Meet Joe, founder of hero, our new wellness partner

We’ve announced a ground-breaking partnership with hero, a new-to-market digital wellness company. We caught up with Joe Gaunt, founder and CEO to find out more about hero, how it came to life and how it will benefit Moda residents.

Meet Joe...

What's your background and how did hero come about?

I’ve always had an interest in mind and body, from school I studied anatomy and kinesiology and then went on to study psychology before training as a PT. I’ve been very fortunate in my career, holding senior positions at Virgin Active, Reward Gateway and then going on to be the MD of WeWork.

I've always wanted to start my own business but wanted to wait until I could create something truly innovative and genuinely valuable. Hero allows me to combine my passion for tech, fitness and social health.

What is hero in a nutshell?

Hero combines unique digital wellness technology with in person services. Our app pulls data from wearable tech such as a Fitbit, a Garmin watch or iPhone health trackers. We then work with you to understand that data and support you to help improve, this covers everything from nutrition and mindfulness to fitness and improving your sleep.

What does that mean for residents at Moda?

Residents will not just have access to a Moda gym, they will also have a carefully curated schedule of events and workshops designed around their needs. It could be a cooking class in the private dining room, yoga on the rooftop or joining the Moda running or book club. This isn’t just about fitness it’s about creating a socially, engaged and supported community.

What if you don’t like group activities!?

That’s ok too! You don’t have to take part in anything you don’t want to. The app does a lot of the talking anyway, residents can use it to download recipes, stream exercise into their own apartment or simply find out more about health and wellbeing. Hero is there for you to access how you want and when you want.

There’s a lot of talk about cooking and recipes what if I don’t have time?

We’ve teamed up with a nutritional meal delivery service so you can simply click our app and select your meals for delivery. No need for cooking or faffing!

What other services do you provide?

Hero can be used to access physiotherapists, chiropractors, nutritionists, GPs and a whole host of health advisors straight to your apartment or in one of our practice rooms.

Anything else we should know?

Yes, if that wasn’t enough! The first Hero Training Club will open in Manchester in 2019 at Moda’s Angel Gardens. Our training clubs are open to all, not just Moda residents. The training club will be split into four zones, to reflect four disciplines; Stronger, Athletic, Cardio and Rejuvenate. Unlike traditional gyms, members either work out with a personal trainer or as part of a group class.

And breathe….