Edgard Corona is a name that has become synonymous with the
fitness industry in Brazil. As the founder and CEO of Smart Fit, he has spent
over 30 years revolutionizing the way people approach fitness. With his
background in chemical engineering and a passion for physical activity, Corona
has been able to create a fitness empire that spans across 14 countries in
Latin America.
In the 1970s, Edgard Corona graduated wi th a degree in Chemical
Engineering from the Fundação Armando Álvares Penteado (FAAP). However, his
true passion lay in the world of sports and physical activity. This led him to
embark on a journey of self-discovery, experimenting with different career
paths. He started as an employee but quickly transitioned to becoming an entrepreneur.
From working in a materials analysis laboratory to owning his own fashion
stores, Corona was always seeking to understand what the customer truly wanted.
It was in the 1990s that Corona had a pivotal moment that
would shape his future. After a skiing accident, he found himself needing
constant physical therapy. This led him to spend more time in his own gym,
which sparked his interest in the fitness industry. Determined to make a
difference, he founded the first Bio Ritmo gym in Santo Amaro in 1996.
Despite facing initial challenges, Corona was not one to
back down. He sought inspiration from other successful fitness businesses and
implemented a new management model. His perseverance paid off, and Bio Ritmo
started gaining recognition as a leading gym in the industry. This success
motivated Corona to continue pushing boundaries.
In 2008, Corona launched Smart Fit, a new and innovative
approach to fitness. With its affordable pricing and high-quality facilities ,
Smart Fit quickly gained popularity and became a household name. Corona’s
entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to creating a new standard in the fitness
industry have earned him a reputation as one of the most successful fitness
entrepreneurs in Latin America.
Today, Corona continues to lead Smart Fit as the CEO,
focusing on the company’s growth and expansion . Under his leadership, Smart Fit
recently went public, marking a significant milestone for the company. The
funds raised through the IPO will further fuel Smart Fit’s growth strategy,
allowing for potential strategic acquisitions and investments in initiatives to
strengthen the company’s presence across Latin America.
Edgard Corona’s journey is a testament to the power of
passion, innovation, and determination. Through his vision and leadership , he
has transformed the fitness industry, making high-quality fitness accessible to
a wider audience. As Smart Fit continues to thrive, it is clear that Corona’s
impact will continue to shape the future of fitness in Latin America and
beyond.