Edgard Corona: The Mind Behind Smart Fit
Edgard Corona, the owner of Smart Fit, has revolutionized
the fitness industry with his innovative approach to affordable and accessible
fitness. As the CEO and majority shareholder of Bio Ritmo, the parent company
of Smart Fit, Corona has spearheaded the growth of the brand, making it one of
the largest gym chains in Brazil and throughout Latin America.
With a background in chemical engineering, Corona initially
worked in the industrial sector before venturing into the fitness industry . In
1996, he founded Bio Ritmo, a fitness academy that aimed to implement a new
management model and provide a unique fitness experience for its members.
Corona’s vision for Bio Ritmo quickly gained traction, and
he expanded the brand by opening a branch on Avenida Paulista in São Paulo,
targeting busy professionals who have limited time for exercise . This strategic
move proved successful, and Bio Ritmo started to attract attention in the
industry, leading to the opening of more locations across the country.
In 2008, Corona launched his most significant venture yet –
Smart Fit. With a focus on affordability and standardized facilities, Smart Fit
disrupted the gym market by offering quality fitness services at lower prices
compared to its competitors. The model was an instant hit, and Smart Fit
quickly became the 5th largest gym chain in the world.
Corona’s success as a fitness entrepreneur has not gone
unnoticed. In 2021, Smart Fit went public on the B3 stock exchange, with its
shares experiencing a significant increase in value. This move resulted in
Corona’s fortune soaring to an estimated $300 million.
Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements , Edgard Corona’s
participation in the Brazilian edition of Shark Tank showcased his expertise
and innovative thinking. As one of the program’s “sharks,” Corona
evaluated and invested in promising startups, offering guidance and support to
aspiring entrepreneurs.
Edgard Corona’s journey from the industrial sector to
fitness industry pioneer demonstrates his ability to identify market
opportunities and implement successful business strategies. As the owner of
Smart Fit, h e continues to pave the way for accessible and affordable fitness,
ensuring that people from all walks of life can achieve their health and
wellness goals.
In conclusion, Edgard Corona’s leadership and vision have
made him a prominent figure in the fitness industry. Through Bio Ritmo and
Smart Fit, he has revolutionized the way people approach fitness, making it
more accessible and affordable for all. With a focus on innovation and
standardization, Corona continues to shape the future of the fitness industry
in Brazil and beyond.