As we move into another vibrant quarter, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering commitment to promoting health and wellness across our state. Your dedication as fitness professionals, gym owners, and enthusiasts continues to strengthen our community and inspire countless individuals to lead healthier lives.
This quarter, we distributed round two of our enhancement grant to promote health and wellness across the state. These dollars help serve Michiganders through a variety of creative initiatives. These efforts reflect our shared mission to make fitness accessible and inclusive for all.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about our upcoming Annual Conference on October 15th, where we’re uniting fitness business owners, operators, and professionals who are working to create a healthier Michigan. You’ll hear expert insights, legislative updates, leadership development, and strategies for bridging the critical gap between fitness providers and healthcare.
I encourage you to stay engaged—share your success stories, connect with fellow members, and let us know how we can further support your goals. Together, we’re not just building stronger bodies but a stronger Michigan.
Is there a particular topic you would like to see covered in MiFitNews? Please let us know! Contact MFA today.
CALL FOR MFA BOARD NOMINATIONS
Have you been wondering how you can become more involved in the MFA? Have you wondered how the MFA makes its decisions? Have you been looking for new ways to give back to the fitness industry? The answer to all of these questions is to serve on the MFA Board of Directors.
Nominations are now open for the MFA Board of Directors positions. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to participate in the important work the organization is undertaking on behalf of the fitness industry. The MFA will consider candidates for four Board of Directors seats whose terms expire at the end of 2025 or are open now due to vacancy. Per the MFA bylaws, nominations will be accepted until November 1st. After the nominations process concludes, the MFA will prepare a ballot and announce the election. Those elected will take office immediately upon election.
All MFA members are eligible to be nominated. Please consider this opportunity to participate in your organization. Contact Derek Dalling at derek@kdafirm.com for more information.
STRENGTHEN YOUR TEAM WITH 5-5-5 QUARTERLY MEETINGS
BY JULIE EASTMAN EPIC FITNESS GROUP, LLC
Owners of Fitness Centers face a myriad of challenges unique to the industry. With high turnover and external market pressures, they need to focus on ensuring their managers develop a team that is passionate about providing top notch customer experience.
Whether a center is just starting out or mature, boutique or big box, The Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) will equip
an owner with tools to manage their business effectively. These tools allow owners and their teams to:
• Establish and communicate the company Vision
• Set 3-month Rocks as priorities for each employee
• Provide structure to set 1- and 3-year goals, and revisit the strategic plan in Quarterly and Yearly planning sessions
• Hold weekly meetings at an established time with consistent attendees and a collaborative agenda
• Provide a framework for quarterly 5-5-5 touch base meetings to foster dialogue between the supervisors and their direct reports
EPIC Fitness Group utilizes EOS and we’ve found the 5-5-5 quarterly meetings to be exremely beneficial to our business
5-5-5 BREAKDOWN
5 CORE VALUES
Discussing the organization’s core values and how the employee embodies them.
5 ROLES
Reviewing the employee’s specific roles and responsibilities within their position, ensuring clarity and alignment.
operations. The 5-5-5 quarterly meeting facilitates a check-in on the 5 Core Values of the company, and if the employee is successfully demonstrating those values. This session also ensures that the supervisor and the team member are on the same page pertaining to the 5 key roles within their job description, and their progress on their 5 Rocks (you might not have exactly 5 core values, 5 rocks or 5 roles on their seat, but it’s called the 5-5-5 to keep it simple).
The outcomes of the 5-5-5 are increased alignment and improved communication between the supervisor and their team members. The meeting allows for minor course corrections, and the ability to tackle problems in a proactive manner, that otherwise, may not have surfaced. This is accomplished through an open dialogue with both parties discussing “What’s working?, What is not working? What can the employee do better? and What can the supervisor do better?” Everyone in the organization has a 5-5-5 starting with the Leadership team, and cascading through the rest of the organization.
Bryan Rief, co-founder and CEO of EPIC Fitness Group, notes “By keeping meetings short, focused, and action-oriented, 5-5-5 meetings have helped maximize efficiency, maintain momentum, and address challenges proactively. The structured cadence transformed our business into a “well-oiled machine,” improving team morale and productivity.”
Additionally, Calen Gibbs, General Manager with EPIC Fitness Group, indicates “I do believe that success in a 5-5-5 isn’t always about a breakthrough moment, it’s about creating a safe space where real conversations can happen. A big sign of a successful 5-5-5 for me is when an employee feels comfortable enough to give honest feedback to the question “What can your supervisor do better?”. That level of openness from your staff shows trust, alignment, and a culture where feedback is welcomed
5 ROCKS
Examining the employee’s 90-day priorities, also known as “rocks,” to ensure they are on track and aligned with the overall goals.
and valued. All the things that can help a team grow stronger over time. When a 5-5-5 goes beyond just surface level updates and into mutual feedback, is when I think that a 5-5-5 is doing exactly what it was meant to do. They do not need to be flashy, just insightful and meaningful.”
While EOS has many tools to drive accountability, action and prioritization in an organization, the Quarterly 5-5-5 is a key differentiator focused on building relationships, identifying concerns that can be resolved, and supporting the team.
Julie Eastman is the Vice President of Human Resources at EPC Fitness Group. She can be reached at julie.eastman@epicfitnessgroup.com. For more information about EOS and how to conduct a 5-5-5 quarterly meeting, visit www.eosworldwide.com/ blog/simple-habit-increase-employee-accountability.
SIMPLE BREATHING EXERCISES TO CALM THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
BY ELAINE ECONOMOU MOVE WELLNESS
WHY BREATHING MATTERS
Support your mind-body connection through breath
• Exhale slowly through your mouth for 6–8 counts.
• Focus on softening your jaw and shoulders as you exhale. Tip: Imagine you’re fogging up a mirror with your breath to slow the exhale.
Your breath is a powerful tool for calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and supporting efficient movement. Practicing intentional breathing can help you feel more grounded, focused, and connected in your body—both during exercise and in daily life.
DIAPHRAGMATIC (BELLY) BREATHING
Purpose: Calms the nervous system and engages the diaphragm.
How to Do It:
• Sit or lie comfortably with one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.
• Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your belly to rise as your lungs fill.
• Exhale gently through your mouth, letting your belly fall.
• Try to keep your chest still as your belly moves. Practice for: 2–5 minutes, or as a daily grounding practice.
BOX BREATHING (4-4-4-4)
“When
the breath wanders, the mind is unsteady, but when the breath is still, so is the mind.”
Hatha Yoga Pradipika
• Hold again for 4.
Purpose: Reduces anxiety and brings focus. How to Do It:
• Inhale through your nose for a count of 4.
• Hold your breath for 4.
• Exhale through your mouth for 4.
Repeat: 4–6 cycles. Great before or after a workout, or when you feel overwhelmed.
EXTENDED EXHALE BREATHING
Purpose: Deeply activates the parasympathetic (rest and digest) system.
How to Do It:
• Inhale through your nose for 4 counts.
THREE-PART BREATH (DIRGA PRANAYAMA)
Purpose: Enhances full lung capacity and awareness of the body.
How to Do It:
• Inhale into your belly, then ribcage, then upper chest.
• Exhale from the upper chest, then ribcage, then belly.
“Breathing is the first act of life and the last. Our very life depends on it.”
Joseph Pilates
• Use slow, steady breaths and imagine filling and emptying the lungs in waves.
Try it: For 3–5 minutes, especially at the start of a movement practice.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
• Practice in a quiet space without distractions.
• Pair breathing with gentle movement or stretching.
• Consistency matters—just a few minutes a day can create change.
Elaine Economou, NCPT, is the co-founder and CEO of MOVE Wellness, a premier Pilates studio based in Ann Arbor. She also leads the MOVE Pilates Instructor Training Program and is a certified menopause coaching specialist and wellness coach. Elaine is deeply committed to extending wellness beyond the studio walls through partnerships with healthcare professionals, nonprofits, sports teams, and fitness clubs, including collaborations with Trinity Health, Probility Physical Therapy, Cancer Support Community of Ann Arbor and Michigan Medicine. She serves on the board of the Michigan Fitness Association and volunteers for the Michigan Medicine Women’s Health Leadership Board.
Michigan Fitness Association Annual Conference Bridging
Michigan Fitness Association Annual Conference
OCTOBER 15, 2025
Michigan Athletic Club, East Lansing | Conference Information
CONFERENCE INFORMATION
REGISTRATION
Registration fees include all educational sessions as well as meals and refreshment breaks throughout the conference. To register, visit the events page at mfafit.org or scan the QR code.
Early registration ends October 1, 2025. After October 1, an additional $15 will be added to all registration fees.
MFA Member ................................................................................................. $99
Michigan Fitness Association Welcomes You Michigan Fitness Association welcomes you to our Annual Conference. Our 2024 inaugural event was a great success and we are looking to continue to grow and connect you with the best education and resources. Meet the MFA Board, learn more about what your membership has to offer, hear what we’ve been up to, and what you can look forward to.
CONTINUING EDUCATION
The American College of Sports Medicine’s Continuing Professional Education Committee certifies that Michigan Fitness Association’s Annual Conference (100030) meets the criteria for 5.5 official ACSM CECs from July 1, 2025 to July 1, 2026. The ACSM Education Provider approved course reflects the concepts of their respective organizations and does not necessarily represent the positions or policies of ACSM.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Graduate by Hilton East Lansing
133 Evergreen Ave. | East Lansing, MI 48823
Graduate East Lansing is offering conference guests a special rate of $139, available until September 14, or until sold out, whichever occurs first. Visit our conference page at www.mfafit.org to access the special booking link.
Hotel valet parking available for $35 per night or visit our conference page at www.mfafit.org for information on additional parking options.
9:00am-10:30am
State of the Industry: The Evolving Role of the Fitness Professional in Health, Wellness, and Healthcare
Jim Ryan, Lobbyist, Michigan Fitness Association and Mike Stack, BS, ACSM-EP, ACSM-EIM, ACSM-PAPHS, CSCS, FMFA, Applied Fitness Solutions
This dynamic session will explore key trends shaping the fitness industry in 2025, including workforce challenges, emerging business models, and the integration of fitness into healthcare. Presenters will examine the current landscape with a focus on opportunities for exercise professionals to elevate their role in addressing chronic disease, health equity, and population well-being. Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead—and how to position themselves for success in a rapidly changing ecosystem.
SCHEDULE
10:30am-11:00am
Break and Visit Exhibits
11:00am-12:00pm
Bridging Between Our Fitness Values and Theirs: An easy, science-based tactic to cultivate sustainable exercise motivation and retention
Michelle Segar, PhD, MPH, MS, Sustainable Behavior Change Researcher, University of Michigan
Despite over 40 years of promoting exercise and fitness to the general population, the majority are still not regularly active and membership retention remains low. Have you ever wondered why it is that most people choose not to move given the multitude of benefits? This provocative presentation will explain the surprising reasons why our industry’s approach to exercise and physical activity keeps consumers stuck in cycles of starting and stopping but not sustaining. Through a graphic-based story, University of Michigan sustainable-change researcher Michelle Segar will explain the science behind why our traditional approach to promoting exercise and physical movement inhibits long-term behavior change and present more strategic ways to cultivate physical activity motivation and participation can be used across fitness and healthcare contexts.
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch & Visit Exhibits
1:00pm-2:00pm
Building High-Performance Teams in Fitness Through Leadership & Culture
Patrick Hoban, PT, AT, President/CEO Three Tree Leadership Coaching and Consulting
Learn practical approaches to build trust and inspire your team to reach both your and their goals. Create a culture of greatness and accountability where people love working with clients, each other, and your business!
Michigan Fitness Association Annual Conference
OCTOBER 15, 2025
Michigan Athletic Club, East Lansing
2:00pm-2:15pm Break & Visit Exhibits
2:15pm – 3:15pm
Movement is the Multiplier: How Physical Activty Amplifies the Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
Melissa Sundermann, DO, FACOI, FACLM, DipABLM, Lifestyle Medicine Physician, Medical Director of Lifestyle Medicine, Corewell Health Lifestyle Medicine is transforming healthcare by targeting the root causes of chronic disease through six evidence-based pillars. In this dynamic and inspiring session, Dr. Melissa Sundermann, a double board-certified physician and endurance athlete, will introduce the foundational pillars of Lifestyle Medicine with a deep dive into physical activity. Attendees will learn how movement not only stands on its own as a therapeutic tool, but also enhances the impact of all the other pillars — from nutrition to sleep, stress, connection, and substance use. This talk will empower exercise professionals to lead the way in bridging the gap between fitness and medicine.
3:15pm-4:15pm
Building the Bridge Between Healthcare and Fitness: Learning Best Practices From Fellow Operators
Moderator: Amy Bantham, DrPH, CEO and Founder, Move to Live More Panelists: Harrison Brode, Vice President, Franklin Athletic Club; Elaine Economou, NCPT, Co-Founder and CEO, MOVE Wellness; Brendan Kelly, Owner and CEO, The Well Being, Counseling and Fitness Center; Jaime Vieau, Studio Operations Manager, DRIVEN by Lisa Macdonald
Michigan operators will share their experiences building referral programs to increase the number of members and clients referred by their healthcare providers. The audience will learn benefits and how to overcome barriers to implementing educational outreach and streamlined processes that connect healthcare clinics to community-based fitness facilities.
KEEP MICHIGAN
HOW PHYSICAL ACTIVITY HELPS CHILDREN
More than 300 hyper school kids from the Lansing area descended on the lawn of the Michigan Capitol building this spring. On this breezy morning in May, they weren’t there to sit and watch—they came to move.
From stretching sessions to obstacle course relays, this year’s Michigan Moves Day at the Capitol turned the statehouse lawn into a playground of activity, hope, and advocacy. Organized by the Michigan
Moves Coalition—a group of more than 30 public and private health organizations—the event wasn’t just a celebration of movement. It was a call to action, shining a light on Michigan’s growing youth health crisis.
And while the music, laughter, and leaping students captured headlines, there’s another vital part of the story: the professionals and organizations across Michigan that make this kind of movement possible.
MICHIGAN MOVING AND ADULTS STAY ACTIVE, STEP
THE HIDDEN FOUNDATION OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: DAILY MOVEMENT
Behind every step, jump, and cartwheel performed on Capitol grounds, stands the essential but often overlooked foundation of mobility—consistent, supported physical activity. For the 3rd-to-5th graders who ran the courses and danced to drumbeats, their ability to move comfortably and confidently is essential not just for fun, but for lifelong health.
That’s where fitness professionals and wellness lead-
BY STEP
ers across Michigan (like yourself) play a critical role. From leading kids’ fitness classes and youth sports programs to designing inclusive workouts that support healthy development, you help ensure that young Michiganders don’t just grow up—they grow up moving.
“The Michigan Fitness Association is committed to advancing movement in Michigan, and through the Michigan Moves Coalition, we join forces with dozens
FEATURE of powerful health groups,” said Elaine Economou, MFA Board of Directors
FROM CHILDHOOD TO ADULTHOOD: A LIFELONG NEED FOR MOVEMENT
While Michigan Moves Day focused on youth, the challenges of physical inactivity extend far beyond childhood. Adults in Michigan, like many across the country, struggle with sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and chronic pain—often made worse by a lack of access to exercise or fitness resources.
Members of the Michigan Fitness Association are helping to change that. By offering programs that address common challenges such as joint pain, low energy, or a lack of time, gym/studio owners help adults regain confidence in their bodies and joy in movement.
“In any organization, there is the glamorous side and the not-so-glamorous side. Advocacy and political involvement are often underappreciated because their
DID YOU KNOW?
• 1 IN 3 MICHIGAN CHILDREN ARE OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE
• LESS THAN 25% MEET THE NATIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DAILY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
• INACTIVITY IS AMONG THE TOP REASONS ADULTS EXPERIENCE CHRONIC HEALTH ISSUES
• EARLY ACCESS TO MOVEMENT-BASED PROGRAMS IMPROVES MOBILITY AND LONG-TERM HEALTH
• MFA MEMBERS ACROSS THE STATE OFFER PROGRAMS THAT MAKE FITNESS ACCESSIBLE TO EVERYONE
effects are not always immediate or visible. Joining in with other health organizations brings more voices from every corner of the state, and that will influence legislative health policy decisions,” said Derek Dalling, MFA Executive Director.
THE ROLE OF THE MICHIGAN FITNESS ASSOCIATION: ADVOCACY, EDUCATION, AND ACCESS
For decades, the MFA has worked to elevate the fitness profession while promoting physical activity for all Michiganders. The association’s efforts span professional development, public awareness, and legislative advocacy—each contributing to the broader goal of keeping Michigan moving.
MFA members are often the first line of support when inactivity, injuries, or health barriers threaten a person’s mobility. But they also serve as educators, leading school-based programs, offering community classes, and designing wellness initiatives that help prevent injury and promote lifelong movement.
“Promoting physical activity is preventative medicine,” said Diane Smith Revolve Cycle Studio . “We want to see kids running and playing today, but we also want to see them walking confidently into their 80s and 90s.”
MICHIGAN MOVES COALITION IS THE PUSH MICHIGAN NEEDS NOW
The MFA supports their vision, which aims to embed physical activity into the everyday lives of all Michiganders—from elementary school to older adulthood. Their goals include:
• Increasing access to daily physical activity for youth in schools
• Supporting policies that prioritize active transportation (like walking and biking)
• Advancing public education around the health benefits of movement
• Promoting healthcare practices that incorporate physical activity into patient care
These priorities align closely with MFA’s mission to promote movement as a cornerstone of long-term health and wellness.
BRIDGING POLICY AND PRACTICE
The message from Michigan Moves Day is loud and clear: if we want to create a healthier future, we must build it on movement. But to move well, we need to create environments that support active living—from gyms and trails to schoolyards and sidewalks.
When children face barriers to movement—like poor physical literacy, lack of recess, or screen-time overload—early intervention through structured activity programs can make all the difference. For older adults, tailored exercise programs, walking clubs, and functional fitness classes can support mobility and reduce fall risks while boosting overall quality of life.
In fact, national guidelines now recommend that physical activity be considered a “vital sign” in healthcare—something every patient should be asked about regularly. MFA and its members are leading that charge, making sure movement becomes a part of every Michigander’s day.
The Michigan Moves Coalition comprises more than 30 public and private health organizations. The coalition advances policies and programs that support physical activity access for all Michiganders.
Only 23.4% of Michigan residents meet the CDC’s recommendations for physical activity, ranking the state 24th nationally in terms of physical activity levels. The public health and economic costs of inactivity are staggering; costing over $117 billion dollars (nationally) on an annual basis.
A CALL TO ACTION: LET’S MOVE—TOGETHER
Michigan Moves Day at the Capitol was more than a fun day outside—it was a statement of values. It emphasized the shared responsibility across fitness, healthcare, education, and public policy to prioritize physical activity for better long-term health. And as Michigan looks ahead to a future of stronger, more active communities, the Michigan Fitness Association and its members will be vital partners in that mission.
From coaching youth sports to supporting fitness goals in older adults, Michigan’s fitness community plays an irreplaceable role in keeping our state moving—one step, one rep, one day at a time.
As Mike Stack of the Michigan Moves Coalition put it, “If we want a healthier future for our state, we have to prioritize movement as part of every person’s day, every single day.”
The Michigan Fitness Association couldn’t agree more!
Article by Joe Ross, for the Michigan Fitness Association. Joe is with CR Marketing in East Lansing, Michigan. Learn more at www.crmarketing.biz.
COMMON EXPOSURES IN FITNESS CENTERS
Fitness centers are popular destinations for those looking to get in shape, and the owners and operators of these facilities are passionate about helping their members better their health. However, to best serve their members, owners of fitness centers need to address the unique risks associated with their business.
The condition of your gym, trainers you hire, the types of equipment you provide, and the fitness classes and services available to your members can all contribute to your exposures. What’s more, potential losses for your business extend well beyond broken exercise equipment or injury concerns, and can even include damaging professional liability claims. The list below provides an overview of these fitness center risks and more—helping you identify potential blind spots in your risk management and insurance programs.
• Property exposures exist for fitness centers due to the amount of equipment needed and the hazards associated with them. What’s more, should a fire or other incident occur, multiple aspects of your facility can be affected (e.g., workout areas, offices and locker rooms). Complicating risks, expensive exercise equipment can break if it’s misused, leading to costly repairs and a poor member experience.
• While most trainers you hire may be exemplary employees, they can be a source of serious professional liability. For example, a trainer could encourage a patron to exercise above their ability during a workout, causing serious physical or emotional trauma. In addition, because trainers work closely with their clients, the risk of sexual and other types of harassment increases in fitness facilities. In fact, any negligent act committed by your dieticians, trainers or physical therapists could lead to claims against your business.
• Fitness centers depend on functioning exercise equipment to ensure a thriving facility. In the face of an equipment breakdown, fitness centers can experience business interruptions or even prolonged closures. Specifically, a business’s workout equipment, computers, electronic equipment, and mechanical, electrical and HVAC systems all have the potential to break down, causing major disruptions that can impact your reputation and bottom line.
• Crime can be a challenge for fitness centers. Because locker
rooms are designed for privacy, the likelihood of assault, vandalism or theft is high. In this day and age, thieves (including your employees) do not need direct access to cash to steal from you—sensitive information, facility tools and supplies are all fair game.
• Because patrons of your facility are running, jumping and using heavy equipment in crowded workout areas, liability exposures are vast. While accidents related to slips, trips and falls are a source of concern for all businesses, fitness centers have to manage a plethora of other hazards. Improper use of exercise equipment and weights can cause broken bones, sprains and other types of injuries. What’s more, spas, pools, rock walls, workout classes and gym courts have their own set of injury risks you will need to address in order to keep patrons safe.
• As more and more fitness facilities move to online systems for enrollment and class scheduling, cyber exposures will continue to increase. Small businesses are often easier to hack, which means that your customers’ data—their names and addresses—could be a target for cybercriminals. In fact, fitness centers are a common target for cybercriminals, as these businesses often process a high volume of credit and debit card information from enrolling members. In addition, employees who are improperly trained on computer and data safety could leave your organization exposed to ransomware, viruses, phishing scams and malware.
• Any time one of your employees is injured on the job, your business could be subjected to expensive workers’ compensation claims. Common sources of on-the-job accidents for fitness centers include slips, trips, falls, musculoskeletal injuries caused by repetitive tasks, sprains and strains. Normal, everyday tasks related to cleaning pool and locker-room areas, or leading fitness classes can lead to accidents and, in turn, increased costs for your business.
Proper risk management practices can reduce certain exposures, but no system is 100% effective in ensuring an incident-free workplace. As a result, it’s all the more crucial to work with a trusted insurance professional to assess your unique exposures.
Article prrovided by Ron Jackson Insurance. For more information, visit www.ronjacksonins.com or call 269-345-8577.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
IMPACT AWARDS
The Michigan Fitness Association announced the Health and Wellness Impact Awards earlier this year. This program celebrates innovative projects funded by the MFA Health and Wellness Enhancement Grants.
The awards recognize exemplary initiatives that extend beyond business objectives to significantly enhance the health and wellbeing of Michiganders, especially within marginalized or underserved communities. Submissions have been evaluated on innovation, community engagement, measurable impact, sustainability, scalability, and health equity.
Members will have the opportunity to vote on the winners in September. Stay tuned for details on how to cast your vote!
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*Current direct members of SBAM who are also members of MFA are ineligible for Strategic Partner membership under this partnership agreement
B l u e C r o s s B l u e S h i e l d o f M i c h i g a n & B l u e C a r e N e t w o r k h e a l t h ,
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D e a r b o r n G r o u p L i f e & D i s a b i l i t y I n s u r a n c e
P o o l e d E m p l o y e r R e t i r e m e n t P l a n
L i f e S e c u r e A c c i d e n t & H o s p i t a l R e c o v e r y C o v e r a g e
D i s c o u n t T u i t i o n a t D a v e n p o r t U n i v e r s i t y
T u t o r i n g & S c h o o l W o r k S u p p o r t p r o v i d e d b y S y l v a n
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E R I S A C o m p l i a n c e S e r v i c e s b y K u s h n e r & C o .
C O B R A A d m i n i s t r a t i o n S e r v i c e s
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s p o n s o r e d h e a l t h p l a n )
D i s c o u n t e d w o r k p l a c e p o s t e r s , e m p l o y e e h a n d b o o k s , p r e -
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S A V E M O N E Y O N E X P E N S E S
F e d E x S h i p p i n g , P r i n t i n g & C o p y D i s c o u n t s
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D e b t C o l l e c t i o n b y C B M S e r v i c e s
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S B A M A d v o c a c y & G r a s s r o o t s N e t w o r k
A c c e s s t o o n l i n e r e s o u r c e s
PHIT ACT FALLS SHORT AGAIN IN BLOW TO AMERICAN FITNESS INDUSTRY
The PHIT Act will not be passed in 2025, despite many in the fitness industry advocating for its passage. The legislation would have allowed purchases like gym memberships and fitness classes to qualify as tax-free healthcare expenses under health savings accounts. Find out more about the act and the Health & Fitness Association’s push to get it passed.
Read more: Athletech News
LAWMAKERS TORN ON RULES MONITORING BUSINESS COMPETITION
Rules can be great for ensuring that things are fair, but some lawmakers are torn on the rules and regulations monitoring business competition in the United States. President Trump issued an executive order in April mandating that federal agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission and U.S. Department of Justice, compile a list of regulations that should be removed due to their anti-competitive effect on U.S. business. Find out more about what FTC and DOJ are doing as a result.
Read more: Tech Target
JOB OPENINGS UNEXPECTEDLY INCREASED IN MAY
Against expectations, job openings increased during the month of May, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Economists were expecting job openings to decrease after they jumped up in April, instead job openings increased for the second month in a row. Discover more about the current labor market and economic trends.
Read more: CNN Business
FED OFFICIAL SEES JULY RATE CUT ‘UNLIKELY,’ STICKING WITH POWELL’S VIEW THAT COMING MONTHS
WILL BE MOMENT OF TRUTH FOR TARIFFS’ EFFECT
ON INFLATION
According to Atlanta Federal Reserve President Raphael Bostic, it is unlikely that an interest rate cut will happen in July. The Federal Reserve expects the summer months to be crucial, as that is when Fed officials expect to see the results of tariffs’ effect on inflation. Find out more about how certain economic factors will impact the Fed’s future decisions.
Read more: Fortune
MEMBERNEWS
FLEX FITNESS CENTER CELEBRATES 40 YEARS
FLEX Fitness Center, a weightlifting and fitness hub located in Holland, is celebrating its 40th anniversary — a remarkable milestone for any small business. To celebrate four decades of dedication to health, strength, and community, FLEX hosted a "40th FLEXiversary" Parking Lot Party for the entire Holland community to join in the festivities. The celebration took place on Friday, August 15. The event was a tribute to the members, employees, and friends who have been the backbone of FLEX's success for 40 years.
Reaching a 40-year milestone is a rare achievement, especially in the ever-changing fitness landscape. According to national small business statistics, a significant majority of businesses don't make it past their first decade. FLEX Fitness Center's longevity is a powerful testament to its enduring commitment to its members, a unique culture of "raw-iron hospitality," and a dedicated focus on helping individuals achieve their fitness goals.
"We are incredibly proud to have served the Holland community for 40 years," says Amy Miller, Co-Owner. "FLEX isn't just a gym; it's a family. This celebration is for everyone who has ever been a part of our journey, from our very first members in 1985 to our newest members today. We hope to see everyone who has ever lifted with us, worked with us, and believed in what we do."
Do you have a recent milestone or news item to share? Let us know! We would love to hear from you and share your news with your industry colleagues. Simply forward your announcement to Melissa Travis at melissa@kdafirm.com.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President ................................................................................... Bryan Reif
Vice President .............................................................. Alyssa Tushman
Secretary ........................................................................... Michael Stack
Treasurer............................................................................. Henry Dabish
Director Michael Dabish
Director ......................................................................... Elaine Economou
STAFF
Executive Director ............................................................ Derek Dalling
Event Director Lauren Concannon
Finance Director .................................................................... Erin Dalling
Member Services Coordinator .............................................. Erin Theis
Creative & Communications Director ......................... Melissa Travis
Lobbyist ........................................................................................ Jim Ryan
MiFitNews is published quarterly by the Michigan Fitness Association, 629 W. Hillsdale St., Lansing, MI 48933. Michigan Fitness Association (MFA) is a membership organization that represents the fitness industry in Michigan. Our mission is to unite, protect, and promote the interests of health and fitness businesses in the State of Michigan. Opinions expressed by guest writers do not necessarily reflect the views of the MFA. MFA’s position on key issues will be clearly stated. MiFitNews accepts unsolicited manuscripts but reserves the right to edit due to space limitations. Editorial submissions must be typewritten and sent via email to melissa@kdafirm.com.
MiFitNews does not constitute endorsement of the advertiser, its products or services nor does MiFitNews make any claims or guarantees as to the accuracy or validity of the advertiser’s offer and reserves the right to reject any advertising deemed unsuitable. Advertising rates and additional information are available at www.mfafit.org.
Board of Directors Meeting ....................................... August 20 Northville
Board of Directors Meeting ................................. September 15 Zoom
Annual Conference ..................................................... October 15 East Lansing
Board of Directors Meeting ..................................... October 20 Zoom
Board Nominations Deadline ................................... November 1
Board of Directors Meeting November 19 Northville
Board of Directors Meeting .................................. December 15 Zoom
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• Our quarterly publication reaches the desks of over 275 fitness professionals throughout the state
• Our members spend millions of dollars annually on products and services relating to their wellness facilities
• Previous MFA communications have an average open rate of 74%
