Fresh off its acquisition of omnichannel yoga brand Y7, FitLab has now acquired New York City-based Mile High Run Club, a boutique running studio with three locations across the Big Apple.
The addition of the treadmill training concept complements FitLab’s growing ecosystem of fitness and wellness brands and comes amid a surge of interest in running, according to recent data from Garmin.
“Mile High Run Club has redefined the running experience and ushered in a fresh perspective on running,” FitLab co-CEO Brian Kirkbride said. “What was once primarily a solo grind has turned into a high-energy, group-driven activity that people truly look forward to. Before running’s resurgence and the rise of run clubs, Mile High had already perfected an all-weather training experience. Thousands of people have discovered a love for running thanks to Mile High, and we’re thrilled to bring such an innovative, culture-shifting brand into the FitLab family.”
Founded in 2014, Mile High Run Club’s NoHo, NoMad and UES clubs offer coach-led treadmill training for runners of all levels within a club-like setting with mood lighting and electrifying music. Personalized training programs are also offered for those preparing for half and full marathons and could stoke interest from those gearing up for Hyrox’s upcoming endurance event this May in New York City.
“We’ve always believed that anyone can develop a passion for running if they have access to the right environment, training programs and coaching,” Mile High Run Club CEO and founder Willy Heath said. “We’ve worked hard to prove this in New York City, and with FitLab’s backing, we’re excited to inspire even more people to embrace running and reap its rewards.”
The California-based FitLab, founded by former Nike and New Evolution Ventures execs Kirkbride and Mike Melby in 2019, secured $65 million in strategic financing last March as it advances its multi-brand performance lifestyle company.
In 2024, FitLab inked a deal with Nike to launch Nike Studios, acquired equipment manufacturers Assault Fitness and RPM Training and partnered with GoSaga, an investment and scaling firm focused on health, wellness, fitness and beauty brands. In addition to Y7 and Mile High Run Club, FitLab’s portfolio also includes action sports and training brand Electric, fitness app Fitplan, boutique weightlifting concept Racked, endurance racing company Ragnar, HIIT-based Sanctuary Fitness and XPT, a performance wellness brand founded by Laird Hamilton and Gabby Reece, which is set to open a studio in Newport Beach, California.
