Computerized "Smart Gym" Opened in Plano

A new "smart-gym" opened in Plano that relies on computers and robotics instead of dumbbells, treadmills, etc. When new members join the gym, they are given a code that is unique to them. When they use the proprietary machines, they plug in their code. The machines then adjust their workout to their strengths and weaknesses in real time, thereby helping the person get the most out of their workout and avoid injury.

Plano residents, Kevin and Robin Hemphill introduced a high-tech fitness studio “smart-gym” (which mainly relies on computers and robotics vs. traditional equipment like weights, treadmills, etc.) to residents of the Plano area. On July 29, the Hemphills opened their first location of The Exercise Coach at 2309 Coit Road Plano, TX 75075.

Outfitted with high-tech computerized machines instead of traditional equipment, The Exercise Coach offers highly personalized programs optimized for efficiency, resulting in only two 20-minute workouts per week that can’t be matched in effectiveness with even seven days a week of traditional activity-based exercise. The national franchise offers a unique, comprehensive approach to fitness designed to be the perfect fit for anyone, regardless of current fitness levels. The Exercise Coach combines bio-adaptive exercise technology with the guidance and encouragement of certified coaches. The studios create a dynamic exercise experience that blends personalized strength and interval cardio training in each session.

Kevin worked in corporate America in real estate mortgage servicing for more than 30 years. After deciding to leave the corporate world due to multiple right-sizings, he began to research owning a business. Robin was the designer for their Exercise Coach build-out but will continue her corporate position in real estate mortgage servicing. The couple purchased another location they plan to open in Frisco in 18-24 months. Kevin will serve as the full-time manager and coach for this location until their second location opens.

“I played varsity baseball throughout high school and junior college. So, I was looking for a business opportunity that was sports or fitness-related. When saw The Exercise Coach, what stuck with me and my wife was that the demographic The Exercise Coach appeals to most in the 40-50+ demographic that my wife and I are in,” Kevin said. “We were looking for a routine that gives us the results that we were really looking for to stay fit and reduce some of the ailments as you get older. If you are going to own a business—if you are passionate and you live it and use it yourself and you are sold on it, it makes it that much easier to relate it and sell to other people.”

Currently, more than 120 million Americans say they “know they need exercise and wish they participated more." The Exercise Coach uses its technology to capture the more reluctant exercise consumer — people who are either too busy to spend a great deal of time at the gym, dislike the gym scene and/or are afraid of injuring themselves. Rather than use their proprietary technology competing with other gyms to court the most athletic people, The Exercise Coach offers privacy, convenience, personalization, efficiency and guidance to change the quality of life for people who are less familiar with fitness successes.

About The Exercise Coach

Founded in 2000, The Exercise Coach began franchising in 2011 and currently has approximately 70 studios operating in 24 states. Our goal is to see 100+ units open and operating in the U.S. by 2021. In addition, The Exercise Coach began its international expansion in 2017, opening a showcase studio in Japan, with an additional 50 units over the next 5 years.