Will Phillips, founder of REX Roundtables, which has been a resource for health club and studio operators for 35 years, passed away on April 10 after complications from surgery.
“The Health & Fitness Association joins the fitness industry in mourning the death of Will Phillips, an industry visionary and leader who guided so many of our members on their journeys as successful owners and operators,” said Health & Fitness Association President and CEO Liz Clark. “Although I didn’t have the privilege of meeting Will personally, I have witnessed the profound impact of his wisdom and generosity of spirit on our industry. The legacy he leaves through his work with REX Roundtables will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. We are grateful for his dedication to and his work on behalf of the industry.”
REX Roundtables was founded by Phillips in 1989, and has grown to over 350 members and 400 REX Roundtables meetings per year across the US, Australia, and Europe.
“There are very few people in the global fitness industry who have had the widespread and lasting impact that Will had over his 30+ years of service,” said Eddie Tock, CEO of REX Roundtables. “His influence touched thousands of lives and transformed countless businesses.”
Phillips officially retired in May 2020, having led over 2,800 working sessions and corporate retreats with top fitness industry leaders. He was a regular presenter on the global stage and authored more than 400 management briefings for health club executives.
When he stepped away, industry icon Joe Cirulli said, “I’ve always thought of Will as having my own personal Obi-Wan Kenobi.”
Blair McHaney from MXMetrics shared, “Because of Will, my life is better, my family's life is better, and all of our employees’ lives are better.”
Brent Darden, REX chair and former Roundtables member, added, “Will had an indelible and long-lasting influence on the fitness industry.”
“Will’s legacy lives on through the structure, collaboration, and impact of every REX meeting around the world,” said Tock.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025 in Boston, and those who attend are asked to wear "colorful, celebratory garb." Read the obituary.
