Life Fitness / Hammer Strength Facility Wins "Best Places to Work" Honor

Life Fitness / Hammer Strength Facility Wins “Places to Work” Honor in  
Owatonna/Southern Minnesota’s 2025 Best of the Best Awards

[Owatonna, Minn. and Rosemont, Ill.] — August 4, 2025 — The Owatonna location of Life Fitness / Hammer Strength has been named the winner in the “Best Places to Work” category in the 2025 Best of the Best – Southern Minnesota and the 2025 Best of the Best – Owatonna & Waseca Reader’s Choice awards, hosted by the Owatonna People's Press. The awards were given July 30 following weeks of community voting. 

Out of six companies in this category, Life Fitness / Hammer Strength earned the top spot in both competitions, a recognition that celebrates the company’s exceptional workplace culture, employee satisfaction and commitment to the local community. 

“We are honored to be recognized as a top place to work in southern Minnesota,” said Jim Pisani, Chief Executive Officer, Life Fitness / Hammer Strength. “This award reflects the strong culture our team in Owatonna has built—one grounded in teamwork and a deep commitment to doing great work every day. We’re proud of their contributions and grateful for the positive impact they continue to make within the company and throughout the local community.”  

The Best of the Best awards spotlight local favorites across dozens of categories, from dining and services to health care and employers. Community members were invited to nominate and vote for businesses they believe represent the best of southern Minnesota, and specifically Owatonna/Waseca. Nominations were submitted in April, and voting took place mid-May to mid-June. Being selected the winner of “Best Places to Work” reflects strong support from employees, customers and neighbors alike. 

“This recognition is especially meaningful because it comes from the people who know us best—our employees and our community,” said John Champa, Plant Manager for Life Fitness / Hammer Strength in Owatonna. “Having been part of this team for 30 years, I’ve seen how our people show up for each other, take pride in their work and contribute to a culture that’s both high-performing and supportive. This award belongs to every one of them.” 

About Us 

Life Fitness/Hammer Strength has been inspiring the world to work out for more than 55 years. The company manufactures and sells strength and cardiovascular equipment through its iconic Life Fitness and Hammer Strength brands. To find out more about employment opportunities at Life Fitness / Hammer Strength in Owatonna, please visit www.lifefitness.com 

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For media inquiries, please contact: 
Rekha S. Rao 
Senior Manager, Internal & External Communications 
rekha.rao@lifefitness.com