LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
FOLLOW TOTY
Lindsay Vastola | lindsay@rbpub.com
Mindy Mylrea | www.mindymylrea.com
Are you an innovator, influencer or a laggard? While interviewing Derek Mikulski, inventor of the ActivMotion Bar, he shared that one of his most pivotal learning experiences was understanding the “innovation model of acceptance.” Put simply, this concept demonstrates how new technology, products and even ideas and methodology are progressively accepted, starting with innovators, early adopters, the early majority, the late majority and, finally, by the laggards. Had Derek not understood consumer psychology and behavior when he launched his product, it could have very well cost him his company. This made me think about how this concept applies to fitness professionals. Take for example, suspension training; until you understood and accepted the concept, the majority of your clients would likely have remained skeptical and apprehensive (the late majority or laggards). We should be the early adopters our clients trust, with greater influence than celebrities or media. We must embrace this role with a great sense of responsibility; because of the omnipotent power of the media, it will take relentless hard work. It is imperative to continually learn the science of fitness and then integrate safe and science-based applications of these “new” modalities or concepts only if it makes sense for your clients and is authentic to you. Consumers of fitness (whether it be us or the general public) are constantly inundated with new products, new ideas and new training methods. This is perhaps why words like “gimmick” and “fad” are synonymous with many fitness trends. We have the opportunity to have an even greater influence on those we serve by educating while still offering fresh, innovative ways to be fit. As you browse through our 2015 Buyer’s Guide and read our features focused on the next-level opportunities for your career, my hope is that you have a fresh perspective on the impact you have to inspire your clients while integrating some of the newest innovations. A few highlights in this issue include: }
Avoid miscalculating your business costs before it’s too late. Cabel McElderry uncovers the real costs of business to plan for in our Fitness Business 101 special series.
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Finding the right price for services is always a sticky point for most fitness professionals. Elsbeth Vaino shares her proven strategies.
Keep innovating and inspiring,
Follow the lead in group fitness 2015 PFP Trainer of the Year Mindy Mylrea shares with us her insight on lessons and opportunities in an ever-evolving industry.
What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your business? The most valuable lesson I have learned is actually two-fold. First, always remaining consistent in every way is what I live by; anyone who hires me knows that I will always bring my absolute best. Second, I appreciate every opportunity that comes my way. I never take anything for granted and thank my lucky stars every minute for being able to do what I do.
Where do you think most fitness professionals miss the mark when it comes to building a successful business? Nothing comes without 100% effort. Fitness professionals need to put in the work without thinking that instant reward is a given. Hard work will pay off but not without the work.
What career opportunities do you see emerging for fitness professionals? Small group training continues to be a growing opportunity. Both group exercise instructors and personal trainers can benefit from this emerging trend as 80% of health club members can afford small group, whereas only 20% of members can afford personal training. The industry is gravitating more toward programs that can measure and show results; small group training that offers fitness, body assessments and accountability is where the trend continues to strengthen.
Trainer of the
Year 2016
SPRING 2015 | WWW.FIT-PRO.COM | 5