Solidcore is not running toward anti-DEI policies anytime soon, according to its Black CEO.
At the helm of leadership for the fitness studio company is Bryan Myers, who wants to make the business feel safe for all bodies. As various industries shift away from DEI practices, Myers believes that Solidcore can still benefit from these long-held ideals and plans to prove it.
Solidcore took off amid the Pilates craze in the workout industry, offering a tough way to get lean and build community. With over 160 studios nationwide, and more on the way, Myers wants Solidcore to lead the pack for fitness and diversity.
In a conversation with The Grio, Myers discussed his unique approach to the business as both a customer and a CEO. He understands that boutique fitness studios have not always provided a metaphorical “welcome mat,” historically having an exclusive mystique, but he hopes that Solidcore will create this difference.
“The way to be ‘in’ and the thing that we celebrate publicly is the work that you put in,” explained the fitness enthusiast. With that basis, it allows us to say we are going to go out and find those people who typically have not been included in boutique fitness, particularly not in reformer pilates, and say, if you are willing to do the work, you are exactly who we want under the blue lights.”
To be “in” at Solidcore is to align with its values of wellness and welcomeness. He wants representation of all people felt within their studios, and hopes that message begins to resonate, especially with new customers.
Recent years have also seen the rise of the anti-DEI movement, prompting many companies to abandon their inclusion practices for the sake of profits. However, Myers sees DEI integration as a crucial part of his business strategy, encouraging others to join in rather than feel isolated.
He continued, “And I think the reason that people are backpedaling on DEI is because it was never rooted and aligned with building a great business. It was ‘we need to do this for PR reasons.” At the core, for me, this is actually not marketing. This is a business strategy. When people think about what reformer brand is the de facto landing spot for Black women, I want it to be Solidcore.”
While other business leaders are trying to maintain the status quo, Myers plans to set a new standard. As Solidcore expands, DEI is more than a support tactic, but is inherently tied to the Myers’ vision for the company.
“There’s this underlying belief that we have to sacrifice our profitability in order to do DEI. The weight of the responsibility that I feel as a leader is to show others that you don’t have to pick a lane. You can actually do both profitable business and prioritize inclusivity.”
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