By Erin Phelan
Fitness Industry Council of Canada
Revered panel will discuss the incredible growth, challenges and trends impacting the Canadian fitness industry
This August at the canfitpro Global Conference & Trade Show in Toronto, Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) is excited to present an engaging panel of renowned industry leaders for an insightful discussion on the current state of the fitness industry in Canada and all across the globe, the trends we are seeing, the challenges we face and the future of fitness. The unique perspectives will undeniably provoke a discussion that will involve insights from every corner, including the greatest thought leaders, business leaders and innovators: from big box gyms to big experiences, continuing education and human resources, and those with all the inside knowledge into where we are at and where we are going.
“We wanted to bring the expertise we have guiding the FIC to the stage to share their knowledge on this incredible panel,” said Gabriel Hardy, Executive Director of FIC. “We know that everyone in the room will leave the discussion with more knowledge into how to transform their businesses.”
The session will cover data and research from all across the world, touching upon important themes including:
- Big box gyms and boutique studios in the Canadian fitness landscape
- The rise of global franchises
- Preventative health
- The fitness industry supplier perspective
- How continuing education is shaping our industry
- The challenges and opportunities in hiring, and retaining staff
- How competitive races and fitness challenges are shaping the industry
- And much more!
The panel will be moderated by FIC Executive Director Gabriel Hardy who will be joined by:
David Hardy
David is a Partner at Orangetheory Fitness and Anytime Fitness, overseeing strategic planning and product development. As President of Franvest Capital Partners, he specializes in fitness and healthy living ventures like Orangetheory Fitness, World Health Edmonton, and Fresh FitFoods. David engages actively in the fitness industry through leadership roles in industry roundtables, trade associations, and public speaking engagements. He has championed initiatives including music licensing and fitness tax credits and has held positions on boards like the Fitness Industry Council of Canada, Alberta Economic Development Authority, and International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA).
Sal Pelegrino
Sal is a fixture in the health and fitness industry since 1979, excelling as both a club owner and equipment supplier. Renowned for fostering deep business relationships, he offers invaluable industry insights and a knack for spotting emerging trends. As a visionary leader in the American fitness industry, Sal is the Executive Director of FISA (Fitness Industry Suppliers Association). His leadership at FISA has catalyzed innovation and connectivity among industry suppliers, fostering a vibrant ecosystem that supports the evolving needs of fitness professionals nationwide.
Maureen Hagan
Maureen (Mo) is a distinguished global fitness ambassador with a remarkable four-decade career marked by leadership and innovation in the fitness industry. Recently honored with the prestigious canfitpro Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023, Maureen’s contributions have significantly shaped the fitness landscape. As Chief Operating Officer at canfitpro, she spearheads initiatives to elevate fitness education and certification standards across Canada, fostering a future where health and wellness professionals excel through cutting-edge training and support.
James Muscart
James serves as the Regional Manager for HYROX Canada, overseeing operations and strategic initiatives for the country. With a strong background in fitness and event management, James plays a pivotal role in promoting the HYROX fitness competition series across Canada. He is dedicated to fostering community engagement and enhancing fitness experiences through innovative event planning and execution.
Sara Gilbert
Sara, President of Fitness Industry Council of Canada, is a trained Clinical Exercise Physiologist who began her career in cardiac rehabilitation and diabetes management for Fraser Health Authority in British Columbia. In 2011, she launched LIVE WELL Exercise Clinic – a safe, supportive, supervised exercise environment focused on managing and preventing chronic health conditions. Sara is the leading voice in the medical fitness movement in Canada, and LIVE WELL has grown with franchises in four Canadian provinces and now includes a virtual platform serving members globally. Sara is also the president of Fitness Industry Council of Canada.
Paula Comfort
Paula is the founder of Hire Ground Talent, a North American leader in executive search and talent acquisition focused on the fitness, health, and wellness industry. Since 2008, Paula has executed hundreds of search mandates ranging from sales associate roles to General Counsel. Paula believes in building long-term, trusted relationships with clients and takes a deep interest in the candidates she works with. She has held senior leadership roles in sales, marketing, and operations, and her strength and passion lie in building high-performance teams for clients.
The State of the Industry session will be held on Friday, August 9th from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm and will include the annual FIC Leadership Award presentation followed by an FIC reception and cocktail at 5:30 pm, sponsored by Matrix Fitness Canada. The entire industry looks forward to meeting and exchanging ideas at this incredible opportunity that canfitpro creates for us.
You don’t want to miss it!
Save 20% off canfitpro registration as a member of FIC.
Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) is the not-for profit trade association that represents the voice of fitness facility operators across Canada. Representing more than 6,000 facilities with more than six-million members nationwide, FIC pursues a legislative agenda in the hope of bettering the fitness industry for both consumers and operators. FIC aims to work with both industry and government to improve the health and physical activity levels of Canadians.
