community so the sector can speak with one clear, aligned voice.

If successful, this work could reshape the landscape. Operators would benefit from a stronger policy environment and greater national visibility. Fitness professionals would gain clearer career pathways, elevated standards, and stronger networks. Canadians would have improved access to high-quality, evidence-based fitness experiences that support long-term health and wellbeing.

Her appointment reflects a commitment to helping the sector unite, modernize, and lead. It also signals a broader ambition for the Council to evolve into not only the voice of Canadian fitness, but a globally recognized authority shaping the future of the industry.

As the industry evolves, economic pressures remain a defining factor. Doran points to the impact of affordability on participation.

“The cost of living is forcing Canadians to make difficult choices. Our role is to ensure fitness is not one of the things they give up,” said Doran.

That challenge presents a clear opportunity to elevate fitness as essential, not optional.

“If we can move fitness into the same tier of social priority as healthcare, the impact is significant. Every 1% increase in membership penetration represents 400,000 more Canadians in fitness clubs.”

Caballero and Faganely further strengthen the Board’s reach, bringing deep expertise in scaling businesses, building culture, and delivering high-quality fitness experiences across diverse environments. Their leadership enhances FIC’s ability to represent the full ecosystem of fitness in Canada, from boutique studios to multi-site operators and managed facilities.

The response to FIC’s call for new board members reflects strong engagement across the country. The four new board members were selected from more than 100 qualified candidates.

“The response has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Zach Weston, Executive Director of FIC. “To see such a high-caliber group of leaders step forward speaks to the strength of our sector and the shared commitment to its future.”

“Their leadership ensures that FIC remains a powerful, unified voice as we advocate for an industry that employs over 70,000 Canadians, generates more than $7 billion in economic activity, and plays a vital role in the health and wellbeing of our nation.”

These appointments reinforce FIC’s commitment to building a stronger, more unified fitness sector in Canada.

By advancing standards, supporting operators, and strengthening its national voice, the Council is helping shape a future where fitness is recognized as a fundamental part of the country’s health system.