US-based fitness operator 24 Hour Fitness has signed a pioneering partnership with the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) for the run up to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

The deal, which will see 24 Hour Fitness expand its role as the official fitness partner of Team USA, is part of USOC's desire to "provide more programmes and training resources for future Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls".

Among the innovative elements of the partnership – believed to be the only one of its kind, between a fitness operator and an Olympic body – is the USOC Certification Program, developed exclusively for 24 Hour Fitness personal trainers.

As part of the certification programme, USOC will create general- and sport-specific courses for fitness professionals working at 24 Hour Fitness. The certification programme will also play an important role in 24 Hour Fitness’ development of youth sports programmes.

“The Olympic and Paralympic movements are about inspirational, life-changing moments that rise from years of arduous training,” said Mark Smith, CEO of 24 Hour Fitness.

“It’s a powerful message about goal setting, overcoming challenges and the mindset to achieve the impossible. We look forward to contributing our deep talent and resources to help the USOC and our country’s greatest athletes to achieve their Olympic and Paralympic dreams.”

Peter Zeytoonjian, USOC senior vice president of marketing, commerce and events, added: “We look forward to combining the expansive fitness knowledge and nationwide network of 24 Hour Fitness clubs with the sports performance expertise of the USOC in effort to provide more programmes and training resources for future Olympic and Paralympic hopefuls.”