New holistic gym uses AI to work (out) smarter, not harder

PARK CITY, Utah — A new fitness studio is bringing artificial intelligence and data-driven workouts to Park City this spring. The Smart Fit Method, co-founded by Rob and Connor Darnbrough, combines cutting-edge technology with customized training programs to optimize efficiency and safety in exercise routines. The company plans to open its Park City location in mid-April and another location in Salt Lake City earlier that month.

The Smart Fit Method aims to make advanced fitness technology accessible to the general public, offering science-backed training previously reserved for professional athletes. According to co-founder Connor Darnbrough, the inspiration behind the studio came from his father’s health journey.

“We prioritize health and fitness in tandem. Many gyms and workout studios focus mainly on fitness, which is your physiological capacity, but they’re not focusing on your health. We try to get fitness up while improving health simultaneously and working around any health obstacles.”

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Darnbrough explained that most people walking into a Smart Fit Method gym won’t recognize much of the equipment– it’s not your typical barbells and treadmill set up.

The studio’s adaptive resistance equipment automatically adjusts to users’ fatigue levels and strength, ensuring safe and effective workouts. This approach allows members to achieve the same results in about an hour per week as they would in five to six hours at a traditional gym.

“What really sets us apart from the traditional studio is we’re a lot more efficient—you can achieve in 20 minutes what it would typically take an hour and a half to two hours to achieve in a regular fitness studio.”

The Smart Fit Method integrates AI-powered equipment and an app-based tracking system to provide real-time feedback and personalized workout adjustments.

Members undergo an initial assessment, including a metabolic health evaluation, 3D body scan, and strength test. Every three months, they receive a longevity check-up, which includes a VO2 max assessment, metabolic rate evaluation, and strength reassessment.

“Traditional gyms lack data-driven feedback, but The Smart Fit Method uses advanced machines and an app to track progress, adjust fitness plans and help you achieve your evolving goals,” Darnbrough said. “Our approach creates a complete fitness routine by balancing workouts, recovery, sleep, nutrition and metabolic health.”

In addition to workout equipment, the new Park City location will feature an expanded recovery area with red light therapy, cold plunges, and saunas. These tools help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and accelerate post-exercise recovery. Darnbrough explained the recovery section is essentially unlimited, members can book appointments in advance, and there is no limit on how many appointments they can book.

A key aspect of The Smart Fit Method is its accessibility to people of all fitness levels. While some may assume AI-driven training is only for elite athletes, Darnbrough emphasized that the method is designed for anyone looking to improve their health regardless of age, ability, and health circumstance.

The Smart Fit Method was developed after Rob Darnbrough, a former cyclist with the Canadian National Team, was diagnosed with an enlarged aortic valve, putting him at risk for a life-threatening aneurysm. After being advised to avoid traditional strength training, he discovered adaptive resistance equipment, which allowed him to safely rebuild his fitness. His successful recovery led to the development of The Smart Fit Method, with the goal of bringing this technology to a wider audience.

The Park City location will offer month-to-month memberships, with separate options for fitness, recovery, or a combination of both. Members can also opt for virtual consultations with doctors who analyze their health assessments and provide tailored recommendations.

To celebrate the Park City opening, The Smart Fit Method is offering a 20% discount for the first 50 members who sign up. Additionally, new members can take advantage of a free week to experience the technology and receive an initial fitness assessment.

“For the first 50 members who sign up at the facility, they’ll get 20% off valid for the whole year,” Darnbrough said. “I encourage people to sign up early to take advantage of the discount. But for those who want to try it first, we offer a free trial week to introduce them to the equipment and process.”

For more information or to join the waitlist, visit smartfitmethod.com.