With more than 16,000 members and a reputation for cutting-edge programming, Rochester Athletic Club (RAC) in Minnesota is one of the largest multipurpose fitness facilities in the U.S. The club is known for blending science, technology, and member experience to keep programming fresh and results-driven.
As member expectations evolve, RAC continually searches for equipment that can engage both high-performing athletes and everyday gym-goers without adding operational complexity.
RAC’s trainers and members wanted a better way to train the core: one that was challenging yet accessible. Traditional ab wheels broke frequently and intimidated many members, while cable and machine options lacked versatility.
The goal: find a durable, motorized solution that could adapt to each member’s ability, support one-on-one training, and scale to group classes.
After testing ZeroWheel, RAC quickly expanded to six units across the facility. Placed in a high-traffic stretch area near group fitness studios, the devices immediately drew attention and curiosity.
“I had to pull all the ZeroWheels off the floor for an electrical project, and people were upset about it. That’s a good testimonial right there!”
Members and trainers found the system intuitive, guided by QR codes and instructional videos that made it easy to learn without staff supervision.
A few dedicated trainers became ZeroWheel champions, introducing it to their clients and inspiring confidence among new users.
“I have members that I would say are pretty religious with it. I can kind of almost set my clock by when they use it.”
As trainers incorporated ZeroWheel into one-on-one sessions, adoption grew organically across the floor. Soon, group fitness instructors began brainstorming new ways to use it from core circuits to HIIT classes held in the club’s 50-person gym space.
ZeroWheel’s adaptability gave RAC new programming possibilities. The same tool that fired up HIIT classes could also help participants in the club’s weight-management and rehabilitation programs.
“It’s a natural fit. It helps us serve members who might not fit well in traditional machines, while still giving advanced users a challenge.”
Steve now envisions small, fee-based “core clinics” built around ZeroWheel; a new source of member engagement and potential revenue.
Beyond its training benefits, ZeroWheel simplified Steve’s operational workload. The connected ZeroWheel Fitness app, tracks usage, activates anti-theft protection, and allows the team to manage devices remotely.
And because each unit is durable and versatile, the club saves time and money replacing broken traditional ab wheels.
“I burn through several ab wheels every year. This will save us fifty bucks a month right there.”
ZeroWheel has become a visible example of innovation meeting practicality inside one of the nation’s premier athletic clubs. For Steve, its appeal is simple: it works for everyone.
“I love the product. Once we can just roll it out and walk away, I think they’re going to be massively popular.”
