The boutique fitness industry gained unprecedented access to federal health policy this week when Sequel Brands CEO Anthony Geisler joined White House discussions on national wellness outcomes.
Geisler participated alongside health leaders and government officials as the Presidential Commission released its comprehensive Make America Healthy Again report. The document highlighted critical gaps in American physical activity, particularly among young people who increasingly live sedentary lifestyles.
Government data revealed that more than 70% of children ages 6-17 fail to achieve basic daily movement requirements. Among teenagers, that figure climbs to 85%, creating what health officials describe as a national crisis requiring immediate intervention.
The fitness entrepreneur’s White House invitation represents the industry’s first formal inclusion in federal health strategy sessions. His presence acknowledges that exercise professionals possess valuable insights for addressing America’s declining fitness levels.
“The fitness community has waited a long time for this moment,” Geisler commented. “Physical movement isn’t optional anymore.”
Geisler built his reputation by scaling niche fitness concepts into major brands. His previous company, Xponential Fitness, became the world’s largest wellness franchisor through strategic acquisitions of boutique studios specializing in Pilates, yoga, and specialized training methods.
His current venture targets four distinct wellness categories through Pilates Addiction, iFlex Stretch Studios, Beem Light Sauna, and BODY20. Each concept addresses specific aspects of human performance, from flexibility and strength to recovery and cellular health.
The CEO has conducted extensive outreach to health officials in recent months, building relationships with key figures including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Special Advisor Calley Means.
“These stats are a serious wake-up call,” Geisler said regarding youth inactivity trends. “When kids and teens aren’t moving enough, we’re setting them up for serious health issues down the road.”
His Washington advocacy efforts will continue at the Athletech Innovation Summit in New York City this June. The event marks his first major public appearance since departing Xponential Fitness, where he plans to outline his vision for the industry’s future development.