Here is a summary of the top stories and major announcements across the fitness, tech, and wellness sectors over the past 24 hours:

🏋️ Major Headlines & Industry Trends

1. Tonal Shifts Strategy with New Rental Model

Smart strength brand Tonal announced the launch of a new monthly rental program, moving away from its mandatory upfront hardware purchase model. The strategic shift—led by CEO Todd Bartee—aims to broaden accessibility and drive recurring revenue by lowering the barrier to entry for home strength training.

• Source: Athletech News

2. Garmin Reports Surge in Q2 Fitness Revenue & Teases Subscription-Free Wearable

Garmin reported an 11% year-over-year increase in overall Q2 consolidated revenue, propelled by a 25% surge in its Fitness segment to $757 million. Following its recent acquisition of TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic, Garmin hinted at a “very rich” product roadmap ahead—including plans for a subscription-free smart band designed to directly compete with Whoop.

• Source: Bicycle Retailer | Athletech News

3. Anytime Fitness Hits 600-Club Milestone in Asia

Anytime Fitness announced the opening of its 600th location across Asia. To mark the milestone, the brand launched the regional “Battle of the Purple Champions” challenge in Malaysia, reinforcing its focus on community-building and functional, real-life movement.

• Source: ANTARA News

4. Fitness Racing Boom Expands Globally with Deka Manchester

Mass-participation fitness competitions continue their rapid global ascent following the rise of Hyrox. Deka Manchester drew nearly 3,000 athletes from 752 gyms and 23 countries, underlining a major shift toward community-focused hybrid fitness events.

• Source: Athletech News

5. AI Sales Agents Unlock After-Hours Gym Revenue

A new case study from 24/7 operator Club4 Fitness highlighted how deploying AI conversational tools (via Keepme’s Antares platform) generated over 270 booked tours during non-staffed midnight-to-5 a.m. hours. The data confirms that late-night gym inquiries represent a high-intent growth window for operators adopting automated engagement tools.

• Source: Athletech News

6. Inaugural Times of India SFI Expo 2026 Opens

The Times of India launched its inaugural Sports, Fitness and Infrastructure Expo 2026 in New Delhi. The event brought together over 200 international exhibitors and leaders to promote investments in fitness technology, sports science, and physical wellness infrastructure.

• Source: Times of India