JOURNAL
Moving Forward and in Running Shoes Increasing representation in the fitness industry By Trisha Sarker MULTIPLE STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT WITH A RANGE OF DIVERSITY, ORGANIZATIONS ARE ABLE TO EXPAND THEIR FRAME-OFREFERENCE, ENGAGE IN HIGHER PRODUCTIVITY, AND BOOST EMPLOYEE MORAL – WHICH ARE ALL AMAZING THINGS. In fact, companies with the highest levels of diversity are 15-35% more likely to have financial returns above their industry’s national average. However, the knowledge of these benefits is not enough. If organizations do not evolve and focus on the importance of having diversity in leadership, an enormous opportunity is lost. This makes it vital for more leadership positions to expand and be represented by people from different backgrounds and intersectionalities (gender, sex, age, ability, ethnicity, race, etc.). Having representation in leadership recognizes the talents among our colleagues and creates a safe and open space for dialogue and inclusion… especially in an industry dedicated to the well-being of others. I have been with Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) for over ten years. As the executive director and as a visible minority, I am overjoyed to see a growing number of female leaders in our industry, 28 canfitpro March/April 2021
including FIC’s vice president, Nathalie Lacombe. In Canada, women hold only 25% of vice-president positions, and 15% of CEO positions. The fitness industry is proudly leading the way with having more females enter the field than every before. What is incredible is how the industry is celebrating the accomplishments of woman in leadership, such as canfitpro’s Women Who Influence event and IHRSA’s Women Who Inspire recognitions. FIC is dedicated to the future of the organization by increasing our representation. FIC has developed a Diversity and Inclusion Committee focused on working towards creating a more inclusive trade association for the fitness industry. As we are increasingly inspired by the women who lead the way, I would like to send a big THANK YOU to all the women who work hard to accomplish their goals, push through adversity, and shatter glass ceilings. Historically, the fitness industry has been seen as a “boys club” – but this view is shifting drastically. Not just due to female perseverance, but also due to our allies and supporters. As we become more knowledgeable about gender identification and its scope in the workplace, as well as gain understanding
for the importance of diversity and representation, we can inspire growth through offering opportunities, encouraging possibilities, and harnessing potentials. Yes, leadership takes a lot of hard work and dedication. Yes, sometimes extra effort may be required. There is a metaphor that women must “dance backwards and in high heels” – an expression that originated from the dance team of Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire, iconic partners in 10 popular movies in the 1930s. Although they were both remarkably talented, Astaire’s acclaim and professional success ultimately exceeded that of Rogers, who did everything he did, but “backwards and in high heels”. However, things are changing; it is time to lead, evolve, and tear down barriers. While we still have a long way to go, this time, we move forward and in running shoes. Trisha Sarker is the Executive Director of Fitness Industry Council of Canada. She is a doctoral candidate, a university instructor, and an accomplished communications professional. She was recognized in 2020 for IHRSA’s Woman Who Inspire.
