Crunch Fitness CEO Jim Rowley Shares His Dynamic Daily Routine

Jim Rowley, the CEO of Crunch Fitness, has a diverse and active daily routine that adapts to his busy travel schedule. Instead of adhering to a rigid framework, Rowley prioritizes exercise, nutrition, and flexibility in his daily activities, ensuring he remains engaged and productive whether working from his office in Manhattan or his home in Lake Tahoe.

Rowley starts each day early, typically between 5:45 a.m. and 6:30 a.m., often with a morning protein shake. This essential part of his routine provides the necessary energy to tackle the day ahead. He begins by catching up on business news and connecting with family, especially since he cherishes the moments spent with his newborn granddaughter. After this morning ritual, he dives into his work, which often involves virtual meetings and strategy discussions.

His role involves frequent travel to visit Crunch Fitness’s more than 500 gyms, where he enjoys engaging with members and staff. Rowley believes that the insights he gains from visiting gyms are invaluable for enhancing the overall member experience. He is currently exploring the integration of artificial intelligence to improve both member and team experiences, testing new ideas directly in the field.

To maintain his physical health, Rowley emphasizes the importance of fitness, describing it as “medicine.” At 58 years old, he is committed to staying active and mobile, aspiring to maintain this vitality well into his eighties and nineties. Rowley’s fitness regimen includes a mix of weightlifting and Pilates, which he finds beneficial for flexibility and strength. He typically allocates time for exercise around 1 p.m. each day, taking a 20-minute walk to the gym for a balanced combination of cardio and strength training.

He has adapted his workouts over the years, moving away from traditional bench pressing due to shoulder strain and instead focusing on dumbbell exercises and Pilates. His commitment to Pilates has led him to encourage others to join, building a group of male participants in a traditionally female-dominated class. Rowley appreciates Pilates for its blend of strength, mobility, and balance, which he believes has significantly improved his physical condition.

After a productive day at work, Rowley makes time to unwind. He typically leaves the office by 5:30 p.m. for a refreshing walk, particularly during colder months. Dinner with his wife usually takes place around 6:30 p.m., and they enjoy watching dramatic series together, especially those produced by the BBC. Rowley has a particular fondness for reality competition shows like “Survivor” and “The Amazing Race,” which adds a lighter note to his evenings.

His days are filled with a balance of professional responsibilities and personal interests, underlining his belief that staying fit and engaged is key to a fulfilling life. Rowley’s approach to both fitness and work reflects a broader philosophy of adaptability and continuous improvement, making him a noteworthy figure in the fitness industry.