Latin America’s gym industry looked vastly different before Edgard Corona began introducing technology-driven solutions into fitness environments. As the mastermind behind Smart Fit, Corona has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a gym chain can offer through strategic tech integration that enhances member experiences while streamlining operations.

Building a Digital Fitness Ecosystem

When many traditional gym owners were still focused exclusively on physical equipment and facilities, the dono da Smart Fit began developing a comprehensive digital ecosystem around his physical locations. Under Corona’s direction, Smart Fit created a mobile application that goes beyond basic functions like class scheduling or membership management.

The Smart Fit app offers personalized workout plans that adapt to members’ fitness levels and goals. It provides detailed exercise tutorials, progress tracking, and even nutrition recommendations. This digital companion extends the gym experience beyond physical locations, keeping members engaged with the brand even when they’re not at a facility.

“Today, we’re paying attention to artificial intelligence and how it can help us provide more personalized experiences for our customers,” Edgard Corona explained about the company’s ongoing tech investments. This forward-looking approach has positioned Smart Fit not just as a chain of physical gyms but as a holistic fitness technology platform.

Operational Innovation Through Automation

Behind the scenes, Corona has embraced technology to make Smart Fit’s operations more efficient and user-friendly. The company uses advanced software systems to handle administrative tasks like membership registration, billing, and attendance tracking. Self-service kiosks at gym entrances allow members to check in without staff assistance, reducing wait times and enhancing convenience.

One particularly clever innovation is the “Smart Fit Help” button found on gym equipment. When members need assistance or have questions about using a machine, they can simply press this button to summon a trainer. This simple technological solution makes help immediately accessible while allowing staff to attend to those who truly need guidance rather than constantly circulating the gym floor.

Smart Fit also utilizes data analytics to optimize its business operations. The company analyzes membership data to identify usage patterns, peak hours, and popular workout trends. This information helps determine everything from staffing levels to which equipment to purchase for new locations. Corona’s background in engineering has shaped this data-driven approach to gym management.

Pandemic-Accelerated Digital Transformation

When COVID-19 forced temporary gym closures across Latin America, Corona quickly pivoted Smart Fit’s digital strategy. The company rapidly expanded its online offerings, providing free workout classes through digital channels so members could stay active at home. This quick adaptation helped maintain customer engagement during a challenging period.

In 2020, Smart Fit made a significant move by acquiring Queima Diária, one of Brazil’s largest digital fitness platforms. This strategic purchase accelerated the company’s digital capabilities and expanded its reach beyond traditional gym-goers. The acquisition allowed Smart Fit to offer virtual training programs that complemented its physical locations once they reopened.

“The online fitness model became a lasting revenue stream, complementing the company’s physical gym operations,” industry observers noted about this strategic shift. Under Corona’s leadership, what began as a pandemic necessity evolved into a permanent business expansion that broadened Smart Fit’s market reach.

Edgard Corona’s tech-forward approach has fundamentally changed how fitness businesses operate in Latin America. By embracing technology at every level—from customer-facing apps to operational systems—the dono da Smart Fit has created a business model that blends physical and digital experiences. This hybrid approach not only weathered the pandemic but has positioned Smart Fit for continued growth in an increasingly tech-oriented fitness landscape.