Next Gen-Fitness: Innovation, Insights, & Industry Disruption With Bryan O'Rourke

Fitness + Technology

In this episode of the Fitness + Technology podcast, Bryan O’Rourke joins an exclusive panel live from FIBO to explore the future of the fitness industry through the lens of technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Featuring global industry leaders:

• Bryan K. O'Rourke – President, Fitness Industry Technology Council | Chairman, Vedere Ventures | CEO, Core Health & Fitness
• Hugo Braam – CEO & Co-Founder, Virtuagym
• Magdalena Szwed – Product Director, Benefit Systems Oddział Fitness
• Henrik Gockel – Founder, Prime Time Fitness GmbH

Moderated by Hans Muench, FITC International Ambassador, this dynamic discussion dives into the trends and technologies shaping the next generation of fitness—from AI-powered personalization and connected ecosystems to evolving business models and digital wellness strategies.

One Powerful Quote:

34:03: “When you do, even though you don’t understand, it forces you to understand and learn.”

4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:

2:09: Hugo speaks on the evolving demands of an increasingly tech-driven fitness landscape.

6:18: Henrik speaks on high quality, member-centric fitness experiences and how technology enhances gym operations without losing the premium, personal touch.

10:08: Bryan speaks on AI-driven platforms collecting vast amounts of user data and how the industry will manage innovation with ethical considerations and data privacy concerns.

15:14: Magdalena speaks on traditional gym operators adapting to the rise of hybrid fitness models.

18:30: Hugo speaks on how AI-driven insights and predictive analytics can help gyms improve member retention and experience.

24:41: The panel speaks on operators balancing automation and human interaction to retain their brand identity.

31:21: Bryan speaks on coming together to create a stronger, more inclusive industry.

35:11: Magdalena speaks on call to action challenges fitness and wellness leaders need to embrace with technology and innovation.

36:52: Henrik and Bryan speak on the industry working together to create a more connected and seamless user experience.

41:59: Hugo speaks on AI and fitness tech better serving corporate wellness initiatives to boost employee health and productivity.

45:13: Henrik, Bryan, and Magdalena address an audience question on tackling the motivation challenges faced by gym members, emphasizing the strategic role of technology in driving engagement and consistency.

Bullet List of Resources:

https://www.benefitsystems.pl/en

https://primetime-fitness.de/

https://virtuagym.com/

https://www.fibo.com/

Guest Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-muench-653346a/

https://x.com/Lazarusmunich

https://www.hans-muench.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/magdalena-szwed-5504469a/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrik-gockel-6b234069/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugobraam/

https://x.com/hugobraam

https://www.bryankorourke.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/

http://www.fittechcouncil.org/

https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163