Positioned between traditional high-volume fitness chains and luxury health clubs, Kaizen offers an elevated member experience that emphasizes quality, accessibility, and long-term wellness. The founders created the concept with a simple belief: a gym should be more than a place to exercise—it should be a place where people enjoy spending time, building relationships, and investing in their health.
"We didn't set out to build another gym," said Dr. Ryan Poolay, co-founder of Kaizen. "We wanted to create a place where people feel welcomed the moment they walk through the door. Every detail was thoughtfully selected to create an environment that inspires people to return, connect with others, and continually improve."
The facility will feature:
- Expansive strength and cardio training areas
- Yoga studio
- Pilates reformer studio
- Group fitness studio
- 90-foot indoor turf training area
- Two full-size gymnasiums
- Dedicated pickleball courts
- Personal training spaces
- Full locker rooms with dry saunas
- A café serving espresso beverages, matcha, tea, smoothies, protein shakes, and recovery-focused drinks
BUILT FOR COMMUNITY
Kaizen was intentionally designed to serve as a community gathering place where fitness, wellness, and social connection come together. Warm architectural finishes, natural materials, and a modern design replace the traditional industrial gym environment, creating a space that feels welcoming while supporting members of every fitness level. Every new member experience begins with a personal introduction to the facility, a guided tour, and an opportunity to meet with a coach who can help develop a customized fitness plan based on individual goals.
"The North Shore is an active and growing community, and we saw an opportunity to create something different," said Chad Meier, co-founder of Kaizen. "Our goal is to build a place where people don't just work out—they build relationships, learn, and become part of a community."
MORE THAN FITNESS
In addition to its training facilities, Kaizen plans to offer educational programming focused on fitness, nutrition, recovery, and long-term health. The founders believe that understanding why training methods work is just as important as the workouts themselves.
The on-site café will serve as a natural extension of the member experience, offering nutritious beverages and refreshments designed to support performance, recovery, and everyday wellness while providing another place for members to gather.
BUILT THROUGH STRONG PARTNERSHIPS
The Kaizen facility was designed in collaboration with TKWA and is being constructed by Kelly Construction. Fitness equipment and studio partners include True Fitness, Woodway Treadmills, and Les Mills, reflecting the team's commitment to providing high-quality equipment and programming.
"As Kaizen's exclusive fitness and wellness vendor, it is exciting to partner with owners and their staff whose vision is in alignment: provide years of fitness knowledge and execute with superior customer satisfaction," said John Brey, CEO of Nex Play. "This philosophy allows Nex Play to bring in products and ideas that complement Kaizen's to create a unique experience for Milwaukee."
"From our first introduction to the project, Chad and Ryan's vision has been rooted in the idea of nurturing a strong sense of community," said Lisa Stafford, Interior Designer at TKWA. "Kaizen's design approach builds upon a mid-century modern sensibility, reinterpreted through a contemporary lens. Together, these elements create an environment that feels both approachable and current, supporting the idea that wellness is not only about movement, but also about connection, comfort, and belonging."
"We are proud to help bring Kaizen's vision to life at Bayshore and deliver a high-quality space that supports wellness, connection, and community for years to come," said Kelly Construction & Design.
NOW HIRING
Ahead of its Fall 2026 opening, Kaizen is hiring personal trainers, fitness professionals, membership advisors, café baristas, basketball, volleyball, and pickleball instructors, as well as league coordinators.
Memberships are now available. To learn more or become a founding member, visit https://kaizenbayshore.com.
ABOUT KAIZEN
Kaizen is a fitness and wellness destination opening at Bayshore in Fall 2026. Named after the Japanese philosophy meaning "continuous improvement," Kaizen is built around the belief that lasting wellness comes through consistent progress, meaningful relationships, and a supportive environment. Combining premium fitness amenities, personalized coaching, educational programming, recovery-focused services, and thoughtfully designed community spaces, Kaizen is redefining the modern fitness experience for Milwaukee's North Shore.
FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES:
Ryan Poolay, Co-Owner
Kaizen
[email protected]
(505) 620-3925
SOURCE Kaizen House of Athletics
Share this article