Scoop: Nike’s Launching Group Fitness Studios

August 1, 2023 - News

Nike is set to unveil Nike Studios, a network of boutique fitness studios opening later this year.

So far, the details are sparse, but here’s what we know:

The global apparel brand tapped FitLab, an integrated operating company of performance lifestyle brands, to bring this project to fruition.

Raising $15M last year to scale its hybrid fitness vision, the company teased plans for “connected fitness studios” paired with digital products and mass participation events. Flashing forward, Nike Studios seems to fit the bill.

Also of note, FitLab co-founder Brian Kirkbride previously worked at Nike, having overseen the Nike+ Lab and the company’s accelerator program, so the link-up may have been a long time coming.

Referring to its studios as the “next generation of group fitness,” Nike is delivering functional training and running-focused workouts.

NTS. Combining interval and strength modalities, Nike Training Studio classes utilize weights, kettlebells, sleds, sandbags, and other functional equipment. The programming is broken into periodized training blocks that rotate through three workout types, with the opportunity to assess progress after each period.

NRS. Split between treadmill and floor work, Nike Running Studio classes go beyond cardio to target strength, balance, mobility, and more as part of Sprint, Capacity, and Endurance workouts. The most unique feature is the NRS Pace Screen, displaying solo and group challenges for an immersive experience.

For both classes, Nike is building a roster of NTS and NRS trainers who will specialize in delivering the brand’s curriculum and inspiring studio-goers.

Evolving from sportswear and elite athletes to an emphasis on “body, mind, and life,” Nike Studios is the latest in a series of fitness- and wellness-related developments.

No surprise, running is central to Nike’s ethos. This fact led them to pursue a number of experiments, including the Nike+iPod Sport Kit, Nike+ SportWatch GPS, and the FuelBand.

Pivoting away from hardware, the company doubled down on digital content with its Nike Run Club and Nike Training Club apps.

Pushing further into fitness, Nike debuted CrossFit-specific shoes in 2015 followed by yoga apparel in 2019 and indoor cycling shoes in 2020. Hitting its stride, the brand has been busy rolling out new initiatives.

Punchline: As Nike looks to expand its ~$170B empire, wellness is fertile ground for growth. Bringing it all together, group fitness studios represent an IRL gateway for the brand’s belief that everyone is an athlete.

Joe Vennare