Workout july 2013 by Script Media

25/6/13

09:34

Page 1

July 2013

The UK’s No 1 fitness industry magazine

Fitness industry growth comes at a price, claim By Christina Eccles THE UK health and fitness industry is now worth £3.92b, according to figures, which show a 1.5 per cent growth in total market value over the 12-month period ending March 2013. The latest State of the UK Fitness Industry Report shows the industry has experienced improved growth in the last 12 months; with increases of 1.5 per cent in value, two per cent in the number of fitness facilities and a 4.5 per cent rise in the number of members, according to independent leisure market analysts The Leisure Database Company. Key findings include: The industry’s total market value – public and private sectors combined – is estimated at £3.92bn, up 1.5 per cent on 2012. 12.6 per cent of the UK population are now registered as members of a private health and fitness club or a publicly-owned fitness facility, contrasting with 12.1 per cent in the previous year. Total industry membership base is the strongest growth indicator, up 4.5 per cent to 7.9m over the past 12 months. 167 new public and private fitness facilities opened in the 12-month peri-

od ending March 31 2013, up from 163 in 2012, 149 in 2011 and 122 in 2010. There are now 6,019 fitness facilities in the UK, up from 5,900 last year. Since 2009, the fitness industry has grown its total market value by four per cent, the member base by 8.3 per cent and the number of fitness facilities by 3.9 per cent. Growth in the industry has been driven by strong performances from both private and public fitness facilities – and especially from the rapidly growing private low cost market. But that growth comes at a price – with low cost operators impacting on both average monthly membership fees and yield per member across the industry. Director of The Leisure Database Company David Minton said: “Despite another year of economic slowdown the fitness industry is continuing to stand strong with both private and public fitness sectors showing record numbers of members, fitness facilities and total market value with the UK penetration rate hitting an all-time high of 12.6 per cent.” What do you think of the findings? Tell us how business is going at your gym by emailing ce@scriptmedia.co.uk or contact us via Facebook and Twitter.

No 238 £3

Closing date looms for gyms to nominate

Supplement range Bio-Synergy Active Woman has launched a 12-week challenge, supported by its celebrity ambassador, TV presenter Melanie Sykes. The challenge aims to find the best ‘Active Woman’, achieved through a combination of exercise, nutrition and taking the supplements. Women can enter at any Holland and Barrett store or via Facebook and will receive a diet plan, training schedule and list of supplements to help them reach their fitness goals. The person judged the best ‘Active Woman’ at the end of their 12 weeks wins £1,000.

TIME is running out to enter the National Fitness Awards, with nominations for this year closing soon. The awards, organised by Script Events in partnership with Workout and headline sponsor ServiceSport, recognise excellence and achievement within the fitness industry. We’ve already received great nominations from clubs around the country eager to put themselves in the running for an award, with many gyms entering this year for the first time. The awards are free to enter and winning can provide priceless publicity for your gym. But nominations will close in August, meaning you have only a few weeks to get those entries in. To make sure you don’t miss out, visit the dedicated website www.natonalfitnessawards.c o.uk , choose a category and fill in the online form. Once nominations close, shortlisted clubs will be contacted by Workout to arrange a visit to their facility for the next phase of judging. Trophies will then be handed out at a glittering awards evening in December – hosted by TV presenter and fitness expert Caroline Pearce.

02 Les Mills

24/6/13

11:26

Page 1

25/6/13

09:35

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Hollywood A-listers drop in on gym for a workout By Christina Eccles HOLLYWOOD A listers George Clooney and Matt Damon stunned staff and members at a Cambridge gym when they dropped in for a workout. The megastars visited Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre while filming in the local area, with Matt taking part in a gym session on the Saturday, before returning the following day with George and two other friends to play basketball in the club’s sports hall. Centre manager Liane Shadrack said: “We got a 10 to 15 minute warning that he was coming down and then in walked Matt Damon. He went in the gym, chatted with members and allowed them to take pictures. He

stayed about an hour and a half.” The next day Matt came back to play basketball, bringing with him fellow star George Clooney. According to Liane, both were again happy to pose for pictures and mingle with staff and members, who she said couldn’t believe what they were seeing. She added: “Luckily I was on shift so got to see them both. They were both lovely and so laid back – they could have just been normal members using the facility. “Our members were really shocked and excited – they couldn’t believe their eyes. “It was a really special occasion for both members and staff and something which we’ll probably never experience again.”

Centre manager Liane Shadrack with Matt Damon and George Clooney.

www.workout-uk.co.uk

Advertising

Editorial

Sales and marketing director: Tony Barry

Group Editor: Judith Halkerston Tel: 01226 734639 jh@scriptmedia.co.uk

Sales manager: Daniel Lloyd Tel: 01226 734699 dl@scriptmedia.co.uk Assistant sales manager: Chris Hartley Tel: 01226 734709 ch@scriptmedia.co.uk

Gym manager Mustafa Ustamehmetoglu with Matt Damon.

Official media partner of ukactive

Editor: Christina Eccles Tel: 01226 734463 ce@scriptmedia.co.uk Reporter: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 734407 dm@scriptmedia.co.uk

Script Media 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 2AS

25/6/13

09:35

Page 1

Welcome to WorkOut Weigh In – it’s your chance to have your say and share your views on industry issues. You can email us at ce@scriptmedia.co.uk or you can message us on Facebook or Twitter.

Editor’s Comment INDEPENDENT gyms have always been a core part of Workout’s readership and this month, it’s been a pleasure to speak to so many of them who are doing well. From childhood friends Allan Cherry and Rob Bowman, who’ve recently opened a new gym in South Yorkshire, to Compass Health and Fitness in Scarborough, where owners Nick and Christina Ingham have found a successful way to boost secondary spend, we always enjoy hearing success stories from independent clubs. Business is also booming for Oxygen Fit’s owners Neil and Emma Godly, who this issue tell us how winning a National Fitness Award helped them push their business to the next level. Turn to page 6 to find out more and give your club the chance to win big at this year’s event by visiting our dedicated awards’ website and filling in a nomination form. This issue, I also raised a smile at our story on page three... It’s not every day an A lister turns up at your gym, so imagine the shock staff and members at Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre got when two megastars walked through their doors. It was great to hear more about the club’s recent visit from Hollywood actors Matt Damon and George Clooney and the genuine delight their visit brought to everyone at the centre. A visit from George and Matt must be pretty hard to beat but if your gym can top Kelsey Kerridge in the celebrity stakes, let us know – we’d love to see pictures of your famous visitors. Also this month, I’m challenged to take part in a Piloxing class – find out how I did on page 22 – we launch the first part of our new A-Z group exercise feature and shine the spotlight on Arena Health and Fitness in Belfast, which has recently benefited from a huge refurbishment project. As I write this month’s comment, I’m also half way through next month’s Challenge Christina – a 28day online bootcamp – which is proving to be my biggest test so far. Wish me luck for the rest of the month and look out for the results next issue... Christina Eccles

Amesbury Leisure Centre has noticed an increase in participation in its gym activities.

This month’s big questions put to our followers on Facebook and Twitter ...

‘The Olympic legacy – have you noticed any difference?’ Almost 12 months on from London 2012, do you feel the Olympic legacy has had an impact on your business? Have you noticed an increase in new members post Games, or do you think the opportunity to get the nation more active off the back of the Olympic buzz has now passed?

Mi fit directory: “@mifitdirectory in Page 28 of the @WorkOutUK mag! Plenty more to come. Mid July all new web features will be completed! #StayConnected” @BrettDSanders: “@WorkOutUK – June issue out now! ‘Online review sites give gyms a wider audience.’ Gym owners check it out and see what @GymBuzz can do.”

Kim Taylor Axford: “I was a torch bearer so loads of people speak to me now. I even made it on BBC news.”

Gillian Sloan: “Now where oh where in Scotland should we host our August #powerhoop Instructor Training course.... suggestions?”

Stephen Morrison: “Participation in sport has decreased but hopefully Glasgow 2014 can help.” AmesburyLC: “With the launch of #WiltshireChallenge 2013 we have seen an increase in participation (gym based, swim based and walking)”

UK Fitness Challenge: “@WorkOutUK the UK's number one fitness magazine is supporting us. Are you? sign up today http://ukfitnesschallenge.co.uk”

Here’s what our followers have been Tweeting @WorkOutUK this month... Ollie Upton: “Looking forward to catching up with @WorkOutUK today to discuss @BodyPowerExpo plans for next year.” Caroline Pearce: “Great to feature in @WorkOutUK magazine this month with coverage of #TotalCardioBurn and with @FitnessAwards.”

National Fitness Awards: “Already looking forward to this year's NFAs, hosted by @CarolinePearce. Visit our website for more info or see the next issue of @WorkOutUK” National Fitness Awards’ host Caroline Pearce.

Adam Copley: “Classes done outside in the sun, car used for music, loved it! All we need is a beach #oneday”

This month’s question: With our 20th anniversary coming up next issue, who remembers the first edition of Workout? Have you been reading since the start or have you just discovered us? Let us know what you like best about the magazine and what else you want to see included in our pages... Email your views to ce@scriptmedia.co.uk or message us on Facebook or Twitter

05 Physique

27/6/13

15:39

Page 1

27/6/13

15:50

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

With nominations pouring in for this year’s National Fitness Awards, this month Workout speaks to a previous NFA winner to find out what being recognised with a trophy meant to them – and how it has boosted business.

Award ‘re-ignites passion and confidence’ INDEPENDENT gym owners Neil and Emma Godly scooped the Newcomer of the Year trophy at the 2011 awards for their club, Oxygen Fit in Barnet. And since then, the business has gone from strength to strength. Neil explained: “This had a huge impact on the business, staff were motivated, members were more frequent and prospects were coming in to the club on the back of hearing we had won. “We launched a marketing campaign based on this new found fame and in the months after November we generated 150 new members. “We then noticed it opened up a whole new respect in the business community, being invited to charity meetings, being ask to help in various activities that we never used to get involved in. This new business circle is now still active and we are still gaining members in a corporate capacity.” Their success at Birmingham in 2011 inspired Neil and Emma to enter the National Fitness Awards again last

year and the club did really well for a second year running – making the shortlist in the Community Involvement category. Neil added: “We were finalists, which again has had a huge impact and the two awards has given us a back door to many organisations who in turn have created revenue for us in one way or another. “Personally, it re-ignited our passion and confidence. “The feeling of winning was worth all those years travelling around London looking for clients and working many 16-hour days. “The recognition that winning and being involved in the awards has created has strengthened and created a respect that has filtered to staff, members and the local community. “This recognition has been priceless and in the future when Oxygen Fit’s second club opens with bigger facilities, it gives us something to aim for being Britain’s Best Gym, as motivation is key to any competitive sport or business.”

The Oxygen Fit team with their National Fitness Award and host Katherine Kelly.

It’s not too late to give your club the chance to win a 2013 National Fitness Award... To find out more or nominate your gym, a member of staff or one of your members, visit www.nationalfitnessawards.co.uk You can also keep up to date with the latest NFA news by following us on Twitter @FitnessAwards

25/6/13

09:37

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Leisure centre reopens following £2m upgrade By Christina Eccles WOKING Leisure Centre has officially reopened following a £2m upgrade, which has seen improvements made to areas including the gym, exercise studios, crèche, reception and café areas. Work started at the club – operated by Freedom Leisure in partnership with Woking Borough Council – last October and included relocating the gym to give views over Woking Park, as well as kitting it out with new cardio, plate loaded and free weight machines. Designated areas for specific exercise have also been created, including an Easy Line full body circuit area with traffic light system and a separate functional training zone. Users can now also benefit from two new exercise studios, improved reception with upgraded technology to allow quicker online bookings and swift ticket kiosk operation and a relocated crèche. Freedom Leisure centre manager Jon Hames said: “We are delighted with the widespread improvements which will greatly enhance the fitness and leisure experience here at Woking Leisure Centre. Our extended gym is particularly impressive with a much wider range of CV machines and designated areas so people have sufficient space to fully enjoy all aspects of

Woking Borough Council’s Sue Burnham, mayor of Woking Anne Roberts and Freedom Leisure operations director Matt Hunt. their workout.” Woking Borough Council’s portfolio holder for health and wellbeing coun David Bittleston said: “The eightmonth refurbishment programme has gone very smoothly and both staff and members have been patient while the upgrade has gone on around their daily use of the centre.

“There is a high demand for firstrate fitness facilities in the town and we are very pleased with the improvements made here. Woking Leisure Centre members now have a far wider choice of the latest gym equipment and classes and we anticipate uptake from existing and new members will be high.”

Kit company agrees deal with Rugby Federation KIT manufacturer Star Trac has signed a four-year deal to become the official fitness equipment supplier to the French Rugby Federation. As part of the deal, the company supplied a range of equipment to furnish the official training centre of the team in Marcoussis to help improve the day-to-day training environment of the professional players. As well as supplying equipment for the facility, Star Trac has also provided Spinner Blades to be used at the country’s international stadium, Stade de France, to allow the players to warm up pitch side prior to them entering the game. Star Trac France’s Jean-Pierre Germain said: “To be chosen as the official kit supplier for the French Rugby Federation is a huge honour for Star Trac France and Star Trac Europe. “French rugby is very prestigious and we are so proud that our equipment will be used by the top rugby players in the country.”

25/6/13

09:37

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Zumba Fitness held a spectacular party at Pacha nightclub to launch its Great Calorie Drive initiative. The party, attended by celebrity ambassadors Olympian Louis Smith and singer Jade Ewen, was one of the first official UK check in classes for the project. It encourages people to check in to their nearest Zumba class, via a free smartphone app, to donate the average number of calories burned per class to the United Nations World Food Programme.

Chain opening to blame for gym’s closure, claims owner By Katia Harston

A LADIES only gym in Barnsley town centre has been forced to close after takings dropped so low the owner couldn’t afford to keep it going. Complete System Ladies’ Gym and Toning Tables’ owner, Wayne Birtles, says he’s lost about £100,000 with the closure of the business, which opened in December 2010. Wayne believes the opening of nearby Lifestyle Fitness last August spelt the end for his gym, which employed four staff. He said: “We had to shut at the end of last month and there are some members who are owed money who will be repaid. “We used to have about 300 members when we first started but when we closed it had dropped to about 40. “It has been hard since Lifestyle opened around the corner because we lost a lot of people to it. “It’s hit us hard because the cost of business rates and rent for this place is about £800 a week, and the week we shut we only took £106. “I’ve lost about £100,000 in the place and had no choice but to shut it. “I’m gutted because I can’t work after being left in a bad way from a car crash years ago and the money I got from a claim for the crash was all put into the business.” The gym catered specifically for ladies, attracting a lot of women in

Complete System Ladies’ Gym and Toning Tables’ owner Wayne Birtles and staff member Julie Cooper. their 60s and those with disabilities. It used to be over two floors, with a sauna, shower and changing rooms upstairs. But last December it moved to one floor to cut costs. Staff member Julie Cooper said employees and members are heartbroken at the closure. She added: “We have tried every avenue to make it work and keep going. Quite a few of the members who stayed were in their 60s and 70s and would come two or three times a week, it was a bit of social interaction for them.”

09 Jordans

24/6/13

11:27

Page 1

27/6/13

15:52

Page 1

New owners, a £100,000 investment and some major changes within the walls of Arena Health and Fitness have led to happier staff – and members – at the Belfast club. Christina Eccles discovered how the gym spectacularly changed its fortunes and why it’s now looking forward to a much brighter future.

The gym features lots of new equipment.

Transformed centre now thriving after staving off closure JUST over a year ago, Arena Health and Fitness was looking tired and run down – and was almost on the brink of closure. But thankfully, a solution was at hand and in May 2012, the club was handed back to the landlord, who brought in Leisure Business Solutions – a company which specialises in helping underperforming businesses – to help turn things around. Over the last year, the club has undergone massive changes, spending over £100,000 on new equipment, refurbishment, a new studio and staff training. According to club business manager Cathie Creelman, both old and new members love the new look facility – but it’s not just the big changes that are going down a storm. She explained: “Some of the things that you don’t think will be big do actually make a difference. “We’ve put a lot of investment in the gym floor because that’s where members spend most of their time, but the simple things like getting new locker doors for the changing rooms are appreciated by people who have been here a long time.” Other improvements in the club have included extending the already popular members’ area to encourage more people to socialise there and changes to the weights area to make it more accessible to members who may not have previously thought

Receptionist Deirdre Kelly, fitness instructor/personal trainer Michael O'Doherty, club manager Cathie Creelman and fitness manager/ personal trainer Ashley Scott (left) and the reception area at Arena Health and Fitness (right). about using it. Cathie added: “Our weights area has always been a bit of a small dark corner and a bit scary for some members. You never really saw the younger crowd in there or any women. When we upgraded, we took everything out and started from scratch, looking at how we could make it more practical and functional and what would give people the best experience. People need to feel safe and not self conscious so we opened it out a lot.” Although the physical changes in the club have been important, one of the biggest things to come out of the process has been the change in staff culture. Improvements such as new

uniforms and the chance to get involved in discussions about the club have encouraged staff to feel more involved and motivated in their work, with these positive attitudes also filtering down to members. Cathie added: “We kept most of the staff when we changed ownership and since then all of them have taken on more ownership of the club and a sense of responsibility. “This time last year, we really didn’t know where we were going to be. But now most of the staff feel secure and know their job is still here. “They now have pride in where they work – and that’s something members can see.”

27/6/13

15:53

Page 1

The swimming pool at Arena Health and Fitness.

Word of mouth is key to revamp’s success ONE of the keys to the revamp’s success was making sure members were so happy with the positive changes in the club, they would tell their friends and encourage them to come down and take a look. Cathie said: “Word of mouth has always been one of the strongest bows in our arrow but it’s about making sure people follow through from that – they have to come down to see for themselves. “People can’t believe the changes. It’s amazing the reaction we’ve had from people who stuck with us. And we’ve had people coming back who we definitely thought we’d lost. “Members are so happy with it and want to share our success.” But although a gym has been on the same site for about 15 years, Cathie added some people still didn’t know it was there, making word of mouth and marketing campaigns even more important. She added: “Awareness of the club wasn’t that great despite the fact we had been there so long.

The spinning studio at Arena Health and Fitness. “We are on the third floor of a shopping centre but there were some people on our doorstep who wouldn’t believe they could find a health club up there. “We should be a hub because of where we are based – all the tools

were there to make it that – and we had always been a part of the community. But as the club started to fail and get rundown, that spark began to disappear. “We have done so well – the company grabbed us just at the right time.”

Arena Health and Fitness in short ... A comprehensive class timetable is proving popular with members and the club is also able to offer the bonus of Les Mills classes, which many other local gyms don’t have. Cathie added because people recognise the Les Mills brand, they know they are going to get a quality class and that the club is willing to invest in bringing this type of workout to them. Keeping things affordable is key and with so much local competition, offering a quality club at a reasonable price has never been more important. A 12-month membership costs £29 a month on a monthly direct debit and Cathie said the gym

has always strived to keep its rates at an honest and accessible level. Prior to the changes being implemented, Cathie worked for two years as the club’s sales manager, before moving over to become club business manager. She told Workout, she loves her new role, with the experience she gained from selling memberships generating valuable information about what prospective members want from a club, which she can now apply. Although getting new faces through the doors was on the agenda when refurbishing the club, it was also important not to alienate loyal members who had stuck with them

over the years. Feedback from these existing members, staff and Leisure Business Solutions helped shape the changes and ensure members felt they were being listened to and their opinions were being taken into account. For the future, the club is looking to expand on the successful community work it already does and develop relationships with more local groups. It currently sponsors two football teams, whose players and coaches come in to use the facilities, and will be working with them over the summer to help the teams get the most from their pre-season training.

12 CFM

25/6/13

09:22

Page 1

27/6/13

15:42

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Ex-Olympic swimmer presents first awards to recognise safety THE Royal Lifesaving Society UK and trading subsidiary IQL UK have hosted their first awards, designed to recognise those who have made an outstanding contribution to pool safety. The RLSS UK and IQL UK Awards took place at Cranage Hall in Cheshire and were attended by representatives from the organisation, stakeholders from the leisure sector and shortlisted finalists. Awards were handed out by Olympic swimmer Mark Foster in the following categories: Approved Training Centre of the Year: Runners up: Leisure Connection. SWIM UK. Winner: Leeds Sport and Active Lifestyles Leeds City Council Pool Lifeguard Trainer Assessor of the Year: Runners up: Cathy Sedgwick, Holt Park Leisure Centre. Chris Hirst, Tadcaster Swimming Pool Trust. Iain Strachan, Basingstoke Sports Centre. Steve Carter, Wellington Civic and Leisure Centre. Sharon Hunter, Stevenage Swimming Centre. Winner: Mike Ferguson, National Sports Centre, Isle of Man. Pool Lifeguard of the Year: Runners up: Chris Mears, Cricket St Thomas Hotel. Belfast City Council Lifeguard. John Kelham, Plas Arthur Leisure Centre.

The team at the rebranded Fitness 364.

Renamed gym opens

Lifeguard of the year winner Jared Dungate receives his award from Mark Foster. Winner: Jared Dungate and Steve Cox, Larkfield Leisure Centre, Kent. President of RLSS UK Peter Moyes said: “The inaugural awards ceremony was a huge success, and it is fantastic that we are able to recognise the outstanding pool lifeguards, trainers and partners for the vital role they play in pool safety within the leisure industry. “We hope that the awards will continue to grow in stature, and that the awards, not only become further sought after within the industry, but support the RLSS UK and IQL UK in driving excellence within our community.”

A NEW independent gym has opened in Chelmsford, housed in a former Fitness First site. Phil Carpenter took over ownership of the club towards the end of last year, re-branding the site as Fitness 364. Since taking over, Phil has invested funds into improving the gym and facilities, also taking on the majority of the ex Fitness First staff and many members, who were transferred on to rolling month by month membership contracts. Phil said: “We took over late last year

and after giving the place a bit of a revamp have tried to focus on a community club and move away from the big corporate chains.” To increase brand awareness and gain stability from longer term memberships, Phil enlisted the help of CFM – and a recent promotion with the company has resulted in him gaining over 200 members. He added: “We decided to do the campaign to make sure everyone knew we were here and to set us up financially for the future and give us a longer term member base.’’

Event to focus on model’s benefits SPORTA is holding its third Time To Trust event later this month to showcase the benefits of the social enterprise model. The event, which takes place on July 18 at Winckworth Sherwood solicitors and parliamentary agents in London Bridge, is aimed at local authorities and other public bodies considering alternative delivery

methods of cultural and leisure services, as well as public health initiatives. Among the speakers will be Martin Guyton, leisure contracts manager at Tonbridge and Malling District Council, which is currently moving to a trust for delivery of its leisure services and Charlie Wigglesworth, Social Enterprise UK business development director.

25/6/13

09:39

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Brendan offers online courses to cope with the demand By Christina Eccles TOP sports coach Brendan Chaplin has created a successful mentorship programme, designed to help other fitness professionals reach their potential and break into top industry roles. 30-year-old Brendan, who started his career as a strength and conditioning coach at Durham University, has so far helped three people to open their own gyms, while another student has landed a top job with Essex County Cricket Club and others have gained placements with the likes of Yorkshire County Cricket Club and the English Institute of Sport. His annual courses have proved so popular, he is now running online webinars to cope with demand. Brendan said: “I am quite shocked by the interest but it’s good to know that so many people want to progress their career. “I have been there and done it so I can show people how to get ahead. I started out as a coach and now I run a team of coaches and a seminar business and a mentor business. “It’s all about creating a work/life balance and realising your own potential. Everyone can move their business on if they follow what I have done. Its not rocket science but you do get out what you put in.” Brendan left university in Newcastle with a BA HONS in construction management but had spent his spare time training in MMA. And after periods of working on sites as a labourer and manager he decided it wasn’t for him and made a drastic career change. He added: “I had always enjoyed fitness and strength and conditioning so I started researching it and thought maybe I could have a career in it instead. “It was a huge shock to my family and friends at the time but looking

Brendan Chaplin back it was the best choice I ever made.” His current role is as head of strength and conditioning at Carnegie super elite athletes’ gym in Leeds, where the likes of triathlon brothers Alistair and Johnny Brownlee train. Here he works with international athletes, delivering to national governing bodies such as GB Judo, and England Netball, as well as Superleague players and MMA stars. “It’s great because I work and develop all my own programmes. Each athlete or group of athletes are different. So things that work for some may not work on others. “But my main aim is getting the maximum out of them possible in each coaching session. We want to make small steps in the right direction in every single session. It’s that extra per cent in training that can make all the difference on the pitch, court or field.”

Énergie Fitness Club in Liscombe Park transformed into a stunning venue to host a charity fundraising ball. The club hosted the Steve Olson Charity Fundraising Ball, in aid of Action Medical Research for Children, giving over its studio free of charge for the day to convert it for the event. Steve and a team including his son have set themselves a challenge of cycling from London to Paris in aid of the charity and the ball raised over £2,500.

27/6/13

15:44

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

The graduates who have successfully completed the énergie Business Management Course.

First graduates complete course THE first set of graduates have completed the part Government-funded énergie Business Management Course. The programme, which has been designed by énergie HQ and North Herts College to ensure it meets the current business needs when running or managing an énergie franchise, saw 33 énergie staff, franchisees and employees pass the five-day

Foundation chosen as charity by ukactive THE Sported Foundation has been named ukactive’s charity partner for 2013-2014. The Sported Foundation was established as a direct result of the legacy promises of London 2012, which vowed to use sport to change the lives of young people. It is now the largest sport for development organisation in the UK, supporting thousands of community and grassroots organisations, which deliver sport as a means of bringing about social change within disadvantaged communities. ukactive CEO David Stalker said: “I’m delighted to be able to start work with Sported. One of our key aims as an organisation is to play an active role in supporting children and young people to establish an active lifestyle from the earliest possible point. “This is an area in which Sported has considerable knowledge and we hope to aid them by not just simply fundraising, but by putting them in touch with likeminded organisations in a position to help them build on the work they have already done.”

training course. Areas of focus included contractual compliance, financial planning and health and safety. All graduates received a certificate following intense assessment and practical tasks compiled by training manager at the énergie Group National Training Centre in Milton Keynes, Karrin Simpson. She said: “This is the first time we

have run the new training course following the investment and it is by far a greater and more intense programme designed to deliver graduates of excellence in business management. “The results and feedback have been fantastic and the development of skills, knowledge and confidence over such a short period of time has been widely significant.”

25/6/13

09:41

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

GPs urged to sign up to programme

Champion gymnast Beth Tweddle inspired children on David Lloyd Leisure’s Gymnastics All Stars programme when she visited the operator’s Hampton club. Beth delighted fans by taking part in a live floor display and coaching session, also bringing along her Olympic bronze medal and winning Dancing on Ice trophy. The star is the founder and director of Total Gymnastics, which endorses David Lloyd Leisure’s Gymnastics All Stars coaching programme. The programme aims to help youngsters develop fundamental skills in strength, flexibility and co-ordination whatever their ability.

GPs across the Bedford area have been urged to take advantage of a new programme, designed to help their patients get more active. The Let’s Get Moving programme is being delivered by ukactive, in partnership with Bedford Borough, Central Bedfordshire and Luton Borough Councils, plus additional support from local county sports partnership Beds and Luton. The project has been funded by the National Lottery via Sport England and is free for GP practices and their patients. It helps the most inactive members of the local community improve their activity levels through a motivational interviewing programme and follows the successful testing of the Let’s Get Moving model by ukactive and partners with five Primary Care Trusts in Essex. The trial saw 504 previously inactive participants amass a total of 164m steps, accounting to 48,000 active hours, 11.2m kcal and 69,000 miles walked. For previously inactive people in danger of developing chronic diseases related to their lifestyle choices, this was a significant outcome. ukactive CEO David Stalker said: "We are thrilled to have secured funding to roll out this initiative in Bedfordshire and encourage local GP surgeries to get on board.

ukactive CEO David Stalker. “At ukactive we have a strong belief that putting an exercise professional into every GP surgery can have a dramatic impact on the health of the nation, particularly so when armed with motivational interviewing techniques, the ability to signpost into welcoming sports and activity sessions, and direct access to patients as part of the practice team. “This project provides us with another opportunity to prove that case. We hope that in light of this new guidance from NICE, local GPs will be keen to get involved with this initiative to support their patients to improve their health through physical activity.”

17 USN

25/6/13

13:26

Page 1

25/6/13

09:42

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Poor telephone habits put gyms at risk of losing customers By Christina Eccles GYMS’ poor handling of telephone calls is leaving them at risk of losing customers, new research has revealed. A survey of 3,630 UK companies by audio branding specialist PH Media Group discovered clubs leave customers on hold for an average of 62.06 seconds per call. This compares unfavourably with the UK average of 33.48 seconds, giving a warning to gyms, as previous research has shown 90 per cent of callers will hang up within 40 seconds if forced to listen to silence while on hold. PH Media Group sales and marketing director Mark Williamson said: “These results represent a significant challenge for health clubs and could pose a threat to profitability. “Callers are simply unwilling to wait on the end of the line while subjected to silence, muzak or beeps so firms are putting themselves at serious risk of losing business. “Good call handling is often overlooked as a key sales and marketing tool but the telephone still acts as an important touchpoint and first impressions count. If each caller enjoys a positive experience, customer service standards will go through the roof.” Of all callers placed on hold, 34 per cent were subjected to silence. A further 26 per cent were made to listen to music, while 26 per cent heard beeps. But hold time isn’t the only consideration for businesses wanting to make a good first impression on callers. As part of the study, PH Media Group also audited each company, giving them a score out of 100 based on overall call handling practice – health and fitness clubs averaged just 36. Elements including the time taken

Mark Williamson to answer a call, the number of tiers a caller experiences before reaching the necessary department, use of consistent voice and music, professional and personalised voicemail and outof-hours messaging were weighted to reflect their importance. Mark added: “Good customer service is paramount for any service sector business so it is important to evaluate all aspects of call handling to ensure calls are dealt with appropriately. Inevitably, not every call will be answered within a matter of seconds, so when callers do need to be placed on hold for any length of time, informative and entertaining audio messages can help to maintain their attention and decrease perceived waiting time. “Brand congruent voice and music are also vital in order to present customers with a consistent image of the company, reinforcing brand values and establishing a reassuring, coherent presence.”

A team of staff and members at Klick Fitness in Aintree took part in a charity ‘It’s A Knockout Event’ to raise money for the Walking With Giants Foundation. In the build up to the event, which took place at Aintree Racecourse, the club held a fundraising day where they offered personal training, massage, hairdressing services and group classes in exchange for donations. The team is already well on the way to reaching its £1,000 target, with more money still to come in.

19 BBW

25/6/13

09:55

Page 1

27/6/13

15:55

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

CEO Sean to step down CIMSPA CEO Sean Holt has stepped down from his role with the organisation. Sean was appointed in 2009 as the CEO of the Institute of Sport and Recreation Management (ISRM) and oversaw the merger with the Institute for Sport, Parks and Leisure to form CIMSPA. Following all party government approval, CIMSPA secured a charter from the Privy Council to launch as a chartered membership body in January 2012. Sean said: “It has been a privilege to be the first CEO of the newly formed Chartered Institute. “I would like to thank the team at CIMSPA, the board, stakeholders and members, plus the army of volunteers across the UK who have worked so hard in difficult times to establish the Institute for the benefit of the sectors workforce.”

Group plans expansion LOW cost fitness chain The Gym Group has secured £50m of venture capital to help drive the future growth of the business. Following a refinancing process to attract new investment, Phoenix Equity Partners has invested,alongside current stakeholder Bridges Ventures, to fund The Gym Group’s accelerated rollout programme. CEO John Treharne said: “We are delighted that after a competitive process we have selected Phoenix Equity Partners to support the management team in taking The Gym Group to the next exciting stage of development. “This latest investment will allow us to continue with the fast rollout programme and strengthen our focus on innovative technology to deliver a high quality, affordable offering for even more people across the UK, many of whom will be first-time gymgoers.”

Product launch FREEMOVE and Parkour UK partnered to deliver a series of workshops to leisure operators and local authorities. Attendees heard more about the growth of the sport and saw demonstrations from young practitioners, as well as being some of the first in the country to see Freemove’s new portable indoor Parkour equipment. Director Marcus Reader said: “We have been producing fixed, outdoor Parkour structures for many years but not all facilities have the space to accommodate these. Freemove’s indoor kit is portable, storable, simple to set up and very affordable, creating a great opportunity for operators to provide safe, structured and coached Parkour sessions.”

The gym at The Muscle Unit, which has been opened by Allan Cherry and Rob Bowman (right).

Friends with a passion for fitness open gym By Christina Eccles TWO old school friends from Barnsley have followed their passion for fitness and opened a new gym in the town. Rob Bowman and Allan Cherry have joined forces to create The Muscle Unit in Carlton, which they are billing as Barnsley’s premier bodybuilding gym. Before opening the gym, Allan worked as a personal trainer in other clubs, and while working as a bricklayer, Rob was also acting as an ‘unofficial’ PT, regularly offering advice on training and nutrition to his friends. After spotting a gap in the market to create this type of facility locally, they combined their expertise to open the club and things are going so well they are already talking about future expansion. Rob said: “We’ve known each other since primary school and have always been passionate about fitness. “I used to be a bricklayer but it wasn’t for me – the only thing I’ve ever stuck to is bodybuilding. “We’re both from Barnsley and when we saw this unit was available we knew it was the one.” The pair, who are running the club along with Rob’s brother Matthew, held their official open day on June 1, tempting people to come down and take a look around the facilities with a BBQ, prize giveaways and appearances from USN sponsored athletes;

Chris Hyde, who came third in last year’s WNBF world championships, up and coming bodybuilder Lewis Rossi, Richard Gozdecki,Max O' Conner, Rob Bowman and Allan Cherry at the gym’s open day. two time WNBF world and European champion Richard Gozdecki and current UKBFF Mr England Max O’Conner. Users can choose anything from a day pass costing £3, right up to a yearly membership at £260 and with extras available including free personal training for members, nutritional advice and well stocked supplements shop – plus weekday opening from 5am to 11pm – the gym has already attracted a loyal following.

Rob added: “It’s going better than I expected – it’s really taken off. “What separates us from other gyms is the atmosphere. “Here it’s not cliquey and no-one feels threatened. “And we are really keen on getting people results. “At the end of the day it’s about being happy in a gym. Once we’ve got people here, we want to keep them permanently coming through our doors.”

Brits to spend £2bn shaping up for summer BRITS will spend over £2b shaping up for summer, according to research from shopping website VoucherCodes.co.uk. The Slimmer Summer study shows the average person will spend £85.67 toning up for the beach, beer garden or park this summer. Over two fifths (42 per cent) plan to get beach body ready by eating more healthily, while over a fifth say they’ll take up a new sport to shift the pre-holiday flab. One in seven hope to buy a fitness

DVD and one in eight say they’re going to download a fitness app to help them get trim for the summer. Co-founder of VoucherCodes.co.uk Duncan Jennings said: “Stepping out in beachwear for the first time of the year can be pretty daunting, especially after the long winter we’ve all had, so it’s no wonder Brits are forking out on health and fitness gear as thoughts turn to summer. “Reaching beach perfection can be a pricey undertaking however, and

before splashing the cash on health and fitness gear Brits should be sure that they’ve set themselves realistic goals that work with their lifestyle as well as their budget. “Lots of gyms will offer day passes or week long trials, while health and fitness companies recognise that achieving the perfect beach-body is a priority, so people should keep an eye on sites like VoucherCodes.co.uk to see where they can save £s on losing lbs.”

21 Muscle Finesse

24/6/13

11:27

Page 1

27/6/13

15:57

Page 1

challengechristina

Fusing elements of Pilates, boxing and dance, Piloxing is the latest craze to take the fitness world by storm. Christina Eccles tried out a class.

Janice on to a winner with Piloxing classes THE brainchild of Swedish dancer and celebrity trainer Viveca Jensen, Piloxing combines the muscle sculpting of Pilates, with the strengthening and cardio of boxing and the fun of dance. The result; a high-energy workout, designed to help women achieve a sleek physique and a powerful self image, while at the same time having fun. Instructor Janice Starkey had successfully been teaching Zumba classes in the Barnsley area when she first came across the Piloxing concept at a fitness convention and was immediately intrigued. Researching further, she decided it would be something fun and different to teach, so signed up for an instructor course in Leeds.

With the course in the pipeline, Janice attended another industry event where Viveca herself was leading a masterclass – and the experience of taking part in that confirmed to her she could be on to a winner. She explained: “The Zumba bubble seems to have burst. My classes are doing alright but I was looking for something different. “Piloxing is the ideal class because it’s varied, there are three different elements, it’s an all over body workout and it’s fast so the time flies. “The key to any class is keeping people interested. If you’re not an exercise bunny, you need to be kept interested – and this hits the spot.” To gauge whether there was a market for Piloxing in Barnsley, Janice held a free taster session, which

attracted almost 30 people – many of whom had been coming to her Zumba classes and liked the idea of trying something new. When Workout spoke to her, she was gearing up for a second taster session later that week, and if there is enough interest, she plans to run two classes a week costing £4 each in a local church hall. She added: “I’m excited – and also relieved to get the first class over with. “I’ve had some lovely feedback. A couple of people have said it’s not for them but the majority loved it. “I’m the only person in the town doing it at the moment but that might change. If people catch on, I’m not going to have the monopoly but if the demand for classes is there, there are enough instructors to go round.”

Piloxing instructor Janice Starkey and some of the group that took part in the first taster session she held in Barnsley.

Viveca Jensen

Christina put to the test...

Class seamlessly swaps different styles WITH typical moves ranging from punching and skipping to plies and stretches, Piloxing is the ultimate in fusion fitness and very different to anything I had tried before. As this was Janice’s first taster session, none of us who turned up for the class really knew what to expect and to be honest, having never really heard much about Piloxing (and having zero coordination!) I was a bit unsure how combining the different styles of movement would work – and whether I would struggle to keep up. I expected the class to be split into three clear sections – one focusing on dance, one on boxing and one on Pilates – but once we got started, I

realised it was actually going to be nothing like that. With Janice leading the way, we seamlessly swapped between the different styles – from high intensity boxing and dance intervals, to lower intensity, standing Pilates stretches – and I was surprised at how successfully the range of movements fitted together, creating a class which flowed really well and provided a great all over workout. I really enjoyed the combination of moves and the high energy dance music they were set to, which created a fun and motivating atmosphere, and complemented the class really well. With the concept being new to all

of us, it meant everyone was a beginner and although, like any class, some participants picked up the moves better than others, I felt I kept up well with the rest of the group. I particularly enjoyed the boxing parts of the routine, but discovered my Pilates moves could definitely do with some work – perhaps a dedicated Pilates class may be a good future challenge! There was a real mix of women taking part and afterwards many said how much they had enjoyed it and were eager to find out when the next sessions would be taking place. Full of energetic moves, which focused on working areas including arms, legs and core, Piloxing would

make a fun addition to any club’s class timetable and I’d love to give another session a try. There is also definite room for progression, which appealed to me. A matwork section can be added in and participants can also choose to wear half pound weight gloves, which further enhance the workout experience by making it more challenging. It is recommended that the class is done without shoes, so the only downside for me was that after one barefoot session, my poor feet took a bit of a battering! This can easily be resolved though – next time I’ll be investing in some special Piloxing socks to take some of the strain!

25/6/13

09:43

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

The gym and jacuzzi at The Varsity Hotel’s Glassworks Spa, which is housed within a 250-year-old bonded warehouse.

Health club steeped in history proves popular By Christina Eccles A LUXURY health club housed within a 250-year-old warehouse is proving popular with locals in Cambridge. The Varsity Hotel’s Glassworks Spa has been open since 2000 and facilities include a fully equipped gym, seven treatment rooms, hair salon, exercise studio, and jacuzzi overlooking the river. The club has about 1,000 regular users – with its city centre location and unusual features helping it to stand out from the competition. Manager James Robertson said: “The club was built within a 250-yearold bonded warehouse which was a

great starting point – though a pain when you have to lift the treadmills through the roof by crane. This lends itself to having to think about how and where things go rather than maximising floor space. “The warehouse is the foundation of the club. “Very few gymgoers get to enjoy the surroundings they exercise in, or have a 3m wide sculpture of the union flag in their class studio.” The adjacent Varsity Hotel opened in 2010, which has further boosted the area and attracted a wider audience to the club. James added: “We are slap bang in the middle of Cambridge city centre,

but off a little side street and overlooking the river – location great, but you have to seek us out. “Non-members may visit for spa treatments, salon services or perhaps to take a look around, so marketing is largely word of mouth. But, we help coach some of the Cambridge University sports clubs and are known as the go-to city centre club – which is good. “Most of the big players are out of town which suits them, so we are really stand alone in a central location, especially considering the facilities we have here.” According to James, classes and small group training are both popular

at the moment, especially because they are included in membership fees. He added: “Small groups of between four to 10 in our classes driven by exceptional teachers are a bonus when everything is included with membership. “We have created a club with a real spa feel to it, giving service more recognised within the hospitality industry.” Future plans include purchasing some new cardio equipment and a total refurbishment of the spa, which will see the installation of a larger Jacuzzi, heated seating and glass fronted sauna and steam room.

25&25 kettlercise

27/6/13

15:45

Page 1

25&25 kettlercise

27/6/13

15:45

Page 2

25/6/13

09:44

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Attendances hit a record high in city after 2012 By Christina Eccles

Owner Nigel Carpenter in the club’s new exercise studio.

Hotel’s gym doubles as part of £250,000 refurb THE owners of St Michael’s Hotel Health Club and Spa have invested £250,000 to double the size of the existing gym and create new fitness and indoor cycling studios. Improvements at the club in Falmouth, Cornwall – owned by Nigel and Julie Carpenter – include a new indoor cycling studio, complete with top of the range Keiser bikes, cinematic video projections and full photographic wall designs, allowing users to immerse themselves in the experience of a high intensity road race during classes. A second new studio has also made it possible for St Michael’s to introduce a wider range of fitness classes, including Les Mills group exercise programmes, while the latest equipment from Cybex and Technogym has been installed in the gym, alongside suspension training systems and free

weights equipment. Nigel said: “St Michael’s Spa and Health Club has always been popular and we’ve had a waiting list to join. We can now reward those patient enthusiasts for their long wait with extensive, top of the range facilities. “The two new studios are dedicated to group exercise classes which offer more than just physical benefits but are highly motivational and are a great way of meeting new people. We believe this takes fitness provisions in Cornwall to a new level.” To showcase their new facilities, the club held an open day where the public could take a look around, try out the equipment and take part in taster classes. As part of the celebrations, the club is also giving away a year’s free membership worth £500 in an online competition.

THE London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games sparked an interest in sport in Sheffield, according to figures, which show more people than ever are taking part in physical activity in the city. Research by Sheffield International Venues shows attendance figures have risen at its venues, which include Ponds Forge International Sports Centre and the English Institute of Sport Sheffield, by 600,000 – from 4.5m in 2011/12 to 5.1m in 2012/13. The figures show key growth areas include athletics at EIS Sheffield – where attendance at the venue’s Athletics Academy has more than tripled – swimming lessons and iceSheffield’s Skate UK Learn to Skate programme. The operator’s Fitness Unlimited membership scheme is also booming, with a record 20,000 members, and attendance has grown in both fitness

classes and at SIV’s referral scheme sessions. Chief executive Steve Brailey said: “These figures are reflective of the passion that Sheffield people have for sport and their own health and fitness. They also underline how we, as a company, are achieving our goals of accessibility and raising participation levels. “As far as our research shows, the Olympics and Paralympics provided a platform for participation from either a starting level or for people to improve. “Improvements we’ve made this year include major Fitness Unlimited gym expansion projects at Hillsborough Leisure Centre and Ponds Forge, the introduction of a new Kicks Football Coaching scheme and ladies only GP referral sessions and investment in new squash courts for Concord Sports Centre. These have all had a positive impact on participation figures.”

Aberdeen Sports Village has won the health and fitness award at the Life With Style Awards 2013. The club received the trophy for its state-of-the-art sporting facilities and commitment to providing world class sport and exercise opportunities. Business development manager Kenny Gunnyeon said: “ASV is honoured to win the health and fitness award, to be recognised for the facilities and services we provide is a great testament to our aim to offer a superior experience for people of all ages and abilities.” The annual awards, organised and hosted by Trend Magazine, celebrate a variety of community and business success in Aberdeen city and shire, with the ceremony taking place at The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa in Aberdeen. Business development manager Kenny Gunnyeon is pictured at Aberdeen Sports Village.

27 Euro fitness

25/6/13

14:02

Page 1

25/6/13

09:47

Page 1

group exercise A-Z part one

From aerobics to Zumba, group exercise remains a popular draw for clubs. In the first of a special three part A-Z series, Workout takes a look at some of the hottest new classes to hit the market – plus a few old favourites – and reveals the latest news in this area. This month, we focus on letters A-H.

The A to Z of group exercise

– Armageddon

AWARD winning personal trainer Katie Bulmer-Cooke has been wowing fitness fans in Sunderland with Armageddon classes. The classes are designed around the concept of varied intensity interval training and were devised by The Biggest Loser personal trainer Richard Callender. Katie said: “It's been a real hit in Sunderland. I run two classes per week, both of which have been full for the last five weeks since I launched it. “I run the classes in a 30 minute format and feedback from members is that it not only fits in with their hectic lifestyle and they feel more capable of stepping outside their comfort zone, they think 'hey it's only 30 minutes, what have I got to lose?' “Armageddon is a great programme that encompasses the camaraderie and buzz of group fitness with personal attention and coaching of PT and is suitable for both group fitness instructors and PTs to add to their mix of services they offer.”

RUGBY legend Austin Healey has teamed up with British Military Fitness to inspire the nation to get fit outdoors. The campaign is designed to encourage people to attend BMF START events around the country – one hour classes aimed at anyone who wants to give outdoor fitness a go. British Military Fitness is running over 400 BMF START events this sumKatie Bulmer-Cooke with Richard Callender.

– Cardio40

CREATOR of Cardio40 Louie Fecou has created a new training workshop to teach other instructors how to deliver the classes for themselves. The training course is scheduled for July 27 in Glasgow, providing an opportunity for group training instructors to broaden their portfo-

– British Military Fitness

lio of sessions. Cardio40 is an intense 40 minute aerobic session that has its own unique format. There is no limit to moves and choreography and the class can be tailored to suit all fitness levels. Visitors can enrol on the course online by visiting the Cardio40 website.

mer in parks and outdoor spaces across the UK. Austin said: “There are more ways than ever before to keep fit and healthy, yet as a nation we are becoming more obese and less active. Working with British Military Fitness I want to inspire people to swap their slippers for a pair of trainers. For me, there’s nowhere better for a work out than in the great outdoors.”

– Drum n bass n dubstep fitness

DANCE lovers in the Birmingham area have been enjoying a new way to work out – Drum n bass and dubstep fitness classes. The classes started last October after founder Emma Smallman spotted a gap in the market for people who like dancing to drum and bass and dubstep style music but wanted a workout at the same time. She has been teaching the classes at several venues in the area and the concept is proving so popular, she is

taking on her first instructor to help deliver sessions. She said: “I do a weekly Saturday class at Rigs Fitness and a weekly evening class at a Geese Theatre rehearsal space. Also I do a monthly slot at LA Fitness in Kings Heath and have some slots at local festivals. “It's all flowing really nicely so I'm going with it and seeing what happens. It would appear to be pretty 'on trend' and we all have lots of sweats and smiles so that's the main thing.”

25/6/13

09:49

Page 1

group exercise A-Z part one

– Exercise to music

– GRAVITY small group training

MUSIC has always been a vital part of group exercise, helping to motivate participants and make classes more interesting. And with so many different genres out there, there’s something to fit every type of class. Cornwall based personal trainer Harry Taylor works at Tremough Sports Centre in Falmouth and says members in his kettlebell class love working out to the latest tunes. He added: “I use music all the time running a Kettlebell class, mostly drum and bass/ house. Everyone in the group enjoys training with music.”

TOTAL Gym has added some major fitness chains to the ever expanding network of GRAVITY studios in the UK. GRAVITY classes featuring HIIT principles are now available at selected David Lloyd, Everyone Active and Virgin Active clubs. Independent operator Pulse 8 now offers a GRAVITY TONE class, offering low impact resistance exercises for the whole body, while West Wood in Ireland offers large group GRAVITY

Pilates as a complete machine based Pilates solution. GRAVITY partner Greg Sellar said: “Our programming translates the huge range of Total Gym exercises into group concepts that engage different types of members,. “GRAVITY HIIT classes that incorporate other kit such as kettlebells and speed ladders have taken off this year as members are increasingly demanding more effective and more engaging functional workouts.”

– Fitsteps

– HIITgirl

FORWARD thinking leisure operator Everyone Active has successfully hosted pilot Fitsteps classes at its Watford Central Leisure Centre – and plans to add the sessions to its timetables. Selected Everyone Active centres will now offer the class, which combines popular Latin and ballroom dances with proven fitness techniques. Group fitness development manager Michelle Bletso said: “We hosted two one-hour preview classes and I have to say they proved extremely popular and convinced us Fitsteps has great potential. “The next stage is for the Fitsteps team to train our trainers so that we can add the class to our timetables. The training will take a few months and I’d like to think we will see Fitsteps on schedules very soon.” Fitsteps has been developed by Strictly Come Dancing professionals Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite and Olympic swimmer and Strictly competitor, Mark Foster.

HOT new class Hiitgirl has opened up its licencing programme to other female trainers, following a successful pilot. Hiitgirl sessions last for 30 minutes and are based on the principles of high intensity interval training – with natural movement patterns such as lifting, pulling and twisting. Harrogate based Michelle Farnhill qualified as the first certified trainer in March and now runs 14 small group sessions a week. She said: “All the women I work with

absolutely love Hiitgirl. My classes are always full and most women attend two or three sessions a week.” Founder Susan Dyson added: ‘Our pilot programme was a huge success and so we decided to license Hiitgirl to other female trainers who want to retain their independence but still have all the benefits of being part of a larger network. “We’re delighted with the success of Hiitgirl for Michelle and we can’t wait for more trainers to join this exciting new movement in women’s fitness.”

Look out for next month’s Workout when we will be revealing part two of our group exercise A-Z, focusing on letters I – Q. If you have an idea for any of those letters, email details to ce@scriptmedia.co.uk or contact us via Twitter or Facebook. Advertising opportunities are also available – contact dl@scriptmedia.co.uk or 01226 734699.

30 NFA

24/6/13

11:28

Page 1

25/6/13

09:50

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE With millions of hours’ worth of content posted to YouTube every year, the appetite for video shows no sign of slowing down. Workout spoke to Script Productions’ digital producer Simon Rodman, who explained why there has never been a better time to utilise the potential of video to promote your gym – and the benefits to clubs who tap into this growing trend.

Script Productions’ digital producer Simon Rodman.

Videos can help your facility to stand out GIVING prospective members an online tour of your facility, introducing them to your staff, posting regular informative tips and workouts and promoting testimonials from satisfied customers are just some of the many ways operators can use videos to encourage people to join their gym – and engage with existing members. And with many larger operators already reaping the benefits, independent gyms have been encouraged to think about how video content could help push the key features of their clubs. Simon explained: “Video is by far the most effective way of promoting your club – no other media platform allows you to show off what makes your facility stand out from the crowd. “A well produced video can break down the barriers between you and your potential gym user. Show them your facilities, explain their benefits, meet the staff and hear from your happy members on why they chose you over your competitors. “Nothing quite beats a testimonial and prospective members are much more likely to respond to a recommendation than an advert.”

Script’s industry clients include Lifestyle Fitness, The National Fitness Awards, ClubManager and MyZone, making them well placed to cater to the needs of companies of any shape and size. “Simon added: “We have experience in making video specifically for the industry. Lifestyle Fitness knows all about utilising the web. The video we made has had almost 15,000 views directly from prospective gym users off their homepage.” Simon also said smaller, independent clubs should not be put off by the cost of video because there are many different packages available, catering to a range of budgets. He added: “In recent years the cost of video has lowered considerably and we specialise in making videos to just about any budget from £500 to £5,000. “But don't skimp. It’s probably the most powerful, cost effective marketing activity out there! “Once online it can be embedded as a key feature on your website and be utilised on all your social media streams... for nothing! And once it’s made, that’s it – a one-off cost. “Smaller clubs need to take note of

what their larger competition is doing. Stop what you are doing and go on any large gym’s website. See how long it takes you to find a video... on the homepage of just about all of them right? There is a reason for that – it works! “The first thing people do these days when it comes to choosing a gym is research online. “Once on your website you need to impress, fast! If a picture says a thousand words, just imagine what a video can do!” For more information or to find out how videos can help you boost your business, call 01226 734694, email zaklewis@scriptmedia.co.uk or visit www.scriptmedia.co.uk/productions

To view examples of Script Productions’ work scan the codes to visit the company’s various websites.

Gym’s scheme rewards servicemen and women A GYM near Birmingham has launched a new initiative to reward servicemen and women. Fitness First Stirchley has created Service Saturdays, where every Saturday all local NHS, police, fire

service and armed forces employees can use the club free of charge. No pre booking is required – anyone interested just shows their ID card or payslip at reception – and follows on from a similar ‘Teacher

Tuesday’ offer the club is already running. Sales team leader Neil Leedham said: “We feel it is a great way of giving back to the local community and helping those who help us.”

25/6/13

09:56

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

Rock Solid Body Transformations in Folkestone.

Laura wants to transform lives after opening garden gym By Christina Eccles FORMER police officer Laura Ash has opened up a new gym in her garden to help others transform their lives through nutrition and exercise. Laura, who suffers from Bi Polar and OCD, created Rock Solid Body Transformations with husband Barry after seeing what exercise could do to help her. Now the pair hope they can use their Folkstone based studio to show clients the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and help them achieve impressive results too. Laura said: “It started from my own training. I got a passion for it and what it could do for me and wanted to replicate that for other people, so we decided to start our own business.” The 40sqm gym offers an exclusive one-to-one personal training service, with Laura and Barry specialising in 12-week body transformation programmes, which include weighing and measuring clients, before and after photos, three training sessions per week and comprehensive diet and nutritional advice. Laura added: “We try to set them a realistic goal. My most important thing is that people feel better about themselves. “People are really pleased with the gym and the fact it’s exclusive – and they love the results they are getting from improving their diet.” Following the initial success of the studio, which opened in early June, the pair are now also considering how they can move the business forward. Plans currently being discussed

Laura Ash and her husband Barry. include holding 90-minute workshops for up to three people at a time to educate them on the basics of training and nutrition. Laura has also competed in the past – something she hopes to build on in future – and after receiving so much initial interest in Rock Solid, another gym could be on the cards somewhere down the line. She added: “I’m really shocked at how quickly it’s taken off but really pleased. And now we want to do more. “We are thinking about possibly opening another gym, as we have had a lot of people ask if they can pay membership and join. “Folkestone is crying out for a really nice gym – that’s what I eventually want.”

33 Jacobs Ladder

24/6/13

11:28

Page 1

25/6/13

09:57

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

In the May issue of Workout, membership sales expert Miles Grant explained the benefits of Neuro-linguistic programming for gym owners. This month, he reveals to Workout readers five ways NLP principles can help to grow your health club.

The benefits of NLP for owners 1. Rapport Rapport is your ability to relate to prospective members in a way that will create a climate of trust and understanding. It is the capability to see the prospect’s point of view, to be on their wavelength, and to appreciate their feelings. Rapport is a process of responsiveness, not necessarily ‘liking’. At your club it is likely that you know someone who appears to get on with more members than others. That person is simply in rapport with more people. Taking the time to understand rapport is a vital step at cementing long lasting relationships with your members and in helping prospects decide to join your club over the competition. 2. Outcomes When a prospect visits your club they will likely have a set goal or outcome in their mind. Often prospects don’t have the confidence to be totally frank about what their outcome is the second they step through the door. This is often due to a lack of rapport. The easiest way to build rapport is through asking probing questions about your prospect’s desired outcomes. Have they been a member of a club before? If yes, did they get results? Is this programme an ongoing

lifestyle choice or for a specific event? What has motivated them to come in today? What are the two or three major goals (outcomes) that they’re committed to achieving? These are just some of the questions that will help you and your team gain a deeper understanding for the desired outcome of your prospective member. 3. Perceptual Positions Perceptual Positions is a technique that will allow you to have multiple perspectives in a situation so that you can have greater influence on your prospects. Perceptual Positions is about ‘‘putting yourself in another person’s shoes’’ and is powerful when dealing with difficult prospective members. Rather than dismissing the prospect as guarded, rude or uninterested perceptual positions helps you to see where the other person may really be coming from. For instance: feeling shy, nervous or intimidated. 4. SMART Goals It is scientifically proven that a person is more likely to achieve their fitness goal if they first make sure they are SMART. S – Short/Specific/Simple.

Miles Grant

M – Measurable/Meaningful to the member/More than one way to achieve it. A – As if now, in present tense (as if they have already achieved their goal). R – Realistic/Responsible/ Ecological/ Right for you. T – Timed/towards what you want, Positive (No negations and no comparatives). Example of a well formed or SMART Goal: “It is August 30 2013 and I weigh 70 kg. I am on the beach in Italy wearing my new size 12 swimming costume and I feel fit, strong and healthy, and have exercised for more than 45

minutes, three times a week for the past nine months.” The way you state your goals does make a difference, so say it the way you want it. 5. Lateral Thinking (Hierarchy Of Ideas) Language, by the nature of its abstraction, can cause trance to occur in a person. By changing our language, we can affect our prospect’s state and behaviour. Lateral thinking is when we ask a prospective member to go deeper on the reason why they are looking to achieve their goal, thus increasing the likelihood of them achieving it and then maintaining it for the long term. Getting a prospect to think lateral will broaden their minds further than the goal of ‘lose weight’ and help them get to the specifics i.e to be in my size 12 swimming costume on the beach in Italy in August 2013. By helping our prospect to think laterally we are empowering them to achieve and then maintain their target weight for the long term. Miles has sold over 7,000 memberships spanning a decade and has worked with over 40 different health clubs. He is the founder of ‘Miles More Members’, an NLP results driven training programme tailored for independent health clubs.

35 Badgemaster

24/6/13

11:29

Page 1

25/6/13

09:57

Page 1

UK FITNESS SCENE

The ‘pain in the butt’ factor! By Dave Wright Dave Wright

The new free weights area at One Leisure St Ives.

Multi-million pound facility showcased at open event A SUCCESSFUL open weekend gave One Leisure St Ives a chance to showcase its new multi-million pound facilities to the local community. Over 500 tours took place over two days, revealing phase two of the project following the opening of phase one – a five-lane bowling alley. The centre’s health and wellbeing facilities include: The Impressions Fitness Suite – a 525sqm gym including functional training area, free weights section and CV area. Lounge area serving refreshments. Spa offering four heat experience rooms, relaxation area with water bed and heated seats, experience showers, drench showers and foot spas.

Five treatments rooms offering a range of services and products from Decleor. Dedicated sports injury clinic. One Leisure marketing manager Gemma Bonnett said: “The facility has been five years in the planning and to see the vision of the future of One Leisure in its flesh and the project two thirds completed is a tremendous experience. “Customers’ feedback verbally and on social media platforms has been astonishing and we are proud to put the One Leisure name to this facility that we feel is now one of the best in the East of England.” The overall project is due to be completed in late summer.

New kit coincides with launch THE YMCA in Watford has benefited from an extensive refurbishment including the installation of upgraded strength equipment from Precor, redecoration and a refit of the sports

hall. The overhaul also coincides with the launch of the health club’s pilot community project, which will provide 100 free health club memberships.

APPLE recently launched their new IOS 7 software platform and I believe it has a massive implication on the fitness industry. I’m not talking about the eliminated skeuomorphic designs or the visual display, but more so the fight that they are having with Windows and Google about who is going to keep the most customers in their own ecosystem. Ironically enough, it’s all coming down to a massive war of customer retention. In my opinion, they are all fighting to make a user’s experience with their business as stress free, user friendly and functional as they can. Basically, they are all trying to eliminate the ‘pain in the butt’ factor for customers. Take for example apps... it used to require you to input your apple id password every time that you wanted to update an app... in IOS 6 they changed it so that you merely clicked ‘update’ and it will update without a password... and now, with IOS 7, it will automatically update without you having to press anything at all. This is very relevant for today’s health club. In today’s ‘time poor’ society, customers do not want to be inconvenienced any more than they absolutely have to. So those clubs that will win the business and still be around for the ‘long term’ will not be all about the ‘price’, but more so those clubs that can make a members’ experience as easy and simple as possible. People stay with you not just because they like you, but because they get what they want with minimal effort. Cross fit, online booking, group training, 24-hour operations, Facebook one click, central locations, virtual classes, automatic uploads of workouts, free parking, email member communications, online joining, fin-

ger print entry systems, body fat readers, cashless tills, cloud based CRM solutions etc. etc. are all on the rise because they are making life easier for the customer. Recently I invested in a finger print scanning technology at one of my clubs thinking that I could eliminate the ‘pain in the butt’ factor of members leaving their cards at home... only to find that four out of every 10 entries failed and my staff have to manually check people in. Yes a new pain in the butt factor! Now my staff are pulling their hair out even more! So as a club owner you must look at how you are making your customers’ experience easier. You can’t necessarily relocate at the drop of a hat, but you can work internally on your systems, member engagement, class bookings, member education so that you can eliminate as much hassle as possible. Just as Apple do. As they say, simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Dave Wright is the CEO of CFM and creator of MYZONE, a global company with over 300 staff that have served the international fitness community for over 23 years; focusing on either getting new members and/or keeping existing ones. Dave is also the owner of 11 health clubs across two continents, a board director of ukactive and founder of IOU (Independent Operators Unite). He may be contacted on Dave.Wright@cfm.net

Advertiser’s Announcement

John named in Queen’s birthday honours JOHN Bancroft, founder and managing director of Badgemaster, the leading supplier of name badges to our industry, has been named in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for services to business in Nottinghamshire. Badgemaster’s story began with John’s identification, back in the early 1990s, of a growing need for companies with customer facing staff to be able to buy high quality name badges. He recognised then, what we now all know to be true, that in order for companies to appear professional and approachable to their customers, and to improve customer care, they needed to ensure customers knew the name of the person they were talking to. John spotted this need during his successful career at Sketchley Services where he was the national sales manager. Excited by the opportunity to fulfil this growing need, he founded Badgemaster with his wife Vicky in 1992. Badgemaster has gone from strength to strength and is now Britain’s leading name badge manufacturer. John is immensely proud of the achievements of his team at Badgemaster. He also thanks his wife and co-director, Vicky, for her invaluable management and development of

John Bancroft the company’s workforce. The company started trading with just one employee from an old disused portacabin in Nottinghamshire. As many industries’ use of name badges grew, so did Badgemaster. It now employs 88 full time staff using the latest technologies and processes at a state of the art facility in Newstead.

The village was once a mining village, and therefore suffered large scale unemployment following the closure of the mines. Badgemaster is now a key employer in the area and received Nottinghamshire County Council’s first “Bridge to Work” award in 1997 for its training and development of previously unemployed people. Other key milestones on the company’s timeline include being granted the Royal Warrant for the supply of name badges by appointment to Her Majesty the Queen’s royal households in 2006. Badgemaster was also awarded the ISO 9001 accreditation in 2010 for quality management issued by the British standards institute and the ISO 14001, the highest possible accreditation for operating with excellent environmental awareness. Today, if you are one of the many millions of people working in industries as diverse as retail, banking, healthcare, travel, hospitality, catering, leisure or in the public sector who go to work every day wearing a name badge then the chances are that it has been made by the Badgemaster team. This is a great achievement born from John Bancroft’s vision and passion for helping companies make a professional impression.

37 Prolab

24/6/13

11:29

Page 1

27/6/13

15:45

Page 1

SUPPLEMENTATION AND NUTRITION

Slimming product boosts gym’s secondary income By Christina Eccles AN independent gym in Scarborough is celebrating after successfully boosting secondary income through sales of a new slimming product – and is now planning to help other clubs do the same. Owner of Compass Fitness Christina Ingham contacted Workout to reveal how selling Body by Vi shakes has helped the club make more money – and attract sales from non members who they usually would struggle to get through their doors. She said: “When we first heard about Body by Vi we instantly dismissed it as yet another weight loss product sold by people from home and deemed it unsuitable for the commercial environment. “We investigated the product more, broke down the marketing plan and product itself, trialled and sampled it like any other product that we sell and then all of a sudden something clicked. “For the past five years of existence we have been totally inward facing with our ‘up selling’. We’ve been selling supplements to between five and 10 per cent of our members and to the odd walk in off the street. “Our average gym member was telling us they weren’t interested in supplements but we kept pushing against the current. Now we have a product to sell to 95 per cent of our membership and more importantly to the rest of the local population who are never going to step foot in our club in a million years.” The shakes promote the replacement of two meals with two shakes daily followed by a third healthy meal and healthy snacks in between, with online downloads available for exercise and meal plans.

Compass Fitness owner Christina Ingham. Christina added: “In an ideal world the population would exercise three times a week, eat five clean meals a day, drink no alcohol and not smoke and that is what we’ve been teaching for a long time. “But we don’t live in an ideal world, and as a gym owner I’ve accepted that some people are living a long way from that position in life and will never ever get there. “Many people whether I like it or not will never exercise and this product gives them a solution to being overweight and obese.” Christina also said that following her club’s success, she is now happy to work with other independent gyms interested in selling the product to give them advice on how to make it work in their facility.

She added: “Last year our club was only just profitable and we took a wage but at times it was very much hand to mouth like many clubs in the UK. Then this year we discovered Body by Vi and let’s just say that in May we made more from Body by Vi than we did from Compass. “I, like every other club owner, want to make money and be successful and I want to spread the word and make money for other club owners. “We’re in the unique position, unlike other promoters, that we know how to successfully sell it through a club or gym and are here to help other clubs make money like ourselves. We are an established business that is backing this product and aren’t going to disappear overnight leaving you without support.”

New menu at David Lloyd The USN Bolton Arena.

USN in arena sponsorship deal ULTIMATE Sports Nutrition has announced a sponsorship agreement with Bolton Arena. As part of the deal, visitors to the USN Bolton Arena will now be able to benefit from a range of activities including nutritional workshops and support, training sessions and promotional sampling days. A range of USN energy drinks will also be available at the arena cafe, vending machines and sports shops for sports participants and visitors to enjoy. Commercial manager Gwyn Hughes

said: “We are delighted to have USN as our first ever title sponsor. As one of the foremost sports nutrition brands in the world, they are a fantastic fit with Bolton Arena. “ The relationship allows us to extend our range of services and offer a better customer experience for all of our customers, from those using the arena for recreation, fitness and fun to those developing into elite sportspeople. “It will also allow us to continue to invest in our facilities and our community sports programmes.”

DAVID Lloyd Leisure is enhancing its DLicious food and drink concept with the launch of a new, improved menu for health conscious members and the extension of its deli range to include products for children. The new DLicious: Fast Fitness Food menu integrates David Lloyd Leisure’s approach to eating with its expertise in helping people achieve their health and fitness goals through sport and exercise. The menu features more fresh, nutritious and tasty dishes using quality ingredients than ever before, plus a newly launched delicatessen range for junior members. Head of food and beverage Andy Lowe said: “We’ve worked very hard to further enhance DLicious, taking into account the opinions and tastes of our members, and it now offers them even greater choice and value for money.”

39 Iso2

24/6/13

11:30

Page 1

27/6/13

15:58

Page 1

PRODUCT NEWS

Experts create great ice-cream FDF appoints BodyPower PROTEIN First has developed a range of great tasting, functional, high performance foods with help from food industry experts and Teesside University. MD of Protein First Graham Wood said: “Our company has one philosophy, to only produce high performance foods that taste great!” The first products to be launched by the company are a range of great tasting high protein ice creams. The ice creams are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals and will be available in three delicious flavours, French Vanilla, Wild Strawberry and Chocolate and Hazelnut. Graham added: “The whey protein isolate in our ice cream is an excellent source of all the essential amino acids and the richest source of branched chain amino acids, which are particu-

larly important for muscle protein synthesis and has a BV1 of 159, ensuring it is rapidly digested and absorbed by the body, making our ice cream the ideal protein supplement post exercise.” Protein First has developed a wide range of new products and two further ranges are planned for launch later this year. For more information visit www.proteinfirst.com

Trainer ideal for athletes THE Torso Trainer from Escape Fitness will bring out the hardcore fitness fan in every free weight area. Available as a single and a double unit, you can perform explosive one and two arm movements and other rotational exercises simply by inserting any Olympic-size bar that is available from Escape into the pivoting sleeve at the unit’s base. It is a fantastic total-body functional training device, particularly effective at developing power and endurance through the entire core and developing functional strength from head to toe. With unstoppable rotational power, the torso trainer is ideal for martial artists, footballers, golfers and nearly all sporting athletes. It would be the perfect addition to any combat training facility, including boxing and MMA. This ground based rotational training tool will get your whole body working and moving. It is

hugely versatile, not only will your core muscles get worked, you’ll also develop your arms, shoulders, legs, back and chest and grip simultaneously. The torso trainer can be used for indoor and outdoor training so, now the sun has finally come out, and temperatures are rising, get in touch with the Escape team to find out more. For more information call 01733 313535 or visit www.escapefitness.com

FIRST Degree Fitness – FDF – has appointed BodyPower Sports Plc as their UK commercial market distributor for their Fluid Rowers and Fluid Upper Body Ergometers. CEO Nick Driscoll said: “BodyPower have successfully built sales to well over a thousand rowers and several hundred UBEs each year to the UK home fitness market since 2007 through their Fitness Superstore chain of nine retail stores across the UK. We wish to extend this strong base into the commercial market.” Charlie Adams, FDF marketing director, added: “As the UK’s largest independent specialty fitness retailer and now one of the top five largest fitness equipment suppliers in the over-

all UK market, BodyPower are a perfect choice to partner and further build our brand in the commercial sector with our new Vortex series of commercial Fluid Rowers.” For more information visit www.bodypower.co.uk or email charles.adams@firstdegreefitness.com

Convenient meals high in protein GREAT tasting, all natural, convenient, high protein diet meals for sports and fitness. Performance Meals are based on clinically tested research that clearly indicates high protein meals help to maintain a lean, toned body. High protein meals are also suitable for building muscle mass and strength and are especially useful in the repair of muscle after exercise. These are complete real food meals, containing no additives or preservatives. High in protein, with a minimum of 40g protein per serving, low fat, low salt and ready to eat. The unique air and watertight sealed pouch ensures the ingredients are kept fresh and keeps the all-important nutrients locked in during cook-

ing. Performance Meals have a shelf life of 12 months and have no special storage requirements. No fridge needed. Simply display alongside existing sports nutrition products. Visit www.performancemeals.com Trade customers can order direct from www.performancemealstrade.com

React appointed exclusive UK equipment distributor REACT Fitness has been appointed as the exclusive UK distributors for VibroGym, Sproing and reACT Trainer. Managing director, David Morrell is delighted to have the opportunity to bring these ground breaking and diverse fitness products to the UK market. Formerly managing director at Power Plate International, David is no stranger to vibration training. After April’s breaking news that the original creator of Whole Body Vibration Plates, Guus Van der Meer, and his right hand man, Jelte Tempelaars had been appointed as managing director and operations director of VibroGym International, it felt natural for David to be working again with such industry innovators. David said: “I’m very pleased to be involved again with the vibration training market. “Having worked with Guus and Jelte for the past 10 years, I know their enthusiasm, knowledge and invaluable experience will help lead the way for product development and educa-

tion to enable VibroGym to become the market leader in vibration training.” The current range includes the VibroGym Domestic, the VibroGym Professional, and the VibroGym Evolution. The recently launched VibroGym Professional II will secure VibroGym’s position of excellence in the fitness industry. All machine components are entirely sourced and manufactured in Europe, offering highly accurate electronic control circuits and precision cast aluminium casing. This results in a perfectly harmonious and clean vibration producing more gravity, giving optimum results and highly effective workouts.

Staying relevant is key to Les Mills’ success GROUP fitness remains one of the hottest and most innovative sectors of the industry. As the global leader in the creation of group fitness programmes, Les Mills pride themselves on providing inspiring, motivating workouts that are backed by science and get results. Staying relevant in the market is key, which is why Les Mills invest millions each year on teaming original chart topping music with the latest cuttingedge choreography, and renewing it every three months to keep the experience new and totally addictive to club members. It’s also about innovation, being ahead of the curve and anticipating the next big thing. From new programme development which is what has kept the iconic

Bodypump a global favourite for over 20 years to ground breaking product development with the new Smartbar and Smartstep (to be launched later this year). Another success is through the delivery of the Les Mills programmes from its certified Instructors. Fully qualified to lead in their speciality, all will have trained to the highest of standards. Les Mills also ensures the quality of their Instructors by a continuous education programme which means that all workouts not only have the latest innovation but are delivered in a safe yet exhilarating way. This combined helps Les Mills stay at the forefront of fitness and is why it puts them firmly on track to achieve their goal of creating a fitter planet.

?? Tyke

27/6/13

11:33

Page 1

48 Vydex

25/6/13

17:31

Page 1

classis

27/6/13

15:50

Page 1

Members expect functional zones

FLOORING

By Allan Collins

VIRTUALLY every club and national operator is becoming aware of the benefits, versatility and importance of a functional training area within their facilities. They know that club members are now expecting to see areas with kettlebells, sandbags, suspension systems and a variety of other ‘funky’ equipment, just as they expect to see areas for cardiovascular training, freeweights and stretching. It is quickly becoming much more of a standard expectation, when prospects are looking around the club, as they have seen these areas being used on programmes like The Biggest Loser. Many of the clubs and national operators are trying to keep up with their competitors to ensure they continue to attract new members and retain current ones with investment in modern trends in functional equipment. However, it can be difficult for managers or purchasers to know what type of functional equipment is most suitable. Your client demographic and what type of training they will want to perform, as well as whether you wish to run small group training sessions, will help to dictate both the layout and equipment requirements for your area. For example, let’s say you run a club that has a large student membership and the athletic clubs, such as football, rugby, netball and hockey, will want to use it for their sessions. You would want to have one or more weightlifting platforms with elite bars and bumper plates so they can perform the Olympic lifts that the strength coaches will be advocating. Some 'normal' clubs may have these as well but it is more unusual (it also requires that the staff had received adequate training on to both coach and demonstrate these lifts). If you want suspension training systems, do you opt for gymnastic rings, with are more cost effective but a little more restrictive on the exercises that can be performed, or one of the more modern designs, such as a MiloKit or Jungle Gym XT? Well, if your users

VENDING

FOR SALE

Allan Collins perform CrossFit style sessions and exercises, like the muscle up, they would prefer Gym Rings, whilst most other users would prefer one of the other systems. Then what about the anchoring points – wall/ceiling anchors / A-frames / Functional Training Rigs? Again, it would depend on space, what type of ceilings/walls and height restrictions, and whether you would like the space to be multipurpose, such as doubling up as squat racks, in which case a more expensive functional rig would be a better use of the space than an A-frame. Like most areas, there are a lot of considerations about what to put in there, where to place it, cost restrictions, space limitations and training requirements. Consulting with one of the functional suppliers who can discuss your needs, advise on best layouts and equipment and produce a 3-D image or fly-through of your functional area (for example, using Jordan Fitness' Results Based Training (RBT) system) will help to ensure that you are investing correctly and wisely and the space will be used as much as you wish for both unsupervised, personal training and small group exercise. Allan Collins is director of education at Jordan Fitness (www.jordanfitness.co.uk) and author of the new Complete Guide to Functional Training.

classis

27/6/13

15:50

Page 2

CLASSIFIED

42 EQUIPMENT

classis

27/6/13

15:50

Page 3

CLASSIFIED EQUIPMENT

SUPPLEMENTS

LOCKERS

classis

27/6/13

15:51

Page 4

CLASSIFIED

44 LOCKERS

FLOORING

MAINTENANCE

INSURANCE

classis

27/6/13

15:51

Page 5

CLASSIFIED DIRECT DEBIT COLLECTIONS

HYGIENE

FINANCE

CLOTHING AND MERCHANDISE

AUDIO / VISUAL

UPHOLSTERY

MIRRORS

classis

27/6/13

15:51

Page 6

CLASSIFIED

46 EQUIPMENT

MARKETING

SOFTWARE

MANAGEMENT

LIGHTS

WANTED

FOR SALE

LOCKS