When it comes to the fitness industry in Brazil, one name
stands out among the rest: Edgard Corona. As the owner and founder of Smart
Fit, Corona has solidified his position as a leading figure in the field. With
over 30 years of experience, his journey is nothing short of remarkable.
Corona’s passion for entrepreneurship began during his
college days, where he started his first businesses while studying Chemical
Engineering at the Fundação Armando Álvares Penteado. From a materials analysis
laboratory to a clothing store with its own outlets, his drive to innovate was
evident from the start.
In 1996, Corona decided to venture out on his own and opened
the first Bio Ritmo gym in Santo Amaro. It was during this time that he
encountered a personal injury that required extensive physiotherapy. Seeing an
opportunity, he dedicated himself fully to his new venture, combining his own
rehabilitation needs with business development.
Despite initial setbacks, Corona’s determination never
wavered. He sought to learn from others’ experiences, conducting extensive
benchmarking and gathering insights to steer his vision in the right direction.
His decision to open a Bio Ritmo branch on Avenida Paulista proved to be a game-changer.
By catering to those with limited time for exercise, he created a unique
fitness experience that resonated wi th a broader audience. The success of this
new approach led to the opening of additional branches and solidified Bio
Ritmo’s position as a prominent player in the fitness industry.
Not content with resting on his laurels, Corona continued to
seek knowledge and expertise. He attended international conferences and engaged
with industry leaders, which inspired him to develop a new model for the
fitness sector. In 2008, Smart Fit was born. It represented a fresh approach,
focused on offering affordable high-quality fitness solutions to a wider
audience.
Today, Corona’s impact on the industry is undeniable. As CEO
of the Bio Ritmo and Smart Fit group, he is regarded as one of the foremost
pioneers in fitness business management in Latin America. His recent move to
take Smart Fit public on the Brazilian stock exchange further underscores his
commitment to growth and innovation.
As we look to the future, Edgard Corona’s visionary
leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence continue to shape the fitness
industry. With a track record of success and a passion for democratizing access
to fitness, his entrepreneurial journey is one that inspires and encourages
others to push boundaries and achieve their goals.
In conclusion, Edgard Corona’s journey is a testament to the
power of perseverance and innovation in the fitness industry. His ability to
adapt to changing market dynamics and create new business models has positioned
him as a trailblazer in the field. As he continues to drive growth and expand
his influence, we can expect even greater achievements from this visionary
entrepreneur.