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Fitness is BS.
  • Group strength training class used to illustrate novelty bias and BODYPUMP relaunches
    Behavioural Economics | Cognitive Biases | Group Fitness

    Why BODYPUMP Still Feels New: Using Novelty Bias to Revive a Gym Class

    ByRay Smith June 28, 2026June 28, 2026

    BODYPUMP has stayed relevant for more than 30 years without becoming a different class. Recent research into novelty bias helps explain why quarterly releases work and why relaunching a fading class may be smarter than replacing it.

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  • a gym member sharing a laugh, illustrating a key moment in gym memory design.
    Behavioural Economics | Cognitive Biases | Group Fitness

    Beyond the Workout: A Deep Dive into Gym Memory Design

    ByRay Smith July 26, 2025April 24, 2026

    It’s time to move beyond managing experiences and start designing memories. This deep dive explores the “Gym Memory Design” framework, a practical approach using behavioural science to engineer unforgettable moments that build loyalty. Learn how to strategically break routines to create powerful peaks and reinforce rituals to create resonant endings. Stop hoping for memorable moments—start architecting them.

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  • Man participating in a high-intensity fitness challenge holding a medicine ball, illustrating motivation and focus in fitness marketing.
    Behavioural Economics | Cognitive Biases | Fitness Marketing | Fresh Start Effect | Group Fitness

    The Psychology of Fitness Challenges: Fitness Marketing Insights

    ByRay Smith June 15, 2025April 24, 2026

    Fitness challenges leverage behavioural psychology to enhance participation and retention, using techniques like commitment devices, progress tracking, and social proof. An analysis of 400 fitness ads revealed key cognitive biases, such as loss aversion and the fresh start effect, that drive engagement. Understanding these principles can strengthen fitness marketing strategies.

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  • Personal Training Labor Illusion
    Behavioural Economics | Fitness Retention | Group Fitness

    The Labour Illusion Effect: How Fitness Trainers Can Boost Client Engagement and Loyalty

    ByRay Smith February 16, 2025April 24, 2026

    Client engagement and retention are the foundation of any successful fitness business. Engaged clients are more likely to show up for sessions, participate fully, and recommend your services to others. Retaining clients is equally critical. Studies show that acquiring a new client costs five to six times more than retaining an existing one (Reichheld, 2003)….

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  • A Simple Behavioural Hack to Create a Memorable Group Fitness Experience
    Behavioural Economics | Cognitive Biases | Fitness Retention | Group Fitness

    A Simple Behavioural Hack to Create a Memorable Group Fitness Experience

    ByRay Smith November 24, 2024August 13, 2026

    As fitness professionals, one of our biggest challenges is client retention. We have so many options available. How can we ensure that our clients not only keep coming back? How can we also make them rave about their experience to others? Enter the Peak-End Rule—a psychological principle that could transform how you design and execute…

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© 2026 Fitness is BS. ray.smith@fitnessisbs.com

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