Developing Tomorrow's Leaders, Today
Inside the REX Leadership Academy
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Eddie Tock
At a time when the fitness industry is evolving faster than ever, one thing remains true: the strength of a club lies in the strength of its people. That's the driving force behind the REX Leadership Academy, the one-of-a-kind program created to turn great managers into exceptional leaders.
The 2025 REX Leadership Academy brought together high-potential team members from clubs and studios across North America for a transformative, three-day experience filled with practical learning, leadership development and personal growth. Designed specifically for rising stars in the fitness business, the Academy equips attendees with tools to take greater ownership in their roles, contribute at a higher level, and eventually lead teams or facilities of their own.
Not Just Training... Transformation
Led by veteran club owners, expert facilitators, and REX Roundtables Chairs, the Academy goes beyond traditional training. Sessions were facilitated by an all-star cast of REX leaders including Eddie Tock, Brent Darden, Allison Flatley, Dan Duran, Mary Laudati, Justin Tamsett and Mark Miller, each bringing a unique lens on leadership, culture and business strategy.
Attendees also gained insights from industry experts like Mark Harrington Jr. and Lesley Carr, who presented on the "Ideal Team Player" framework, and Danielle Krischik, who led a standout session on human-centered storytelling. Frank Lawrence guided participants through financial fundamentals in a clear, club-specific way, turning what's often an intimidating topic into a practical skillset.
The content spanned a wide range of leadership essentials, including:
- Building a member-focused club culture;
- Financial literacy and key business metrics;
- Coaching and developing a high-performance team;
- Strategic planning ("rifle shots and cannonballs");
- Customer experience design and accountability systems;
- Creating a thriving personal training department.
REX's thoughtful structure and intentional culture also earned praise from Rick Caro, Co-Founder, with Norm Cates, of IHRSA (now HFA), who called the experience: "A great return of the old IHRSA Institute."
He went on to commend the Academy's blend of familiar traditions and fresh energy:
"You created an excellent team of presenters and topics. You brought back ingredients like the logo swap items and introduced powerful new ones like the fire pit intros. Very impressive."
But, what truly sets the REX Leadership Academy apart is its community-based approach. Participants learn alongside peers from across the country, gaining not only new ideas but also new perspectives and relationships. There's an energy in the room that can't be replicated, and according to attendees, it's a game-changer.
The Feedback? Overwhelmingly Positive.
Attendees raved about the experience, not just for the content, but for the sense of purpose and clarity they took home with them. Owners and GMs who sent team members have already reported improved initiative, communication and accountability back at the club.
Whether you're preparing someone to step into a leadership role or want to invest in the long-term culture of your team, the REX Leadership Academy delivers.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the Academy continues to grow, so does its impact. The 2026 REX Leadership Academy is already generating buzz, and many club owners are planning to reserve spots for their next wave of future leaders.
If you're ready to invest in the people who represent your culture every day --the ones who lead the floor, run the playbook, and shape member experience-- this is the program to watch.
Want to Learn More or Reserve a Spot? Register today! We expect to sell out! Email us at joe@rexroundtables.com to be the first to hear when 2026 dates and locations are announced.
