Jim Rowley, the CEO of Crunch Fitness, maintains his fitness and sharpness through a diverse daily routine that adapts to his busy travel schedule. He emphasizes the importance of staying active and making time for exercise, even while on the road. Rowley’s approach includes a morning protein shake, regular workouts, and a commitment to wellness that he believes is essential for long-term health.
Rowley’s workday varies significantly based on his location, whether he is at the main office in Manhattan or at home in Lake Tahoe. He describes his day as fulfilling, as he avoids monotony by engaging with different environments and people. “What makes my job exciting is visiting our more than 500 gyms and meeting our members,” he said.
Innovation is at the forefront of his agenda, particularly in understanding how artificial intelligence can enhance both member and team experiences. Rowley and his team are currently testing various concepts in the field to integrate AI effectively into their operations.
Morning Routine and Exercise Philosophy
Rowley’s mornings start around 5:45 to 6:30 a.m., depending on his schedule. He often spends this time catching up on business news and connecting with family, especially enjoying moments with his granddaughter, born in June 2022. “Once I finish my morning chats, I dive into emails and prepare for a day filled with Zoom calls and meetings,” he explained.
A key aspect of Rowley’s routine is his insistence on having a proper workspace, even while traveling. “I need a desk or a sitting area to think and stretch my legs. I can’t just check emails from bed,” he stated. Nutrition also plays a critical role; he relies on a protein shake each morning instead of traditional hotel breakfasts.
Rowley believes that fitness is vital for longevity. At 58, he aims to remain active and healthy into his eighties and nineties. His fitness regimen now includes a midday workout, typically around 1 p.m., where he alternates between Pilates and weightlifting.
“I’ve been weightlifting since I was 14, and Pilates has transformed my approach to fitness,” he noted. Initially skeptical, he now prefers Pilates for its combination of strength, mobility, and balance. “It changed my life,” he added, mentioning how he has encouraged friends to join him in this practice.
Evening Relaxation and Family Time
After his workouts, Rowley returns to the office for more meetings before wrapping up his day. He aims to leave by 5:30 p.m. to take a refreshing walk, especially during colder months. Dinner with his wife typically occurs around 6:30 or 7 p.m., and they share a preference for dramatic series, with Rowley expressing a fondness for shows like “Survivor” and “The Amazing Race.”
Despite his demanding schedule, Rowley finds time to unwind and enjoys watching crime dramas and reality competition shows. “People laugh at me, but I love competition,” he said, showcasing his engaging personality.
By prioritizing fitness, family, and a dynamic work environment, Jim Rowley exemplifies a balanced approach to health and leadership. His insights into maintaining a proactive lifestyle serve as an inspiration for both employees and gym members alike.
