Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic was a stark wake-up call that not having a “seat at the table” meant our industry was “on the menu.” Although this nearly crushed our industry, we galvanized very quickly around the cause of advocacy to reopen and rebuild, with very much a defensive emphasis. Now with our doors reopen, it’s time to transition to offensive advocacy. Developing political relationships go beyond just recovery, but instead look to advancing the important, health-enhancing, mission of our industry. This lecture will examine the importance of advocacy in the present day, and future, fitness industry. We will explore current advocacy efforts that are underway, and how fitness professionals can get involved. Most importantly, we’ll identify the best practices for effective advocacy to enhance the cause of the fitness industry.

Learning Objectives

1. Examine what advocacy is and isn’t, as well as its importance in the fitness industry
2. Understand the current advocacy landscape, as well as the future trajectory, in the fitness industry
3. Identify best practices for fitness professionals looking to get involved on industry advocacy at all levels

Speaker

Michael Stack, Founder & CEO of Applied Fitness Solutions
Michael Stack is an exercise physiologist by training and a health entrepreneur, health educator, and fitness industry advocate by trade. Michael is the founder and CEO of Frontline Fitness Pros. He is also a clinical professor for the University of Michigan’s School of Kinesiology. He is the creator and the host of the Wellness Paradox Podcast, produced in conjunction with University of Michigan. Finally, Michael is also the founder & CEO of Applied Fitness Solutions, a southeast lower-Michigan retail fitness company that is currently making the transition to a medical fitness center.