www.healthclubmanagement.co.uk INSIDE HEALTH health clubCLUB SPA management MAY 2009 £4.00
INTERVIEW CHARLIE PARKER The CEO of the Country Club Group on incorporating fi tness into golf clubs teenagers’ fi tness PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AS A WAY TO ADDRESS ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR
APPRENTICESHIP SCHEMES A golden opportunity to boost business
EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT... ‘GIVING’ ADVICE TO MEMBERS
a leisure media The offi cial ARE WE SHORT-CHANGING CUSTOMERS IN A BID TO SELL PERSONAL TRAINING? company publication publication of the FIA
Read Health Club Management online www.healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital at the heart of every successful leisure facility
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PULSESOCCER.COM Pulse, The Bromley Centre, Bromley Road, Congleton, Cheshire CW12 1PT T: 01260 294610 F: 01260 299282 E: info@pulsefitness.com PULSEFITNESS.COM editor’s letter
Subscriptions Julie Albone +44 (0)1462 471915 creative solutions Circulation Manager Michael Emmerson hey say necessity is the mother of invention and it seems +44 (0)1462 471932 this old adage is holding true in the current economic Editor situation. As you’d expect from a market characterised Liz Terry AGENCY: DREAMSTIME.COM AGENCY: ❘ +44 (0)1462 431385 by driven, energetic and enthusiastic people, health club Toperators and owners are getting creative to find ways of Managing Editor Kate Cracknell continuing to grow their businesses and improve retention levels. +44 (0)1462 471906 All aspects of the club operation are being reviewed and Assistant Editor tightened. Fitness First is concentrating some of its efforts on consumer-facing marketing and Katie Barnes product development initiatives, including the launch of a new range of branded home fitness +44 (0)1462 471925 Journalist equipment which will be sold through Tesco. This month the company has also announced the Caroline Wilkinson development of a new product line for the Nintendo Wii games console. The new initiative is being +44 (0)1462 471911 undertaken in partnership with Black Bean Games and the creators of TV programme and book You News Desk Are What You Eat. It will result in the launch of a game called NewU InsideOut which combines fitness Tom Walker
PHOTOGRAPHER: ANDRES RODRIGUEZ ANDRES RODRIGUEZ PHOTOGRAPHER: and exercise content to give a full body workout. The rationale is to extend members’ workout
© +44 (0)1462 471934 outside the gym and to encourage new Caroline Wilkinson exercisers to feel comfortable with +44 (0)1462 471911 Fitness First has Pete Hayman exercising, with the eventual aim being to +44 (0)1462 471938 announced the development encourage them to join a gym. Products Editor of a new product line for Other initiatives have seen Esporta launch Sarah Todd a new scheme for people who have been +44 (0)1462 471927 the Nintendo Wii games made redundant. The company has Mark Edmonds developed the Fresh Start package to offer +44 (0)1462 471933 console called NewU. It unemployed people the first three months’ Designers will combine fi tness and Claire Toplis membership at ‘very advantageous rates’. +44 (0)1462 471910 exercise content with The scheme is just one of a range of new Andy Bundy initiatives being introduced by Esporta. +44 (0)1462 471924 dietary advice Well capitalised companies are making the Ed Gallagher most of the depressed property market by +44 (0)1905 20198 snapping up prime sites at very competitive prices to underpin their next development phase, and with Website Team Michael Paramore so many real estate bargains available, this will set them up for expansion when the market improves. +44 (0)1462 471926 Operators are also considering pay as you go pricing options. These have a premium attached Dean Fox when compared with a full membership, and prices are set at a level which is more profitable for the +44 (0)1462 471900 operator. Having a pay as you go option allows clubs to target potential new members who are not in Tim Nash a position to commit to a full membership, while still rewarding full members for their loyalty. +44 (0)1462 471917 On the training front, Premier is guaranteeing all graduates a job interview with a fitness operator Katie Eldridge on completion. Other training providers are targeting people who have redundancy money to spend, +44 (0)1462 471913 in a bid to persuade them to retrain for work in the health and fitness market. Given that the sector Publisher Jan Williams has been suffering skills shortages over the last 10 years, this is a very valid thing to be doing, we just +44 (0)1462 471909 need to be careful not to oversell the employment opportunities which currently exist – especially Sales for personal trainers or any other area which tends to involve self-employment. John Challinor One major upside to the current situation is the keen interest in the environment, as operators +44 (0)1582 607970 seek to reduce costs by being more fuel efficient. There’s been a significant increase in the number of Tessa Alexander companies implementing energy-reducing schemes and investing in new technology. These changes will +44 (0)1462 471903 help keep firms solvent now, while setting them up for greater successes when better times return. Nadeem Shaikh +44 (0)1462 471902 Julie Badrick Liz Terry, editor +44 (0)1462 471919 email: [email protected] Nuzhat Hayat 01604 415414 Attractions spa business health club uniting the world of spas Marketing Manager management management Big Ambitions Jennifer Todd CHARLIE PARKER James Balfour GIANT & Tony Cowen SCREENS +61 3 9694 5213 teenagers’ fi tness Spiegelworld
APPRENTICESHIP SCHEMES Financial Controller A golden opportunity to boost business
Sue Davis 1IJM3FENPOE
London's Olympic Park +44 (0)1395 519398 ‘GIVING’ ADVICE TO MEMBERS Financial Administrator Denise Gildea NEWS AND JOBS UPDATED DAILY ON THE INTERNET leisureopportunities.co.uk +44 (0)1462 471930 Credit Controller CONTACT US The Leisure Media Company Ltd, Portmill House, Portmill Lane, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG5 1DJ UK Shona Acford +44 (0)1876 580347 SUBS Tel: +44 (0)1462 471915 Fax: +44 (0)1462 433909 © Cybertrek Ltd 2009
april 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 3 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital
welcome to HEALTH CLUB MANAGEMENT PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM PICTURE: PICTURE: WWW.DREAMSTIME.COM PICTURE:
Middle East Spa Summit debuts p30 Can clubs benefi t from apprenticeships? p54
contents
08 letters We need to set minimum standards for people who work with children,
says James Porter, director of the WWW.ISTOCK.COM PICTURE: ZigZag Training Academy
10 news round-up Funding secured for Holt Park and for Nottingham leisure developments, and a new £14m sports centre opens at the Royal National College for the Blind
18 international news Balance training – helping older people maintain their lifestyle p64 Holmes Place opens in Hungary, and Tanzania’s Serengeti national park 26 people news 38 child’s play gets a new hotel gym Peter Rigg joins Physique, and Mike Research shows that increasing McCardle retires from sporta children’s participation in exercise 20 fi a update can improve their academic grades Steven Ward provides the second 28 competitive edge as well as their health part of a two-part update on the Race against the sun in the Lake national Physical Activity Alliance District, or compete in a jungle 39 physical therapy marathon – all for charity We look at how exercise can 24 reps update help tackle anti-social behaviour Details of the test centres planned 30 diary dates in teenagers, and at the various for qualifi cation accreditation Get ready for SIBEC UK and the FIA initiatives taking on the challenge FLAME Conference 44 health club spa 32 everyone’s talking about... shout it out ‘giving’ advice We pay a visit to the Chelsea Club, Where does fi tness instructing end an exclusive health club located and personal training begin when it at Stamford Bridge in London, to comes to giving members advice? review its new Escape spa
34 interview charlie parker 49 health club spa The CEO of the Country Club all change Group talks about combining fi tness Expert advice on the considerations and golf, about creating great places that need to be addressed when to be, and about balancing success designing changing rooms, whether Vibration training news p53 with not growing too large for fi tness, spa or swimming
6 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital HEALTH CLUB SPA MAY PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM PICTURE:
Tackling teens’ anti-social conduct p39
The offi cial publication of the Fitness Industry Association +44 (0)20 7420 8560
reader services
A round-up of fi tness gadgets p72 Challenges that push your limits p28
52 health club spa 64 striking a balance digital magazine spa news Suggestions on how to incorporate See Health Club Management online The Grange spa and personal balance training into workouts, and a healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital training centre opens in Lincolnshire, round-up of balance equipment news & jobs plus new treatments for Spa London 70 inner space For jobs and news visit the Health Club Management website at 53 fi tness-kit.net special Central YMCA recently completed healthclubmanagement.co.uk vibration training a £2.7m refurbishment project. We gym80 launches its endurance force report on what’s been done, and why attention buyers! bike and VibroGym sees the debut of Use our search engine to find its Swarovski crystal-encrusted plate 72 fi tness gadgets suppliers and get innovation updates From downloadable workouts to fitness-kit.net 54 home grown staff heart rate monitors, we look at With government funding being some of the latest gadgets making an subscribe: made available for apprenticeship impact on the fi tness market Sign up for Health Club Management schemes, and with training providers at leisuresubs.com, or call: on-hand to develop bespoke 74 supplier profi le +44 (0)1462 471915 programmes, should operators pay tim colston, keiser health club management more attention to this opportunity? The MD of Keiser UK talks about buyers’ guide: DIRECTORY architects/designers clothing & merchandise equipment that can cater for all For suppliers of AV/sound 58 showtime! markets, from the elderly to the elite products and services A round-up of the new products in the health club
clothing & and spa markets, merchandise launched at IHRSA in March, plus 83 lightweights 5PCPPLZPVSBEWFSUDBMM UIFTBMFTUFBNPO +44 (0)1462 431385 summaries of the keynotes and a The use of gems, and even walking turn to p78 To book your advert call To book your advert call the sales team on review from the show fl oor through mud, in spa therapies +44 (0)1462 431385 may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 7 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital MAY 09 LETTERS write to reply MAY 2009
Do you have a strong opinion or disagree with somebody else’s views on the industry? If so, we’d love to hear from you – email: [email protected]
minimum standards needed for those working with kids
Children’s health is clearly high on the of children to walk away from sport, government agenda, and we welcome the exercise and physical activity. initiatives and funding opportunities set We need to create a coaching culture up to establish kids’ activity programmes that isn’t just based on knowing the skills in schools and local communities. But of a sport. We must develop skills in why are there no minimum standards for leadership, child behaviour management people working with kids? and disciplining. Adults need to Surely the key to any successful understand how children think and why
programme are the people delivering they behave in certain ways. From this, MURILLO WWW.ISTOCK.COM/ALDO PICTURE: it. Adults have a massive influence on we learn how to engage kids at the Marketing to families could lead to children – an influence that can stay with appropriate level and keep them coming longer-term commercial gain kids for life. An adult who doesn’t really back to classes and activity sessions. want to be there, or who is only intent Stephen Studd, SkillsActive CEO, says use of mosaic profi ling on producing the next David Beckham or employers should take a four ‘R’ approach to drive participation Andy Murray, could lead large numbers with staff in these economically turbulent I was interested to read the article on times: Retain, Re-skill, Re-deploy and the National Audit of Fitness Consumers Re-engage. We should take this chance (HCM March 09), which looked at using PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM/ALDOMURILLO to establish minimum standards for adults Mosaic profiling to identify segments of working with kids – and let’s also take it the population with low take-up of fitness. one step further by ensuring prospective Yes, we should market creatively to career progression. Not many people groups we’re not currently reaching. But want to deliver holiday camps and participation is also about getting existing birthday parties for their whole career. members more active, more often; We must reward loyal, skilled staff with increasing visit frequency is the biggest a variety of opportunities that also help driver of retention and customer value. children to be more active. There are huge gains to be had from Let’s set the standards, set out clear targeting marketing towards consumers opportunities for staff and set kids on a who will retain their memberships for healthier path to their future. longer as a result. For example, our The wrong attitude from an adult james porter research shows that targeting Mosaic mentor could put kids off sport director, zigzag training academy groups including individuals who are older, married and with a family can lead to longer-term membership, with subsequent the letter Taking early legal advice can often prevent health benefits for the consumer and a problem becoming a dispute. The team at commercial gain for the operator. of the law Croner Consulting answers readers’ questions justin mendleton sales director, the retention people Whatever happened with the test case on reclaiming charges imposed by Q the banks? Am I free to reclaim them yet? pril’s franchise round-up The Offi ce of Fair Trading (OFT) has been pursuing a long-running court A feature (p61) stated that, A battle with the banks, arguing that charges for unauthorised overdrafts are by bolting on RESULTS4U’s new subject to the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Regulations. If won, the OFT vibration studio, RESULTS4 V.T., will have the power to determine whether the charges are reasonable or not – and, clubs can expect to gain £500 in if not, will be able to require the banks to refund them. The High Court and the extra membership. In fact, clubs can Court of Appeal have both ruled in favour of the OFT, and the OFT was hoping expect £5,000 in additional revenue fi nally to carry out its full investigation and make a decision later this year. But the each month. RESULTS FITNESS Ltd banks have now managed to get permission from the House of was established in 2004, but started Lords to appeal further, so a fi nal decision is delayed once again. franchising as RESULTS4U in 2008.
8 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital advertising feature
CARDIO TRENDS & INNOVATIONS – Excite VARIO
he R&D team at Technogym recognises that health club T members want to have fun during their cardio workout and has developed the new Excite VARIO to meet this need. The new machine is easy to use and gives members the freedom to do short strides, longer strides and even steps, so they can be creative in developing their own workouts and not be restricted to fixed planes of movement. The Excite VARIO also picks up on the trend towards total body training and can be used by people of all abilities. innovation: the Excite VARIO So let’s have a look behind the scenes at the key drivers for creating a new cardio machiane. Firstly, it’s important to replicate natural body movements. To do this, the scientists have to defi ne a safe, natural movement pattern. Secondly, the new machine must adapt to each user’s natural stride length and allow them to actually change their stride length during exercise. Therein lies the main difference between VARIO and an elliptical machine with a fi xed range and pattern of movement – VARIO automatically adapts to the user’s natural movement and stride. Intense testing in the R&D labs with people of all abilities helped Technogym create a unique 83cm stride length for Innovation: The new Excite VARIO has a unique 83cm stride length its new machine. This, combined with a
maximum user height of 210cm, means it rate while using the machine in both can cater for people of all sizes. settings. Being able to change resistance OK, so the movement is defi ned. during a ‘total body’ workout was also What else have exercisers said they’re seen as a big plus! looking for? Consumer research clearly So in simple terms what did the indicates that a low entry height onto the engineers do? They modifi ed the moving machine is important, as well as a low handles by adding heart rate grips and also user height while in operation. To put it a set of Fast Track Control buttons which another way, the higher from the ground allow the user to change resistance during a person is, the more uncomfortable they the workout. These are similar to the can become when exercising. This is a controls found on a car steering wheel - simple point, but it’s very important that simple but highly effective! attention is paid to every detail. To conclude, a workout offering total The VARIO is a total body machine body movement and natural stride with two sets of arms - a set of moving length is what the R&D team set out to arms to give a ‘total body’ workout and achieve. The proof of the pudding is in another fi xed set to be using during the eating though and you’ll have to try Ergonomic: Technogym undertook ‘lower body’ workouts. VARIO and give us your feedback. It’s a consumer research to fi nd out how Customer feedback was clear – users great new cardio workout, that feels so exercisers respond to equipment wanted to be able to track their heart natural, it’s easy to do and it’s fun!
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL US ON 01344 300236, EMAIL [email protected] OR VISIT WWW.TECHNOGYM.COM/VARIO update news
in brief... holt park secures funding Leeds City Council has announced early stages, whereas we hope to start link4life secures nhs funding that it has secured funding for the construction on the other two facilities Link4Life, the sports trust working construction of a new leisure and this summer. in the borough of Rochdale, is to wellbeing centre in Holt Park. “All three facilities will be fi nanced receive direct funding from the The Department of Health has through the PFI, but the DCMS, which NHS to provide free access to its confi rmed the allocation, in principle, of is providing the credits for the other SHOKK youth gyms for eight- to £32m of Private Funding Initiative (PFI) two projects, says it cannot issue any 15-year-olds. credits for the new centre, which will more. It has therefore referred it to the The funding has been awarded combine services provided by Leeds Department of Health for social care PFI by NHS Heywood, Middleton & City Council’s adult social care, youth credits instead.” Rochdale as part of a grant to and sports services, NHS Leeds, and the The Morley and Armley centres are promote healthy lifestyles. local community. set to become community sports hubs The cash will support a range The site will be the third facility being with links to schools, Primary Care of initiatives for families and built under the council’s PFI, called Trusts and Social Services. young people, as well as weight New Leaf Leisure Centres Project, management projects already in following similar £30m developments in place to tackle the rising obesity Armley and Morley. problem in both children and adults. The Holt Park facility, to be called Access to all these schemes will New Leaf Well Being Centre, will be via local health centres. include a 25m swimming pool, an easily accessible learner pool with a beach, a free inductions for adults sports hall and a Bodyline gym. It will Stockton Primary Care Trust, in also have conference and multi-purpose partnership with sports trust Tees rooms that will host health education
Active, is offering free Activ8 gym workshops and exercise classes. PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM inductions to adults who live in the The wellbeing aspects include a borough of Stockton-on-Tees. hydrotherapy pool, sensory rooms and a The free sessions are available rebound room – a soft-sided relaxation at Splash, Thornaby Pavilion and space with music. The centre is intended Billingham Forum. A spokesperson to replace the existing Holt Park for Tees Active says: “More than Leisure Centre and to contribute to the 27 million adults in England are regeneration of the area. not getting enough exercise and 14 A spokesperson for the council says: Morley and Armley centres are set million don’t complete 30 minutes “The plans for Holt Park are in the very to become community sports hubs exercise a week. “The government is hoping to get 70 per cent of the population winsford lifestyle centre opens physically active for 30 minutes, fi ve times a week. Currently only 30 per The £10.8m Lifestyle Centre in pool and a learner pool, as well as two cent of the population is achieving Winsford, Cheshire, is now open. squash courts, a dance studio and a this target.” Fitness facilities consist of a 48-station multi-purpose hall with tiered, foldaway gym, equipped by Life Fitness, with a seating to accommodate basketball, obesity strategy launched free weights area and a health suite badminton and fi ve-a-side football. DC Leisure’s programme to tackle offering a sauna, steamroom and spa Conference and event rooms will be the obesity levels in Rotherham, pool. There is also a 25m swimming complemented by a cyber café and bar. developed in partnership with the Developer Morgan Ashurst will now NHS, has begun. demolish the aged Winsford Sports The programme is aimed Complex, standing on the same site as primarily at children between the the new Lifestyle Centre, in order to ages of eight and 17 years old who provide landscaped gardens. have a history of weight issues. “One of the marks of a great leisure The programme contains weekly centre is whether the space is fl exible lifestyle sessions, to be managed by enough to meet the needs of the DC Leisure on behalf of Rotherham community,” says Morgan Ashurst’s Metropolitan Borough Council, and contracts manager Colin Dobson. “The has been designed to form links multi-use hall fi ts that brief because it between schools and leisure centres allows a wide range of people – from in the area. £10.8m centre is “fl exible enough to amateur dramatics clubs to basketball meet the needs of the community” squads – to use the same space.”
10 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital news and jobs updated daily on www.healthclubmanagement.co.uk edited by caroline wilkinson. email: [email protected]
gain pounds whilst they lose The 58-station community gym is open to both students and members them new sports centre for the blind The Concept2 Model E A new £14m sports and complementary To cater for the visually impaired elevates everything - workouts, therapy centre has opened at the users, and as part of the college’s aim fitness levels, even where your Royal National College for the Blind in to become IFI accredited, the facility clients sit. We’ve raised the Hereford as part of a £23.5m campus offers tactile landmarks on the stairwells bar, added a sturdier frame redevelopment project. and fl oors to aid with navigation. There and a nickel plated chain for The 5,680sq m (61,139sq ft) centre, will also be six information points even lower maintenance. called thePoint4, has been created to to aid navigation and ensure better And when it comes to tracking improve the education and training for understanding of the equipment. progress, the new PM4 people with sight loss. The new facilities Centre manager Chris Combe says: monitor is bursting with feature an IFI Stage 2-accredited, “We want to create a model for working performance data at the Cybex-equipped 17-station gym for with the blind, partially sighted and touch of a button. Call us students training to work in the other disabilities. For those who aren’t now to find out how fi tness industry, as well as a 58-station confi dent in a gym, we can exercise with Concept2 can help pull community gym that is open to them in our smaller training gym and in your profits. students and members. There are also then, when they feel able, they can use two spa rooms, a 12m fi tness pool, spa the main gym to work out alongside the bringfitness2life.co.uk pools and a licensed restaurant. other members.”
developer announced for basildon sports complex 0115 945 5522
Basildon District Council has eight badminton court-sized multi- appointed Community Solutions for sports hall, a gymnastics centre Leisure (CSL) as the developer of the featuring a specialist main hall and £35m Basildon Sporting Village. training hall, and a multi-purpose CSL will now fi nalise the design of – studio designed to offer a fl exible and eventually build – the new village, space to accommodate dance, aerobics, which has been approved as a pre- martial arts and kick boxing. Games training camp for the London There will also be meeting and 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. function rooms, a café and a climbing Facilities will include a 100-station wall with a bouldering area. Outdoor health and fi tness club, an Olympic facilities will comprise a competition- 50m swimming pool with 400-capacity standard athletics track and six fl oodlit spectator area, a learner pool, an fi ve-a-side artifi cial turf football pitches.
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 17.9%APR news and jobs updated daily on update www.healthclubmanagement.co.uk
new funding for £6.44m centre new outdoor
A new £6.44m leisure centre, currently gym for seniors being built at Forest Fields, Nottingham, Herne and Broomfi eld Parish Council has received a £1m grant from Sport has installed an Xerscape outdoor gym England’s Free Swimming Capital facility, designed for senior citizens, at Modernisation Development Programme. the Cherry Orchard Playing Field in Nottingham City Council is behind the Herne, near Herne Bay, Kent. plans for the new complex, which will Seven pieces of gym equipment – replace existing facilities at Noel Street including sit-up benches, triple pull-up as part of the city’s £18.5m Leisure bars and a pull-down exerciser – have Centre Transformation Programme. been installed at the site and can be The funding, which is made available £1m grant awarded by Sport used by anyone over 12- years of age to local authorities across England, is England’s free swimming programme and of any fi tness level. designed to encourage more people to Designed in conjunction with take up swimming by helping to provide ahead of the London 2012 Olympic and researchers from Staffordshire modern facilities and to enhance Paralympic Games. University’s Centre for Sport and facility accessibility. The new centre is designed by Archial Exercise, the equipment provides The windfall coincides with the launch Architects and is being built by ISG benefi ts for upper and lower body of the government’s free swimming Regions alongside the Djanogly City strength and cardiovascular fi tness. initiative for people aged between 16 and Academy. It is expected to be completed The gym, funded by HBPC, is sponsored 60 years, which will run until 31 March by April 2010. The council hopes residents by Awards for All, Co-Op Community 2011. The intention of the initiative is will take the opportunity to improve their Fund, Kent International Airport and to increase swimming participation health and wellbeing for free. Action with Rural Communities.
new £95,000 nhs-funded outdoor gym unveiled in nottingham park
A new 13-station outdoor gym – set alongside a traversing wall, a basketball hoop, a football goal and a dance area – has been unveiled at the Forest Recreation Ground in Nottingham to encourage locals to increase their physical activity levels. Suitable for all ages, the new equipment has been supplied by The Great Outdoor Company and Park Leisure, and has been funded by a £95,000 grant from NHS Nottingham City. NHS Nottingham City, in partnership with the city council, is also funding a new ‘legacy gym’ at Clifton Central Park, near to the Clifton Leisure Centre, and has fi ve more outdoor facilities in the pipeline. Facility has been funded by NHS Nottingham City £2m gym upgrade for sheffi eld hallam students The refurb of two gyms at Sheffi eld Olympic bars. There are also 40 stations Hallam University has led to an increase of Life Fitness kit and a SAQ (speed, of more than 2,000 visits a month. agility and quickness) and plyometric The university spent £2m upgrading area equipped by Life Fitness and Escape the gyms – at the Collegiate Crescent Fitness, which includes cable motion and the City Campus sports centres – to dual adjustable pulley, speed ladders, cater for everyday gym-goers, as well as integrated force plate and plyometric for the sporting elite in its Elite Hallam platforms to develop explosive power Sports Programme and Talented Athlete and speed in athletes. Scholarship Scheme. The City Campus gym has been The Club Hallam Fitness Suite and upgraded to attract more females. The High Performance Hallam Strength and 75-station facility, equipped by Life Conditioning area at the Collegiate Fitness, has a personal training area and Crescent campus now offers free offers Engage treadmills, the Life Fitness Collegiate campus’ new gym includes weights including barbells, weight-lifting Circuit Series and Hammer Strength 40 stations of Life Fitness equipment bars, x-racks, dumbells, stability balls and Motion Technology Selectorised Series.
12 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital MINIMUM EFFORT MAXIMUM RESULTS
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© Copyright 2008 Power Plate. All Rights Reserved. update training
cyq expands its qualifi cations
A selection of duty managers and supervisors at three Hampshire leisure centres are the fi rst people in the UK to start an advanced apprenticeship, leading to a new qualifi cation from Central YMCA Qualifi cations (CYQ). It is very easy to stereotype in the world The training on offer will include The group, employed at Havant of health and fi tness. For example, elite inductions on ZigZag kids’ equipment and Waterlooville leisure centres and athletes and body builders are seen as Romsey Rapids, will spend the next 18 extreme, whilst any emphasis on recovery zigzag launches months working towards CYQ’s new or perhaps the development of strength are Level 3 NVQ in Leisure Management. not always viewed as being applicable to skills academy Designed specifi cally for managers the everyday exerciser. I’m not sure I buy working in health and fi tness, the into this! Supplier of interactive gym equipment qualifi cation is delivered in the ZigZag, part of the PTE group, has workplace and will develop their skills in Firstly, recovery is not just important to launched a training academy to deliver team leadership, customer service and the injured; it should be considered as courses for adults and young people resource management. prevention rather than cure. The ability to wanting to work with children in the The qualifi cation is being delivered speed your readiness to exercise again is, leisure and fi tness industry. by Portsmouth-based training provider of course, essential to elite athletes who The fi rst two courses to launch Catch22 South East Training. CYQ has strive to push boundaries. But it is also are the Certifi cate in Adapting Gym also introduced Candidate Assessment important to Joe Bloggs, who may be new Instruction for Adolescents, and Records for all qualifi cations to make to the gym or who may be unaccustomed ActivFutures. The former qualifi cation is referencing achievement against to exercise. Furthermore, I know athletes at a one-day course, worth 20 REPs CPD performance criteria quicker and easier. all levels, including the 35,000 people who points, designed to provide the skills to modify instruction for a teenage market run the Flora London Marathon in April, and to understand the physiological and footballers who hit the fi eld regularly, and psychological issues that affect require support to recover effectively. their ability to exercise. ActivFutures Strength is another important aspect of is a two-day workshop, worth 16 CPD any training that can be misunderstood. points, aimed at those working with Although it is often referred to as ‘bulking children aged four to 11 in a fi tness, up’, the ability to build muscle mass is leisure or school environment. The ZigZag Academy will replace the not always about getting physically bigger. company’s ActivKids arm and will run Strength is also about being functional from three regional training centres – in Catch22 South East Training will for everyday activities and exercise, and it Basingstoke, Bolton and Horwich. deliver the new qualifi cation certainly helps to reduce the risk of injury. So you see, I’m not sure we should stereotype the needs of anyone who ssl and bee improve people skills participates in sports and exercise. The moment we do is the moment we lose South Suffolk Leisure Trusts (SSL) has training with fl ying colours and are now introduced a new personal development practising their new-found coaching skills sight of the different ways we can help programme designed to improve the on their colleagues. As an industry we people achieve their goals in sport, exercise people skills of its staff. train people in systems and processes, and performance. BEE – The People Programme has but often not in simple communication Nick Morgan been developed by FitPro, and SSL is and people skills. Head of Sport Science for Lucozade Sport one of the fi rst organisations in the “If we can improve these, then the country to use it. It works on the basis levels of customer service will improve The LSSA has extensive knowledge that customer satisfaction and loyalty automatically, followed by staff and drawing on over 30 years of experience are directly related to the ability of staff customer satisfaction and loyalty. This in sports nutrition research. to communicate on a personal basis, is a new approach to customer service www.thelssa.com engaging with customers and building training, giving operators a whole rapport and relationships. 12-month support package.” Tracey Copping, chief executive of The programme will be supported by SSL says: “The staff are really excited ongoing monitoring and measurement, and motivated. Most passed their using surveys by Leisure-net Solutions.
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 supplier
Peak Pilates has developed a line of classical pilates equipment and education spin fi tness acquires peak pilates SPIN Fitness (Mad Dogg Athletics), The MVe programme is said to offer creator of the patented Spinning revenue-generating opportunities programme and Spinner bikes, has through a range of fee-based pilates acquired supplier Peak Pilates. training options. Over the past 12 years, Peak Pilates CEO of Spin Fitness John Baudhuin has developed a line of classical pilates says: “We approached Peak Pilates equipment, education programmes because of their innovative programmes focused on personal training, and group and their high quality products. Its exercise including its MVe (Maximum MVe programme is an unmatched Versatility Exercise) programme. group exercise solution which helps The MVe, similar to the Spinning membership retention.” programme in that it’s available to clubs Star Trac will distribute Peak for an upfront fee, consists of pilates Pilates equipment; is has already been chairs and reformers, on-site instructor distributing existing products from training, pre-designed group class SPIN Fitness, including the Resist-A-Ball formats, marketing and set-up support. brands, for seven years. virgin active wii and fi tness joins ez-runner fi rst partner up
Virgin Active Health Clubs has chosen Fitness First has joined forces with Ez-Runner, a subsidiary of ADDleisure, Nintendo Wii to launch a new to supply a management solution product for the games console. software to all of its facilities. The private-equity owned gym The software will provide Virgin Active chain has partnered with Black Bean with one central, online platform for its Games to launch the new product, operations. The software is intended New U Inside|Out, which combines to improve effi ciency by standardising a Fitness First-developed full-body the membership system across all its workout and nutritional advice. UK clubs, reduce the total number of The programme is delivered by systems used, and ensure membership an on-screen personal trainer and policies and business processes are includes feedback on performance. streamlined across the chain. may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 ')6% 9/52 "53).%33 4(% %$'%
*UST A REDUCTION IN BODY WEIGHT THROUGH &UELLING THE BODY IS CRUCIAL TO PERFORMANCE 3PORT AT ALL LEVELS REQUIRES YOU TO BE AT THE SWEATING CAN DECREASE YOUR PERFORMANCE #ARBOHYDRATE IS THE BODYlS PREFERRED SOURCE TOP OF YOUR GAME PHYSICALLY AND MENTALLY OF ENERGY DURING EXERCISE 7(9 53% )4 7(9 53% )4 ,UCOZADE 3PORT (YDRO !CTIVE HELPS REPLACE 7(9 53% )4 ,UCOZADE 3PORT WITH #AFFEINE "OOST NOT ONLY THE Č UID LOST IN SWEAT BUT ALSO ,UCOZADE 3PORT "ODY &UEL CONTAINS Č UID CONTAINS CARBOHYDRATE TO IMPROVE PHYSICAL ELECTROLYTES SUCH AS SODIUM AND CARBOHYDRATE TO HELP FUEL YOUR MUSCLES PERFORMANCE AND CAFFEINE PROVEN TO AND MAINTAIN HYDRATION IN YOUR BODY ENHANCE FOCUS AND ALERTNESS 7(%. 4/ 53% )4 $RINK ,UCOZADE 3PORT (YDRO !CTIVE BEFORE 7(%. 4/ 53% )4 7(%. 4/ 53% )4 DURING AND AFTER EXERCISE TO HELP YOUR BODY )DEAL WHEN EXERCISING FOR MINS OR LONGER $RINK APPROXIMATELY ML OF ,UCOZADE STAY HYDRATED AND IMPROVE PERFORMANCE AT A HIGH INTENSITY OR MINS OR LONGER AT 3PORT WITH #AFFEINE "OOST HOUR BEFORE ANY INTENSITY EXERCISE TO ALLOW THE CAFFEINE TO PEAK IN THE BLOOD STREAM #(//3% ,5#/:!$% 30/24
2APID RECOVERY AFTER SPORT IS VITAL IF YOU TRAIN 0ROTEIN IS KEY TO GAINING STRENGTH AS IT IS #REATINE INTAKE IS PROVEN TO INCREASE THE REGULARLY AND WANT TO GET THE MOST FROM YOUR SHOWN TO HELP PROMOTE THE GROWTH OF MUSCLE ABILITY TO PERFORM REPEATED BOUTS OF HIGHER PERFORMANCE OVER TIME BY ENHANCING PROTEIN SYNTHESIS INTENSITY AND POWER BASED EXERCISE
7(9 53% )4 7(9 53% )4 7(9 53% )4 ,UCOZADE 3PORT 2ECOVERY PRODUCTS CONTAIN ,UCOZADE 3PORT HAS A RANGE OF HIGH QUALITY ,UCOZADE 3PORT HAS A RANGE OF PRODUCTS A MIX OF CARBOHYDRATE AND PROTEIN 0ROTEIN PROTEIN PRODUCTS DESIGNED TO MEET YOUR THAT INCLUDE CREATINE TO HELP BUILD EXPLOSIVE IS REQUIRED FOR MUSCLE MAINTENANCE AND STRENGTH NEEDS AND HELP IN THE DEVELOPMENT POWER RECOVERY AND WHEY PROTEIN HAS BEEN OF LEAN MUSCLE MASS SCIENTIü CALLY PROVEN TO ACCELERATE RECOVERY 7(%. 4/ 53% )4 AFTER SPORT AND EXERCISE 7(%. 4/ 53% )4 &OR MOST EFFECTIVE RESULTS CONSUME IN THE &OR BEST RESULTS CONSUME A ,UCOZADE 3PORT PERIOD IMMEDIATELY AFTER POWER BASED 7(%. 4/ 53% )4 0RO -USCLE HIGH QUALITY PROTEIN PRODUCT TRAINING &OR BEST RESULTS CONSUME A ,UCOZADE IN THE PERIOD IMMEDIATELY AFTER RESISTANCE 3PORT 2ECOVERY PRODUCT SOON AFTER SPORT OR BASED TRAINING EXERCISE IN ORDER TO SUPPORT MUSCLE PROTEIN SYNTHESIS AND REBUILD GLYCOGEN STORES
,5#/:!$% ,5#/:!$% 30/24 (9$2/ !#4)6% AND THE 7INNER $EVICE ARE REGISTERED TRADE MARKS OF THE 'LAXO3MITH+LINE GROUP OF COMPANIES international news
in brief... vivafi t international expansion Vivafi t, the leading brand in the border. Measuring 200sq m, it offers holmes place ‘+2X a week’ Portuguese women-only express 30-minute circuit-based workouts using Holmes Place Iberia has launched workout market, has opened its second hydraulic machines and platforms. Also a campaign to encourage club club in Spain. on offer are 45-minute group pilates members to exercise at least twice The club is located in Badajoz, a large classes, and Les Mills’ BODY VIVE in a a week for10 weeks, in a bid to get town in the autonomous community 35-minute format exclusive to Vivafi t. members’ ‘hooked’ once they’ve of Extremadura near the Portuguese “Extremadura is quite a virgin market experienced the life-enhancing for this type of fi tness concept,” says benefi ts of regular exercise. Vivafi t’s CEO Pedro Ruiz. Nevertheless, Called ‘+2X por Semana’ (+2X a in the next fi ve years, the company aims week), the campaign focuses on the to expand throughout the region of maintenance stage of behavioural Extremadura, with four gyms in Badajoz, change, following the initial two two in Mérida, three in Cáceres, one stages: contemplation and action. in Plasencia, one in Don Benito, one in An educational element aims to Almendralejo and one in Serena. further ‘hook’ members on exercise. As a fi rst step, Vivafi t plans to open Members receive personalised fi ve new locations in Spain by the end support throughout the 10 weeks. of 2009. It will also have 110 gyms in In preparation for the campaign, The club in Badajoz, Extremadura, is full operation in Portugal by the end of 1,600 staff – from sales to reception Vivafi t’s second location in Spain 2009, with 20 set to open this year. personnel to fi tness instructors – received training in member retention, the importance of regular serengeti’s new kempinski hotel exercise, and their role in helping new members to maintain their On 1 June 2009, Kempinski Hotels will commitment to physical activity. open the Bilila Lodge Kempinski in the Serengeti National Park, one of Tanzania’s mrs sporty openings UNESCO World Heritage sites. Mrs Sporty, the women-only fi tness The 74-room hotel is located in an franchise, has opened two new untouched area in the north of the park, clubs in Austria – a 190sq m club and guests can enjoy private game drives. in Vienna which opened on 4 April, Using local materials and a natural and a 130sq m club in Gleisdorf colour scheme to blend into its which opened on 21 March. Both surroundings, the hotel nevertheless offer circuit training on hydraulic offers modern facilities. This includes units supplied by Technogym. The a 90sq m fi tness suite, equipped by chain now has more than 250 clubs. Nautilus, with a range of CV and resistance kit, free weights, a fi t ball and a innofinland award for hur mini-trampoline. There is also an infi nity HUR, the designer and pool overlooking the grasslands, a spa, Guests can enjoy private game drives manufacturer of air resistance and private plunge pools in the suites. in the Serengeti National Park fi tness equipment, has received a regional award for its Smart Card system. INNOFINLAND survival of the fi ttest at passage fi tness fi rst is an annual award scheme that recognises Finnish technology and assage Fitness First clubs in March, with members submitting their service innovations that improve P Belgium and Luxembourg have, best results from fi tness tests. opportunities for wellbeing. since the beginning of the year, been The fi nal, which took place at the running a member competition called end of April, involved what was dubbed power plate california hq ‘Survival of the Fittest’. Designed to a ‘survival track’ – in line with the Power Plate North America is engage with members and encourage Darwinian concept after which the relocating to California, with a active participation, the campaign was competition was named, participants new central offi ce in Irvine. A new based on the philosophy that only took part in both physical and mental Power Plate training studio is also the strongest will survive in times of tests to see who was best able to adapt set to open in Beverley Hills to fi nancial crisis and tough competition. to their environment and who was, host media events and training for Attracting more than 700 therefore, the all-round fi ttest member. VIPs, and to act as a showcase for participants, the elimination rounds Prizes included `10,000 and lifetime prospective studio owners. took place from January through to health club membership.
18 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital news and jobs updated daily on www.healthclubmanagement.co.uk AIR RESISTANCE edited by kate cracknell email: [email protected] FITNESS EQUIPMENT naturally different
Holmes Place’s fi rst club in Hungary will soon offer members a luxury day spa holmes place opens in hungary Holmes Place has opened its fi rst health overlooks one of the courtyards, two and fi tness club in Hungary. The Gozsdu Finnish saunas, a steamroom and a spa club is situated in Budapest’s recently pool. A luxury day spa is also due to refurbished historic Jewish quarter, in open in the next few months. a series of inter-connected courtyards General manager Tamás Balog says: known as Gozsdu Udvar. “We have been extremely pleased with The health club, located in the the reception the club has received. underground cellars of the Gozsdu Whether members want guidance and Udvar, offers a 250sq m fi tness suite motivation on their workout, nutritional with an extensive range of Precor CV advice, to learn a new discipline such as equipment, including eight Adaptive yoga, or simply to rest and relax in our Motion Trainers. This is complemented day spa, this club enables them to live a by a 70sq m indoor cycling area and a more balanced and fulfi lled life.” 165 sq m studio which hosts classes Since the beginning of 2007, Holmes such as kickboxing, yoga, pilates, circuit Place has opened seven clubs in Central training and power dance. There is and Eastern Europe, with more new also a 108sq m swimming pool which openings planned for the region in 2009. fi tness fi rst for delhi and riyadh The offi cial opening of two Technogym- contract to an 18-month upfront cash equipped Fitness First clubs took place payment option equating to just US$1.5 on 1 February – in Delhi, India, and in a day. Within two months of its launch, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. the club had signed up 2,000 members. The 2,230sq m Delhi club, located Meanwhile, the 3,000sq m top-end because in Connaught Place in the heart of the ‘Platinum’ club in Riyadh offers a fully- city, cost US$4m to build. It offers 120 equipped gym with Technogym CV and everybody stations of CV and resistance equipment, strength kit, Pure Strength free weights, dedicated studios for high energy group a group exercise studio, personal training, exercise classes, luxury changing rooms 240m running track, indoor pool, sauna, is not the with spa facilities, and personal training. steamroom and spa pool, outdoor terrace Targeting middle and upper class and members’ lounge with complimentary same people aged 30 and over, membership drinks. Annual membership costs options range from a three-month approximately 6500sr (£1,170). www.huruk.co.uk may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Tel: 01206 798864 fi a update news fi a goes green with new scheme
he FIA has launched an Energy Effi ciency Audit service, designed T to slash FIA members’ energy bills by more than 25 per cent. Developed to address members’ rocketing utility bills, the FIA’s service will look into ways of cutting a facility’s energy consumption in areas such as heating, lighting, power, ventilation/air conditioning and water. Prior to this national launch, the service was piloted with a number of multiple and single-site operators. The PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM/KRISHANKE FIA’s operations director, David Stalker, says the results were “unbelievably revealing”, with one of the clubs cutting its lighting bill by 90 per cent – an annual saving of £12,000, equivalent to almost 27 years’ FIA membership fees. “This service is designed to help clubs during the recession by reviewing every cost to see how much can be saved,” Stalker adds. The service, which is an evolution of the FIA’s Collective Purchasing proposition, The scheme will focus on areas such as ventilation and air conditioning is a three-tier strategy comprising smart procurement, increased energy effi ciency night, to more sophisticated solutions on technology, funding available and and the identifi cation of private funding to such as adopting combined heat and relevant new service providers. ensure the implementation of any changes power (CHP) devices. “That’s why we’ve launched our new doesn’t cost a company money. “As an industry, we’re probably one of Energy Effi ciency service – because we Measures clubs and centres could the highest consumers of energy outside know it will slash all our operators’ make to save money could range from the heavy industry sectors,” says Stalker. energy bills, irrespective of their size.” little changes, such as switching to LED “While we’re great at operating clubs, For more details of the new service, light bulbs and using pool covers at most of us can benefi t from updates please contact: sheldon@fi a.org.uk summit agenda new go box cash boost for is revealed programme moreactive4life The keynote speakers at this The FIA is working in partnership with The government has allocated around year’s FIA’s Summer Summit, to the Amateur Boxing Association of £200,000 to kickstart the FIA’s run alongside the 2009 FLAME England (ABAE) to develop the go Box MoreActive4Life programme. Conference in June, have been programme which will complement On receipt of the funding news, offi cially announced. the already established go activity operations director David Stalker Professor Alan Maryon Davis, programme for teenage girls. appointed campaign specialists KTB to president of the Faculty of Public The scheme involves boxing-related promote the scheme. Health, will lead the team alongside activities, delivered by a qualifi ed The news was also followed by calls Professor Willem van Mechelen, ABAE instructor in partnership with from food and drink manufacturers, chair of the European Health participating FIA members. retailers and marketing agencies who, and Fitness Association Scientifi c FIA CEO Andrée Deane says: “Working realising the power of Change4Life, Advisory Board. Other speakers with the ABAE is a great example of how were eager to be involved. include Victoria French, Sunderland the disciplines of a classic sport, such as “Using Change4Life as a door-opener, PCT’s wellness manager, and Mark boxing, can be evolved and turned into clubs and leisure centres are partnering Jones, Liverpool City Council’s fun, engaging, energetic exercises for with major brands such as Tesco and lifestyle manager. teenage girls who would probably never Asda, as well as local GPs and PCTs,” says All will address the delivery of the dream of doing something like this.” Stalker. “FIA members can now position government’s public health strategy. The go Box programme will be piloted themselves as partners to help tackle our across the country from autumn 2009. national health problem at a local level.”
20 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital news and jobs updated daily on www.healthclubmanagement.co.uk edited by caroline wilkinson. email: [email protected] future of fl ame shortlist unveiled
mags pullen, family The six fi nalists for the 2009 Flame manager, the Awards’ new category, The Future glamorgan health & of FLAME, have been revealed – racquets club, swansea and the candidates now need FIA members’ votes. We’ve put together Pullen’s dedication and a brief profi le of each nominee impact on the club’s members epitomise the essence of FLAME and gillian batty, sports persuaded the judges to centre manager, shortlist her. She goes the extra mile to university of cumbria, arrange activities that engage families and health & fi tness children in exercise at the Esporta health Batty’s enthusiasm and club. “She makes the department come unquenchable pursuit alive,” says a colleague. of the perfect exercise experience lie at the Jodie Whitaker, fi tness heart of her nomination. manager, arena Her attempt to motivate non-sporting leisure centre, students at the university has included camberley everything from cheerleading and golf to Whitaker is one of the horse riding and juggling. Batty also runs industry’s most motivated programmes for local children. and inspiring ambassadors. Her commitment to jo brown, membership helping teenage girls via manager, thorpe park the FIA’s go scheme, battling childhood hotel & spa, leeds obesity via MEND and working with a Almost 40 per cent of local hospital on its cardiac rehabilitation Brown’s recruits have programmes is without equal. Her gone on to senior and dedication has also led to Arena Leisure management positions, Centre being the fi rst DC Leisure site to and this is no coincidence obtain the Club Mark award. according to her team. To them Brown has “the personality kevin yates, health and passion to motivate anyone” which, and fi tness manager, when combined with her commitment to leisure connection working with, and fundraising for, local Yates is best known communities and charities, helps explain for “transforming the why she has been put forward. landscape of personal training”. The driving richard noble, force of Leisure managing director, Connection’s Disability pf2, worcester Training Academy, designed to upskill Noble is an entrepreneur trainers to deliver disability sport, who has launched two Yates has also transformed all Leisure successful clubs in the Connection sites into GP/exercise referral last fi ve years and has centres and is personally driving the plans to create another launch of six new Harpers Fitness gyms. in Barbados. Noble is not afraid to make diffi cult decisions and For more information, to prides himself on his integrity, which he keep track of the submissions says helps cultivate staff loyalty – a view and to register your vote, that’s backed up by his 90 per cent staff visit: www.fi a.org.uk retention rate.
Health Club Management is the offi cial magazine of the FIA. To join the FIA, call +44 (0)20 7420 8560 or go to www.fia.org.uk may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 fi a update news consulting on the alliance © PHOTOGRAPHER: DAVID MARTYN
Steven Ward, the FIA’s public affairs and policy manager, reports on the progress of the National Physical ❘
Activity Alliance AGENCY:DREAMSTIME.COM
he National Physical Activity Alliance (NPAA) is a partnership T of more than 50 representative organisations in the physical activity sector, and has support from the Department of Health (DH) to bring together the necessary expertise and resources to make the nation healthier. While in development, the Alliance is being temporarily managed by an Interim The Alliance includes organisations in the outdoor physical activity sector Steering Group, comprising the FIA’s CEO Andrée Deane and representatives The Alliance represents a disparate Activity Partnerships and local from the outdoors and active travel group of interests within the indoor authorities will be important sectors, the Local Government fi tness industry, the outdoor activity Conversely, there may be some work Association, the Faculty of Public Health, sector and the active travel sector. to be done on the other side of the the National Heart Forum and local and However, because these groups are fence, in trying to persuade Primary regional networks. working towards the same goal of Care Trusts, County Sport and Physical I am part of the Project Working getting more people, more active, more Activity Partnerships and so on that the Group that liaises with the DH. This often, the chances are we will see an fi tness industry – and in particular the group is driving forward the consultation equal increase in people joining their private sector – is not the devil on the Alliance and is currently seeking local Ramblers Association, joining their incarnate, and that it has a valuable role the views of stakeholders, representative local health club or leisure centre, and/ to play in getting people moving. bodies, organisations and the public. or booking outdoor activity holidays. The consultation will need to capture The consultation is designed to help Fostering the trust between what the current friction points are on ascertain what key areas the Alliance voluntary, charitable, local authority the ground and suggest policy changes should focus on and will be primarily and private sector groups is always and actions to rectify them. conducted online. FIA members will be a challenge, and the Alliance will be notifi ed of how they can respond to seeking advice on the best way to the way forward the consultation via the FIA’s weekly manage this problem. Establishing an The consultation period is expected to Wellness Review. effective governance and funding model run until the end of July. At this point, There will also be a small number of will be vital to achieving this trust. the Alliance will have a detailed business one-to-one interviews and focus groups, plan setting out the preferred in addition to two large events where local integration organisational role, governance stakeholders can come together to The vast majority of physical activity structure and funding model. review progress. campaigns and initiatives are developed The business plan will then need to and funded locally. The consultation be signed off by the DH. The Alliance is governance and direction currently being carried out on the therefore working in conjunction with As a representative of the physical activity Alliance is an opportunity to consider the DH as it progresses, securing DH sector, the Alliance must be guided by the how we can make all FIA members – consent each step of the way. needs that the sector identifies. So, public, private and third sector – The Alliance is a source of great ultimately, it’s the organisations involved comfortable and working competently in personal and professional pride for in physical activity – such as health club local partnerships. A focus on how to everyone involved at the FIA. The views operators – that have to determine the handle relations with Primary Care that we gather over the next few months direction they want the Alliance to go in. Trusts, County Sport and Physical will help shape the Alliance’s future.
leisureopportunities is the offi cial recruitment magazine of the fi a
22 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Register free to win a
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!** & .-&.+'/*'/ mmm$WkYj_edÓjd[ii$Ye$ka reps update news REPS: +44 (0)20 8686 6464
in brief...
scottish convention date announced The next REPs regional convention will be held on 26 June at the Edinburgh Indoor Climbing Arena in Scotland. Delegates will be able to listen to presentations from PICTURE: WWW.DREAMSTIME.COM speakers such as Dave Clark, head of strength and conditioning at the Scottish Institute of Sport, as well as taking part in workshops. The day will cover a broad range of topics, paying particular attention to matters directly relevant to REPs members north of the border. For more information, visit: The centres will enable overseas students to prove their skills and knowledge www.exerciseregister.org
new members appointed new reps test centres planned to reps council REPs is planning to establish test centres (APL). In many cases, the APL will allow Five individuals have been invited to across the country to help assess individuals to progress straight to join the REPs Council of Members, people’s knowledge and skills against its assessment without participating in a an organisation that sits quarterly recognised standards. training course. to discuss how the Register can The move is in response to an Participating training providers will be better serve its members. increase in overseas applicants and listed on the REPs website as offering this Ben Jones, Angie Newson, individuals from higher education service, both to those with international Debbie Lawrence, Helena Philippou wanting to join the Register but and higher education qualifi cations, and to and Mairi Glynn will all be joining fi nding they are unable to prove their those with old qualifi cations converting the council’s nine existing members. knowledge, competence and skills from provisional status to full status. Registrar Jean-Ann Marnoch says: against the sector’s agreed standards. Registrar Jean-Ann Marnoch says: “We “Each one of the new members is REPs has invited the industry’s training hope this will allow many more highly clearly dedicated to both REPs and providers to opt into the scheme and knowledgeable fi tness professionals to the industry, and will be valuable provide Accreditation of Prior Learning begin working as REPs members.” council members.”
reps member survey to form new business plan 60,000th member joins reps More than 1,600 fi tness Newly-qualifi ed Keep Fit Association professionals – including current (KFA) Level 3 instructor Zoe Howarth REPs members, past members and has become the 60,000th person to non-members – have contributed register for REPs membership. to a survey designed to evaluate the Howarth completed the KFA Level 3 services the Register offers. Certifi cate in Teaching Fitness through The results, which are currently Movement and Dance to Adults after being analysed, will be used to help being inspired by a KFA class three years AGENCY: DREAMSTIME.COM AGENCY: form a new business plan for REPs. ❘ ago. The Level 3 course covers anatomy, Participants were asked to physiology, learning styles and theories evaluate the Register’s performance, as well as many areas of keep fi t that can as well as answer questions relating be implemented in lessons, such as the to incentives for joining REPs and intensity curve. the registration process. The survey “I can’t wait to get my own classes also asked how satisfi ed people going rather than just covering for other PHOTOGRAPHER: ANDRESR PHOTOGRAPHER:
were with the Register’s products, © teachers,” says Howarth. services and customer service. REPs’ milestone member is a KFA For more about this qualifi cation and movement class instructor course, go to: www.keepfi t.org.uk
visit the reps online: www.exerciseregister.org leisureopportunities is the offi cial recruitment service of reps
24 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital PARIS PORTE DE VERSAILLES 3EPT
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peter rigg joins pte’s physique Peter Rigg has joined Physique, part of the PTE group of companies, as business development manager following 15 years working for Life Fitness. Rigg will help lead the expansion of Physique’s consultancy arm, which supports clients in the development of their health and fi tness facilities. Rigg will also be responsible for increasing awareness of Physique’s product portfolio, which includes Mike McCardle is retiring Hoist strength, Impulse strength and remanufactured Life Fitness CV kit, and mike mccardle driving sales of the new Expresso Bike. Graham Bertrand, managing director Rigg has 21 years’ industry experience leaves sporta of the PTE group, says: “Rigg has a vast amount of experience in the health and Physique consists of the recently Mike McCardle has announced his fi tness sector. During his time with Life merged Physique Sports – its sport retirement from his position as Fitness, he directed the company’s key hall and gym division – and the fi tness executive secretary at sporta, the account business in Europe, the Middle equipment business. The PTE group also representative body for UK leisure East and Africa and worked with many comprises Alliance Leisure, ZigZag and and cultural trusts, after fi ve years in of the major chains.” Home Fitness Direct. the role. His responsibilities will be taken on by Leisure-net Solutions. During McCardle’s tenure, the fenoughty joins sheffi eld trust organisation grew substantially to incorporate more than 100 Len Crossley has announced that he will leisure industry. Prior appointees have member trusts, responsible for the be retiring, leaving his role as trustee of included the chief operating offi cer at management of more than 920 sites the Sheffi eld City Trust, and his position Sheffi eld United and fi nance director for on behalf of UK local authorities. as chair of leisure operator Sheffi eld Leicester City Football Clubs. McCardle, who was previously International Venues (SIV), which he has SIV operates a portfolio of community MD at Stevenage Leisure Ltd (SLL) held for 11 years. and international sports venues on for fi ve years, says he will remain Crossley helped approve the health behalf of the charitable trust. Facilities involved with sporta on an ad hoc and fi tness scheme Fitness Unlimited, include the Hillsborough Leisure basis to ensure a smooth transition. which now has 14,500 members. Centre, Concord Sports Centre, the However, his main aim for the future Joining the trust to replace Crossley English Institute of Sport in Sheffi eld, is to reduce his golf handicap. will be Mark Fenoughty, head of fi nance Westfi eld Sports Centre, Ponds Forge at legal fi rm DLA Piper, who has nine International Sports Centre, Sheffi eld years’ experience in the sports and Arena and Don Valley Stadium. in brief... new md for nautilus uk obesity manager for dc leisure bannatyne appoints new gm Nautilus has appointed Alan Vickers as DC Leisure has appointed Marie Former Scottish water skiing champion managing director of its UK business. Hepburn as programme manager of Mark Murray has been appointed as Vickers has extensive experience the Carnegie Club, the new childhood the general manager of Bannatyne’s in the sporting goods industry in obesity initiative in Rotherham. Health Club in Perth. Europe and North America, having The 12-week initiative is designed Murray moved to Bannatyne’s previously held a number of senior to raise the activity levels of children having launched Norton House Health positions in retail and wholesale aged eight to 17 and to improve their Club and Spa in Edinburgh. Prior to branded companies. These include understanding of healthy eating. The this position, he was manager and president of Nike France, president of scheme is focused on youth above the performance coach of the National Reebok EMEA and managing director 85 percentile for Body Mass Index. Water Ski Centre in Dunfermline. He of Olympus Sport. Prior to joining DC Leisure, was also instrumental in establishing the Vickers was also recently Hepburn spent two years as a project Edinburgh International Climbing Arena president of the Starbucks franchised and fi tness equipment co-ordinator for and setting up Atrium Games, which operations in the Middle East, Africa, the IFI, and has experience as a duty specialises in bringing adventure games Turkey and Russia. manager and a fi tness instructor. and experiences to leisure facilities.
26 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital INDEPENDENT
OPERATOR FOCUS
Endorsed by
edited by caroline wilkinson. email: [email protected]
PEOPLE PROFILE They said it michelle meade couldn’t be done. Meade, the founder of hardcore strength facility Ripped Gym in Harlow, talks about So we the company’s launch, fi lling a niche, and her did it. plans for future developments
Who founded Ripped Gym? strength facilities’, but it was diffi cult to Ripped is jointly owned by myself, my fi nd a gym to satisfy both my husband’s husband and my brother. The facility needs for heavy weights and mine for a started life as Musclemass Gym in mix of classes and cardio. Those sorts 2007, but on refl ection we decided it of facilities seemed few and far between was a bit of a mouthful and changed and we felt there was a defi nite market. it to Ripped. We took tenancy of our Both my father and brother run their 1,486sq m (16,000sq ft) facility in Harlow own businesses, so I guess being in June 2008 and it’s been a long and entrepreneurial is in my blood. In addition, hard road with regards to the build. while working for Ocean Media, I was Ripped is now an offi cial Life Fitness lucky enough to work for a director who Hammer Strength Training Facility, took the time to mentor me. Being featuring 73 pieces of strength equipment. privileged enough to watch gifted people We also have the Cybex VR3 Heavy in business meant I learnt a lot, not only Weight range and 26 pieces of CV kit. about how to run a company fi nancially Other facilities include a boxing cage but about how important people are. with an MMA matted area, nine punch bags, a boxing ring and a martial arts What drives you? facility called Ripped Fight Club. We also Ambition. We want to open three have a juice and shake bar. sites in the south-east of the country within the next 10 years How have you set the facility and are looking to open our second apart from the competition? facility within 12 months. Once We’ve employed some of the best that’s done, I will have fulfi lled the personal trainers on the circuit for objectives I’ve set myself thus far. Wattbike is the first exercise our niche clientele, including a British I am proud of what we have achieved bike to be endorsed by British heavyweight body building champion, so far, especially since building a business Cycling because it gives a super middleweight and a light was something completely foreign to us. accurate and comparable middleweight champion – so they measurements of power know what they are talking about. What would you do differently? output in watts, can be used Next time we launch a facility, I by anyone and feels as realistic What pushed you to open the club? think we will hire a project manager as indoor cycling gets. And it’s My husband and I have always trained rather than try to cut costs by doing affordable too. in what I would describe as ‘hardcore everything ourselves. It pays to be one step ahead of building regulations and Wattbike, the result of seven to foresee issues before they arise. We years work and a brief British did absolutely everything ourselves Cycling said would be impossible, this time around, from employing is already helping them take people to learning about building cycling to the next level. regulations and structural calculations
When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing? At the moment there isn’t a time when I don’t work. My husband and I are at Ripped 6am–10pm all week. We even www.wattbike.com The fi tness team at Ripped Gym work out there with our members. 08448 759 547
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Where will Wattbike take you? competitive edge
27 SEPTEMBER 09 run to the beat
Whether you like running to the sounds of the Pussycat Dolls, the Kings of Leon, Eric Prydz or Jay-Z, music can help motivate you to train and even enhance your performance levels. Now in its second year, the Sony Ericsson Run to the Beat is a half marathon in Greenwich, London, which features live music from DJs and bands performing on stages around the course. The four genres of music on offer – pop, rock, urban and dance – refl ect the top choices of last year’s participants. Entry costs £33 and charity places are also available. Details: www.runtothebeat.co.uk Whatever your taste in music, Run to the Beat will get you motivated
5 SEPTEMBER 09 Tackle ever-tougher challenges ride of the roses cycle challenge 2009 This bike ride, from Lancaster to York, is the longest and most challenging of the British Heart Foundation series. The 100km route takes in breathtaking landscapes including the Yorkshire Dales. The majority of the route will take place on rural roads with steep gradients and challenging hill climbs. The entry fee is £33 and there is no set sponsorship. Cycle 100km from Lancaster to York Details: www.bhf.org.uk JUNGLE MARATHON LTD JUNGLE MARATHON ©
5 SEPTEMBER 09 8–17 OCTOBER 09 race the sun 2009 jungle marathon This triathlon-style challenge, staged in Jungle Marathon is a challenge that the stunning countryside of Penrith in promises to push participants to the Lake District, sees teams of four their limits. Set in the State of Para compete to cycle 50 miles, climb 2,500ft – often referred to as the Caribbean up Helvellyn and canoe across Lake of the Amazon – this race presents Thirlmere. The event begins at sunrise a choice of two distances: 100km and fi nishes at sunset – so teams literally and 200km. Participants will need to will be racing the sun. In 2004, a team be self-suffi cient, carrying their own completed the course in just six hours food and provisions, as they take and 33 minutes – a record which has on this staged race, where each leg not yet been broken. Entry to the is more diffi cult than the last. The event costs £195 and the sponsorship course penetrates deep into the target is £2,000. Monies raised will go jungle on logging trails and hunters’ towards Action Medical Research, a paths. The registration for both medical research charity specialising in races is £1,6000. children’s health. Details: www.junglemarathon.com Details: www.action.org.uk Challenge runs from sunrise to sunset
28 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital
powered by diary leisurediary.com worldwide event listings for leisure professionals
MAY 20–24 ❘ International Festival for Physical Culture and Sports 2009 Venue Olimpiyskiy Sport Centre, Moscow, Russia. Summary A business conference for club owners and managers, kids’ fi tness classes, aqua and fi tness conventions and a trade show. Tel +7 495 755 1819 Web www.fi tness-convention.ru
20–21 ❘ SIBEC UK
Venue The Belfry, Warwickshire, UK PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM Summary Two days of face-to-face meetings, forums and networking opportunities for buyers and suppliers in the local authority, trust and education markets. Tel +44 (0)20 8547 9830 Web www.mcleaneventsinternational.com The Hotel Show will see the debut of the Middle East Spa Summit 24–26 ❘ The Hotel Show ❘ Venue Dubai, UAE JUNE 29–30 The Facilities Summary Management Forum This showcase for hotels and resorts will 9–10 ❘ The FIA FLAME Venue Whittlebury Hall Hotel, launch The Resort Experience, an arena Conference 2009 Towcester, Northamptonshire, UK dedicated to leisure, spa and relaxation, Venue Reebok Stadium, Bolton Summary and the fi rst Middle East Spa Summit for Summary This forum is designed to save wellness professionals. Running alongside the FIA Industry companies time, effort, money and Tel +971 4 331 9688 Summit and the FLAME Awards, this stress by changing the way they develop Web www.thehotelshow.com new event is designed to combine a and source innovative solutions. vibrant education programme with an Tel +44 (0)1992 374100 27–30 ❘ Club Industry East opportunity for delegates to address, in Web www.forumevents.co.uk Venue Boston, Massachusetts, US an interactive format, some of the issues Summary facing the industry. AUGUST For club owners, fi tness management Tel +44 (0)20 7420 8560 executives and personal trainers. Sessions Web www.fi a.org.uk 6–7 ❘ Health and focus on personal training, sales and Fitness Business management, programming, customer 10 ❘ Asics Running Venue Denver, Colorado, US service, medical fi tness and wellness. 2009 Conference Summary Tel +1 203 358 9900 Venue Kettering Conference Centre, This free conference targets Web http://east.clubindustryshow.com Northamptonshire, UK manufacturers, suppliers and retailers Summary in the health and fi tness industry, as This conference, which focuses on the well as fi tness professionals, industry science of running, will be of interest infl uencers and the media. to sports professionals, plus their Tel +1 949 226 5712 trainers and coaches, as well as to Web www.healthandfi tnessbiz.com healthcare professionals. Tel +44 (0)1625 521239 12–16❘ IDEA World Fitness Web www.pemanagement.com Convention Venue Anaheim, California, US 11–14 ❘ Festival del Fitness Summary Venue Rome, Italy More than 5,000 health and fi tness Summary professionals from around the world An outdoor exhibition for the Italian attend this event, which aims to “inspire fi tness industry. the world to fi tness”. The FLAME Awards will now run Tel +075 50 10 81 Tel +1 858 535 8979 ext.7 alongside the new FLAME Conference Web www.fi tfestival.com Web www.ideafi t.com
30 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Taut Health Club Management ad.ai 23/4/09 15:46:25
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e Best B 01204 664 295 Th y TALKBACK KATIE BARNES s ASSISTANT EDITOR s HEALTH CLUB MANAGEMENT everyone’s talking about . . . ‘giving’ advice
What level of guidance should members expect for free, when does it become appropriate to charge for advice, and how do we make this clear to members to avoid putting staff in a difficult position?
t’s standard procedure that, on But wait. What happens when avoid being too helpful on the gym signing up, a new gym member personal training is thrown into the fl oor lest they miss an opportunity to I will be given an induction: a tour mix? At what point should basic sell their expertise to those willing to of the facility and instruction service end – the assistance that many pay? Yet if an employee is purposefully on how to use equipment, if only members will expect as part of their withholding information, are they not for health and safety purposes. To monthly fee – and a paid-for personal then short-changing customers? kickstart their foray into fi tness, some training session begin? The fact that one person could may also have a consultation and a In clubs where additional levels of wear two different hats to offer the programme drawn up. advice and guidance cost extra, is this same piece of advice creates a real But what else do members get for clearly communicated to customers? confl ict of interest. their monthly fee? Ideally they will be Will those on a basic membership Even when fi tness instructing and constantly monitored, with staff on-hand be made aware, when they sign on personal training is separated, how do to give tips on technique and suggestions the dotted line, that there may be an operators ensure there is no friction to help them reach their targets – maybe additional charge if they ask for help? between those members of staff who even a steer on nutrition or lifestyle There are issues at an employee ‘give away’ guidance and those who habits, along with a review and new level too. If a fi tness instructor also make their living by selling it? We ask programme a couple of months in. offers personal training, might they the experts for their opinions.
WHERE DO WE DRAW THE LINE BETWEEN FREE AND PAID-FOR ADVICE? EMAIL US: [email protected]
david coulthard brian aggett REGIONAL HEALTH AND FITNESS MANAGER s LEISURE CONNECTION FITNESS INSTRUCTOR s PARKWOOD HEALTH FITNESS POTTERS BAR
here’s no limit on free advice ’ve been a fitness instructor for “Tfrom our team coaches, but as “Inine years, and for the past eight most of them are only Level 2-qualified have also offered PT sessions alongside their knowledge is relatively restricted. this. I’ve never had guidance on what to Our PTs, who can be employed or self- charge for, but it’s something that most employed, are trained at Level 3 and trainers pick up on the way. above, and that’s when a cost is justified. Aside from an induction, members get Members get an induction when they ‘five points of contact’. The first point of join and coaches are always on-hand with contact includes a health questionnaire, advice. We used to offer a free fitness programme too, but they blood pressure check and a CV programme; second is a were ineffective as members kept them for two, maybe three resistance programme; next is a free 30-minute PT taster years: it was a huge problem as results weren’t being achieved. session; after six weeks the fitness programmes are reviewed; So we launched the £20 Harpers Experience, which consists and at eight weeks we phone to check how they’re getting on. of five PT sessions at different stages within the first 12 weeks, I’d say written training schedules come under personal as well as a health check and movement analysis. This extra training. I’d also charge for an advanced programme for a specific charge is made clear to new customers at point of sale. Existing skill such as increasing lung capacity, where I might conduct members were informed of the offer and given the option of a underwater swimming lessons. I’d never hold back on advice as free update to their programme with a personal trainer. a fitness instructor though, because the more knowledge you If a member couldn’t afford a PT session, however, we would share, the more likely people will book a PT session. still work with them. There’s a fine balance and we don’t have However, I do think operators should have a policy on an internal policy as each circumstance is different. But we have what costs extra to protect staff as much as clients – some full trust in our staff to use their common sense and upsell a PTs are pestered for free sessions, which devalues this skillful product when needed.” profession and means the club and employee lose money.”
32 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital PICTURE: WWW.CLAIRETOPLIS.COM PICTURE:
How can clubs ensure there is no friction between members of staff who ‘give away’ advice and those who sell it? derek crawford sarah leonie NATIONAL FITNESS MANAGER s FITNESS FIRST GROUP FITNESS MANAGER s DC LEISURE
hen members join, they get a ur fitness instructors who hold “Wfull club induction or they can “Othe necessary qualifications can opt for Body First – three 45-minute offer PT sessions on or off shift, and our PT sessions, booklets, an assessment quality management systems mean the and nutritional advice for £30. There is difference between instruction on the a full money-back guarantee if clients gym floor and PT is made very clear. complete the three sessions and come The boundary is crossed from normal four more times in the first month. Our gym instruction to PT when members presentation booklet clearly outlines all look for specialist advice, such as how to of these prices, so the member fully understands the offer. train for a specific event, how to recover from an illness/injury, Members then get full access to fitness staff on the gym floor. or if they need support in other areas such as nutrition. We In each of our 164 clubs we have three fitness staff, but their role also offer buddy training, where a PT works with two to three is separate from our 1,100 PTs who have a licence agreement. people, and motivational sessions for small groups. We would never limit the information that an instructor Those who hold back advice to upsell are shortchanging gives for free because our customers are our priority. Each club themselves and customers – in our experience, when has a Fit to Help station where members can seek free advice, instructors who offer PT deliver great gym sessions, they and we’ve just introduced an initiative where fitness staff are actually generate more clients because they get results. taught how to deliver 20 short, motivational activities for All new members are offered the Kinetika Journey within their different types of members. membership package. This includes five one-to-one, 30-minute PT is different: it’s about one-to-one motivation and the sessions with an instructor to design a fitness programme. rapport between two people. The boundaries of roles are clear, Programmes can be updated when required – the gym team is so there’s no need to outline them in internal policies. There’s booked out for member interaction slots throughout the day, absolutely no conflict between staff in these two roles.” ensuring easy access to instructors between their PT sessions.” may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 33 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital interview
The CEO of the Country Club Group talks to Kate Cracknell about combining golf and fitness, creating wonderful places to be, and balancing success with a desire not to grow too large charlie parker
ou can’t just stick a inception. “I was employee number the transformation of two of those clubs couple of pieces of kit in one – I joined a company which ended from straightforward golf facilities into a “ a 12 x 12 room and say up as Clubhaus, which then ended up as full-blown country club experience,” says Y it’s a country club,” says The Club Company – and went through Parker. The remaining three clubs will also Charlie Parker, CEO of the Country various things, from public fl oatation to be refurbished over the next few years. Club Group (CCG). “It’s actually very privatisation to outright sale.” He left in “We’re spending just under £8m difficult to make it work.” 2005 – “to work in the family business, across the two sites, with one opening Parker, former CEO of The Club plus a few other bits and pieces” – but at the beginning of June and the other Company, is talking about CCG’s latest was lured back to the sector in 2007, at the beginning of July this year. We’re project: adding premium health and when he joined CCG. confi dent that, when members see the fi tness facilities to its golf clubs. It’s a “At The Club Company, we’d new clubs, it will knock their socks off, strategy with which he is familiar, having developed a hugely successful model with top spec health and fi tness facilities fi rst tested the waters of a combined golf and had already moved the concept on and an upgrade of all the golfi ng elements. and fi tness offering at The Club Company a bit – mostly from a design aspect – in “The brand new gyms will be equipped – or Clubhaus as it was then known. the second round of developments. But with the latest Matrix CV and strength “It was a concept we invented really. when I started talking to Peter Blacker, equipment, as well as Power Plates. Even well-located golf courses tend to the main shareholder at CCG, I felt They’ll have around 45–50 stations and struggle fi nancially, but we worked out excited about the idea of taking it on about a 2,000-member capacity. that, if we could somehow broaden the a stage further, of being able to start “Each will have three studios: holistic, range of facilities on offer and make it less afresh without any of the limitations aerobic and group cycling, with one-dimensional, it would drive usage. of working within an existing company CYCLEwell bikes that are designed “Our clubs were brilliantly located and with existing ways of doing things. to cater for a more mature audience. looked lovely – beautifully manicured “It was partly a case of unfi nished Our membership profi le is much older golf courses, lots of trees and grass. business and partly the fact that I’ve just than the average health club; we don’t They were natural places for people to done it for so long; there’s a big bank of have many 20-year-olds pumping iron, hang out. So that was the concept. We experience. I wanted to try and move it but we do have lots of 40- to 70-year- invented a country club model – different forward again. That’s what really excited olds, and they need a slightly different from any existing businesses, which me and what continues to excite me.” emphasis on fi tness. tended to be built around hotels or “Our membership also includes lots conferences – and it worked really well.” premium fitness of families with young children, so we’ll Parker, who had previously worked Privately-owned CCG has five golf clubs have a kids’ offering too. And there’ll be as an accountant for Deloitte, and for in the south of England. It is funded by its treatment rooms – three at one club, P&O in Australia, joined what was to shareholders and supported by Barclays four at the other – offering a full range become The Club Company at its very Bank. “We’re more than halfway through of spa treatments.
34 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Cranleigh Golf & Country Club is one of the fi rst two sites to undergo the transformation; its fi tness facility opens this summer
“Both clubs will have 18 x 8m Heritage swimming pools with spa pools, sauna and steam, plus outdoor sunbathing areas, gardens, and even an outdoor fi replace in one of the sites. Ultimately they’re just nice places to be. If you want to pop in for a morning workout, you’ll have a beautiful view over the golf course while you run on the treadmill. But if you have more time, you’ll hang out afterwards. That’s the essence of the country club and what gives it ‘stickability’; there’s a feeling of belonging that you don’t really get elsewhere. “But experience has taught us that, for this model to succeed, you have to provide the best facility for each particular function that you possibly can. Club makeover: An artist’s impression of the redeveloped Slinfold site (above) If you’re going to include a swimming pool and expect people to join your club because of this, it needs to be absolutely fantastic. You can’t put an 8ft kidney pool in and expect people to join your country club as a result of that elongated bath. The gym must have a spectacular outlook and all the best kit. The golf course should be as good as it can be. If you have a spa, your treatments must be as good as those a proper, full-blown spa would provide. “Primarily, though, it needs to be well located. No matter what you do, if you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere it won’t work.” The Cranleigh and Slinfold clubs, now being refurbished, will have 18 x 8m pools
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 35 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital interview
issue of integration So what does the existing older, male-dominated membership think of this family-orientated encroachment into their golfing territory? “I’ll tell you a story in answer to that,” says Parker. “At The Club Company, when we overhauled our second club, it had a hardcore of golf members who were very unhappy at the prospect of change. But as soon as we opened, the older guys who had been most unhappy were the ones using the gym, the sauna, the swimming pool. They were absolutely loving it. “So I’ve seen it with my own eyes. PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM/MICHAELKRINKE Eleven times we did this and 11 times it worked. I’m completely confi dent that existing members will enjoy the new facilities. Many commercial golf clubs are pretty run down, too, so if you then walk into a brand new club like ours, it really stands out. Golfers will enjoy their “We expect to end up with about 40 round more if they’re per cent golfers and 60 per cent health fi tter, stronger and more and fi tness members, with the latter fl exible says Parker providing the majority of the revenue. The beauty is that the pricing structure remains practically the same from the golfer’s point of view – around £90 a points of difference trade will be OK – there’s much talk month, but now including health and So what will be the main similarities and of leisure leading the way out of the fi tness – and the health and fi tness-only differences between the offerings of recession, whenever that is, and I think membership is very, very competitive CCG and The Club Company? “The the public are seeing membership as at around £60 a month. That’s why it model’s very similar in terms of the fundamental, not discretionary, spend. works: you get fantastic value for money membership structure and some of the “Certainly our strategy is to enlarge in a wonderful, wonderful location. operational procedures,” says Parker. the group and there are probably some “The other point is that golf has moved “We’ve always believed that gym staff are good opportunities to buy quite well at on from a fi tness point of view – the there primarily to look after members. I the moment. I think that, towards the link between golf and fi tness is now know many operators have gone against end of this year or the beginning of next completely established. Tiger Woods that model – their gym staff are personal year, we’ll add a few clubs to the group.” has really driven that. You don’t have trainers and pay the operator to be Future acquisitions will be in the south to be super-fi t like him, but better there – but I don’t like that approach. of England, alongside the existing fi ve fl exibility, a better warm-up, sharper We’re passionate about service. I think clubs in Sussex, Surrey and Berkshire. concentration, an ability to get round a that’s something you can always improve. “There’s a fundamental discussion course a bit easier, to hit the ball further “The main differences are in the design going on internally, though, questioning – that all means you have more fun.” – I’m really excited by how wonderful whether we even want to aim for a 20- our new clubs look – and some of the club portfolio and all that brings with it. content, such as the spa offering and We would like to fi nd similarly located the direction we’re trying to take the clubs that we can effectively develop, fi tness provision. We have programming but we’re a very small team – just fi ve for different profi les, some new ideas people – and it would be nice to keep on staffi ng and the PT set-up, and a it intimate. So, if you project forward different supplier. We’re also taking a say three to fi ve years, I would hope new approach to the food and beverage we’ll have doubled in size to perhaps offering. It tends to be the last thing on eight or nine clubs, with six or seven up the list in a busy club, but I think it’s an and running and two in development – area of opportunity for us to do better.” something like that. So, once these fi rst two clubs have “What we want to do is have some fun, opened, what are CCG’s plans? “We’ll build some really nice clubs that will be possibly look at some acquisitions, there forever and a day, and hopefully depending on how we’ve traded and make a few quid along the way.” A great place to be: After a workout, how the world’s looking,” says Parker. members often hang out at the clubs, “I do think that, provided you’re in the kate cracknell enjoying the attractive outdoor space right location with the right product, [email protected]
36 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Optima Series strength equipment has been crafted specifically for smaller spaces with limited budgets and resources. Its winning combination of space-saving style and dependability makes Optima Series fit for your facility. We like to think of it as strength, simplified.
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may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 37 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital edited by katie barnes. email: [email protected] research round-up child’s play
New research shows why ensuring that children exercise can help improve their performance in the classroom as well as on the fi eld
ith a rising number of inactive, obese children W in the UK, there’s an obvious argument for upping physical activity levels in the younger generation – be it at school or in local fitness facilities. Yet PE lessons are the first to get pushed aside if more focus is needed on priority subjects. It should be noted, though, that children who are fi t perform much better academically, according to fi ndings of a study from Harvard Medical School, published in the Journal of School Health. Although studies had already shown a signifi cant positive relationship between PE time and class grades, few had “used standardised fi tness measures and standardised test scores in large urban populations”, according to this report. This study was based on 1,841 students from the Cambridge Public Schools – an
urban school district in Massachusetts, HUNT WWW.ISTOCK.COM/REOBERT PICTURE: US. The average age of pupils assessed Children who are fitter than their peers often perform better academically was 11.73 years, and almost 40 per cent were overweight or at risk of being the results improved by 38 per cent for each unit overweight (see information box below). The researchers found that the children increase in the number of fi tness tests To assess fi tness levels, the students who were the fittest – although not passed. When it came to English, the took part in fi ve physical activity tests always outstanding athletes – scored students’ chances of passing the exam (see box below). Academic achievement higher in the maths and English exams. rose by 24 per cent for each unit increase was measured as a passing score on The most signifi cant improvement was in the number of fi tness tests passed. standard exams in maths and English. in maths: the odds of passing this exam A possible explanation for these results could be that physical activity stimulates neural development, while putting children through their paces another belief is that it’s related to higher levels of self-esteem and lower tudents completed fi ve fi tness the pass criteria and an ‘outstanding’ levels of anxiety and stress – each tests adapted from those of the score given to those exceeding the of which has been linked to better S Amateur Athletic Union and the pass criteria. For each fi tness test, only academic performance. Other reviews Fitnessgram from the Cooper Institute. attainment and outstanding scoring suggest that attention levels are likely These tests consisted of an students received a ‘pass’ mark. to be greater in an active, rather than endurance cardiovascular test, an The weight of students was sedentary, students. abdominal strength test, a fl exibility assessed by body mass index (BMI) However, the researchers of this study test, an upper-body strength test scores based on height and weight say that there is no full explanation of and an agility test. A student got a measurements. A BMI of 85 to 95 the relationship between active children ‘participant’ score if they took the test was considered ‘at risk of being and brighter students, and suggest future but did not pass it. An ‘attainment’ overweight’, while 95 and over was studies should have a randomised design score was awarded to those who met deemed ‘overweight’. and look at the longitudinal effect for fi tness on academic achievement.
38 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital teenagers’ INDEPENDENT fi tness OPERATOR
FOCUS
PHYSICAL THERAPY
Using physical activity to tackle teenage anti-social behaviour is a concept that’s slowly being employed by social enterprises and local government. Caroline Wilkinson looks at the initiatives available for teenagers across the country
ddresssing the issue of and mental and emotional states. Boys Recent statistics show a 50 per cent teenage obesity has been with less than one hour of moderate drop in criminal damage and recorded A at the forefront of new to vigorous physical activity a week had crimes in local areas when Sound Waves government initiatives more symptoms of depression, anxiety is running. Simon Burnett, principal recently. Fitness companies have risen and attention diffi culties. Inactive girls development manager, says: “The to the challenge and are helping engage were reported to be similar, but with an activities provide a positive environment mainstream youth in exercise – but increase in rule-breaking and aggression away from negative attitudes and what about those disinterested teens compared to more active peers. infl uences on behaviour.” who have little connection with society, “Adolescence is already a complicated Similarly, Wigan Leisure & Culture who spend most of their time engaged and sometimes diffi cult stage of life – Trust has found running a late night in anti-social behaviour, and who we emotionally, mentally and physically,” football league on Friday night an effective struggle to reach through education? It’s says study author Marko T Kantomaa. diversionary activity for more than 250 believed that physical activity can help “Compounding that with negative mental young people. In the Game On Midnight with a healthy transition into adulthood, and emotional effects brought on by League, 12–16-year-olds play fi ve-a- because it not only has physiological physical inactivity does not help young side football between 8pm and 9.30pm. benefi ts, but also has a positive impact people ease into adulthood. Physical Funded by The Coalfi elds Regeneration on emotional and mental health. activity could be a highly effective and Trust and the Football Foundation, Physical inactivity has been associated relatively easy way to help that transition, Game On focuses on former mining with many emotional and behavioural and could, in addition, lead to the communities in the North West, East problems in adolescents, according to a establishment of life-long healthy habits.” Midlands, Yorkshire and the North East study by the American College of Sports Providing teenagers with a channel to where there is a general lack of activity. Medicine. More than 7,000 youths vent or re-target their frustrations has In the scheme, football is also used to aged 15–16 participated in the survey, had a proven benefi t for individuals and develop young people’s awareness of reporting on their levels of exercise communities through reduced crime key social issues such as respect, health, rates and anti-social behaviour. Sefton wellbeing and anti-social behaviour. Council, in Liverpool, witnessed a 37 per The Secretary of State for Culture, cent drop in anti-social behaviour and a Media and Sport, Andy Burnham, says: 17.5 per cent reduction in crime when it “Schemes like this are fantastic in ran a diversionary weekend of activities, helping reduce anti-social behaviour. in partnership with Merseyside Police, for Even if they’re not playing, young people more than 1,000 young people. are coming along to support and watch Other programmes, supported by their friends so they are all together in a operator Active Sefton, include Free & safe, controlled environment.” Active, which provides youths aged eight to 18 with structured sporting activities forging relationships in the summer holidays, and Sound Encouraging respect is high on the Diversionary tactics A late night Waves, which exposes youths aged agenda for most troubled youth fi ve-a-side football league in Wigan 13–19 to local bands and DJ challenges programmes – respect for themselves, attracts 250 youths aged 12–16.
TOP PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM PICTURE: TOP while swimming on a Saturday night. other participants and society – as well
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as improving self-esteem and confidence. A prime example is the multi-agency-led pilot programme Project Respect, designed to tackle the causes of anti-social behaviour in Lincoln by targeting youths aged 13–16 who had previously shown resistance to engaging with the police and outreach workers. The weekly two-hour project guides them through unfamiliar activities, such as raft building, canoeing, wheelchair basketball and boxing, with the help of partner Community Leisure Services. Sergeant Phil Baker of Lincolnshire Police, says: “The project has a strong emphasis on respect to help develop the participants in areas of teamwork, community payback, education and sport. The hard work and development of participants is rewarded with planned Minister for Health Alan Johnson trips at regular intervals.” (centre) shows his support for Fight Fit Since Project Respect was introduced in late 2008, three youths have become volunteer supervisors for youth FIGHT FIT services. Not only that but, by February 2009, the incidence of youth anti-social he Fight Fit organisation operates The instructors give advice and behaviour had already dropped by T programmes in troubled London support in youth-related problems around 75 per cent year-on-year on communities such as Hackney, such as education and professional one estate in Lincoln. Brixton, Peckham and Lewisham, goals or issues at school or at home. “Clubs can’t convince people to engaging groups of youths aged 12–16 “Our programme deals with the participate in these activities. It must be in a 12-week programme of holistic body and the mind; this is essential to an outreach programme, participating boxing workouts. Through controlled succeed in youth-related training. Only with the youth,” insists founder of punches and correct breathing, a healthy body and a healthy mind can Yogabeats David Sye, who teaches combined with positive mind coaching, lead to a positive life, making the right yoga to gang members and offenders the organisation attempts to reduce decisions and keeping focused on the in Glasgow, Scotland and Brixton in stress and frustration levels as well as right things,” says McKenzie. London. He suggests a day organised for showing the youths ways of dealing Having one-to-one consultations at street kids would help positively engage with confl icts and aggression, and the start of the programme, McKenzie them in the community and with the giving them confi dence and goals. says, helps build trust between organisation delivering the programme. Martin McKenzie, Fight Fit MD, is a coaches and teenagers, as each feels qualifi ed neuro-linguistic programmer they are being taken seriously. Making and uses his skills to understand team and pair-work a consistent part the youths’ personality types and of the programme also makes the ascertain the best teaching approach teens realise they can rely on each and style to engage with them other and not face problems alone. effectively. “Finding better ways to “When the kids leave, they have a engage with youth is key to creating different mindset – they can’t believe real change,” says Fight Fit’s director where their heads were at before of sports Derek Williams. they met us. Some are even motivated McKenzie adds: “It’s about to go to college, when before they understanding their frustrations and thought college wouldn’t help them or their viewpoint, then changing their provide opportunities,” says McKenzie. mindsets and showing them what they The Fight Fit programme and its can aspire to be.” REPs-accredited training course will Fight Fit employs athletic stars from soon be available to health clubs. The similar backgrounds to the youths organisation is also setting up a six- to deliver motivational talks and to week Fight Fit FightObesity programme make them aware of the opportunities for teens, with the support of the available to them. It also uses an Minister for Health Alan Johnson, to Yoga gang David Sye teaches open forum and feedback sessions to encourage teens to exercise and adopt yoga to young offenders and gang discuss the youths’ issues and needs. weight management strategies. members in Glasgow and Brixton
40 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Encouraging girls to be active helps reduce depression and attention diffi culties, as well as aggression and rule-breaking PICTURE: WWW.DREAMSTIME.COM PICTURE:
Solent University uses a similar and cheerleading at its permanent club approach by taking 12 dance machines, and in schools and community centres. supplied by Pulse Fitness, into the “Young people don’t necessarily leave community on Friday and Saturday what they consider their territory, so nights to hubs where teenage gangs we go to them,” says Bateson. hang out. Other activities brought “The biggest challenge in running on-site to occupy the teens’ time the programmes is getting through the include football and basketball. The barriers to reach the youths. It’s not programme engages more than 40 like we can go knocking on people’s youths aged 11–19 each week and local doors,” she adds. “Speaking to schools, police offi cers are being asked by the social and youth workers – who are youths where the dance mats will be at all very busy with their own agendas – the weekend, so they can use them. and trying to get them to recognise the benefi ts and buy into the programmes the right activities is problematic. But we can’t reach the “To engage with particularly hard-to- children without their support.” reach young people, who waste their Sye believes consistency and time on the streets, you have to take commitment is as key as community an approach that has credibility on the buy-in. “An organisation must develop street,” explains Anne Bateson, founder trust with the youths and provide of Leeds-based social enterprise World a community environment that’s of Fitness. “Boxing is recognised as accessible and welcoming,” he says. a sport, has the discipline and the According to Sye, the transformation credibility required to engage young of the gang members after yoga was people, and has proven very successful “incredible”, with many of them in getting and keeping them on track.” becoming respectful, laughing and World of Fitness also offers classes adopting taught social parameters in hip-hop, street dance, martial arts which they didn’t have before.
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 teenagers’ fi tness TEENAGE FITNESS ROUND-UP
BODY SHOKK HOKK Blackpool has been working S with council-funded centre Connextions Blackpool to offer impartial advice on health to 13–19-year-olds. The partnership also ran an activity week called Body SHOKK for girls aged 16–18 to help increase their participation in positive activities and to reduce stress, improve mental wellbeing and raise confidence. The programme, which also focused on body image, was delivered using aerobic activity on dance mats and in the gym.
ZIGZAG orndean Technology College is H continuing its 7.30am Fit 4 Learning workout programme through the GCSE exam period this month, after early morning exercise proved to benefit Year 11 students’ performance in their mock Getting girls active SHOKK and Connextions Blackpool ran a girls’ activity week exams. The programme, held at the school’s gym, includes use of ZigZag dance platforms, Exer-Station Pro computer games, a Sportwall reaction SPORTCAT LEADERSHIP AWARD panel and ZigZag CV and strength kit. rixter has been working with schools to increase pupils’ participation in Although the early mornings proved T physical activity by encouraging youths to lead the way. The SportCat tough, the students remarked on the leadership programme, equivalent to a GCSE grade B, is designed to empower difference the sessions made in making young people to take responsibility by choosing the music, creating their own them more alert and willing to attend visuals and teaching their peers how nutrition and exercise affects the body. and perform in class.
ENERJETIX on-site switching recor’s eight-week, modular-based activity programme, called Enerjetix, is designed for rivately-owned On Site Fitness P 11–13-year-olds. It is designed to build physical confidence through activities such as P has installed 10 resistance catching, throwing, running, jumping, balance and co-ordination. Charts track how long machines from the isotonic Switching participants spend exercising and at the end of the course points can be swapped for prizes. range at Landau Forte College in Activities are divided between gym-based sessions and general sport activity – the A Derby, to be used by students for Racquet class, for example, introduces the skills used racquet-based sports. The programme, circuit training and individual currently running at several schools and council-run leisure centres, is intended to provide workouts. Designed with no settings youngsters with the opportunity to exercise in a non-competitive environment. to adjust, except weight selection, the machines are supposedly safer than conventional strength stations harpers strike programme and offer a fast and easy workout. eveloped in association with Danny The entire workout is done D Ball and Liam Richards – a martial standing up to strengthen the arts duo from ITV show Britain’s Got neglected core muscles, which are Talent – the Harpers Strike scheme offers especially important for improving martial art training and choreographed the core stability of young people. routines for five- to 16-year-olds. The equipment is used as part of Launched by Leisure Connection at nine the college’s curriculum and for of its Harpers clubs, the programme is extra-curricular activities such as divided into three classes – for five- to breakfast and after-school clubs. seven-year-olds, eight- to 11-year-olds Hit the spot Harpers’ martial and 12–16-year-olds – and offers guidance arts programme, Harpers Strike, on how to eat and live healthily, as well as caroline wilkinson targets fi ve- to 16-year-olds activities to boost self-confidence. [email protected]
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10 years of The Complete Youth Activity Solution
www.shokk.co.uk [email protected] 1999 - 2009 0161 877 7870 new opening HEALTH CLUB SPA SHOUT IT OUT
The Chelsea Club’s Escape spa has re-opened following a £2m The Chelsea Club spa team is liaising with Chelsea FC to market the refurbishment. Katie Barnes pays a visit to investigate what’s changed spa in match-day programmes
happy therapist is a sure something to shout about club’s ground fl oor. Although the large sign of a successful spa “For the first time, Chelsea FC wants to female and male changing rooms – each A operation. I’m visiting the market this place more actively,” says with their own plunge pool, steamroom spa at the Chelsea Club – a general manager Angelo Lanzilotti, who and sauna – were untouched, the standalone building tucked behind the came on board last September following indoor pool area was redecorated. The Chelsea FC grounds in Fulham, London his front-of-house manager role at the refurbished reception area is light and – and my therapist, Debbie, is not only Chelsea FC-owned Millennium & airy, while the redesigned restaurant happy, but also kind and professional. Copthorne Hotels over the road. The and bar area – complete with glossy Having worked at the spa for over two plan, he says, is to raise membership from black surfaces, large comfy sofas and years, she has witnessed the facility’s the current 780 members to a maximum stripy rugs – serves delicious, low fat, overhaul which cost almost £2m and of 1,200 to maintain quality and high levels organic food from a menu created by the was completed in January this year. of service. Each new member will pay a Chelsea FC nutritionist. And, of course, One of the club’s USPs is its exclusive £450 joining fee, plus £190 a month there’s also the new spa. feel. “It’s not just about getting bums on thereafter, although the fee is reduced to seats here,” explains spa manager Lisa £350 for those who pay for a year upfront. the great escape Butterworth, who previously worked as The facility, which covers 3,716sq m The 46sq m (500sq ft) Escape spa was the spa manager at the Harbour Club just (40,000sq ft), is set over two fl oors designed by the Syntax Group, a down the road. “It’s also about providing and has a 400m running track around consultancy behind prestigious spas enough facilities so people don’t have to the outside. The top fl oor is dedicated such as Chiva-Som in Thailand and One wait.” Butterworth also makes a point of to fi tness, with a large central area Spa in Edinburgh. For Escape, Syntax conversing with each new customer. offering Technogym CV and free weight has selected natural materials – cream It’s this kind of attitude that has equipment, along with a studio for stone floors with pebble verges, dark attracted celebrity members such as private pilates tuition. A separate space wood walls and glass doors – to create England cricketer Kevin Pietersen, hosts Vibrogym units, while another an air of sophistication. The facilities while all of the Chelsea FC players room offers resistance machines and the comprise four treatment rooms, a and their partners are allowed to use Technogym Kinesis range. There is also relaxation area with infrared sauna and facilities for free. an assessment room and three studios, a manicure/pedicure area. It’s a successful model, and yet including one for more energetic classes The footprint is actually smaller to recoup the money spent on the such as group cycling, and a yoga/ than the previous spa, which housed refurbishment and to make up for losing meditation room that also houses the seven smaller treatment rooms. “It two months’ business while this work Kinesis equipment. was all very tired and sadly is wasn’t was being carried out, the strategy is set This offering has been further being completely utilised,” explains to change to take the business forward. enhanced by the refurbishment of the Butterworth. Despite having only joined
44 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Clockwise from top left The refurbished reception, new spa treatment room, spa entrance and redecorated swimming pool the team last August, she’s already She also feels the décor – with up to 40 per cent of female customers. positive that the spa can contribute its natural hues and splashes of blue Other popular treatments on the much more to the business: “It’s nicely in accessories such as cushions – is menu include facials using US-branded situated and the facilities are great, so perfectly suited to the clientele, around cosmeceutical skincare line ONLY there’s huge potential here.” 50 per cent of whom are men. “It used YOURx, which has made its UK debut And although she came on board to be very purple,” she says. “But the at Escape – the ‘Rx’, which is shorthand quite late, Butterworth still managed colours and textures are unisex now: for a prescription in the US, hints at the to fi t in some late changes, such as there’s nothing pink and fl uffy.” On product’s medical credentials. switching a Japanese slipper bath – a top of this, Butterworth has devised “These are the only facials that I’ve bath fi lled with water and essential oils treatments to target men including the performed since the new spa opened,” and incorporated into treatments – for Rapid Power Peel – a facial to treat skin my therapist informs me. The ONLY a manicure/pedicure unit. “I’d seen the conditions such as razor rash – and the YOURx facials start with a detailed skin bath not work well in past businesses,” Russian Pedicure. analysis before the therapist custom- she says. “I thought maintenance Also on the menu are facials, blends the paraben-free products to treatments made more sense as far as massages, refl exology, reiki and body create a cream or peel that’s perfectly revenue was concerned.” wraps, as well as waxing and nail suited to the client. That’s not to say she wasn’t services. In addition, four self-employed “I saw a gap in the market, impressed with other aspects. specialists have been introduced to because skincare is so generic,” says “They’ve increased the back of house offer services such as osteopathy, Butterworth. “I thought offering areas, which is great for quality of acupuncture, sports rehabilitation and something tailor-made would really put service,” she says. “We now have a physiotherapy out of a treatment room. us up a level. I call it our results-driven massive storeroom and a towel chute, While massage is the most popular range. But there will always be a place so we don’t have to drag laundry into treatment, Endermologie – a machine- for Elemis, our other product house, the spa in front of customers.” based cellulite treatment – is favoured by because it’s incredibly relaxing.” may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 45 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital new opening
CHELSEA FC THE BRAND helsea Football Club (FC) is headquartered at Chelsea FC; and Frankie’s Sports Bar & Grill, another joint C Stamford Bridge in Fulham, south-west London. venture, this time between jockey Frankie Dettori, Pierre While the majority of its business is focused on the football White and Chelsea FC. team, the Chelsea FC brand does cover a number of other In addition to these is the Chelsea Club, a health club and enterprises, all situated on or close to the Stamford Bridge spa which is owned and operated by Chelsea FC and which complex. These include: two Millennium & Copthorne- employs around 35 staff. While the health club shares the managed hotels, owned by Chelsea FC and with a combined HR and marketing departments of Chelsea FC – and the total of 275 rooms; Marco, a restaurant created by the football players have free membership there – it is operated famous chef Marco Pierre White in partnership with as an independent profi t centre.
Butterworth also feels that adding the same hymn sheet how much nicer it is here,” he says. The the ONLY YOURx products to the In terms of clientele, Chelsea Club on spa, he feels, was a key factor in retail offering will improve the revenue average attracts people in their late 30s. retaining clients. “More health club in this area. “I don’t see why clients During the day it’s popular with yummy members expect a spa these days, and I shouldn’t be taking home what they’ve mummies and professionals who hold think the refurbishment was the right been using. It’s unique,” she says. To informal meetings in the bar/lounge area. move. It’s a way of offering something encourage her therapists to sell, she has After 6pm, it typically pulls in senior unique and I think it will help to increase organised some motivational training business people in search of a workout. membership in the future.” sessions and has also introduced an Competition includes the Harbour Club Meanwhile, Butterworth says the incentive scheme to reward those who – which, unlike Chelsea, admits the health club equally adds value to the spa: meet sales targets. under-16s and has more of a family focus “With the health club members, we have – and Kicks in South Kensington, a captive audience,” she says. However, although this club doesn’t have a pool. with only 10 per cent of club members While closing down for a two-month opting for treatments so far, there’s room refurbishment may have driven some for improvement. Integrating the two members away, Lanzilotti says most have sides of the business is key to driving this returned and that it was actually a good improvement. So how are Butterworth marketing tool: “We arranged for and Lanzilotti going about this? temporary memberships at other clubs, All club members are given an induction but people came back when they realised to the new spa and are entitled to one
Restful space The new Escape spa uses natural materials and colour schemes to create an air of calm and sophistication
46 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Synergistic businesses The fi tness suite at the club, which is now complemented by the new spa, is equipped by Technogym free treatment, plus 10 per cent off Lanzilotti’s main objective in the coming websites.” On top of this, Butterworth therapies thereafter. “Once we get them months, but other areas he’s hoping to has devised a Pick n Mix package for in, it’s our job to get them interested. The concentrate on include looking at the groups of women – a minimum of six – girls and I use this time to explain what group class offering “as they’re not very where guests pay a very reasonable £100 we do and make sure people don’t feel popular” and increasing communication for a choice of any three treatments on intimated,” says Butterworth. Meanwhile, with members via online member the current menu. “We’re really good day spa guests who spend more than £50 forums and a monthly newsletter, which value here. A standard 60-minute can purchase a day pass to access the rest has already been introduced. massage costs £55,” she says. “With the of the club for £25. “Lisa’s really good at As for the spa, the goal is to raise the credit crunch, it’s important that you’re mingling with members and getting them treatment room usage from 70 per cent really competitive and this is something involved,” adds Lanzilotti. – a level which is certainly acceptable for that I’ve worked hard on.” Cross-selling is also key, as most spa operations – to 80 per cent. To In addition, she says, “it’s all about Butterworth explains: “Our personal do this, Butterworth is casting a wider maximum utilisation”. With only three trainers [PTs] are versed in advising net, aiming to increase the number of full-time therapists, Butterworth – a clients to come for a massage, and day guests; at present, custom is almost trained therapist herself – is more it’s the same with us: if someone has entirely generated by club members. than happy to “soak up extra business, Endermologie, we tell them about the Part of her strategy is to maximise rather than turn clients away”. Similarly, exercise options, or if they’re preparing existing relationships within Chelsea FC. she’s contemplating extending opening for a wedding, it’s great that we can “We’ve started marketing our spa times, which are currently 9am–8pm, get them to work with PTs. The gym packages, such as the five and a half hour if members continue to request manager and I keep plugging away [at Ultimate Escape, to guests at the treatments after their evening workouts. integrating the spa and health club]. Millennium & Copthorne,” she says. “In Making the best use of space available is There’s a natural synergy and it’s all the current climate, it could mean the also key, and Butterworth is toying with about singing from the same hymn sheet. difference between them selling a room the idea of converting the relaxation area “Our medical team has really hit the or not. We’re also doing some cross- into a double ‘luxury’ treatment room. ground running too. PTs who see that a marketing in match day programmes and “Couples’ massages are big business,” she member is suffering from an alignment we’re working closely with the team in says, “and we have a lot of VIPs coming in problem or an injury can now send charge of corporate boxes.” who want treatments in private.” them to the spa for a medical treatment, A bigger challenge, however, is Overall, Butterworth says her aim is when that person would have gone attracting walk-in day guests. “We’re to boost every part of the spa business somewhere else before. It’s increasing tucked behind the stadium, off the at the Chelsea Club. She concludes: “I’ve traffi c and encouraging new business.” street, so people aren’t going to just find got quite a lot of work to do, but I’ve themselves wandering round here,” she had some pretty quick wins so far and the only way is up says. “Since re-opening, we’ve run local the only way is up from now on.” If things go according to plan, the club is marketing and advertising campaigns, expecting to reach 1,000 members by offering a variety of promotions, and are katie barnes this October. Meeting this deadline is looking at working with gift voucher [email protected] may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 47 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 48 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital changing rooms HEALTH CLUB SPA ALL DIBOHF
hen designing changing users? How many users will there be at rooms, taking a little peak times? What is the flow between time to consider the wet and dry areas? These questions are key points will ensure key to providing the perfect solution. Wthat the facilities provide a functional The number of lockers should not yet welcoming environment. The key to relate to available wall space. Rather, a designing successful changing rooms is suffi cient number should be provided to 80 per cent common sense and 20 per accommodate the optimum throughput cent architectural expertise. However, of the facility, including aerobic studios some of the features I’ve witnessed in and wet areas, linked to the total number changing room design over the past of memberships or projected users. 20 years suggest that, as with so many Generally, changing rooms are other things in life, common sense is an designed to meet peak capacity, which attribute in short supply! only occurs at limited times; where space is an issue, strike a balance general principles between the number of lockers provided When a health club, fitness centre, spa to meet peak capacity and the realistic John Gibbs offers advice to or swimming pool is looking to design a level of usage. Additionally, where lines multi-use changing facility, operators of lockers meet in the corner, there is operators looking to create must address several issues. Who’s going a great opportunity to create individual the perfect changing room, to use the changing rooms? What do private changing cubicles, maximising they expect the lockers to hold? What every square foot of the available space. whether for a spa, swimming combination of cubicles is required? The provision of quality showers pool or fitness suite What facilities are needed for disabled is imperative, with the number and
Virtual money Locker pin codes can be used to authorise payment for spa treatments PICTURES: WWW.ISTOCK.COM PICTURES:
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 49 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital changing rooms
size of showers being as important as the lockers and changing cubicles. Ideally, showers should have a depth of 1.4–1.5m – to allow the door to open inwards – with a wet fl oor drainage system laid so that, after showering, water moves down the drain and doesn’t sit in the access areas to and from the dry changing. Clear segregation is also necessary between wet and dry areas, via privacy screens with signage that reiterates: ‘For safety and consideration to other users, please towel dry prior to returning to the main changing area’. A vanity unit incorporating three to six stations, mirrors and hairdryers is a The fi ner points Grooming areas should be conveniently located (above left), prerequisite to the ambience of a female while swimming pool changing rooms need a variety of locker types (above right) changing room, yet for the men, a number of smaller units located throughout will the ultimate solution should be designed Research shows that the typical be more appropriate. Full-length mirrors around the optimum pool capacity at family visit to a swimming pool consists are always useful for fi nal grooming. peak times, taking into account the split of three to four people, so a changing These vanity and grooming areas should between individual and family usage, cubicle needs to be of suffi cient size, with be sited in convenient locations, but together with the needs of schools or adequate bench seating, hooks and rails ideally also positioned where the mirrors external groups. Ideally more lockers for hanging clothes and, ideally, provision can add a sense of space to the room. and cubicles should be provided for for a fold-down baby change unit and/ women than men. Consideration must or wall-fi xed baby seat. A family will wet vs dry also be given to ethnic usage of individual generally have either one large sports Design criteria for changing provision changing rooms, and use by parents with bag or two smaller bags to fi t in clothes will differ greatly depending on whether young children of the opposite sex, to and possessions. Once changed, they will clubs offer purely dry or a combination ensure suffi cient privacy. then require one enormous locker to of wet and dry provision. Dry changing In village changing areas, link the mix store all their belongings, with a separate rooms will normally incorporate a and number of individual cubicles to shelf for up to four pairs of shoes. limited number of stow and go lockers the projected demographic usage of Although adult swimmers tend to be for those users who come pre-changed the pool. Position appropriate types of in the minority, they are a reliable asset and only wish to stow away a change of lockers and cubicles next to each other for clubs: they generally live locally, turn shoes, light clothing, valuables, a mobile so that, when a swimmer comes out up fi ve to 10 minutes before opening, phone and possibly a small sports bag or of a cubicle, the style of locker suited swim the statutory 25 to 50 lengths handbag. The majority of the lockers to their needs is within easy reach. and shower and change before going to should accommodate a user’s day Also, think about installing double-door work. They require a changing cubicle clothes; there should be no deterrent to cubicles – which allow dry entrance incorporating a bench seat and clothes working out, whether on the way to in and exit to the wet area – where hook, together with a locker designed work, at lunchtime or after a shift. necessary. Extra bench seating outside to accommodate hanging jackets, suits, When designing changing rooms in cubicles is generally minimal, whereas in shirts and so on, with a separate space swimming pools, whether it’s split into changing rooms for where there are less for a sports holdall and a shelf for shoes, male and female areas or a village style, cubicles, more seating is required. valuables and accessories. Casual swimmers typically make up the majority of users and usually case study – titanic spa only require an individual-size cubicle rchitects can design the most fantastic-looking facilities, but an operator has sited, where possible, next to lockers A to run them day to day, and it’s the practicalities that become crucially which store a sports bag or carrier important to the success of an enterprise. The changing rooms are often bag containing their clothes and towel, forgotten about, but they’re the focal point of a spa – the first impression that ideally with a separate space for shoes, guests receive and the last one when they leave. Make sure they are as luxurious valuables and mobile phone. and also practical as possible. School groups typically prefer a Top tips are: dedicated space, where pupils’ clothes s Never underestimate the number of lockers that you need. I did, and we’ve and bags can be left on hooks or bench retro-fi tted another 40 seating around the room, with the s Consider use longer term – we didn’t install urinals in the men’s changing outer door locked behind them to give rooms, which means the men’s area can be given over to women’s changing exclusive use. when demand dictates, giving us far greater fl exibility in use The key groups that are not always s Analyse your customer profi le closely and deliver the balance of provision that well catered for are the disabled and will meet demand ambulant-abled, who require suitably Warwick Burton, spa director, Titanic Spa equipped changing cubicles with appropriate lockers alongside. These
50 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital PICTURES TOP LEFT AND RIGHT: WWW.ISTOCK.COM AND RIGHT: LEFT TOP PICTURES
Luxury levels In a spa, the changing room ‘speaks volumes’ to guests about how they’ll be treated
lockers should be wheelchair-accessible level of experience and service visitors the club, and will they therefore need and big enough to store prosthetic limbs can expect throughout their visit. somewhere to separately store their and walking aids including crutches and Little touches – the lighting, the smell, clothes and their used gym kit? sticks, as well as clothes, valuables and the grooming facilities – as well as the Along with the blend of lockers, sports bags. They should be clearly furnishings speak volumes about how consider the number of private changing labelled with ‘Priority for the Disabled’, guests can expect to be treated. How cubicles, grooming stations, seating and have special handles on the keys, and use the changing space is maintained also circulation space required, particularly tactile and Braille number discs. reinforces the level of service they can at peak times. All of these factors will anticipate. Overfl owing towel collection impact on guest comfort and make a health club spa points, slippery fl ooring, empty shampoo lasting impression. Health clubs that offer spa facilities have and conditioner points in the showers or Operators should also consider a balance to strike between upbeat piles of abandoned robes will instantly which locking system would be most fitness and relaxing spa. Should they make guests question the service levels. appropriate. Will spa guests really offer separate changing areas for the The design and the fi nish of the want to carry a key fob around the gym and the spa, each with a different lockers should fully refl ect the brand spa, along with their purse or wallet? finish and ambience? Is the gym close image and overall interior design of the Digital keypad lockers are one possible enough to the spa area to be able to individual spa, but this is just the start alternative, with the four-digit code combine the changing facilities? If the of the process. It’s also important to also used to make purchases in the spa club has a full day spa offering, do they determine the size, type and number – retail, food and beverage, additional actually want spa guests and fitness of lockers that will be needed. Will treatments – without having to revisit members to meet? guests expect to fi nd a luxurious locker the changing room to fi nd money. Ultimately, availability of space is likely containing a hanging robe, towels, a pair to dictate. However, particularly in spa, of slippers and a jewellery pouch? Are john gibbs the changing rooms can convey the they likely to work out while they’re at [email protected]
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 51 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital health club spa news
HEALTH CLUB SPA
new treatments for spa london
Spa London – GLL and Tower Hamlets’ public sector spa located in Bethnal Green, east London – has launched a new dry fl oatation therapy, as well as a new Thalgo scrub and massage treatment. The dry fl oatation therapy takes place on a heated water bed, which rises up during the treatment to give a feeling of weightlessness. The customer is wrapped in a warm membrane, so remains totally dry throughout. Gentle vibrations ripple along the body, releasing muscle tension. Treatments last 25 or 55 minutes. Meanwhile, the Thalgo Ocean Memory Treatment – which lasts 105 minutes – includes a salt fl ake and seaweed scrub, a neo-vital massage and a tingling algae mousse, all designed to revitalise and energise the body.
energylounge from klafs
lafs’ new ENERGYLOUNGE spa Klounger is designed to instil a sense of deep relaxation via its gentle hammock-like movement. It’s made from leather to cushion the body The Thalgo Ocean Memory Treatment is designed to energise the body and the motion has been specially developed to reduce brain activity and muscular tension and encourage pt and spa at the grange sleep; indeed, the Fraunhofer Institute currently has one installed new luxury 780sq m (8,395 sq ft) at its Future Lab in Duisburg, A day spa with a personal training Germany, for ongoing sleep research. studio opened in Pointon, Lincolnshire, at the end of February. The Grange Spa was set up by personal nailcare boost trainer and sports therapist Matt Craven and his wife, who has a background in spa at bannatyne’s and beauty. It offers functional training and injury rehabilitation alongside a day Bannatyne’s Spas has enhanced its spa experience, with a variety of packages nailcare offering with the introduction for personal training, weight loss, sports- of the Calgel Nail System, a range specifi c training and injury prevention. of nailcare and gel nail enhancement The spa has six treatment rooms plus products and treatments. a heat experience area with two feature Calgel is applied to each nail by brush showers, an aroma bath, a salt inhalation and held under a UV light to cure. The room, a herbal bath, an ice fountain and gel becomes a thin nail-like substance, a gemstone steam bath all supplied by making nails strong and durable with Schletterer Wellness & Spa Design. a natural appearance, while still being There’s also a 100sq m (1,076sq ft) fl exible like real nails. A wide range of functional training studio equipped by The training studio is equipped by colours and designs are available. Escape Fitness, Matrix and Keiser. Escape Fitness, Matrix and Keiser
52 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital PRODUCT NEWS
fi tness-kit .net PRODUCT vibration training FOCUS
Wherever you are in the world, fi nd the right products and services 24/7 by logging on to Health Club Management’s free search engine, www.fi tness-kit.net If you’re a supplier, sign up for your free listing now on www.fi tness-kit.net
GYM80 LAUNCHES ENDURANCE FORCE BIKE
A new product from gym80 International has been launched, based on a conventional road bicycle model but also featuring a vibration platform fi xed to the DIAMOND EVOLUTION pedal cranks. Called the Enforbike – the Endurance Force Bike – the The VibroGym range of equipment vibration (which gym80 refers to is to be extended with the as ‘impulse training’) is focused Evolution Diamond. on the legs, isolating the upper Due to launch in the UK later body from any negative side this year, following its debut in effects caused by incorrect Germany eight months ago, the training on traditional vibration product uses whole body vibration platforms. It can be used by technology and features more people of all fi tness levels; it’s than 65,000 crystallized Swarovski suitable for anyone able to pedal fi tness-kit keywords: gym80 uk Elements, integrated by hand onto a stationary bicycle. the sides and central column of Fully adjustable for resistance, the stainless steel training device. time, speed, frequency and amplitude through the integrated LCD console, The Evolution Diamond model the Enforbike offers a range of programmes, heart rate monitoring, will be marketed to professional wattage and calorie count. It’s also said to burn more calories than athletes and celebrities. traditional cycling, as well as helping users to train more effi ciently through increased muscle fi bre activation. fi tness-kit keyword: vibrogym
FITNESS FIRST TRIALS PINEAPPLE KIT
Two recently launched ranges of Pineapple whole body vibration equipment – ‘The Pro’ and the smaller ‘Modahl’ – are being put through their paces at Fitness First’s club in Brighton. The platforms form a core part of personal training programmes at the newly re-opened club. Located in the functional training area of the facility, their versatility means they can be used in conjunction with cable systems, free weights and, for advanced users, integrated with stability balls. First launched in the UK market in 2008, Pineapple platforms use a low- frequency vertical vibration called bio-oscillation (see HCM Feb 09). fi tness-kit keyword: pineapple
For more information, or to contact any of these companies, log on to www.fi tness-kit.net and type fi tness-kit.net the company name under ‘keyword search’
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 53 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital fi tness apprenticeships
home grown AGENCY: DREAMSTIME.COM. PHOTO (TOP LEFT): WWW.ISTOCK.COM LEFT): (TOP PHOTO DREAMSTIME.COM. AGENCY: STAFF ❘ Establishing an apprenticeship scheme is time-consuming but the benefits can be tenfold. Caroline Wilkinson reveals the potential of such a programme, and how it can help companies PHOTOGRAPHER (RIGHT AND BOTTOM LEFT): ANDRES RODRIGUEZ ANDRES RODRIGUEZ LEFT): AND BOTTOM (RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER maintain a competitive edge ©
t a time when companies has realised this and is investing heavily need to be more in apprenticeships to try and make it the A competitive than ever, with fl agship route for entry into employment, high levels of service to and for ongoing professional development. reinforce the value of their offering, free, With more than £1bn on offer to fund bespoke industry-accredited training an additional 35,000 apprentices during could be a lifeline. So why aren’t more 2009–10, it’s an ideal time for the fi tness operators cashing in on government- industry to ensure staff are trained to funded apprenticeship schemes to help better meet their needs. develop staff and access recruits? The potential for fi tness reaping the benefits apprenticeships is “massive” according “Hiring an apprentice is a long-term to Kate Couchman, apprenticeship investment in your company’s staff,” says manager at SkillsActive. “While Couchman. “Employers who have taken some leisure chains are embracing on apprentices report increased loyalty apprenticeships, there is still a signifi cant towards the company, decreases in staff opportunity for a culture change where turnover, a positive working culture and fi tness instructors, leisure managers and well-trained staff, ultimately increasing frontline staff are recruited directly onto the profitability of the company.” an apprenticeship, and for companies to Apprenticeships can often boost grow and shape staff within.” secondary spend too: once a training By combining practical and technical provider ascertains the skillset in existing skills, which can be put to immediate fi tness team members, and decides how In a survey, nearly three-quarters use by an employer, apprenticeships many are suitable to move into personal of respondents say apprenticeships can help improve productivity and staff training, it can access funding on behalf of produce better calibre job applicants retention and can solve short-term the operator to help gain them personal and fi ll vacancies quicker recruitment diffi culties. The government training qualifi cations.
54 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Employers who have taken on apprentices report decreases in staff turnover and a positive working culture
According to a recent survey the fundamentals offered. Couchman says it’s essential to conducted on behalf of the Learning and There are two ways to run an fi nd a training provider that “understands Skills Council (LSC) by Populus, 87 per apprenticeship scheme: work with an your business needs and is willing to cent of leisure companies say apprentices established training provider or become work with you to deliver the niche boost overall productivity, while 63 per an established provider. Leisure trust training,” adding that it must work with cent say they are more cost-effective than North Country Leisure (NCL) took the the employer from the very beginning. hiring fully-qualifi ed staff as it reduces latter option, but CEO John Maude says Heather Frankham, CEO of training recruitment and training costs. Nearly it’s an “elaborate” process that may be provider Lifetime, agrees: “A lot of three-quarters of respondents also say right for larger employers, but not for all. learning providers have a certain amount apprenticeships produce better calibre The former is a much simpler route: the of funding and target potential apprentices job applicants and fi ll vacancies quicker. employer provides the apprenticeship that meet the criteria for this funding. As Apart from an apprentice’s contracted placement and the training provider a result, the training they provide doesn’t wage of £80 a week for the fi rst year – tailors and delivers the programme. always meet employer’s needs.” rising to £90 on 1 August – the biggest A suitable training provider can be Training providers can also help operating cost is the time taken by HR or sourced either through a regional LSC to source suitable apprentices for an a facility manager to set up the scheme. or a skills broker such as Train to Gain employer’s programme, if it’s new Funding can be sourced from the LSC or the National Skills Academy for Sport recruits they’re after. Most providers to cover the expense of administration and Active Leisure (NSA), set up by will pre-screen people, delivering and workplace assessments (required SkillsActive. While a training provider candidates who meet the fi rm’s profi le for an apprentice to complete a National will work with the employer to develop and who have the right soft skills, Vocational Qualifi cation, or NVQ). a suitable programme, contacting a motivation and an aptitude for fi tness. The amount of fi nancial support broker is a good fi rst step to help The process is set to become a lot depends on the age and circumstances identify skills gaps and to discuss how an simpler with the launch of an online of the apprentice, and in some cases apprenticeship could be tailored to meet database – the National Apprenticeship employer contributions may be needed. the company’s needs. Service – which matches employer Help towards wage costs may also be It’s worth looking at more than one profi les with apprentices. Once deemed available through regeneration funds. training provider to evaluate what’s compatible, the employer and provider may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 55 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital fi tness apprenticeships
An employer can expect an apprentice to arrive having acquired the knowledge needed for the job © will jointly conduct an interview to ensure Level 3 advanced schemes – ideal to the apprentice does not have a mentor PHOTOGRAPHER (TOP RIGHT): IOFOTO the potential partnership meets both the up-skill existing staff members – can to support them in the fi rst few weeks,” apprentice’s and employer’s needs. take between 18 and 24 months to Orban adds. The alternative route – becoming complete. Prior to starting the work Frankham agrees: “A really clear focus a recognised provider – requires placement, an apprentice is equipped in terms of what all participants need employers to organise and take full with theoretical knowledge underpinning to achieve is essential, as is having the ownership of a programme, to provide a specific role, key skills, competency training plan right from the beginning, on-site assessments by qualifi ed staff, and qualifications, technical certificates and a with an understanding of what the to receive funding directly from the LSC strong commercial awareness, all of employers and apprentices need. on a contract basis. Although arduous, which eventually lead to an NVQ. “The key to success is to recruit the ❘ one advantage to this route is that being An employer can expect its apprentice right people for the right programme at AGENCY: DREAMSTIME.COM. PHOTO (TOP LEFT): WWW.ISTOCK.COM a provider has the potential to generate to arrive having acquired the knowledge the beginning, and to work in constant surplus income from supplying training needed for their job, and for the partnership with the learning provider, services to other employers. It does individual to be fully functional in the learner and employer to remain mean, however, jumping through some their new role within six months. “If a focused and to deliver results.” tough hoops to meet the LSC’s, Ofqual’s programme is run well, an apprentice Lifetime, which works with the NSA and SkillsActive’s rigid standards. should be contributing to the fi rm within as part of its accredited network of A plus point, however, is that a short period of time,” says Florence employer-led learning providers, is companies that become training Orban, interim CEO of the NSA. also a partner in creating the industry providers can ensure the qualifi cations For the programme to be a success, framework with the NSA for its £2m they offer are absolutely tailored to it relies on buy-in from all levels: the cut of the government’s new £10m their needs. This also allows for a clearly organisation, management and staff. Apprenticeship Expansion Programme mapped out progression route, which Working in accordance with the provider, (AEP). The AEP is aimed at increasing can act as a selling point to attract high the employer must put in place strong current apprenticeship numbers to fi ll quality, career-driven recruits. mentorship and support. “A programme existing skills gaps. It’s also designed to won’t work when no-one knows what meet the additional costs associated what’s involved? to do with the apprentice: when the with expanding apprenticeship schemes, As a rule of thumb, Level 2 activities at work have not been planned such as training and management costs, apprenticeships take 12 months while and integrated into schedules or when as well as to pay the wages of a Level 3 apprentice for the fi rst three months to TAG help encourage fi rms to upskill staff. David Way, the LSC’s national he Transforming a Generation business skills and to train NEETs in director of apprenticeships, says: “Given T (TAG) initiative, founded by LA leisure operations and management. the current economic slowdown, it’s Fitness chair Fred Turok, provides The board is looking to establish important that companies continue apprenticeships for 18- to-24-year- TAG centres in north, south London training their staff to maintain olds not in employment, education or and east London to deliver the pre- productivity and a competitive edge. training (NEETs). The scheme trains training, and aim to open 100 across Employing apprentices is an ideal way participants to Level 2 and gives them the country within fi ve years. for businesses to position themselves as the soft skills necessary to get a job. “At a societal level, we cannot leaders for the recovery. The new AEP Candidates will be delivered to afford to lose this generation because funding will make it easier for businesses the workplace with the theoretical they fail to fi t a popular social and to do this and provide the opportunity knowledge, soft skills and motivation educational template. Every young for [the industry] to successfully fi ll its to work effectively. TAG is also person deserves the right to self- existing skills gaps.” developing a 16- to-24-month actualisation and self-fulfi lment,” say postgrad programme to provide core the TAG trustees. caroline wilkinson [email protected]
56 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Did you know that you can now receive a FREE subscription to Health Club Management in its new, greener, paper-free, digital format?
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Kate Cracknell rounds up the product S launches and presentations from this year’s IHRSA Convention and Trade Show
ew launches. Almost 160 educational and networking Nsessions. Networking and charity events. IHRSA’s 28th Annual International Convention & Trade Show took place in San Francisco, US, from 16–19 March. UK attendance may have been down ©
– a sign of the industry’s synchronised PHOTOGRAPHY: THE PHOTO GROUP tightening of belts – but IHRSA nonetheless reports nearly 10,000 delegates from more than 70 countries. “What stood out loud and clear was the commitment of the global health club industry to lead both on the economy and in their communities,” says Joe Moore, IHRSA’s president and CEO. The 35,300sq m (380,000sq ft) trade show fl oor was occupied by 327 Almost 10,000 delegates attended this year’s event, in spite of the economic crisis exhibiting companies, with total booth space equalling the third largest in IHRSA Cybex launched an 18-piece range of a total body trainer that offers hundreds show history. Meanwhile, 52 companies ‘second generation’ plate-loaded and of exercises in one machine. Its USP sponsored programmes and activities free weight equipment. With a bold, is progressive stabilisation: it allows around the show – an IHRSA record. clean look, the range is said to offer the user to have as much or as little Exhibitors showcased the latest outstanding biomechanics and durability. support as they require, spanning the innovations in 30 categories of products, Launched in the UK in December but gap between resistance machines which equipment and programmes. We round exhibited for the fi rst time at IHRSA offer complete stabilisation and the up some of the new launches. was Cybex’s FT-450 Functional Trainer, ability to use high loads, and traditional cable machines with non-stabilised Cybex’s new range of movements and limited loads. resistance equipment includes a squat press FitPro officially launched the Outbox among its 18 pieces programme – a boxing qualification accredited by REPs and the British Boxing Board of Control. Developed in partnership with boxing world champion David Haye and his trainer Adam Booth, the three-level qualification teaches boxing skills and also incorporates applied physiology and sports science.
Les Mills unveiled CLUBCOUNT, a web-based software application that allows clubs to plan, report on and evaluate group fitness offerings. It tracks attendance and compares this to targets and capacity, and includes an option to benchmark against clubs worldwide. From the dashboard, a manager can see the club’s key group exercise metrics at
58 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM/??? PHOTOGRAPHY: THE PHOTO GROUP THE PHOTO PHOTOGRAPHY: © The show may have been quieter than usual, but those who did attend were there to buy, with strong leads generated the touch of a button, and is also able to All Life Fitness equipment now run reports, set targets and create and includes docking for an iPhone, as well publish timetables. as for an iPod and Nike+.
Life Fitness launched the Optima Marpo Kinetics’ VECTOR is a seated Series, a 20-piece strength training line trainer designed for group or individual including single and multi-exercise strength and cardio programmes. Small, machines, benches and racks. The first portable and easy to use, it involves 13 pieces were on display, with the hauling in a rope and provides fast, remaining seven due to be introduced effective upper-body workouts. The later this year. Easy to use and durable, patented isokinetic braking system with a space-saving style, the machines adapts to each user, while its focus on have low-profi le, fully-shrouded towers the upper body means it’s suitable for with weight stacks that provide those with lower-body injuries. drop-down increments for fi ne-tuning weight adjustments. Matrix Fitness Systems launched the Meanwhile, a ‘buddies’ feature has Matrix 1 Series, a new line of value CV been added to the Life Fitness Virtual products comprising the U1x upright Trainer website. Operating in a similar cycle, R1x recumbent cycle, E1x elliptical, Marpo Kinetics launched its VECTOR way to social networking sites such and T1x and T1xe treadmills. All feature seated trainer, which delivers an as Facebook, users invite friends and intuitive controls to appeal to users of all intense upper-body workout family to be their ‘buddies’. They can levels of experience. Also launched were then create and share cardio workout the T3x and T3xe treadmills, engineered Matrix also unveiled the G7 Series, programmes with each other. “Research to withstand heavy-duty use. All four a premium strength training line. The shows that social interaction is a key new treadmills have a sleek, space- units have a very low profi le and aim motivator when working out,” says efficient design, a low step-up height of to be less intimidating to beginners and John Stransky, president of Life Fitness. 7.5” for easy access, and include the the deconditioned while still providing a “Technology now enables us to replicate Ultimate Deck System, which absorbs superior user experience. An integrated the motivation of exercising with friends impact and provides more than 25,000 system tracks equipment usage, when you work out alone.” miles of maintenance-free performance. allowing operators to better estimate may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 59 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital ihrsa review
when the units require maintenance electro-magnetic force, rather than any without having to disassemble the contact on the wheel, to provide a machine. Seven pieces were on display, perfect linear application of resistance. and the range will expand to 19 An optional console offers feedback products by the end of 2009. such as RPM, heart rate and wattage The latest models of the KRANKcycle output, designed to help instructors and Tomahawk MyRide bike were also better structure their group cycling launched at IHRSA. classes. Two models of console are available: Sport and Performance. MyRide, the studio and gym floor indoor cycling solution, previewed its Octane Fitness launched its new xRide new 3wave design at IHRSA. Allowing ‘seated elliptical’ cross-trainer. The for freestanding, pod formation or wall xRide delivers the benefits of a standing mounting options all in one, 3wave can elliptical – total-body, low-impact CV adapt to any environment. Occupying workouts – from a comfortable seated minimum floor space, the system comes position. With 30 different resistance assembled with fully integrated wiring. levels and a walk-through design, it’s easy to access for everybody, while its Nautilus unveiled its new range of elliptical movement provides a far indoor bikes, the Schwinn A.C. greater range of motion and increased (Authentic Cycling) Series. Designed to glute activity compared to recumbent closely replicate the experience of bikes. It can also move forward or in cycling a real bike, the A.C. Series reverse, adding variety and working comprises three models: Classic and different muscles, while the MultiGrip Sport, both of which have a zinc-coated handlebars add the option to exercise steel frame; and Performance, with its the upper body too. Exercisers can The Schwinn A.C. bikes from aluminium frame. All feature a chain choose to work the whole body, the Nautilus closely replicate the rather than a belt. They also have a lower body only by holding the experience of cycling a real bike virtual braking system, which uses an stationary handlebars, or the upper
GO PUT YOUR STRENGTHS TO WORK
REPORT BY DR PAUL BEDFORD © arcus Buckingham, author of best-selling books First PHOTOGRAPHER: THE PHOTO GROUP Break All The Rules and Now Discover Your Strengths, M walked on stage with the confi dence of a Brit who has conquered America. He was there to talk about a movement that’s sweeping through business, education and government. What is this movement? It’s simple and quite obvious: a focus on using and developing your strengths as much as possible. Buckingham asked how many of us spend the majority of our working day using our strengths. The answer: extensive research has shown that only 17 per cent of us have a job where we use our strengths. International comparisons over Success will come from using your strengths, says Buckingham a 10-year period have shown that western countries have started to change their performance focus to address this but, table below left). Most notable is the dramatic change that said Buckingham, even more effort is needed to get the best has occurred in China, a country experiencing massive growth performance from employees. over recent years. Could this growth be attributed to the shift Research conducted by Gallup – specifi cally, the 2000 and towards focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses? 2008 responses to the question “which do you think will help Buckingham suggested that we should take time to reward you be most successful, working on your strengths or on strengths, creating positions for people that take advantage of your weaknesses?” – threw up some interesting fi ndings (see their strengths – even if it means going against conventional wisdom and breaking all the rules. At a time when many 2000 Strengthsg()hhs (%) Weaknesses (%)() businesses are facing tough economic challenges, he believes this USS 41 59 will help us to out-perform and out-service the competition. UKK 38 62 Summarising the factors that create great-performing teams CanadaC 38 622 Francece 353 6655 and individuals, Buckingham said we must challenge the myths Chinnaa 24 766 and explore the truths. He identifi ed what he believes to be 20088 StrengthsStrengg hs (%)() Weaknesses (%)(%()( ) the biggest myth: that you grow the most by improving in USU 45 55 areas where you are weakest. In fact, he said – concluding on a UK 54 4646 IndiaIn 566 444 point that summed up the essence of his whole presentation – ChinaChi 773 27 you will grow the most by focusing even more on areas where IHRSA delegates 744 26 you are already strong.
60 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital body only by resting their feet on the © stationary foot pegs. PHOTOGRAPHER: THE PHOTO GROUP
Paramount Fitness revealed its XL2 Strength Training Circuit, a comprehensive, yet space-efficient, 16-piece strength conditioning system. Advanced engineering features include a low-profile contemporary design with fully enclosed weight INVISIBLE OR stacks, intuitive exercise REMARKABLE? adjustments and precise biomechanics. Other attributes REPORT BY DR PAUL BEDFORD include illustrated exercise mall in stature, huge in intellect, instruction and height Seth Godin understands adjustment guides, easy pad S marketing in the 21st century adjustments for ergonomically accurate better than anyone. He is uniquely positioning, convenient weight stack respected for his understanding of the access and low starting resistance. internet, and his essays and opinions are widely read and quoted both RealRyder introduced the latest model online and off. His 10 books have been of its unstationary bike, the ABF8. translated into 20 languages and Purple Taking onboard learnings from the last Octane’s seated elliptical, the Cow is the best selling marketing book 12 months, since the launch of the xRide, offers an upper, lower of the last decade. original model, the ABF8 includes minor or whole body workout Godin focused on three points in his revisions and new components to presentation. First, that marketers no maximise the performance and durability Star Trac unveiled its full 14-piece longer have the power to command of the bike in a health club environment. Inspiration Strength line after previewing the attention of anyone they choose, six pieces of the range last year. whenever they choose. Second, that in Retention Management showcased Designed to be aesthetically pleasing and a marketplace in which consumers have the latest addition to its automated email non-intimidating, the equipment is based more power, marketers must show service: a new prospect email programme on extensive research into human more respect by keeping and delivering designed to provide clubs with “a movement and muscle strength. Each on their promises. Thirdly, that the powerful tool to leverage new member piece guides the user through the only way to stand out in a world of marketing dollars without an additional optimal range of motion and encourages mediocrity is to be remarkable. As cost to them”. Sent through Retention superior muscle efficiency. Several of the he states in Purple Cow, the key to Management’s systems, these prospecting machines offer converging and diverging business success is to fi nd a way to emails will get through SPAM filters. motions and unilateral functionality, stand out – being the purple cow in a fi eld of monochrome Holsteins. His message was to treat customers with respect. Do this and things will Star Trac showcased work for you. Fail to do this and the full 14 pieces of its you lose them and their friends, and Inspiration Strength range friends of friends, forever. To retain existing customers and win new ones, companies must go to extremes. Be remarkable. Be worth making a remark about. There are too many average health clubs, Godin said, providing average stuff for average people. He challenged operators to identify whether they were looking to provide more customers for their club, or more club for their customers. While marketing reaches out to customers who are unaware of what you do, he said, existing customers are better placed to market you to their friends and colleagues. Take advantage of this and delight the customer.
Read Health Club Management online 61 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital ihrsa review PHOTOGRAPHER: THE PHOTO GROUP THE PHOTO PHOTOGRAPHER: © Putting on a show: The 35,300sq m trade fl oor hosted 327 exhibiting companies
allowing the user to work each side of performing the same movements at the the body independently for balanced same time throughout the class. training and programme variation. All TREND, a new anthracite fi nish for use Star Trac’s LockNLoad pin-free the Excite range of equipment, was also weight selection system. launched. Other extra features, such as an upgraded LED interface, are due to Technogym launched its new Kinesis be introduced in the near future. Class concept at the show. Four different programmes are available – The Retention People introduced Kinesis Shape, Power, Sport and Move TRP PROCESS, a retention software – targeting different groups with module for managing the induction goals-focused content. Designed to drive process. Launched in conjunction with Technogym’s Excite range now comes revenue through small group training, at TRP INDUCT, a training and in a new anthracite fi nish (above), least three Kinesis ONE modules are consultancy package that focuses on known as TREND. Other refi nements to needed. The modules are integrated into behavioural change, TRP PROCESS links the range are also due to be launched a wall confi guration, with participants all in with clubs’ existing IT systems and other TRP software. It tracks members through their induction experience, THE TALK OF THE SHOW helps staff to tailor interactions appropriately, and allows management REPORT BY PROMOTE PR throwing them back into a basketball to report on the effectiveness of their alking around the two net, thereby feeding them back into the induction process, ensuring it can be exhibition halls at the machine. Described as a fun alternative refined to improve retention. W Moscone Center in sunny to treadmills and other stationary gym San Francisco this year, the atmosphere equipment, it delivers an intense workout ZigZag launched the interactive felt distinctly more subdued than in for individual or group workouts and can Expresso S3y Upright Youth Bike, which past visits to IHRSA. There seemed to be packed away for easy storage. – through its 19” integrated LCD be less traffi c on the show fl oor and Meanwhile, Star Trac held a charity screen – allows children to pedal the exhibition itself appeared to lack Spinning event, Chain Reaction, across through a range of virtual worlds, ride the buzz of former years. Talking to the three days of the show. Raising funds into scenic landscapes, take part in exhibitors, however, all agreed that, for Dr Oz’s HealthCorps’ mission to off-road competitions and even enter a while there was indeed less footfall, stop child obesity, it invited everyone fantasy kingdom and chase dragons. those visiting the show were there to to ride alongside celebrities and Riders must pedal to take part in more buy, with strong leads generated. athletes, provided they met a minimum than 30 different tours and play a range The KRANKcycle by Matrix Fitness fundraising goal of US$75 per rider per of games in which they can win virtual – the latest concept from Johnny G, the hour. Most of the 15 rides across the rewards and trophies. man behind the Spinning phenomenon three days were near capacity. All bikes have internet connectivity, – attracted the crowds. The excitement so riders can tap into an online and enthusiasm around the stand was community and compete in real time palpable as visitors stopped to watch with their friends and family. Designed new group ‘kranking’ sessions – hailed as for children aged nine to 15, it’s smaller Spinning for the upper body. than other ZigZag bikes and is power- Another product to attract attention assisted to make the range of virtual was The Gun, by Shoot-A-Way. This courses easier to negotiate. basketball machine shoots out up to one ball per second – that’s up to 1,800 per kate cracknell hour – with players catching them and Kranking: “Spinning for the upper body” [email protected]
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HealthClubManagement_210x297.indd 1 7/4/09 12:38:52 balance training STRIKING A BALANCE
What are the benefits of balance training, should we incorporate it into our gym workouts, and do current health club-based offerings address the needs of all types of exerciser? Kathy Carter investigates
alance is a state of boosts muscle strength and power, Preventative measures In fi t members, equilibrium, defined as is crucial according to Peter Hope of balance training can help prevent injury B ‘the ability to maintain the BalanceMaster. “Structural balance by improving muscle force capacity centre of gravity of a body allows us to use our muscular strength within the base of support, with minimal functionally,” he explains. “It increases the abdominal region, spine and pelvis. postural sway’. But is this something our range of movement, enhances Unstable exercise using a stability ball or we should be working on at the gym sporting performance and is an essential wobble board is often favoured as a alongside resistance, CV and flexibility requirement for everyday living, including means to do this, challenging the centre training? And if so, are we offering the using fi tness equipment in the gym safely.” of gravity and improving balance using right kind of balance training in our gyms Personal trainer Nick Mitchell, of reflex responses. In an online article1, to improve members’ performance? health and fi tness consultancy Ultimate American personal trainer Ken Fitness training commonly focuses on Performance, adds that achieving Kashubara, of Kash Personal Training, two types of balance. The fi rst is core optimum structural balance is a highly explains that “while standing on an balance training, which involves exercises important component of building unstable environment, the body’s sensory designed to improve the muscular muscle. “If your ‘big’ muscles are strong, receptors tell the brain, ‘we’re about to anatomy supporting the abdominal region, but the fi xators and stabilisers that fall’. The brain then tells the body what spine and pelvis, as well as proprioception support them are weak, what do you muscles need to contract to balance.” (body awareness). The second is body think will happen?” he asks. “The answer Advocates of stability balls such as equilibrium training. In addition to is injury and impaired performance. To the Swiss Ball or Fit Ball rightly say that developing proprioception, this ‘whole work on stability, focus on the large exercising on a ball will improve vital structure’ balance training focuses on muscles and the stabilisers that enable strength in the abdominals and lower improving strength and power in the them to fi re properly.” back, with the unstable surface requiring major muscles – particularly in the legs – the user to constantly adjust their and the dynamic stability of the supporting stable vs unstable surfaces balance. Personal trainer Scott Bryant, a muscles, ligaments and tendons. Balance training in health clubs, however, corrective holistic exercise kinesiology Paying attention to the whole body commonly focuses on developing the (CHEK) practitioner, believes the in this way, with balance training that core: strengthening the muscles around Swiss Ball, pioneered by Paul Chek
1 ‘Functional Strength Training: Using Hundreds Of Muscles With Each Exercise’, Ken Kashubara, 2007
64 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Lifestyle maintenance Balance training prevents falls in older adults, allowing them to stay independent and maintain an active lifestyle
BALANCE RESEARCH fatigue and balance: Moderate fatigue is thought to lead to an immediate reduction of balance performance, as fatigued people may be less focused. Fitness instructors should ensure members are not over-exercising, as injury may occur as a result of a subsequent loss of balance. Journal of Neuro-engineering Rehabilitation, 3: 22, 2006. ‘The effects of moderate fatigue on dynamic balance control and attentional demands’, Simoneau et al reducing sprain risk: A 2008 study sought to find out whether prophylactic balance and co- ordination training could reduce the risk of sustaining lateral ankle sprain. Researchers found that completing at least six weeks’ balance training after an acute ankle sprain substantially reduced the risk of recurrent ankle sprains. Journal of Athletic Training: 43(3):305- 15, 2008. ‘Systematic review of postural control and lateral ankle instability, part II’, McKeon et al ALL PICTURES THIS PAGE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM THIS PAGE: ALL PICTURES vision and stability: A French study analysed the use of visual as a performance enhancer in the central nervous system, muscles, tendons information in the postural ability of 1980s, to be one of the most versatile and joints – enhances balance. football players. Testing posture pieces of equipment available. “They “It’s claimed that performing functional with eyes opened and closed, utilise neurologically induced muscular exercises on an unstable surface analysis revealed the importance of responses, to establish and restore core promotes balance,” Juris adds. “However, vision in postural maintenance was balance,” says Bryant. I’ve collected a substantial array of less in professional players than However, experts such as Paul M peer-reviewed papers which indicate amateurs, suggesting that structural Juris, executive director of the Cybex that exercise on unstable surfaces is not balance plays a more prominent Institute in the US, say health clubs only ineffective for developing strength, part than vision in people should examine their provision of but also leads to increased injury risks. undergoing targeted sports training. balance training. Juris believes that using I believe focusing on core stability is Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & unstable exercise as the only form of actually counterproductive to real Science in Sports. V:16 I:5, 2005. ‘Effect balance training in a workout is not functional stability. Trying to stabilise the of expertise and visual contribution on conducive to ‘whole structure’ balance, body while also trying to move leads to postural control in soccer’, Paillard et al and therefore not suffi cient to address nothing more than choppy, ineffi cient the need for dynamic muscle stability – a and skill-less motion, which is why vital component of safe exercise and most research examining the effects Substantial research, including that of functional, everyday living. of unbalanced training on motor skills Butler and associates2, who determined Richard Mattis of Pipedreems, actually demonstrates an inhibition of that equilibrium may be enhanced distributor of The Vew-Do Balance skill, not an improvement.” through muscle strength development, Board, also advocates the use of both Hope agrees: “Exercise involving leads me to think it’s illogical to use core balance and whole structure balance static balance control on an unstable an unstable surface designed for static as an exercise protocol. “Used together, surface is fi ne for developing core balance control where dynamic balance they can enhance both neuromuscular balance. However, in most instances, re- control on a stable surface is required.” activity and muscle force and power,” he establishing equilibrium requires adequate On the next page, we look at how says, adding that good neuromuscular power applied to a stable surface – for and why balance training should be communication – synergy between the example, if you’re recovering a trip. used with different member groups.
2 Brain Research, V.1242, P. 244-251, 2008. ‘Muscle weakness impairs the proprioceptive control of human standing’, Butler et al may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 65 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital balance training TAILORED WORKOUTS “Whatever the gym member’s requirements, I’d recommend a balance test at the Already installed in many gyms assessment stage,” says Hope. “Balance training should be incorporated into all around the UK, Balancemaster exercisers’ workouts. However, different types of member will require different will revolutionise the way your clients workout. types and intensities of balance training.” Gain with no pain! Its what’s proving so popular with the older gym member the deconditioned gym member gym users. BalanceMaster can As the number of British pensioners “Balance should be taught before achieve remarkable increases, many fitness chains are embarking on any fitness programme, results with very little effort. targeting the ‘grey market’ with as well as being developed during exercise plans designed to improve regular training,” says Pipedreems’ strength and balance. For example, in Richard Mattis. NEW addition to conventional cardiovascular For deconditioned exercisers, exercise for the over-55s, LA Fitness traditional cardio and resistance instructors also recommend low equipment could be beyond their impact aerobics classes to boost initial capabilities, in terms of both general body equilibrium, and gentle fi tness and lower limb strength and free weights to improve muscle power. For these members, an initial strength – and subsequently balance. thorough warm-up period with Charity Help The Aged says that stretching exercises, followed by yoga, pilates and t’ai chi can develop some introductory work using hand strength, fl exibility and proprioception, weights that focuses on posture, will and that attending professionally-run help improve mobility and strength. balance classes designed for older Movements such as back extensions, people is one of the most effective to work on strengthening the back’s ways to reduce the risk of falling. erector muscles, and side bends to The National Service Framework for strengthen the abdominal obliques, Older People also acknowledges the are especially useful for posture. “Having thoroughly investigated role of specifi c exercise in preventing The addition of low-impact aerobic the merits and performance of the BalanceMaster™, DC Leisure falls in older people, says Dr Dawn training using suitable mechanised gym is committed to installing these Skelton of the research consortium equipment, for example, walking on a innovative machines into major ‘HealthQWest’ at Glasgow Caledonian treadmill (if balance is adequate), will refurbishment projects within University. “The Framework identifi es enhance general fi tness and also help our portfolio.” the need to fi nd programmes of maintain bone strength. For purposes Lisa Taylor, Group Fitness Manager, D.C.Leisure suitable activities that have balance of equilibrium, it is important to improvement at their core, but that develop through exercise a synergy also address poor power and lower between the central nervous system, limb asymmetry,” Skelton says. “In muscles, tendons and joints. particular, exercises that improve lower limb strength and power can the fit, balanced gym member contribute to better stability.” The fit gym member is the ideal Hope adds that balance training can candidate for targeted work to have both physical and mental benefi ts improve structural body balance. for older exercisers. “By making them Colin Gilbert, healthy living more stable, it not only helps prevent development officer at Cathall Leisure falls, but also allows them to maintain Centre in London, says that, for fitter independence and a more active gym members and athletes working at lifestyle,” he explains. a high level of training, tailored exercise that improves body awareness and stability is especially important. “The fit, balanced gym member may have a higher chance of Increases range of movement injury than other members, due to the Improves dynamic muscle stability level and amount of work they’re Builds strength and power doing, so anything that increases Enhances spacial awareness muscle force capacity will provide a Reduces the risk of injury form of injury prevention,” he says. Designed for high use with very little maintenance, BalanceMaster “Balance work and lower limb will without doubt increase your stretching exercises provide an gym’s popularity and your income! increase in range of a person’s motion, which can help maximise a Core training must be complemented For a brochure or for fi tness programme,” adds Hope. more information call by whole body balance training PICTURE: WWW.ISTOCK.COM/ROBERT LERICH WWW.ISTOCK.COM/ROBERT PICTURE: 01293 787075 www.balancemaster.co.uk may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 fi tness-kit.net Movement for LifeTM
Denise adds 16 kph to her serve. Your club adds £70,792 to The website, email and its bottom line. search engine for fi tness buyers
Balanced Body® Pilates t Innovative group programming t Onsite instructor training Visit fi tness-kit.net for the latest t A trusted partner news about products and For functional training at its best, services for the fi tness industry call 00-800-7220-0008 or visit www.pilates.com. To advertise your product and reach over 8,000 fi tness professionals a month call now on +44 (0)1462 431385 or email fi [email protected]
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 67 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital product round-up
BALANCE TRAINING PRODUCTS
The BOSU (Both Sides Utilised) Balance Trainer is T-BOW a balance, core stability and proprioception device that can be used dome- or platform-side up. The T-BOW is a lightweight, curved fi tness kit keywords: physical company plastic board for use in fitness routines, exercise and therapy. Its manufacturers claim the product helps users increase balance, strength and flexibility – T-BOW’s studies at Zurich University showed that, with regular use, people with low fitness levels experienced a 30 per cent improvement in balance and a 20–95 per cent increase in dynamic strength. fi tness-kit keyword: instyle
VEW-DO BOARD BALANCEMASTER Vew-Do Boards from Pipedreems The BalanceMaster mechanised lower limb allow users to incorporate balance exerciser has a number of user benefits, including with effective torso strength training; better joint mobility, improved muscle stability for recommended exercises include squats, the lower limb and pelvic regions, and enhanced knee dips and push-ups. The company’s latest proprioception. Regular users consistently gain model, the Zone Pro Complete, offers three improved balance and joint mobility. The machine different rocking movements in one board. features programmable direction changes designed Meanwhile, the Indy, Sk8, Flow, Zone Pro to challenge balance, including plantarflexion and Complete and Zippy models can be adapted dorsiflexion of the ankle joints and simultaneous as plyometric exercise equipment, offering rotation of the hips. BalanceMaster exercises are core training to improve balance and very simple; the greater the angle of the footplate, co-ordination. A range of Vew-Do plyometric the greater the stretch. training exercises have also been developed Vew-Do Combines fi tness-kit keyword: balancemaster for sport-specific training. balance and strength fi tness-kit keyword: pipedreems
RBK CORE BOARD FIT BALL The RBK Core Board from Escape Fitness The Fit Ball from ProActive Health is the is designed to improve tone and function of world’s leading brand of stability ball, and the core muscles through its ability to tilt, comes in three sizes: 55cm, 65cm and 75cm. twist and recoil against the body’s The burst-resistant balls are suitable for a movements. Suitable for beginners and range of users, including sports professionals advanced users, the product features taking part in rigorous training sessions. Fit include a non-slip surface, two adjustable Balls aim to improve the levels of stability, and eight individual strength of the users’ positions for RBK Core/Stabiliser Tubes, abdominals and lower back, supplied separately. Escape Fitness also also improving offers a RBK Core Board DVD. proprioception and fi tness-kit keywords: escape fi tness flexibility. fi tness-kit keywords: proactive health RBK Core Board Aids kathy carter tone and function [email protected]
68 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital 3 Peaks Challenge 25-26 July 2009
24 Peaks Challenge 15-16 August 2009
Swap your laptops for the hill tops Climb the 3 highest mountains in the UK in our infamous 3 Peaks Challenge or take on 24 mountains in the stunning Lake District – the choice is yours.
To find out more call Natalie or Lucy on 0844 412 2877 or email [email protected]
The British Red Cross Society, incorporated by Royal Charter 1908, is a charity registered in England and Wales (220949) and Scotland (SC037738) Photo: Scott Ferguson
redcross.org.uk/events Everyone welcome
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 69 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital club overhaul
IMPROVEMENTS AT THE CLUB s Refurbished male and female INNER changing rooms, plus new family and group changing areas s A free weight area that is 30 per cent larger SPACE s Cardio zone now twice the size, with the addition of a mezzanine s Two new group exercise studios s Purpose-built group cycling studio Suzie Joyce reports on the self-funded £2.7m refurbishment that s New air conditioning systems s Additional audio-visual was recently completed at London’s Central YMCA Club
entral YMCA Club, located programmable spaces,” says Central treatment rooms and a dedicated beauty on Great Russell Street in the YMCA’s facilities manager Alun Wood. room were created, where members C heart of London’s West End, “An overcrowded cardio zone and a and non-members alike can enjoy a is often fondly referred to as disproportionately small free weights range of therapies. ‘the tardis’ by members and staff alike studio made availability of machines a The project also involved the for, like Doctor Who’s famous ship, the real problem, particularly at peak times, complete revamp of the male and female deceptively small entrance leads into a while issues with layout restricted access changing areas. Previously cramped, cavernous space. for members with disabilities.” dingy spaces were transformed, with Built on several levels and with a chic opaque glass showers, modern large, open central area, the building a new level tiling, illuminating lighting and vibrant red was originally designed in the 1970s, The answers came through an innovative accents used to create a more pleasant with expansive spaces for gymnastics, design that created more than 750sq m changing experience. Again, space had basketball and drill hall activities. (8,073sq ft) of more effective, usable been a problem, so each changing room Piecemeal improvements were space for all activities. was extended from 120sq m (1,292sq ft) instigated over the years, as fi nances In the cardio zone, 150sq m (1,615sq to 250sq m (2,690sq ft). Plasma screen permitted, but the club was struggling to ft) of new fl oor space was created TVs, plus hair straighteners in the ladies, meet the increasingly diverse demands through the addition of a mezzanine, added the fi nishing touch. of an ever-growing membership base. allowing a new range of Technogym With the club working to secure IFI So, in April 2007, the club embarked on a Excite and Kinesis One to be installed, in accreditation, both changing rooms were self-funded £2.7m refi t. Members’ views, addition to Precor treadmills. made accessible, with dedicated disabled sought in the annual surveys of 2005 and Meanwhile, the club’s two squash changing and shower rooms, plus a lift 2006, were factored into the decisions courts were sacrifi ced to make way for to enable disabled users to reach the that were made while sourcing solutions new facilities, as squash had declined in swimming pool. New family and group to the club’s issues. popularity. Indeed, one of the courts change areas have also been added. There was certainly no lack of space, was already being used as a makeshift Wood adds: “We’re also very aware but much of it was poorly used or group cycling area, but this was far from of our environmental impact as an empty. The challenge for architects ideal for such a popular class. The courts organisation, so the energy effi ciency Pozzoni was to work out how best to were transformed to house two new of the building has been enhanced with make use of the vast area and transform exercise studios on the upper level and the addition of sensor taps, push-button the facility into a modern gym, capable a free weights area below. A new cycling showers, motion-sensor lighting, and of meeting the fi tness needs of more studio has also been added, with 25 independent air conditioning with than 6,000 members, while retaining the Keiser bikes plus funky colour-change temperature-sensitive controls to deliver sense of space and ‘wow factor’ of the lighting and linked audio equipment comfortable internal environments.” main sports hall area. installed by AB Audio Visual. As an integral component of Central “We identifi ed a need for increased The club’s treatment area was also YMCA, the club also runs a signifi cant capacity in our changing areas and in need of a facelift, so three new number of community programmes,
WHO WAS INVOLVED? Architects/designers: Pozzoni Main contractors: ISG Contracts management: Davis Langdon Equipment suppliers: s Technogym (CV/resistance) s Keiser (studio bikes) s AB Audio Visual (AV systems)
Group cycling: A new Keiser-equipped facility (left) features colour-change lighting and audio equipment – a far cry from classes in the old squash court (above)
70 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital CENTRAL YMCA – THE CHARITY entral YMCA is the leading C activity for health charity. Its aim is to see a world where all individuals have the opportunity to live healthy lives in body, mind and spirit, and it seeks to change health attitudes through advocacy, education and direct delivery. Central YMCA Club plays a front- The large sports hall is now overlooked by a new mezzanine fl oor (top and above line role in achieving this vision. right). Morethanjustagym.co.uk kept members informed of progress (above left) working with young people, older adults, Phil Jessop, construction director at Minister for Sport Gerry Sutcliffe, GP referral and a plethora of community ISG, which completed the building work dignitaries, members and around 200 groups based in central London. As on the project, says: “It’s immensely readers of Time Out magazine. The Wood explains: “The expansion will satisfying to have successfully delivered evening featured classes inspired by help these programmes, not just a high quality fi t-out within the world’s different eras, from the dance-based through physical space, but in allowing oldest YMCA. The building presented classes of the 1960s to 21st century us to recruit more core members, thus our site team with a complex range of cardio-kick, salsacise and tribal aerobics. generating the required revenue to logistical issues, and operating within “We’re immensely pleased with the subsidise our community work.” a busy, live environment proved a results so far, but we won’t be standing highly challenging undertaking. We still. The installation of a poolside sauna watch this space were able to minimise disruption and and steamroom to enhance our holistic The construction phase began in April enable continuous use of the facilities health offering is already in the design 2008 and ended in March 2009, with the by carefully phasing the works, and I’m phase for completion in May,” says Barry facility kept open throughout the entire confi dent that the new amenities will Cronin, executive director of the club. refurbishment. Regular updates posted prove highly popular with members.” “Our longer-term objective over the around the club on posters and TV The completion of the refurbishment coming years will be to upgrade the screens, and on a dedicated website was marked with a special ‘Legwarmers other 70 per cent of the club to a similar www.morethanjustagym.co.uk, ensured and Lycra’ event in March. A celebration exemplary standard.” members knew exactly when and how of fi tness through the ages, the event was their workouts would be disrupted, attended by the club’s oldest member, suzie joyce resulting in very few complaints. 76-year-old Angelo Monti, as well as [email protected] may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 71 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital new technology FITNESS GADGETS
s technology continues to Mark Edmonds rounds up The Finis Lap Track can develop at an ever-quickening monitor swimmers’ some of the fitness-related rate, gadgets are becoming split times, laps swum gadgets on the market, and increasingly prevalent in and calories burned Agyms and health clubs up and down assesses their value for the the country – and even further afield, operators that invest in them with fitness advice available online and Fitness downloadable on to portable music and professionals video players as well as mobile phones. simply log on We take a look at some of the latest to the site and products and find out what benefits they create bespoke workout can bring to operators. programmes, clicking and dragging the exercises they want into pumpone a ‘new workout’ folder. The workouts PumpOne has introduced the youPump are then downloaded from the PumpOne product, which is claimed to be the store on to a trainer’s iPod, iPhone or world’s largest exercise library for use portable video player, effectively creating by personal trainers and health clubs. It a hand-held personal trainer. offers more than 3,000 exercise images These workouts can then be used with and demonstrations covering disciplines personal training clients, or indeed sold from strength training to yoga. to members who want to have workouts to follow on their own iPod. This package can be bought on a monthly or annual subscription basis, and is designed to help health clubs boost their personal training revenue. Chains can create their own custom- branded store, where members can buy workouts that have been developed for them. Individual stores can also be set up for each personal trainer. healthclubtv HealthClubTV is a website that offers users personalised workouts as well as advice, support and motivation via mobile phone and the internet, allowing them to work out when they want, how they want and whenever they want. It also provides gyms with the tools to help members make the most of their time at the facility. Using an on-site interactive touch screen kiosk, personal trainers can give their members tailored advice and instruction. Members then download this information on to a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) and take it with them to work out. This digital personal trainer ensures members work out in the correct way, lowering the risk of injury as well as keeping them interested and motivated. Meal plans can also be constructed, giving an added nutritional aspect. PumpOne workouts can be sold The kiosk is constantly updated with to members and downloaded to new information and is designed to their iPods, with videos to show take up minimal space and require very how to execute each exercise little maintenance.
72 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Activio is designed to motivate members to push themselves harder when they work out
activio The Activio Fitness System is a management solution for group training that tracks participants’ heart rates and displays them anonymously on a communal screen to motivate the class. Before starting, each member logs on to a touch screen to register their heart rate chest belt and is given a number that correlates with their intensity reading shown on the screen. The latest development sees the integration of a new Feedback Solution: data is sent to each member’s web- based training diary, allowing sessions to be recorded so individual training can be assessed, goals set and progress tracked. Linking in to this, the system can now monitor the heart rates of up to 300 members at any one time, with the receiving unit located up to 300m away. as to help tell apart times swum using It is therefore suitable for members all different strokes. around the club, irrespective of what Gyms and health clubs can use the activity they are doing, with data feeding tool to motivate swimmers, encouraging back to their personal web page. them to continually push themselves, as the system calculates average lap times finis lap track on a continual lap-by-lap basis. While treadmills and bikes have been able to measure a user’s efforts for pocket pt years, swimmers have not enjoyed the Pocket PT is an online training system Pocket PT offers fi tness programmes same treatment – until now. The Finis that clubs can offer their members as a that can be downloaded onto any Lap Track – an underwater lap counter way of improving membership retention. video-enabled pocket device and timer – keeps track of split times, Programmes can be downloaded to calories burned and the number of laps video-enabled mobile phones, as well as completed (up to 50 at a time). any pocket video device. clubs, offering multi-media tutorials, The user inputs their weight, sets the The system is intended to drive sales articles and workshops in exercise distance of a pool ‘lap’ – two lengths – of personal training, as all members using physiology, sports science, rehabilitation and attaches the device to the pool wall the system receive regular support and and specialist training programmes. via two suction pads. Laps are registered programme updates that help to sell It also offers a library of more than by tapping the face of the Lap Track personal training. Members who say they 1,500 exercises, searchable by body part each time a lap is fi nished. Users can can’t afford training can be targeted later and client ability. This information can also input which stroke they’re doing in their membership, after a relationship be collated into an exercise programme, to ensure that data, such as calories has been built through the online system. which can be emailed directly to clients burned, is as accurate as possible, as well Membership to the club’s online via any mobile device or computer. training service can be sold both online Personal trainers stuck for ideas can and in the club. For the club, this means make use of the create-a-programme that sales can be generated anywhere its facility, whereby they enter an ability level marketing reaches, as opposed to only for a client, together with the type of touching local businesses and residents. equipment or exercise needed. The site In addition, as Pocket PT is integrated then generates suggested programmes into the club operations, online and exercises suitable for that session. members who live locally can be sold The site also has an extensive library club membership through the system. of pre-made programmes covering a variety of common client requests, such ptonthenet.com as programmes to improve fl exibility. PTontheNet allows instructors to PTontheNet is an online educational customise workout programmes resource from Fitpro for personal mark edmonds and email them directly to clients trainers, fitness professionals and health [email protected] may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 73 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital supplier profi le
COMPANY BY NUMBERS
Global head office: Fresno, California, US UK head office: Gloucestershire The MD of Keiser UK talks to Regional head offices: Holland and Australia, plus many Kate Cracknell about customer distributors in Europe, Asia and care, engineering innovation, and Australasia – we work in more than 40 countries throughout Europe, catering for everyone from elite Asia, the Americas, Australia and sportspeople to the grey market New Zealand Number of employees: 15 in the UK, more than 100 in the US Most popular products: M3 Indoor Cycle and Infinity range of tim colston pneumatic-based cable machines
When was the – one of the first indoor cycles, when free as possible, for example – and company founded? group exercise was still in its infancy. creating robust, high-quality products, Keiser Corporation, Keiser UK’s parent Prior to that I was sales director for building up to a specification rather company, was set up in 1978 by designer All in Fitness, which distributed Keiser than down to a price and not and engineer Dennis Keiser and his equipment in the UK. In total, I’ve been compromising on the fundamentals. brother Randy. Keiser Corporation involved with Keiser for 15 years. Safety and user-friendliness are also remains a privately-owned company. key: there’s no impact on the joints Dennis has been working in the fitness What’s the with our pneumatic-based Air range, so industry since 1973, when he was hired company philosophy? any user can enjoy the benefits without as an engineer to design Universal’s At Keiser UK, we believe in delivering on jarring, and it’s possible to increase first variable resistance machine. our promises. By this, I don’t just mean the weight by increments of one tenth I was invited by Dennis Keiser to delivering the right equipment at the of a kilo at the touch of a button. set up Keiser UK as a wholly-owned right time, although this is important. Last but by no means least, there’s subsidiary of Keiser Corporation, which I’m also talking about our commitment engineering innovation and thinking out I did in 2001. We started out with the to customer-focused solutions with of the box. Dennis Keiser, our founder Air Circuit and with Power Pacer bikes education at the core, as well as a and president, is a renowned engineer strong emphasis on customer support; who leads from the front. The concept we’re geared towards ongoing support of pneumatics – which has only recently Prêt a porter Keiser’s new rather than purely focusing on sales. begun to be used, highly successfully, M5 Strider group elliptical is Everyone who works at Keiser by premiership football clubs – was the size of a studio bike is driven to exceed our customers’ developed by Keiser in the late 1970s. expectations. As MD, I also take a The company really does lead the personal interest in all parts of the way when it comes to innovation. customer experience, and I strongly believe in a work hard, play hard ethic. Why do professional sports It’s about developing relationships clubs buy Keiser Air? and partnerships for the future. Elite athletes and sports people recognise that the key component for What’s the focus of success in sport is the development Keiser’s R&D? of power (power = force x velocity). Problem-solving for operators and To be powerful, you have to be strong owners of clubs – our equipment and fast – strength alone does not is designed to be as maintenance- make you powerful. Traditional weight
1977: Dennis Keiser applies 1985: Keiser Air 300 1988: Keiser forms a research 1994: Keiser receives a grant for a patent for pneumatic range of pneumatic-based alliance to look at the effects from NASA to design an KEY strength training equipment resistance equipment of exercise on ageing exercise machine for possible 1978: Keiser Corporation is developed 1988: Keiser hires Randy use in the Space Station DATES was established Huntington, who worked with Olympic athletes Mike Powell and Willie Banks
74 Read Health Club Management online may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital Best sellers are the M3 studio bike (above) and Infinity pneumatic range. The Infinity Functional Trainer (right) allows for training of sport-specific movements stack machines cannot be accelerated quickly because of inertia, meaning they can provide the resistance but not the speed component to develop power. We can deliver both elements via our Keiser Air pneumatic-based equipment. Keiser Air allows sportspeople to ‘move resistance’ at any speed and accurately replicate what they do on the field. This enables them to develop power specific to the movements they use in their sport, which can then be harnessed when they are playing; sport is all about movement and power when throwing, jumping, hitting, tackling, kicking etc. The advanced electronics on our Air machines also enable conditioning coaches to measure precisely the power output of each athlete and monitor this over time. This gives a true progression of their achievements and aids in the appropriate development of their key goals. adult. We all need power to perform quickly realised the application of this the activities of daily living: carrying range for all users, whatever their age or Is the equipment suitable suitcases when we go on holiday, walking ability: it’s non-intimidating, easy on the for ‘normal’ exercisers too? up stairs, picking up our young children. joints, and effective and simple to use Power is key to performance whether Although our Air equipment was initially for everyone, from the first-time gym you’re an elite athlete or an older engineered for athletes, the company user to those in rehab and older adults.
1996: Keiser receives the 1999: Launch of The Keiser 2000: Launch of the Keiser 2004: Keiser Air 300 2005: Launch of the M3 Raymond Cizek service award Institute on Aging, to Rear Wheel Drive Bike Runner and Keiser Rack Indoor Cycle from the Council on Aging and promote and disseminate 2001: Launch of the Series launched, using 2009: Launch of the elliptical Adult Development research on ageing Infinity Series of pneumatic- pneumatics and focusing on M5 Strider 1996: Launch of the Keiser based equipment the athletic market Power Pacer, a fixed gear bike for indoor cycling classes
may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 75 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital supplier profi le
WHO’S WHO?
Dennis Keiser: President, Keiser Corporation Tim Colston: MD, Keiser UK Alastair Watson: Vice president Europe & Africa sales and marketing, Keiser Corporation Steve Newell: National sales manager, Keiser UK Vicki Galvin: UK training manager
Best of both worlds The M3 has been designed to provide a smooth ride for the user, and to be as maintenance- free as possible for the operator
We’ve long been established as Rugby Union, Gloucester, Bath, gym floor. It’s highly engineered, with a a leader in equipment for older Ospreys, Scarlets and The Blues to super smooth resistance system offering exercisers, backed up by education and name but a few; the National Tennis muscle and joint protection for the user. research into this sector. In the last Centre; Surrey County Cricket; and Like the M3, our latest studio bike, it’s five years, our extensive investment Wentworth Golf & Country Club. We been designed with operators in mind. in research and development has also also work in the field of rehabilitation, Features include a low-maintenance allowed us to become one of the via physiotherapists and medical design, unmatchable sweat resistance, leading suppliers of equipment to the establishments including BUPA. small footprint, intuitive computer, elite level sports market. It stands to portability, comprehensive education reason that, if we can cater for two What’s Keiser’s USP? and marketing programmes, smooth such diverse sectors, we can also meet As a comparatively small company, magnetic resistance and whisper quiet the needs of everyone in between. and one owned by the chief designer ride. It also consumes no energy, so and engineer, we can react and be has excellent ‘green’ credentials. Who are your clients? dynamic, whether that’s in terms of We have a very diverse, very high R&D or tailoring for our customers. What are your aims for quality client base. We work with local We’re big enough to compete and to the business over the next authorities, independent operators and deliver on our promises, but small 12 months and beyond? leading health club chains such as David enough to provide our customers To consolidate our position, expand Lloyd Leisure, Esporta, Greenwich with truly bespoke partnerships on into new markets, spread the word Leisure and DC Leisure. We also work a one-to-one basis, and to avoid about our exceptional products with top professional sports clubs: 14 getting bogged down in bureaucracy. and continue to provide excellent Premiership football clubs including support to our customers at every Manchester United, Everton and What are you most excited stage of their experience. Chelsea; rugby clubs such as the Welsh about at the moment? For the UK, 2009 will be a year Our professional sport customers of change. We’ll move into new, winning trophies. We’re now at larger premises in preparation for FAVOURITES the business end of the rugby and our next phase of development – via football season and I love to see the M5, as well as building on our Book: Sports biographies my customers being successful. success of recent years with the M3 Film: Jungle Book and Air ranges. We’ve also recently Music: Springsteen What are your most recent employed two new members of staff: Workout: Playing rugby and product innovations? a national sales manager to look at M5 Striding Operators need new group exercise new markets for expansion, and a Place: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff concepts to reinvigorate their studio UK education manager to develop Food: Guinness and gym timetables and aid member and enhance Keiser group exercise Favourite sporting moment: retention, and our newest product is courses and strength programmes. Scoring tries for my club, Dursley the M5 Strider, a group training elliptical. RFC... at my age, they’re getting rare It’s small and portable, the size of a kate cracknell studio cycle, but can also be used on the [email protected]
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HEALTH lightweights CLUB SPA
NEW SPA THERAPIES THAT ARE A REAL GEM
Incorporating jewels into the therapies that you offer is a gem of an idea to generate interest in your spa treatment menu. And two international spa operators have done just this. Last July, the Amara spa in Dubai’s Park Hyatt hotel introduced rituals based on the jewels of Arabia, which feature fi ne mists of pure gold, for cell rejuvenation, or silver, to support immunity. A massage is then given using oils infused with diamonds, emeralds, rubies or sapphires. Then in Shanghai, CHI, the Spa at Pudong Shangri-La, unveiled its Jade Jewel Facial. In the facial, which has been inspired by ancient Chinese and traditional Himalayan principles, a customised CHI jade piece is employed to massage the face, along with a bioactive treatment ingredient – golden caviar. This substance is said to activate cell metabolism and skin microcirculation to reduce the signs of ageing.
BOLLYWOOD Shilpa Shetty, the Bollywood star who became famous in the UK when © STAR TO LAUNCH she won Celebrity Big Brother in 2007, PHOTOGRAPHER: ANDREARAN is set to launch a chain of medi-spas MEDI-SPAS in Mumbai, India. According to news reports, the actress will be opening the spas in partnership with Kiran Bawa, who already owns and operates a spa in India. The facilities will reportedly ❘ offer the services of doctors and skin AGENCY:DREAMSTIME.COM specialists, administering everything from acne remedies to Botox. The plan is to launch the fi rst FACES FED WITH FOOD- spa at a fi ve-star hotel in Mumbai. If successful, the pair may consider BASED SKINCARE rolling out the spas across India. Skincare products that utilise extracts of superfoods to treat, heal and pamper the skin are growing in popularity. feet fi rst into trail treatment EmerginC, a US cosmeceutical line, already uses fruit and plant extracts such as those from Squelching through mud and wading Described as a “playground for the pomegranate and apple. The latest ingredient it’s through water may not be the sort of feet”, the 1,000m nature trail consists introduced is licorice. treatments you’d expect to be offered as of a variety of surfaces – such as timber, Licorice root has been incorporated into the a way of boosting your health and vitality. mulch, pebbles, wood and mud – emerginC multi-vitamin and retinol serum to However, Britain’s fi rst and only followed by a brook, footbath, rocks, hydrate the skin, diminish the appearance of barefoot park, which opened at soft grass and soil. broken capillaries and soothe weathered skin. Trentham Estate in Staffordshire in The idea is to walk barefoot over the The company has also re-formulated all of its April 2008, is proving a popular choice trail, with the mix of terrains stimulating products so they’re free of parabens – chemical for children and families and may be the feet as well as the cardiovascular preservatives often used in skincare products – as something that health clubs with spas system, helping to regulate blood well as synthetic dyes and fragrances. could adapt to give them a USP. pressure and improve circulation. may 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Health Club Management online 83 healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital VARIO, THE RIGHT MOVEMENT FOR YOUR CUSTOMERS.
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