HOTWORX reaches 913 locations on a simplicity model, Strong Pilates targets 20 UK studios in 2027 & DSSV flags wide fitness variation in adults 60–75

In today's episode

1. 01
   Signal

   DSSV study finds wide variation in fitness potential among adults aged 60–75

   The DSSV, Germany's association of fitness and health club operators, released a study on 5 November 2026 at the Federal Press Conference in Berlin examining adults aged 60 to 75, known as Generation Ü. The study found this age group holds significant potential for continued work and social participation, but that health, social connection, and individual motivation vary considerably within it. For studio operators and coaches, the findings point to the risk of treating older adults as a single segment and suggest that programming for this demographic needs to account for wide differences in capacity and motivation.

2. 02
   Build

   HOTWORX CEO Stephen Smith outlines how simplicity drives 913-location growth

   Stephen Smith, founder and CEO of HOTWORX, appeared on the Club Solutions podcast with editor Taylor Gabhart to explain how keeping operations simple, staffing lean and the member promise clear has driven the infrared fitness brand to 913 locations, with 1,000 in sight. Smith credited the recurring monthly dues model, which he said has anchored fitness business models for more than 30 years by smoothing cash flow, and a 'more workout, less time' philosophy that reduces session length to save members both time and money. For operators weighing how much technology and programming to add, Smith's account is a direct argument that restricting complexity is itself a growth strategy.

3. 03
   Move

   Strong Pilates targets 20 new UK studios in 2027 after doubling its footprint in 2026

   The Australian-born boutique fitness franchise opened seven UK studios in 2026, bringing its total to 15 locations, up from eight at the end of 2025. Confirmed sites include Nine Elms in early 2027, with franchisees exploring West Hampstead, St Albans, White City and Richmond. The pace of expansion signals strong franchisee demand in the UK market, particularly across London and the South East.

4. 04
   Build

   Punjab offers free online UPSC and PCS exam coaching to 1,000 students

   The Punjab government announced free online coaching for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Civil Services Examination and Punjab Civil Services (PCS) examinations, targeting 1,000 college students across the state. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced the initiative, with 750 of the 1,000 seats reserved. The programme is aimed at students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.

5. 05
   Signal

   fitness MANAGEMENT publishes new edition of medical fitness and healthcare

   fitness MANAGEMENT released a new edition of its medical fitness and healthcare magazine, known as mfhc, on 6 November 2026. The mfhc is a twice-yearly specialist publication covering sports medicine, diabetology, rehabilitation, prevention and nutrition, distributed to fitness and health facilities in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, as well as industry companies, congresses and trade fairs. For operators and coaches working at the intersection of fitness and healthcare, the publication is a channel to stay current on clinical and preventive topics relevant to medically oriented facilities.