Jim Rowley, the CEO of Crunch Fitness, has developed a unique approach to maintaining his fitness and well-being while managing a busy travel schedule. With a commitment to avoiding monotony, Rowley prioritizes exercise and a healthy diet, including a morning protein shake, regardless of where he finds himself working.
Rowley’s routine varies significantly depending on his location. When in his main office in Manhattan, his day unfolds differently than when he is at home in Lake Tahoe. He values the diversity of his schedule, noting, “It’s fulfilling to not have the same routine over and over again.” With over 34 years of experience in the fitness industry, Rowley thrives on the fresh challenges presented by his role, particularly when visiting Crunch’s more than 500 gyms across the country.
Engaging directly with gym members and staff is crucial to his strategy, particularly as the company explores how to integrate artificial intelligence into the member experience. “When I’m feeling like I’m in a rut from a strategy standpoint, creatively, I go to the gyms,” he explained. This hands-on approach helps him gauge what is working and what needs improvement.
Morning Routine and Focus
Rowley begins his mornings early, typically rising between 5:45 a.m. and 6:30 a.m. His morning ritual includes watching business news and checking in with family, especially since the birth of his granddaughter in June 2022. “I usually have my one cup of coffee for the day,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of starting his day on the right note.
He dedicates a significant portion of his day to meetings via Zoom, focusing on performance updates and team collaboration. A critical aspect of his work environment, particularly when traveling, is having a designated desk or sitting area where he can think clearly and stretch his legs. He avoids checking emails from bed, underscoring the need for a structured workspace even on the road.
Nutrition plays a vital role in Rowley’s routine. “I need to get a protein shake in the morning,” he stated, explaining that he often skips traditional hotel breakfasts in favor of a quick and nutritious start.
Commitment to Fitness
Rowley, now 58 years old, views fitness as essential to long-term health. “I believe fitness is medicine,” he said. His goal is to remain active and mobile well into his eighties and nineties. His fitness journey began in the United States Marine Corps, where he developed the habit of morning workouts. Although he previously exercised in the evenings, he has shifted to a midday routine that includes Pilates or gym sessions around 1 p.m.
He walks to the gym, incorporating about 40 minutes of cardio into his regimen. Rowley has adapted his weightlifting routine over the years, moving away from bench pressing to focus on dumbbell workouts and machine lifting to protect his shoulders. “I don’t lift for ego anymore,” he remarked, highlighting a shift in perspective toward fitness.
Pilates has become a significant part of his training, providing benefits in flexibility and strength. Rowley initially found himself as the only man in his Pilates class but has since encouraged others in his community to join him. “It changed my life,” he admitted, noting the improvements in his mobility and overall physical condition.
Winding Down and Leisure
After his workout, Rowley returns to the office for more meetings and problem-solving. He typically aims to finish his workday by 5:30 p.m. to enjoy an evening walk, particularly refreshing during the colder months. Dinner with his wife usually occurs around 6:30 or 7 p.m.
Rowley and his wife share an interest in television series, preferring dramatic crime stories over sitcoms. While she enjoys British shows produced by the BBC, Rowley leans toward military history and westerns. He also expresses a fondness for reality competition shows like “Survivor” and “The Amazing Race,” finding enjoyment in the spirit of competition.
As he concludes his day, Rowley engages in some reading before heading to bed around 11 p.m. His dedication to fitness, nutrition, and a balanced lifestyle demonstrates the importance he places on health amid a demanding career.
This insight into Jim Rowley’s daily routine exemplifies how maintaining a disciplined approach to fitness can lead to both professional success and personal well-being.
