Episode #575: Scaling Planet Fitness-Lessons in Execution and Growth from CJ Bouchard

In this episode of HALO Talks, industry veteran CJ Bouchard opens up to host Pete Moore about the realities of entrepreneurship in the fitness industry, sharing candid stories of risk, resilience, and what it really means to build from the ground up. From betting his savings on a fledgling franchise in North Carolina and initially making daily two-hour commutes, to pivoting and learning tough lessons about club size, site selection, and market expansion, CJ reveals how grit, adaptability, and a clear mission have fueled Excel Fitness's phenomenal growth.

Planet Fitness (NYSE:PLNT) is one of the largest and fastest-growing operators of fitness centers in the U.S, and Excel Fitness Holdings is one of their largest franchisees currently operating 150+ clubs in Austin, Dallas/Ft Worth, Tulsa, Northwest Arkansas, North Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Georgia, and Virginia. Their mission is to build a team culture and atmosphere constructed on trust, humility, and strong relationships, always leading by example and putting others first with the utmost integrity, dedication, and accountability.

Pete and CJ also dive into how partnering with private equity has transformed the business, what it takes to be a successful operator in today's market, what to expect when working with a PE firm, and the importance of building a strong team and community-driven approach. CJ also shares the meaning behind his "Hope is not a strategy" tattoo, and why execution—not wishful thinking—remains his guiding principle.

Whether you're a club owner, aspiring HALO sector entrepreneur, or curious about how major fitness brands expand, this episode is packed with actionable insights, real-world advice, and plenty of inspiration from one of the industry's top leaders.

Key themes discussed

1. Entrepreneurial journey and early struggles in fitness industry.
2. Evolution and disruption of the Planet Fitness business model.
3. Challenges involved in club building and expansion.
4. The critical importance of location for a gym's success.
5. Strategic growth: Acquisitions, private equity, and territory development.
6. Leadership style: Clarity, vision, and execution over hope.

A Few Takeaways:

1. Entrepreneurial Grit & Humble Beginnings: Bouchard started in the fitness industry as a personal trainer without a college degree, working in Connecticut's gym scene and grinding through tough times. He didn't take a paycheck for two years and put payroll on credit cards when launching his first Planet Fitness in North Carolina. Real entrepreneurship often means sacrifice, resilience, and relentless commitment.

2. Evolution from "Hardcore" Gyms to Disrupting the Market: CJ's transition from traditional gyms (Gold's, World Gym, etc.) to Planet Fitness highlights a change in business philosophy. It went from focusing on "results" to focusing on "access." He recognized Planet's disruptive model early on, betting on a concept that many were skeptical about and ultimately building one of the largest Planet Fitness area development companies in the country.

3. Importance of Site Selection and Operational Knowledge: Both Bouchard and Moor