The Athletic Clubs

The Athletic Clubs

Membership-based squad workouts with full-body training

Overview

The Athletic Clubs runs a membership-based fitness program centered on squad-based training sessions that take place twice a week in any weather. Workouts include a full-body mix of erg machines, free-weight strength, plyometrics, and dynamic core work, followed by a social coffee session to build community. Members don’t need to book sessions; they have access to guaranteed private squad workouts and can join additional classes such as run club, strength, conditioning, or pilates. The company differentiates itself by emphasizing consistent, community-driven routines with a built-in social element, rather than varying schedules or on-demand one-off classes. Its goal is to provide a reliable, engaging fitness experience that blends structured group workouts with social support, helping members stay committed and connected with like-minded athletes.

Significant Headcount Growth

About The Athletic Clubs

Simplify's Rating
Why The Athletic Clubs is rated
B-
Rated B on Competitive Edge
Rated B on Growth Potential
Rated C on Differentiation

Industries

Education

Healthcare

Entertainment

Company Size

11-50

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

$3.5M

Headquarters

Hendersonville, Tennessee

Founded

2021

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Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • Anne Mahlum led the $3.5 million round in May 2025, validating the model.
  • Michael Abramson joined as president and COO, strengthening operating discipline for scaling.
  • Chicago leases, seven NYC locations, and July 2026 openings signal accelerating growth.

What critics are saying

  • Chicago expansion and Washington, D.C. plans stretch execution beyond proven New York playbooks.
  • Rebranding from The Athletic Clubs to Club Athletic risks confusing members and partners.
  • If boutique fitness demand softens, lease-heavy club expansion destroys capital before 2027.

What makes The Athletic Clubs unique

  • Squad-based training and neighborhood identity create sticky community moats in dense urban markets.
  • Seven NYC clubs and 2,000-plus members prove repeatable demand before Chicago launches.
  • Lululemon selected AC as exclusive NYC gym partner for its 2026 Yet activation.

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Funding

Total Funding

$3.5M

Above

Industry Average

Funded Over

1 Rounds

Angel funding comparison data is currently unavailable. We're working to provide this information soon!
Angel Funding Comparison
Coming Soon

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Growth & Insights and Company News

Headcount

6 month growth

11%

1 year growth

11%

2 year growth

20%
Athletech News
May 15th, 2025
The Athletic Clubs Secures $3.5M Funding

The Athletic Clubs (ACs), a squad-based training brand in NYC, secured a $3.5M funding round led by Solidcore founder Anne Mahlum. The funds will support expansion to 15 locations by 2026 and entry into two new markets. Mahlum, who sold Solidcore for nearly $100M, joins as an investor and board member. Michael Abramson, former Xponential COO, is appointed as president and COO to drive growth and community building.

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