REX Roundtables for Leaders Named Global 100 2026 Health, Wellness & Fitness Business of the Year (USA)

August 19, 2026

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REX Roundtables for Leaders has been named a Global 100 – 2026 winner in the category of Health, Wellness & Fitness Business of the Year (USA), recognized for a model that tackles one of the most persistent problems in the fitness industry: leadership isolation.

For many club owners and executives, the toughest calls—people decisions, pricing strategy, retention challenges, expansion risk, culture reset—are made behind closed doors. The higher the stakes, the fewer peers they can speak with candidly. REX exists to change that equation by replacing isolation with a confidential peer advisory circle designed specifically for fitness-industry leaders.

A peer advisory model built for real decisions

REX is clear about what it is not: it is not a casual networking group, not an industry meet-and-greet, and not a generic mastermind. Its purpose is depth, not volume. Members come to the table prepared to share the real issues behind the business—bringing numbers, challenges, and decisions that need pressure-testing by people who have been there.

The format is intentionally engineered for trust and relevance. Each Roundtable is composed of 15–18 noncompeting fitness-industry leaders with compatible businesses and complementary expertise, guided by a Master Facilitator. That structure helps create the conditions where leaders can speak plainly, receive unfiltered feedback, and leave with accountability—not just ideas.

Why confidentiality matters in fitness leadership

Fitness is a relationship business, and reputation travels fast. That reality can make it difficult for owners and senior executives to discuss sensitive topics openly—especially when the issues involve team performance, revenue pressures, or strategic shifts. REX’s confidential environment is designed to give leaders space to think clearly, challenge assumptions, and act decisively without turning their leadership burdens into public discussion.

Refined since 1989: from pioneering concept to global community

REX traces its methodology back to 1989, evolving from a pioneering peer-advisory concept into a global community. Today, REX reports a network of 350+ fitness leaders representing more than 4,000 clubs across 26+ countries. For an industry as diverse as health clubs, gyms, studios, and multipurpose facilities, that breadth reflects both the demand for trusted peer support and the scalability of REX’s approach.

In addition, REX highlights a strategic partnership with the Health & Fitness Association, broadening its role in industry education and leadership development. For leaders focused on sustainable growth, that connection signals a commitment to raising the standard of management capability—not just celebrating top performers.

Business performance and retention: what the data suggests

In an industry where member engagement and retention determine long-term profitability, the ability to learn from other operators—quickly and honestly—can be a competitive advantage. REX points to performance outcomes associated with its community and to a REX-commissioned retention study that analyzed 700,000 members and 200 million check-ins. The study found average membership retention of 14–24 months at REX clubs versus seven months at non-REX clubs.

REX also reports that since 2019, member clubs are up 72.4% in EBITDA, up 42% in revenue, up 216.8% in dues growth, and up 173% in non-dues revenue. While every operator’s results depend on market, model, and execution, these figures underscore the premise behind peer advisory: better decisions compound over time.

Roundtables designed for the roles that drive results

REX’s flagship offering is its portfolio of Roundtables, tailored to leadership roles across the modern fitness business. That matters because operational realities differ between an owner, a general manager, a department head, and a supplier partner—and advice is only useful when it fits the decision-maker’s context.

Programs REX highlights include Roundtables for:

Owners and executives
Regional and general managers
Suppliers
Women in leadership
Personal training directors
Sales and marketing leaders
Group fitness directors
Racquet sports leaders (newly launched)

This role-based design supports a core promise: every seat at the table should deliver relevant experience, practical insight, and the accountability to follow through.

Leadership Academy powered by REX: investing in the next generation

Peer advisory is powerful for experienced leaders, but the industry also needs a reliable leadership pipeline. REX extends its impact through the Leadership Academy powered by REX, described as an immersive two-and-a-half-day program for managers, department heads, and aspiring leaders.

REX notes that the 2026 REX Leadership Academy was sold out—an indicator of demand from organizations that want more capable managers, stronger cross-functional communication, and leadership practices that translate into a better member experience.

The next Leadership Academy is scheduled for August 3–5, 2027, at Windrose on Hudson in New York.

The takeaway for fitness executives: stop carrying it alone

The defining message behind REX’s Global 100 recognition is simple and timely: fitness leaders should not have to carry their most difficult decisions alone. The work is too complex, the pace too fast, and the people impact too great. A confidential circle of trusted peers can provide the clarity, courage, and accountability that strengthens both business outcomes and quality of life.

In a sector often shaped by trends and short-term tactics, REX’s long-running methodology points to something more durable: leadership improves when it is supported—by the right group, in the right structure, with the right expectations. That is the foundation of a true inner circle, and it’s why REX Roundtables for Leaders stands out as a Global 100 – 2026 winner.