Keynote Top Pick: Will Guidar
Team Active was most inspired by Will Guidar’s keynote presentation. Will is a luminary in the world of hospitality, best known for transforming Eleven Madison Park into a beacon of culinary excellence and innovation. Under his leadership, his restaurant not only clinched the title of the number one restaurant in the world but also became a hallmark for what he terms "unreasonable hospitality." His philosophy transcends the conventional boundaries of service, turning every interaction into an opportunity to create unforgettable experiences. Guidara's approach, characterized by deep respect for guests, meticulous attention to detail, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, has redefined the service industry. Here are five takeaways from Will's talk that can be applied to improving how fitness and wellness services are delivered.

1. Be Present

Based on Will's remarkable NY hotdog story, remember the value of genuinely and authentically listening to your members. Being fully present allows trainers and staff to pick up on subtle cues that can lead to tailoring experiences, advice, and encouragement in deeply resonating and contextually relevant ways to a specific member.

2. When it Makes Sense, Customize the Experience

"One size fits one" should be the mantra. From personalized workout plans to acknowledging individual achievements and preferences, customize your members' fitness experience to make every member feel recognized and valued as an individual.

3. Balance Professionalism with Personality

Much like fine dining, the fitness industry thrives on excellence and expertise. However, injecting humor, warmth, and personal touches into member interactions can make the gym feel more welcoming and less intimidating, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

4. Foster a Culture of Team Empowerment

Encourage and empower your staff to take the initiative in cocreating great member experiences. When your team feels invested and understands the fundamental part they play in positively changing the lives of those they serve, they are naturally more engaged, and their enthusiasm translates to a vibrant, positive club environment.

5. Embrace the Nobility of Service

When all of the above is successfully implemented, service is less about the 'job to be done' and instead a source of pride and honor. When your team intimately recognizes the profound responsibility of helping someone on their wellness journey, they will undoubtedly approach every member interaction with dignity and care.

2024 IHRSA Tradeshow Floor Highlights
Our team scoured the tradeshow floor this year with a new approach. We broke into groups and then did a photo scavenger hunt finding new products, fitness equipment and technology tools that could be leveraged to our members and clubs. Plus, we snapped some fun photos of our team members together and overall had a good time testing out new products and tools.

• Recovery was a dominant category this year on the tradeshow floor -  red light therapy, saunas, cold plunges, cryotherapy,  and massage. Team Active is keeping an eye on the best tools and products to add to our fitness centers and programming.

• Several major manufacturers seem to be focused on upgrading their cardio equipment to offer a premium line which we are seeing an interest in from some of our partners.
• Glute Training is still gaining steam with no end in sight.
• Some notable launches were EGYM Genius which is an AI powered training tool, MZ-OPEN which is Myzone's ability to use a smartwatch in place of a Myzone device allowing users the ability to collect MEPs without Myzone equipment.
  
• The Cascade SkiErg Raptor Trainer was also a popular booth. This could be a good option for small space fitness centers as an alternative cardiovascular option.
• RopeFlex is a cool variation to the stair climber / Jacobs Ladder. This was popular amongst our fitness enthusiasts. 

• The SmartSled by BodyKore was the most popular. It is an interesting take on the standard push-pull sled with live digital feedback. 

Networking Opportunities
Networking sessions and social events throughout the conference provided our team with valuable opportunities to connect, collaborate, and forge new partnerships. Team Active hosted a team event prior to the tradeshow allowing our team to meet in person and connect. We also hosted an industry event, Active Connections, bringing together vendors and some of the top industry experts for a night of networking and socializing. As always, a good time was had by all.

Workshops and Interactive Sessions
Hands-on workshops and interactive sessions allowed attendees to dive deeper into specific topics that they could apply in their professional lives. From leadership workshops to programming and fitness center operations, these sessions provided attendees with new ideas and knowledge to help engage our members.

Overall, the conference this year was a success bringing together the fitness industry from all over the world with thought leaders, innovators, and industry experts to explore the latest trends and developments shaping health and fitness. As our team returns to their fitness centers, they do so armed with new ideas, insights, and connections that will drive innovation and success in the years to come.

Find more conference and tradeshow highlights on our Instagram page @TeamActiveWellness here.