Soapbox Readers,
Eric Buckner is one of those fitness industry leaders who immediately makes an impression, not just because of his operational knowledge and innovative thinking, but because of the genuine passion he brings to helping clubs create a better experience for their members and teams. Through his leadership with 10 Fitness and the development of the 365 Member Access, Eric has consistently focused on practical solutions that make facilities more efficient, more welcoming, and more member friendly.
What makes Eric especially respected throughout the industry is his ability to combine technology, leadership, and real world operational experience without ever losing sight of the people side of the business. He understands that great facilities are built on relationships, culture, consistency, and creating environments where members feel connected and valued. Whether discussing automation, member access, operational efficiencies, or the future direction of the fitness industry, Eric brings a thoughtful and grounded perspective that resonates with operators and industry leaders alike.
Above all, Eric represents the kind of leadership that continues to move the fitness industry forward through innovation, collaboration, and a genuine commitment to helping others succeed.
“The need is great and so are the opportunities to make a difference.” – Paul Newman
– John Mickelson
Meet Eric Buckner: The 10Fitness CEO driving innovation through simple solutions and a heart for his community
Meet Eric Buckner: CEO of 10Fitness & Creator of 365 Member Access
Eric Buckner’s journey into the tech side of the fitness industry began with a simple necessity. As the CEO of 10Fitness, he found that the specific access system his clubs required simply didn’t exist on the market.
Taking the initiative, Eric hired a developer to build a custom solution. After seeing the system’s success within his own clubs, he realized it had the potential to transform other facilities, leading to the creation of 365 Member Access.
The 365 Member Access Edge
What truly sets the platform apart from competitors is its unmatched flexibility. While traditional systems typically only control the front door, 365 Member Access was intentionally designed to gate any specific amenity or internal door to strictly enforce a club’s unique business rules.
From infrared saunas and recovery rooms to cold plunges, red light therapy, premium locker rooms, childcare areas, and after-hours access, 365 Member Access gives operators the ability to monetize amenities while maintaining complete control over member access and accountability.
This creates a massive competitive advantage: gym operators never have to alter their successful business models to accommodate rigid technology. Instead, the system adapts seamlessly to the club’s existing operations.
“365 Member Access has given us the flexibility to offer premium services while simplifying operations for our team and enhancing the member experience.”
Professional Philosophy & Innovation
Eric is driven by a passion for creating simple solutions to complex problems. Combining an active imagination with a willingness to experiment and a deep belief in teamwork, he views innovation as one of the most rewarding aspects of his work.
As a gym operator, his primary motivation is witnessing the positive transformations of his members. Whether he is building a new facility or brainstorming strategies to “move the needle,” Eric is truly in his element.
Background & Expertise
- Education: Eric earned his degree in Business from the University of Florida.
- Experience: A former “gym rat,” Eric saw a gap in fitness options in his local area and turned that passion into a career. He has been a fixture in the industry since 2003.
- Mission: At 365 Member Access, Eric focuses on streamlining operations for staff and members while driving profitability for gym owners through approachable, innovative tech.
Giving Back & Personal Life
Beyond the gym, Eric is fueled by family, sports, and acts of kindness. He is a dedicated volunteer, contributing his time to his church and supporting the homeless. He is particularly passionate about Immerse Arkansas, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting at-risk youth.
When he isn’t innovating for the fitness world, you can find Eric:
- Perfecting a project in his woodshop.
- Hitting the golf course or playing with his children.
- Cheering on his favorite teams or simply “living his best life.”
Accolades & A Touch of Humor
Under Eric’s leadership, 10Fitness has earned the “Best of the Best” award multiple times. He also boasts a more unique athletic achievement: winning the Dragon Boat Races on two occasions.
Eric describes himself as an approachable leader who doesn’t take himself too seriously. He values schedule flexibility and isn’t afraid to admit to a few quirky ideas or the occasional bout of disorganization.
A fan of the movie Idiocracy, Eric is also the protagonist of a legendary frugal party trick: in his 20s, he would bring the same 2-liter bottle of generic, diet, caffeine-free cola to every party as a joke. Since no one ever dared to open it, the bottle became a recurring guest at events for years—saving him money and becoming a favorite personal tradition.
Ultimately, whether through business or philanthropy, Eric Buckner remains dedicated to innovating, building, and making a positive impact.
Contact 365 Member Access
Ready to create new revenue opportunities, improve member accountability, and maintain complete control over your facility’s access points?
Visit 365MemberAccess.com or email sales@365memberaccess.com to schedule a demonstration and learn how the platform can be customized to fit your unique business model.
Innovative Solutions for Fitness and Recreation Organizations
Last year, I had a weird week. I had never been to a Kalahari Resort, and then suddenly I was speaking at two of them within three days in two different states. If you are not familiar, Kalahari is an indoor water park resort chain with locations across the country. Both properties had highly advanced self-service kiosk systems for hotel check-in. The technology was designed to make the process fast and easy.
For most guests, it worked perfectly. People were breezing through check-in like pros. I, however, was standing there poking at the screen like I had never seen technology before. I am what most people would call, technologically challenged. Everyone else was checking in smoothly. I was stuck on step two.
What made the experience work was not the kiosk. It was the staff. A team member was actively watching for guests who looked stuck, and when she saw me, she stepped in immediately. She walked me through the process with patience and zero judgment. In that moment, the experience became effective, easy, and enjoyable.
The system did its job. The human interaction finished it.
This is what we talk about when we reference the Experience Equation. Effective means it works. Easy means it does not create friction. Enjoyable means people feel good about it. Technology can handle the first two. Humans are what make it enjoyable.
Your facility probably has new technology rolling out. Self-service kiosks. Mobile apps. Automated systems. That is great. But are your staff members watching for people who look stuck? Are they stepping in to help before frustration sets in?
Technology is great. Humans are better. When you combine both, you create experiences people remember.
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Newsletter edited and produced by Megan Shellman-Rickard, Simple Synergy Consulting. Discover what our company can do for your organization: https://www.simplesynergyconsulting.com/
