Unique Program Offerings for a Diverse Membership Base

Balancing the needs of these demographics presented several challenges. Seniors prioritized structured classes and clinical oversight, while students favored flexible hours and fast-paced workouts. Traditional programming models risked alienating one group or the other, threatening retention and limiting overall membership growth. Additionally, high facility utilization, particularly of the pool, group exercise rooms, and gymnasium, required strategic scheduling and program coordination to manage member experience across both groups.

Senior Programming: Medical Integration and Lifestyle Support

The center launched evidence-based classes such as the SQUARE 1™ System, Rock Steady Boxing, and Arthritis Aquatics, all supervised by certified instructors and supported by ongoing staff training. Social engagement programs, including Senior Health and Fitness Day and MyFitRx® Open House events, fostered connection, confidence, and long-term retention. Additionally, Power Wellness established a direct physician referral pathway, enabling Loyola clinicians to refer patients into MyFitRx®, a safe, supervised program that bridges the gap between clinical care and community fitness while reinforcing the continuum of health.

Student Programming: Wellness and Performance

For university students, the center introduced semester-based memberships and affordable tiered pricing, removing financial barriers to participation. Stress management and mental wellness offerings such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions complemented high-energy group formats like HIIT and strength clinics. Collaborative wellness education events featuring Loyola’s medical, fitness, and nutrition experts added further value, positioning the center as a trusted on-campus resource.

• Total membership grew by 20%, driven by gains in both senior and student segments.
• Senior retention increased by 100 members and 1.1 percentage points, supported by medically integrated fitness programs.
• Student engagement rose by 30%, fueled by semester-based memberships and mental wellness offerings.
• Program revenue increased by 10%, balancing membership dues with ancillary income from specialty classes and workshops.
• Average daily visits climbed by 15.4%, demonstrating stronger facility utilization and satisfaction.

Beyond metrics, the center strengthened its alignment with Loyola University Health System’s mission of whole-person wellness. Seniors have benefited from clinical oversight, functional improvement, and meaningful social connection, while students have gained a supportive environment to manage stress, enhance performance, and build lifelong healthy habits. The center’s inclusive fitness model now stands as a defining strength uniting members of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds within a shared space that celebrates health at every life stage. This integration of community and clinical wellness underscores Loyola’s role as both a medical fitness leader and a true community health partner.