The fitness industry is currently undergoing profound changes that go far beyond new equipment or modern studio designs. Digitalization is no longer a trend, but is becoming the foundation of modern training concepts. This is particularly evident in the example of Fitness First, which is taking a decisive step towards the future together with EGYM. With the gradual introduction of EGYM Genius AI in all German studios, artificial intelligence is becoming an integral part of everyday training and is therefore accessible to a broad target group. What initially sounds like a technical innovation is actually a strategic change: away from standardized training plans and towards a dynamic, data-based and highly individualized training experience.
A milestone with a signal effect
"The introduction of EGYM Genius AI in all Fitness First studios marks an important milestone in our long-standing partnership and underlines the growing importance of AI-supported training planning in modern fitness concepts," says Philipp Roesch-Schlanderer, CEO of EGYM.
This assessment is by no means exaggerated. In fact, the integration of AI into the training process marks a development that has the potential to permanently change the entire industry. While gyms have long been primarily places where people train independently or with selective supervision, networked training ecosystems are now increasingly emerging. Systems such as EGYM Genius AI actively intervene in the training process, analyze data, interpret progress and make decisions on this basis. This not only changes the way training is carried out, but also the expectations of the members.
The path to widespread introduction
Fitness First began its first test phase in mid-2025. The AI-supported training solution was used under real-life conditions in selected studios. Such pilot phases are crucial for finding out how new technologies work in everyday life, far removed from theoretical models.
At the same time, the LifeFit Group, to which Fitness First belongs, underwent a major structural realignment: the merger with the Fit/One Group. The integration of the various studio concepts under a common brand presented the company with the challenge of creating uniform standards without losing the individual identity of individual locations.
This phase in particular demonstrated the strategic value of digital solutions. While traditional processes often require time-consuming harmonization, digital systems such as EGYM Genius AI can be implemented relatively quickly across the board and thus contribute to standardization.
Focus on quality: why AI makes sense in training
With the expansion and integration of new studios, a key question arose: how can training quality be consistently maintained at a high level across a large network?
The answer lies in the combination of technology and human support. EGYM Genius AI takes on a role that can best be compared to a digital training coach. The software continuously analyzes how often a member trains, what performance is achieved and how the individual is developing. It automatically adapts training plans on this basis.
The special thing about this is the dynamics. While traditional training plans often remain unchanged for weeks, the AI reacts immediately to changes. Those who make progress are given new stimuli. Those who stagnate receive adapted training parameters. This principle is in line with modern training science findings, which emphasize the importance of progressive adaptation and individualization.
Introduction with caution instead of speed at any price
It is interesting to note that Fitness First has deliberately decided against an immediate nationwide rollout. Instead, the rollout is taking place in several phases, organized in so-called clusters of studios. This approach may seem slower at first glance, but it makes strategic sense.
After all, new technologies can only be used to their full potential if they are applied correctly. Trainers need to be trained, processes need to be adapted and members also need time to get used to new systems. The gradual introduction ensures that the quality of implementation keeps pace with the demands of the technology.
The completion of this process is planned for summer 2026 - a timeframe that shows how seriously the company is taking the sustainable integration of AI.
The philosophy behind the technology
"Our mission at Fitness First is to motivate people and make fitness an integral part of their everyday lives. EGYM Genius AI supports us ideally in this because it intelligently combines individualization, efficiency and training quality - and thus enables sustainable training success," explains Johannes Maßen, Managing Director of Fitness First & COO of the LifeFit Group.
This statement illustrates a key point: technology is not seen as a replacement for human support, but as a supplement. It creates space in which trainers can concentrate more on what machines cannot achieve, namely genuine interpersonal interaction, motivation and empathy.
EGYM: from device provider to digital platform
To fully understand the significance of EGYM Genius AI, it is worth taking a look at the development of EGYM itself. In recent years, the company has evolved from a manufacturer of networked strength equipment to a comprehensive provider of digital fitness solutions.
This reorientation reflects a fundamental trend: hardware alone is no longer enough. The real added value comes from the intelligent linking of data, software and user experience. EGYM pursues a platform approach in which various components - from devices and apps to AI systems - are linked together.
In this context, EGYM Genius AI is not just a single product, but a central building block within a larger digital ecosystem.
Fitness First in the competition of concepts
For Fitness First, too, the introduction of AI is more than just a technological upgrade. It is part of a strategic positioning in an increasingly fragmented market.
While discount providers compete primarily on price and boutique studios focus on specialization, large chains must define their added value differently. Quality, individualization and support are becoming decisive differentiators.
The integration of EGYM Genius AI enables Fitness First to set new standards in precisely these areas. Members receive a training experience that adapts to their individual needs without the need for additional costs or appointments.
What members experience in concrete terms
For many exercisers, the change is likely to be particularly noticeable in practice. The traditional training plan on paper or as a static document is increasingly being replaced by a living system that is constantly evolving.
This makes training feel more structured and targeted. Progress becomes more visible because it is not only subjectively perceived, but also recorded based on data. At the same time, the entry barrier for beginners is lowered as they no longer have to deal with complex training planning themselves.
This approach is particularly interesting for people who have previously found it difficult to stay on the ball in the long term. The combination of a clear structure, visible successes and continuous adaptation can significantly increase motivation.
The role of trainers in the age of AI
A frequently discussed topic in connection with AI is the question of whether human workers will be replaced. In the fitness sector, however, the picture is different.
Trainers are not being made redundant by systems such as EGYM Genius AI, quite the opposite. Their role is changing towards a more advisory and motivational profile. While the AI takes over data-based analysis and planning, the trainer remains the most important point of contact for technology, individual questions and emotional support.
In the long term, this development could even lead to an upgrading of the profession, as the focus shifts more towards qualitative support rather than administrative tasks.
Challenges and critical perspectives
Despite all the benefits, the introduction of AI also brings challenges. Not everyone is immediately open to the technology. Some members still prefer traditional training methods or are skeptical about data-driven approaches.
The integration of such systems also requires investment on the part of the studios, not only financially, but also in terms of time and training. Data protection also plays a key role, as sensitive training data is processed.
These aspects show that the success of such innovations does not depend on the technology alone, but also to a large extent on how it is implemented and communicated.
A look into the future of training
The introduction of EGYM Genius AI could be seen as a harbinger of a development that will fundamentally change training. It is conceivable that more and more aspects of training will be automated and personalized in the future, from training planning and execution to regeneration.
At the same time, networking will increase. Wearables, apps and studio technologies could become even more closely connected, creating a holistic picture of physical activity - regardless of whether training takes place in the studio, at home or outside.
In this scenario, artificial intelligence becomes an invisible companion that works in the background and ensures that training is as efficient and personalized as possible.
Technology meets humanity
Fitness First's decision to introduce EGYM Genius AI across the board is a logical step towards a future in which technology and personal support are closely intertwined.
While AI provides structure, analysis and optimization, the human being remains the central factor for motivation and long-term loyalty. It is precisely this combination that holds the greatest potential.
The fitness industry is therefore at an exciting point: it is becoming more digital, more intelligent and more individual, without losing its core. Because in the end, it's not just about data or algorithms, but about people who want to improve their health and make their lives more active.
Editorial team fitnessmarkt.de
Source and image source: shape UP Business
Published on: 11 May 2026