By Erin Phelan
Fitness Industry Council of Canada
The Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) has announced the appointment of Zach Weston as its new Executive Director — a timely and strategic move that positions the organization for continued growth, advocacy, and impact. With a unique blend of experience in kinesiology, business, health system administration, and entrepreneurship, Weston brings fresh energy and vision to Canada’s national voice for fitness.
FIC represents over 6,000 fitness facilities across the country, advocating for the essential role of physical activity in public health and community well-being. Weston’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to elevating the industry’s voice in government policy, while helping fitness operators adapt and thrive in a rapidly evolving wellness landscape.
A Bridge Between Health, Business, and Innovation
Zach Weston has built his career at the intersection of fitness, health, education, and entrepreneurship. Since 2003, he has been a faculty member at Wilfrid Laurier University, teaching kinesiology, exercise physiology, and business model development in both the Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education and the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics.
He holds a BSc in Kinesiology and an MSc in Exercise Physiology from the University of Waterloo, as well as an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier University. Weston is also a Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist with the American College of Sports Medicine and the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology.
In addition to his academic work, Weston has founded and advised multiple health science companies, including fitness facilities, lending him a deep understanding of both the science of human performance and the business dynamics shaping the health and wellness sector. This cross-disciplinary perspective makes him an ideal fit to lead FIC into its next phase of growth and influence. With experience leading national not-for-profit organizations and championing public-private partnerships, Weston is poised to serve the industry to create significant impact.
A Turning Point for the Industry
Weston steps into the Executive Director role at a pivotal time for Canada’s fitness industry. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in public health systems while reaffirming the essential role of physical activity in building individual and community resilience. Now, as the country addresses rising rates of chronic illness, mental health challenges, and aging populations, fitness facilities are uniquely positioned to be part of the solution.
“Our sector has a powerful opportunity to support the health of Canadians in a meaningful way,” said Weston. “As Executive Director, I’m focused on amplifying the role of fitness in preventive health, increasing access to movement for all Canadians, and creating stronger partnerships between our industry and the broader healthcare system.”
His vision includes strengthening FIC’s advocacy at the federal, provincial, and municipal levels to secure better recognition, funding opportunities, and support for fitness professionals and facility operators across the country.
“Zach Weston is a transformational leader with the energy, vision, and commitment to drive meaningful impact for FIC,” said Paula Comfort, FIC board member who was instrumental in choosing the new Executive Director. “ His passion for health and wellness, coupled with his professionalism, will elevate our industry and ensure health and fitness clubs are recognized as essential to Canada’s long-term health and well-being.”
Supporting Operators in a Changing Landscape
As consumer expectations shift and hybrid fitness models become the norm, Weston brings an entrepreneurial mindset that is essential for helping operators adapt and lead. His experience advising start-ups and teaching business innovation equips him to support facility owners with the strategic insight needed to navigate the future of fitness.
“Members today are looking for more than just a workout — they want experiences, community, and purpose-driven engagement,” he noted. “We have a chance to reimagine how fitness is delivered, and FIC can help operators stay competitive and connected to what Canadians need most.”
Weston’s leadership is expected to deepen FIC’s engagement with technology partners, educational institutions, and allied health sectors, creating new opportunities for collaboration, research, and workforce development.
Leading with Collaboration and Vision
Weston succeeds the interim leadership with a strong mandate: to unite the industry, elevate its profile on the national stage, and drive measurable progress on physical activity engagement. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, dialogue, and action — qualities that align with FIC’s mission to be a responsive and member-driven organization.
With National Health and Fitness Day approaching on June 7, Weston’s appointment comes at the perfect time to galvanize the industry. He encourages facilities across the country to open their doors, host events, and invite Canadians to rediscover the joy of movement.
“Fitness isn’t just about physical transformation — it’s about building stronger, healthier communities,” Weston said. “I’m excited to work alongside FIC members, partners, and advocates to help more Canadians move more, more often.”
About the Author:
Erin Phelan is a communications and marketing leader at Matrix Fitness Canada, the communications director for Fitness Industry Canada and a longtime advocate for physical activity and health promotion. She contributes regularly to industry publications on fitness, wellness, and community engagement.
