Muscle Health Gains That Drive Member Loyalty with Dr. Karlie Intlekofer

Muscle health is becoming one of the biggest conversations in fitness, aging and long-term health. In this session from the HFA Show 2026, Dr. Karlie Intlekofer looks at why strength, power, muscle mass and muscle endurance matter, especially as physical capacity starts to decline more quickly after age 40.She also breaks down the gap between what members say they want and what their training habits often show. Many people want more muscle, strength and energy, but they need clearer guidance, visible progress and early wins to stay consistent.Topics covered in this episode include:• Why muscle health matters for longevity• How strength and power affect aging• Why many gym-goers plateau after 6 to 12 weeks• How pain and injury can change member behavior• Why members join for outcomes, not equipment• How early wins build confidence, consistency and retention• Why progress tracking helps members see resultsFor fitness facilities, trainers and wellness leaders, this conversation offers a practical look at how to turn growing interest in muscle health into better member engagement, stronger outcomes and long-term loyalty.