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Brooke Wells Didn’t Finish 24.3…

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An athlete’s journey through the CrossFit Open is often filled with triumphs and challenges, but for Brooke Wells, this season has been particularly unique.

After an unexpected fall on ice left her with a shoulder injury, Brooke’s experience in the Open took an unforeseen turn.

Despite early success, the third workout introduced gymnastic movements that the injury hindered. With a resolve focused on long-term health and performance, she approached the workout with adaptations to maintain participation without compromising recovery.

Key Takeaways

She faced an injury but maintained a positive focus on long-term performance.

Adaptation and smart training choices were critical for ongoing participation in the Open.

Full recovery for the quarterfinals remains the priority, illustrating a strategic approach to competition.

Incident Report

Slipping on Frozen Pavement

Upon returning to the gym amidst a wintry climate, she experienced a fall, resulting in an uncontrolled landing on her shoulder.

At the time, her hands were not available to break the fall due to carrying multiple items, complicating the incident further. Initially perceived as a minor injury, it was expected to resolve within a few days.

The Aftermath of the Slip

However, the discomfort persisted, leading to a decision to undergo medical imaging after three weeks of continual pain.

The MRI revealed a torn labrum—a condition not conducive to certain athletic activities involving the rig, such as bar muscle-ups, chest-to-bars, and toes-to-bars.

Fortunately, she was still capable of engaging in weightlifting despite the limitation. The event significantly affected her performance in the gymnastics segment of an athletic open, expectedly diminishing her ranking. Yet she maintained a focus on her long-term health rather than immediate competition standings.

Her rehabilitation protocol included modified exercises and a gradual reintroduction to pull-ups, consciously avoiding movements that could exacerbate the injury. Forward-looking and optimistic, she is intent on achieving full recovery by the time of the quarterfinals, embracing a modified training approach in preparation for future competitive events.

Managing Recovery After an Injury

Imaging and Initial Assessment

After a recent fall on ice while carrying heavy bags, an MRI was required to evaluate persistent shoulder soreness. The MRI results revealed a torn labrum, confirming the need for a modified approach to physical activity and emphasizing the necessity of understanding the extent of injuries.

Modifying Exercise Routines

Despite injury, it’s possible to continue strength training, adapting to avoid aggravating the shoulder. Exercises that don’t involve hanging from a rig, like bar muscle-ups or pull-ups, are still feasible. For example, one can perform pull-ups with reduced body weight by placing a foot on a box or opt for kipping pull-ups with limited sets to mitigate stress on the shoulder.

Prioritizing Longevity Over Immediate Success

The long-term health and performance take precedence over temporary rankings. Even at the expense of dropping positions on a leaderboard, it’s crucial to focus on comprehensive rehabilitation. This outlook involves making progress over weeks of recovery and integrating a gradual increase of training volume for exercises that are less impactful on the injury. Participating in workouts with modified elements enables continued engagement and progress tracking while nurturing the injury toward complete healing.

Experiencing the Open Exercise Routine

First Impressions of the Exercise Announcement

Upon the unveiling of the latest fitness challenge, there was a blend of anticipation and concern. The inclusion of gymnastic movements was anticipated, yet the timing in the final week brought mixed feelings. The previous weeks of the challenge were enjoyable, but the recent announcement indicated this would pose a unique hurdle.

TimelineReactionExpectationsPrior WeeksEnjoyed the physical challengesFavorable performanceCurrent WeekMixed emotions due to injuryLower anticipated ranking

Adapting the Exercise Routine

In the wake of a snowstorm-related injury, which resulted in a labrum tear, adapting the workout was essential. Instead of traditional rigorous routines, substitutions such as reduced-weight pull-ups and modified handstand push-ups were integrated to maintain participation while guarding against exacerbating the injury.

Substitutions Implemented:

Pull-ups with foot support

Handstand push-ups in place of bar muscle-ups

Approach:

Prioritized long-term health over short-term leaderboard standings

Emphasized progressive rehabilitation over full workout completion

Psychological Outlook and Athletic Output

Maintaining mental fortitude amidst physical limitations proved crucial. The recent diagnosis could have undermined confidence, yet the strategy shifted towards valuing gradual healing over immediate competitive outcomes. The focus was on a long-term recovery plan, with the quarterfinals as the main goal for a return to peak condition.

Mindset:

Recovery-focused, with acceptance of temporary performance dip

Optimistic about eventual full recovery

Performance:

Proceeded with the modified exercises cautiously

Avoided activities that could hamper the healing process

Approach to Recovery

Therapeutic Exercises

Therapeutic exercises play a crucial role in the recovery process. These exercises are designed to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in a controlled and safe manner. The exercises may include:

Modified Pull-Ups: Initiate with assisted pull-ups, using support such as a box under the feet to reduce body weight pressure on the shoulder.

Standard Kipping Pull-Ups: Perform sets of kipping pull-ups with managed intensity to avoid exacerbating the shoulder condition.

Controlled Activity Escalation

Escalating activity levels gradually is key to a successful recovery, ensuring no setbacks occur during rehabilitation:

Volume Adjustment: Introduce volume of pull-ups gradually, avoiding advanced techniques like Butterfly pull-ups that may put undue strain.

Modified Workout Components: Replace certain exercises that may strain the shoulder with alternative movements, such as substituting handstand push-ups for bar muscle-ups.

Paced Progression: Maintain a controlled pace during exercises, focusing on form and rehabilitation rather than speed or competition to facilitate healing.

Rethinking Competitive Priorities

Emphasizing Well-being Over Standings

In sports, the wellness of athletes should rightfully take precedence over their rankings. This approach ensures that they are focusing on their long-term health rather than just their immediate performance. A scenario that illuminates this prioritization involves an athlete navigating a post-injury period. Despite an initial fall on ice leading to a shoulder injury, the individual resisted the urge to rush back into intense competition. Instead of allowing the desire for high rankings to dictate the pace of recovery, the athlete deliberately chose activities that would not exacerbate the injury, such as modified pull-ups that reduce body weight strain on the shoulder.

Rehabilitation FocusActivityShoulder ProtectionModified Pull-upsProgressive TrainingKipping Pull-ups with support

Avoided Movements:

Bar Muscle-ups

Chest to Bars

Toast to Bars

The decision to adapt workouts and prioritize rehabilitation exercises illustrates a mature approach to competition that values longevity in the sport over transient success.

Realignment of Goals

Setting realistic expectations is crucial for an athlete recovering from an injury. Recognizing limitations and adjusting training intensity is a part of a strategic comeback. This involves accepting a temporary dip in rankings to mitigate the risk of further damage to the shoulder. It’s about being strategic: engaging in half the workout and substituting complex movements, like bar muscle-ups, with alternative exercises conducive to healing, such as handstand push-ups.

Workout Modifications:

Completed Only First Half of the Workout

Substituted Handstand Push-ups for Bar Muscle-ups

The athlete’s readiness to tailor the competition around the injury reflects a dedication to long-term goals. By strategically planning training around healing and avoiding movements that could delay recovery, they lay a foundation for returning to peak performance in future competitions.

Outlook on Healing and Advancement

Progression of Healing

Weeks Since Injury: 8
Current Rehabilitation Activities:

Modified pull-ups with reduced weight bearing.

Sets of kipping pull-ups without strain.

Despite experiencing a fall and subsequently discovering a torn labrum, one can still perform most activities except those involving intense shoulder engagement from a suspended position, such as specific gymnastic movements on a pull-up rig.

Pain Management and Activity: Ability to lift and engage in rehab activities indicates a favorable healing trajectory.

Targets for Upcoming Quarterfinals

Rehabilitation Goals:

Continue with rehabilitation exercises, aiming for pain-free execution.

Gradual increase in exercise volume to rebuild capacity without exacerbating the injury.

Performance Objectives for Quarterfinals:

Achieve full shoulder function to competitively perform in quarterfinals.

Engage in all necessary movements confidently and without discomfort, ensuring readiness for competitive demands.

Given the current progress and a strategic approach to rehabilitation, there is a strong expectation that one will be restored to peak condition for the quarterfinals, underscoring the importance of an effective long-term health strategy over short-term competitive gains.

Musings on Training and Recuperation

Challenges and Reverses

During winter, an unforeseen slip on the ice while encumbered with gear led to a shoulder injury. Initial expectations were for a brief discomfort; however, the pain persisted. The decision to undergo an MRI was driven by a desire for reassurance, which was unfortunately met with the discovery of a torn labrum. Despite limitations imposed primarily by rig-related activities—such as bar muscle-ups, chest-to-bars, and other similar movements—the ability to continue weightlifting remained unaffected.

Maintaining Optimism and Taking Initiative

In response to the physical setback, a focus was maintained on the broader journey rather than short-term placements in competitive standings. Acknowledging progress over the eight weeks post-injury coincided with the beginning of the healing process. Adaptations to training regimen included modified pull-ups and a tailored version of a workout with substituted elements to accommodate physical limitations while continuing participation in competitive events. The approach embraced rehabilitation movements and a gradual increase in workout intensity, while refraining from exacerbating the injury. Confidence was expressed in a full recovery by the time subsequent significant competitions commenced, underlining the commitment to health and progress in the sport.

Final Remarks

Recap of Recent Training Session

In the most recent phase of training, the focus has been on adapting to physical limitations following an unexpected injury. After a fall on ice while carrying bags to the gym, an initial belief that the injury would resolve itself in a few days transformed into a realization of a torn labrum. Despite this setback, the training has been resilient, avoiding specific movements that aggravate the shoulder, such as exercises on the rig, while still engaging in other forms of strength training.

Activity TypeDetailAdaptationInjuryShoulder injury due to fall on iceLimited rig movements; focus on recoveryGymnastic MovementsBar muscleups, chest to bars, toasts to bars avoidedModified pull-ups and substitutionsWeight LiftingUnaffected by shoulder conditionContinued as normal component of the programRehab WorkGradual reintroduction to gymnastic movementsSlowly increasing volume; no butterfly pull-ups

Prospects for the Upcoming Season

Looking forward, there is an emphasis on the long-term goal of full recovery and optimal performance, rather than immediate standings in competitive events. Progress has reached a point where rehabilitative exercise routines are increasing in volume, albeit at a monitored pace.

Progression has been noted with two sets of five kipping pull-ups.

Instead of bar muscle-ups, 14 handstand push-ups have been incorporated to maintain participation.

Mindful of healing timeline, with expectations set to be fit for quarterfinals.

This careful and strategic approach ensures sustained health and preparation for the intensity of the competitive season ahead. Full participation in the open with modifications reflects both dedication and a realistic strategy for maintaining competitive readiness.

Anytime Fitness Has Big Plans for Dubai

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The gym franchise is set to open many clubs in the United Arab Emirates, where Dubai is emerging as a fitness hotspot

Anytime Fitness is headed to Dubai, opening its first club in the Middle East hotspot later this year. It will be the first of many Anytime Fitness clubs opening in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the next eight years following a master franchise agreement signed in the region.

It’s more good news for the gym franchise, which earned bragging rights after securing a deal with Apple, making Anytime the tech giant’s first gym partner.

Behind the gym’s upcoming growth in the region is an investment group led by Dr. Mark Mobius, a new master franchisee announced by Self Esteem Brands, Anytime’s parent company, which recently announced plans to merge with Orangetheory Fitness.

“Being a long-time member of Anytime Fitness and having used the clubs around the world makes this investment a natural for me,” Mobius said. 

He will be joined by fellow investor John Ninia to grow Anytime Fitness, along with Ben Matute and Richmond Sy, two Anytime Fitness Philippines franchise operators. Matute and Sy will relocate to Dubai to launch Anytime Fitness UAE and open clubs across the country over the next eight years.

credit: Self Esteem Brands

Anytime’s Global Push

Sander van den Born, Self Esteem Brands’ executive vice president of international, remarked that the UAE is at the “top of the list” when the health and wellness-focused company looks at regions that can capture strong growth.

The Self Esteem Brands executive also noted the “wider recognition of health and wellness initiatives” across the Middle East region, making the fitness operator’s entry into the market ideal.

With the addition of the UAE, Anytime Fitness will operate in more than 40 countries and territories. The gym franchise recently announced plans to enter France, among other international moves.

In the U.S., Anytime Fitness will scale its footprint with the help of Omega Fitness, which was acquired by Seattle-based private equity firm Rainier Partners last year.

Dubai Emerges as ‘Fitness Capital‘

If it seems there’s been an advanced push for fitness and wellness in the UAE recently, there has. Dubai, in particular, has been called the “fitness capital” of the region by fitness industry veteran Jack Thomas, co-founder of The Fit Guide, an international rating system that anonymously evaluates fitness and health clubs.

Dubai’s cosmopolitan vibe has anchored the UAE city’s fitness services market with a $700 million value, and it is on track to cross the billion-dollar mark, according to Ken Research’s findings last month.

Ahead of the curve, Barry’s opened a studio in the business district of Dubai in 2017, while F45 Training and Mayweather Boxing, among other fitness concepts, have also settled into the city. 

For its part, the UAE issued a ‘National Strategy for Well-Being 2031’ as it plans to make the region a “world leader in quality of life” by promoting healthy and active lifestyles and positive mental health. 

Dubai’s wellness retreats are second to none; the city is gearing up for a tourism boom this year, with rejuvenation seekers flocking to the lavish region and its high-end “healing hotels” offering an abundance of therapies and services, such as IV drips, salt caves, saunas and more.

The post Anytime Fitness Has Big Plans for Dubai appeared first on Athletech News.

How Women Are Redefining Fitness on Their Own Terms

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Female fitness pros increasingly occupy leadership roles in organizations and as entrepreneurs, but work remains to achieve gender equity

Women’s History Month commemorates the achievements and struggles of women throughout history and casts a light on the evolving roles and burgeoning presence of women. The fitness industry serves as a prime example of this evolution.

Historically, the fitness world mirrored many other sectors, with men predominantly occupying the roles of personal trainers, health coaches and group instructors. Today, women are participating in fitness at higher rates and stepping into roles of leadership and influence as personal trainers, health coaches and business owners while continuing to overcome barriers to success.

The Female Fitness Experience

Initially, women’s involvement in fitness was relegated to specific segments, such as aerobics or women-only gyms, reflecting broader stereotypes and societal expectations of the time. These roles, while important, represented a narrow view of women’s capabilities.

As the decades passed, the fitness industry began to see a gradual change fueled by shifting societal attitudes and women began to assert their presence, breaking through stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a fitness professional.

Maria Luque, PhD, MS, CHES, ACE-CPT, ACE-FNS, educator and founder of Fitness in Menopause, says that, as a fitness professional with over two decades of experience in this industry, and exclusively working with women for over 10 years, she’s witnessed a remarkable transformation in the industry’s approach to women’s roles as personal trainers and health coaches.

“Initially, there was a prevalent stereotype that women were primarily clients rather than leaders in the fitness space,” Luque says. “However, there has been a significant shift towards recognizing women as knowledgeable and skilled professionals in this field, a change that should inspire and motivate all of us.”

Maria Luque (credit: Weston Carls)

Judi Sheppard Missett is a quintessential example of female innovation and leadership. In 1969, Missett founded Jazzercise, a dance-based fitness program that seamlessly blended jazz dance with exercise, strength training and stretching. 

Missett, who is worth around $100 million, has turned her brainchild into a global empire, encouraging women to embrace entrepreneurship within the fitness industry.

Other examples of women who are making inroads in fitness entrepreneurship and leadership are ClassPass founder Payal Kadakia, whose net worth is at least $60 million, and Robin Arzón, the Vice President of Fitness Programming at Peloton, who has emerged as a prominent figure and highly popular instructor for the brand.

The Gender Pay Gap

Women in the fitness industry often confront gender biases that undermine their professional credibility and contribute to pay disparities compared to their male counterparts.

For instance, female personal trainers and health coaches may face skepticism regarding their expertise and physical capabilities, a challenge seldom faced by men. These biases can extend to compensation, where, despite equal qualifications and responsibilities, women frequently earn less. 

A 2021 salary survey from the The Personal Trainer Development Center (PTDC), found that women, on average, earn 68% of what men earn for substantially similar work. In the personal training world, the gap is even larger, with female personal trainers earning 66% of what male personal trainers make, with male survey respondents reporting an annual average income of $54,514, while female respondents reported an average income of $35,945.

Irene Lewis McCormick, MS, personal trainer and award-winning educator, says the conversation about gender biases and pay disparities is not unique to the fitness industry; it’s a nationwide issue affecting various professions, where the quality of service is becoming more important than the mere hour spent delivering the fitness service. She advocates for a shift in the fitness industry’s compensation structure. 

“I would like to move away from a time-based model to one that recognizes the value of the fitness pros’ experience and expertise,” McCormick says.

Judi Sheppard Missett (c) founded Jazzercise in 1969 (credit: Jazzercise)

Women Are Not Small Men

Another relevant angle when it comes to women overcoming barriers is in exercise science research and how women have been underrepresented. This is important because good program design hinges on available research and education.

Susane Pata, NASM content strategist and global master instructor, is eager to help change that conversation.

Pata’s journey of discovery led her to the work of Dr. Stacy Sims, a figure who has become synonymous with innovation in the field of female athletics. Pata reflects on her initial encounter with Sims’ research and the realization that there was “someone out there focused on the female athlete.” 

According to Pata, Sims has opened new avenues for “discussions about female athletes: their health, performance, wellness and longevity—all in new ways based on the latest research” and highlights a popular quote from Sims: “women are not small men,” a simple yet powerful statement that challenges longstanding biases in sports science. 

This assertion not only emphasizes the biological differences between men and women but also marks a significant shift in how female athletes are perceived and studied.

“She is now putting conversations about the female athlete on the table—conversations and comparisons that were never there before,” Pata notes. 

Pata also admires athletes like Tia-Clair Toomey. The discourse surrounding Toomey, whether it involves criticism or praise, “makes a space at the table for female athletes,” showcasing their undeniable talent and dedication.

Pata ties these observations to a broader narrative of gender equality and collaboration in sports.

“So whereas obvious physiological gender differences exist, women like these are showing that you can have a seat at the table with men,” Pata says.

Opportunities Ahead for All

The demand for personal trainers and fitness instructors has surged over the past decade, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 15% growth between 2019 and 2029. This expansion is set to add approximately 57,600 more trainers over the next 10 years, suggesting the growing influence of women in the industry. 

Pata encourages other female fitness professionals to take advantage of the upswing and to keep learning. 

“Knowledge is power, and … it is highly advantageous to go in armed with knowledge and never be complacent,” she says. “Just because you took one certification does not mean the learning stops there. It never ends.”

For women new to the industry or who need advice, Pata suggests they “try a little bit of everything” because it can “inform future decisions, especially those in it for the long game.”

McCormick, an industry veteran, says that while there are trailblazing women who have taken on significant roles and have been recognized for their contributions, the fitness industry still has a long way to go to achieve gender balance; perhaps particularly in executive roles. 

“The representation of women in leadership positions in the fitness industry is a topic of concern,” McCormick says. “According to a survey, 47% of men work in leadership roles in fitness compared to only 36% of women. Men comprise 70% of gym owners and women account for 29%.”

Luque is encouraged by the changes she sees in the industry but agrees that there is more work to be done, echoing McCormick’s perspective. 

“As more women enter the fitness profession, there’s a greater emphasis on inclusivity, diversity and recognizing the unique needs and experiences of women in fitness and health coaching,” says Luque.

“These shifts not only provide more opportunities for women to thrive professionally but also contribute to a more balanced and inclusive fitness industry that better serves the diverse needs of all individuals, regardless of gender,” she adds.

The post How Women Are Redefining Fitness on Their Own Terms appeared first on Athletech News.

Myrow Founder Sees Bright Future for Connected Rowing

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Gary Simpson created myrow, which offers a 22-inch HD touchscreen that attaches to Concept2 rowers and comes loaded with over 200 workouts

During the pandemic, Gary Simpson had a realization that his at-home rowing experience could benefit from connectivity. Specifically, he sought a connected fitness solution that would work with his Concept2 rowing machine, the industry’s most popular erg.

Simpson already had entrepreneurial experience, having founded Transit Wireless, which provides wireless infrastructure for the New York City subway system. Driven by his desire for a better connected rowing solution, Simpson founded myrow, which sells a 22-inch, full-color HD touchscreen tablet that attaches to and connects with the Concept2 rowing machine to provide users with at-home workouts.

Athletech News spoke with Simpson about what differentiates myrow from competitors, where myrow fits into the larger connected fitness industry and the company’s biggest challenges as it scales.

This conversation has been lightly edited for clarity and length.  

Athletech News: What differentiates myrow from competitors in the connected rowing space? 

Gary Simpson: We took the best erg on the market and are transforming it into a connected fitness machine. For existing Concept2 owners, you can upgrade your workout and keep your machine for an investment of $499 plus a monthly subscription ($29.99).

The content and features that myrow go far beyond anything that is currently available for the Concept2. We have the competitive edge on price point, compared to what is currently on the market. The Concept2 (sold separately) with the added myrow monitor is priced at about $1,500, while competitors charge between $2,500-$3,000 for an erg with a comparable screen.

If you’re in the market to buy a new rowing machine and were interested in the Concept2 but deterred by the lack of a connected fitness experience, myrow solves that problem at a compelling price point. It won’t feel like an add-on product; instead it was designed to feel like it belongs with the Concept2.

credit: myrow

ATN: With connected fitness flux, including rowing-based brands, where do you see myrow fitting in? 

GS: With an aging population, rowing will continue to be a perfect at-home workout. At-home rowing machines offer a highly efficient full-body and low-impact workout. Rowing machines are more effective than exercise bikes and treadmills, as they target and strengthen all major muscle groups throughout the entire body, including the legs, glutes, core, arms, back and shoulders in a low-impact workout.

Rowing accomplishes calorie-burning and muscle-building. We hope to tap into the huge base of Concept 2 owners to offer an immersive connected fitness experience. In our beta testing last year, we had over 3,000 applicants (who own the Concept2) to test the product, which gives us confidence that it is something the Concept2 world will embrace. 

ATN: As a startup, what have been your biggest challenges and successes thus far? 

GS: As with all start-ups every day is a challenge, but every day is a success if you get to the next day!  We were thrilled with all the excitement and interest when we unveiled the product at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the largest electronic show in the world, and hope to take that momentum with us as we set our sights on the launch this Spring.  

ATN: What can users expect to see from myrow when it launches? 

GS: We are excited to start taking pre-orders for the product at www.myrow.com in early April and will begin shipping to consumers at the end of May. 

When we launch this Spring, the myrow tablet will come pre-loaded with over 80 video workouts and over 200 workouts and training plans (non-videos) and will have a constantly growing library with a variety of classes. In addition to the instructor-led workouts, there are also group rows, challenges, the ability to create your own workouts and preset workouts, including Concept2’s “Workout of the Day.”

 The tablet also provides the user with a deep level of metrics and analytics to help users improve their performance and achieve their fitness goals. 

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Trainer Talks: Ashley Paulson Redefines Endurance With a Dash of Fun

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From marathons to motherhood, Ashley Paulson’s unique approach to fitness inspires a community of athletes to achieve their goals

With a healthy dose of enthusiasm and discipline, Ashley Paulson serves as an example of how joy and consistency forge the path to fitness achievements. Paulson has turned her passion for running into a vibrant testament, and at the heart of her career lies the intersection of fun and serious training. 

Paulson’s venture, Ashkickn Training, helps people embrace a lifestyle where every workout is a celebration of progress. With each stride, race and training session, Paulson sets records and inspires countless individuals to push beyond their limits, proving that with passion and perseverance, every goal is within reach. 

Athletech News spoke with Paulson about her colorful approach to training, outrunning the competition, and making every mini milestone an unforgettable journey of discovery and challenge. 

This conversation has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Athletech News: Can you share the most pivotal moments that helped you make the transition from being a professional triathlete to health coach and trainer?

Ashley Paulson: My journey into professional athletics began more as a gradual shift rather than a singular moment. Teaching fitness classes built a solid foundation for me. I officially transitioned to a professional triathlete in 2016, after I had my fourth child. Despite not having a traditional athletic background or college education, I managed to earn my pro card. This experience has been incredibly fulfilling, serving as a role model for my children as well as other women, showing them that it’s possible to achieve significant goals even as a mother.

Initially, I wasn’t as interested in hybrid coaching or personal training. I thrived on the energy of group fitness, interaction and collective motivation. It wasn’t until about 10 years ago that I began focusing more on personal training, primarily online. This has taught me the importance of sharing my passion for fitness and the possibility of making a significant impact, regardless of one’s starting point. 

ATN: What inspired you to create the Ashkickn Training model, and how do you see it evolving to meet the needs of fitness enthusiasts at all levels?

AP: The inspiration for Ashkickn came from hearing how others began their fitness journeys as a result of something I said. This kind of feedback and the changes I saw in people’s lives fueled my desire to expand and help more individuals. It’s incredibly motivating to hear about the positive shifts in someone’s body or lifestyle because of fitness. 

I see Ashkickn evolving alongside our understanding of fitness and aging. When I ran my first marathon at 19, the idea of being in the “Masters” category at 40 seemed like a different league, suggesting a slowdown. However, I’ve found myself getting faster in my 40s. Advances in knowledge about the body, combined with technology, allow us to push ourselves further and remain in our prime for longer. The perception of age in fitness is changing, with individuals over 40 achieving what was once thought impossible for their age group. 

credit: Ashley Paulson

ATN: How are you involved in integrating more human elements into online training programs using artificial intelligence (AI), and why is this important to you?

AP: Being involved with iFIT’s AI Coach (beta) has been an incredible experience, especially because the team wanted input during the testing phase to ensure the feedback didn’t come across as robotic. As personal trainers, we aim to preserve a sense of personal connection with the athletes, adding a human touch to the automated messages. It was important to convey care and emotion, adjusting based on the athlete’s performance and needs, rather than issuing generic, impersonal directives. 

This personalized approach can significantly enhance an athlete’s training by making smart adjustments that cater to their current state, helping them stay injury-free and active across all ages. I advocate for treating everyone as an athlete because it positively influences their mindset, encouraging them to stay engaged and avoid sidelining themselves after missing a workout. The goal is to guide users gently, advising them it’s okay to slow down or adjust their routine as needed, providing comfort and the feeling of having a coach right there with them.

ATN: You humorously note that you “eat dessert first.” Can you share your overall philosophy on nutrition and how you incorporate this into training plans for your clients?

AP: People often find it amusing that my sugar intake is notably higher than many athletes are accustomed to. However, as an endurance athlete, sugar is a primary fuel, providing necessary quick energy. It’s not just about consuming sugar; I advocate for a balanced approach, emphasizing that it’s okay to enjoy treats in moderation while maintaining a nutritious diet. 

Nutrition is vital, but it’s also deeply personal. What works for me may not work for everyone. Some may thrive on low-carb diets, while others might find them restrictive. It’s about finding what works for your body and lifestyle. My father’s mantra of “life’s short, eat dessert first” has always resonated with me, reminding me that enjoying life—and your food—is just as important as following a strict nutrition plan.

ATN: You offer plans that are not just about physical workouts but also about creating an enjoyable experience. How do you stay innovative and keep your programs engaging and effective?

AP: Staying connected with my community is crucial. I engage actively in social media and personal interactions, especially at races, to understand individuals’ stories and motivations. This personal touch allows me to tailor training plans that are not only effective but also resonate with people’s lives and schedules. By listening and adapting to each person’s unique situation, I ensure my training plans are personalized, keeping motivation high and making every goal achievable, no matter the lifestyle or constraints involved. 

ATN: How do you plan to expand the reach and impact of Ashkickn to inspire and support more individuals in their fitness journeys?

AP: My major goals revolve around continued presence and lifelong learning. I plan to expand the reach and impact of Ashkickn by consistently showing up, both in the digital world and at in-person events, while staying educated on the latest in fitness and wellness. This approach isn’t rooted in a desire for financial gain but from a genuine passion for what I do. I believe that by continuing to share my journey, enthusiasm and knowledge, I’ll naturally attract and inspire more individuals to embark on or maintain their fitness journeys. 

The foundation is my love for this work, which I would pursue regardless of compensation. This passion drives me to remain engaged and enthusiastic, debunking the myth of inevitable burnout despite my extensive participation in races and fitness activities. Hearing people’s stories and seeing the impact of my work fuels my motivation and reiterates the importance of what I do.

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Outdoor Voices Reportedly Set for Bankruptcy Amid Activewear Struggles

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It’s a trying time for activewear, as Outdoor Voices stores are left shuttered with irate notes posted by former employees

Outdoor Voices is in the middle of a firestorm after former employees have revealed the troubled activewear company is headed towards bankruptcy, following reports that the brand is closing all stores and transitioning to an online-only retail model.

The brand has seemingly removed all of its 15 brick-and-mortar retail locations nationwide from its website. 

The news of the potential insolvency was first reported by Sourcing Journal, which cited former Outdoor Voices employees with close knowledge of the matter. The activewear brand has also missed rent and vendor payments in recent months, according to the publication, and gave pink slips to most of its corporate employees.

According to another report, from Puck News, Outdoor Voices has already closed all of its retail locations and intends to focus solely on its e-commerce business.

Rise & Fall

Like Lululemon, Outdoor Voices has developed a cult-like following as devotees of the brand have embraced its merchandise as much as its #doingthings lifestyle ethos. Founded in 2013 by Tyler Haney, the brand moved from its New York City roots to Austin, Texas, as it grew. 

By early 2020, right before activewear and athleisure began to see a pandemic-related boom, Haney stepped down as CEO during restructuring efforts. Internal strife had been brewing and an anonymous letter had been sent to the Outdoor Voices’ board and executives that targeted Haney for her management style.

Financial troubles were also percolating, with the company’s valuation down to $40 million in 2020, a steep decline from its 2018 valuation of $110 million. By 2021, the brand had named Gabrielle Conforti, former Urban Outfitters president, as its CEO. 

The activewear company had begun shopping for a buyer in 2022, according to Business of Fashion. 

Haney may have been out of the picture, focusing on Joggy, a cannabis supplement brand, but she appeared to find time to keep a watchful eye on the brand she founded — even leaving comments last year on Outdoor Voices’ social media posts that indicated she had felt the brand had lost its way. 

Now, with news swirling of a potential Outdoor Voices bankruptcy, the active Reddit community on r/OutdoorVoices has been posting images of closed stores, many with notes in the windows that have the Venmo handles of former employees. One photo from a shop in Minneapolis reads, “Our (chairwoman) Ashley Merrill refuses to pay anyone severance. We appreciate anything that you can give. All funds will go directly to this staff. Thank you!” 

Activewear Brands Struggle Post-Pandemic 

It’s been a trying time for some in the activewear game, with leggings giant Lululemon even admitting that it will remain cautious in 2024 in the face of market uncertainty.

Gap’s activewear arm, Athleta, reported an 18% net sales drop in its third quarter of fiscal 2023 compared to the prior year, noting in its earnings release that sales continued to be a challenge. Athleta has said it would work on re-engaging its core customers.

Activewear brand Bandier had also been looking for a buyer to mitigate supply chain challenges before getting acquired along with Carbon38 by BC Brands in January. 

More traditional sportswear giants have also seen some headwinds. Under Armour also reported slowing sales, and Nike cut its annual revenue forecast, announcing a $2 billion cost-savings plan that included restructuring.

One outlier is Gymshark, which recently reported a rather uncommon push-and-pull situation, having experienced slumping profits in 2023 (reporting $16.5 million, down from $35.3 million) but a 15% revenue increase. The brand, founded and led by U.K.’s youngest billionaire, Ben Francis, is going full-steam ahead. 

Outdoor Voices didn’t immediately respond to Athletech News’ request for comment

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