Smart workout equipment brand Echelon is investing in connected fitness, helping its gym and studio partners embrace the modern era

Having grown into a leading manufacturer of smart workout equipment in less than a decade, Echelon Fitness could write a book on omnichannel fitness. Today, while also focusing on things like compelling workout content, the brand is still adding pages.

“Echelon Fitness was built from the start as an omnichannel fitness solution,” said John Sweeney, Echelon VP of Commercial Sales. “Our foundation is accessibility, community and coaching – and that begins with being able to work out anywhere, anytime. 

Founded in 2017, Echelon offers a seamless and unified exercise experience across countless platforms and devices. The brand allows its users to engage with products at home, in a gym, in a hotel or on the go. This connectivity pays dividends to operators and members alike. 

Omnichannel Fitness as a Retention Tool 

Echelon’s omnichannel approach provides franchisees and franchisors with powerful tools to spur customer retention. Echelon’s equipment is able to stretch across several modalities, attracting users looking for different workout styles. It’s a wider net that reels in more fish. 

“Everyone knows that retention is one of the biggest challenges any fitness owner/operator faces,” Sweeney said. “By integrating smart fitness equipment that supports a variety of workout options, franchises can attract a diverse clientele looking for a tailored fitness experience. The businesses also see it as an augment to their current offerings – because it doesn’t compete with their current personal training and in-studio class offerings.”

John Sweeney (credit: Echelon)

Echelon’s omnichannel approach makes life easier for smaller companies just getting their feet wet in the franchising business as well as larger, more established brands. 

“Our system allows for easy management and monitoring of equipment and user engagement, reducing operational complexities and providing data-driven insights to help franchisors as they think about what to do next for their business,” Sweeney said. “There is a particular benefit for self-managed fitness centers because they are able to offer safe training, community and classes without having a staff on hand.

Connectivity Is a Must

A  connected and high-tech approach is not just something brands need to shoot for, it’s now a requirement for success, according to Sweeney. 

“In today’s fast-paced world, everyone expects convenience, flexibility, and personalization in all services, especially fitness – no matter where they are working out,” said Sweeney. “If it’s not easy, accessible, seamless and an easy experience, people move on. The tolerance levels are short.” 

“Brands that leverage technology to offer these connected experiences are better positioned to meet and beat these expectations, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty – which in turn increases usage and results, and keeps customers engaged longer,” he added. “Companies who fail to adapt risk falling behind, as today we increasingly prefer solutions that integrate effortlessly into our digital lives. We are constantly innovating across our hardware, our software, our community offerings and our overall experience.”

One of Echelon’s most appreciated connected features is its real-time performance tracking. The software monitors member progress and adjusts workouts accordingly to help them reach their goals. 

Interactive elements such as live leaderboards motivate members to compete against each other, leading to a more exciting and fulfilling workout experience. The same can be said of Echelon Worlds, a newly launched, real-life gamified racing platform that allows users to race against friends, the computer or themselves in real-time. 

“These features foster a sense of community and competition, motivating all to go to their next level – whatever that may be,” explained Sweeney. “Moreover, offering the ability to integrate personal training and group classes directly through our product makes for a more comprehensive and engaging fitness journey.”

Leaving No Stone Unturned

Despite its arsenal of smart technology and subsequent array of fitness offerings at different levels, Echelon has no plans to slow down. The brand is still committed to carving out new ways to keep its operators, users and equipment linked together. 

credit: Echelon

“Echelon is continuously looking to innovate and expand our omni-channel offerings,” said Sweeney. “We are excited about upcoming enhancements to our smart fitness equipment and digital platforms that will provide even more personalized and immersive workout experiences.” 

Echelon especially sees its utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) as something to expand upon. The brand intends to weave more AI into its products and content going forward to improve member experiences and outcomes. 

Although the brand has yet to venture into the world of artificial intelligence (AI), Sweeney did mention the tech as something they plan to take a look at in the near future. 

“With machine learning and AI – there is so much more to explore and to come,” he said. “We are very excited about the future opportunities.”

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