Catalyst Fitness Joins ‘Gym-as-a-Clinic’ Movement
The Western New York fitness operator is betting big on the future of fitness-meets-healthcare, offering medical-grade services to both members and non-members
Catalyst Fitness, a Western New York fitness operator, is joining the growing number of fitness centers adopting the “gym as a clinic” model with the launch of a physician-led wellness program in partnership with telehealth firm ApexMD.
The initiative, overseen by Dr. Jim Bowen, a Mayo Clinic–trained physician who previously served as Chief of Medical Staff at the U.S. Naval Academy and led several performance and longevity centers, including Tony Robbins’ Fountain Life, brings medical-grade, lifestyle-driven care directly onto the gym floor.
Participants will receive telehealth consultations with licensed providers, personalized optimization plans developed by Dr. Bowen and access to physician-prescribed, FDA-approved medications targeting cardiovascular health, visceral fat, metabolic balance and improved sleep. The program also includes lifestyle coaching designed to align with long-term fitness and wellness goals.
“Our goal is to redefine what a modern gym can offer,” Catalyst Fitness area director of marketing Jenn Trees said. “This program is about combining the power of fitness with trusted medical wellness and innovation to give our members the best the health industry has to offer in both physical and metabolic health.”
The multi-location fitness operator says the new Medical Wellness Program will operate separately from standard gym memberships and be open to both members and non-members across its locations.
“Catalyst Fitness members will now have access to one of the best medical wellness programs in the country at an affordable price,” Trees added. “Dr. Jim Bowen, a nationally respected leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation, has developed the protocols exclusively for this initiative. As Medical Director of ApexMD, Dr. Bowen’s vision is now available to Catalyst members and non-members seeking real, sustainable wellness solutions.”
The big picture: The fitness floor is clearly turning clinical. As gyms compete to differentiate themselves in a crowded market, embedding medical programs is emerging as a strategic move to attract and retain members. At the same time, consumers are becoming increasingly health-conscious and interested in preventative, lifestyle-driven care.