Crunch Fitness CEO Jim Rowley Shares Secrets to Staying Fit on the Go

Jim Rowley, the CEO of Crunch Fitness, maintains his fitness and well-being despite a demanding travel schedule. He emphasizes the importance of a varied routine, which includes a morning protein shake, regular exercise, and a commitment to staying active. His approach to fitness and leadership reflects a dedication not only to his health but also to the broader member experience at Crunch Fitness.

Rowley’s workdays differ significantly depending on his location, whether he is at the main office in Manhattan or at home in Lake Tahoe. His role allows him to visit over 500 gyms across the country, where he engages with members and gathers insights from staff. Recently, he has focused on how artificial intelligence can enhance the member experience, testing various initiatives in the field.

With 34 years in the industry, Rowley finds monotony unappealing. He believes that the best ideas often come from direct interaction within the gyms. “When I’m feeling like I’m in a rut from a strategy standpoint, creatively, I go to the gyms,” he explains. “I think all the answers are in the gyms.”

To manage his busy schedule, Rowley incorporates several non-negotiables into his daily routine. He typically wakes between 5:45 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., starting his day with a cup of coffee and a review of business news. Recently, he has enjoyed connecting with family, particularly since the birth of his granddaughter in June 2022. “I usually get to chat with them via text or FaceTime before everything has started,” he says.

His workdays are filled with Zoom meetings, performance updates, and executive team huddles. Rowley insists on having a desk or a dedicated workspace when traveling, allowing him to stay organized and focused. “I can’t just be checking emails from bed,” he states.

Exercise plays a vital role in Rowley’s routine. He believes fitness is essential for long-term health and mobility, especially as he ages. “I’m 58 now, and I’m chasing being happy, healthy, and mobile in my eighties and nineties,” he says. Previously, he worked out in the evenings, but now he prefers to exercise during the day. Around 1 p.m., he typically breaks for a workout, often heading to Pilates or the gym.

His exercise regimen includes a combination of walking and weightlifting, with a focus on functional movements. He emphasizes the importance of Pilates, stating that it has improved his flexibility and strength. “I became much more limber, a lot less tight. It changed my life,” Rowley shares. He has also encouraged others to join him in Pilates, building a community of enthusiasts.

After exercising, Rowley returns to the office for more meetings and problem-solving until he wraps up his day around 5:30 p.m.. He enjoys taking a refreshing walk before dinner, which he typically shares with his wife around 6:30 p.m. While they prefer series over sitcoms, they enjoy a mix of genres, including crime dramas and reality competition shows. Rowley admits to a particular fondness for “Survivor” and “The Amazing Race,” demonstrating his passion for competition.

In his downtime, he reads before heading to bed, usually around 11 p.m.. Jim Rowley’s commitment to fitness and a varied lifestyle exemplifies how one can thrive in a demanding role while prioritizing health and well-being.