Workout April 2018

April 2018

The UK’s No 1 fitness industry magazine

100 gyms to open in new partnership

By Christina Eccles

UFC GYM has announced an exclusive 10-year partnership with TD Lifestyle plc to open more than 100 locations throughout the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

UFC GYM is the first major brand extension of the world’s premier MMA organisation, UFC, with programming developed through exclusive access to the training regimes of internationally-acclaimed UFC athletes.

With three club formats on offer – Signature, Core and Class – members will benefit from a full-range of functional fitness classes, group and private MMA training, group fitness, personal and group dynamic performance-based training and MMA youth programming.

UFC GYM president Adam Sedlack said: “We are thrilled to announce this exclusive partnership and expand UFC GYM’s global footprint throughout Europe. This historic partnership serves as a milestone and an opportunity for both UFC and UFC GYM brands, as the UK and Ireland markets host a significant population of MMA fans and fitness enthusiasts.

“It’s an honour for UFC GYM to bring its revolutionary style of fitness to new regions and continually grow our Train Different philosophy.”

Membership will also include unlimited access to UFC’s worldfamous Octagon and signature classes such as Daily Ultimate Training, Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, boxing and mixed martial arts conditioning, as well as popular group fitness classes.

Former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping added: “UFC GYMs are an amazing way for individuals and families to work out and get in shape together. We have a lot of different training programs suitable for all ages and we’re excited to finally bring our unique brand of fitness to the UK and Ireland.”

Since debuting in 2009, UFC GYM has opened more than 150 locations in countries including the United States, Australia, Mexico and the United Arab Emirates.

TD Llfestyle director Joe Long added: “We’ve been working for a couple of years to bring UFC GYM to England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.

We’ve negotiated an unprecedented partnership to launch all three club formats and our UFC GYM locations will be very different compared to anything currently being offered in the UK. UFC GYM’s possess a versatile fitness platform while offering the highest calibre training facilities within an aspirational and high energy environment.”

No 295 £3

Revamp and new venue for awards

Actress and Strictly Come Dancing Star Gemma Atkinson was among the special guests at the launch of a new class at David Lloyd Trafford Park in Manchester. Boutique-style HIIT class Blaze offers a state of the art training concept which involves cardio, strength, boxing and mixed martial arts in a new futuristic studio. Since the launch, Blaze is already proving popular with members ranging from complete beginners to regular class attendees, according to club manager Jake French. For full story see page 24

NOMINATIONS are flooding in for this year’s National Fitness Awards, which have been revamped with new categories and a new venue for 2018.

The event, organised by Script Events in partnership with Workout and headline sponsor ServiceSport, is now in its ninth year and recognises excellence throughout the fitness industry.

New categories include Boutique Facility of the Year and Education Facility of the Year; rewarding clubs in these sectors which are going the extra mile.

An individual who is making his or her mark on the industry will also be recognised with the Outstanding Achievement award. The NFAs are free to enter and nominations are open now via the website www.nationalfitnessawards. co.uk Clubs have until July 30 to enter. A shortlist will be drawn up in each category and a site visit will take place for the next phase of the judging.

Winners will be announced at a glittering end-of-year party on December 7 at Aintree Racecourse in Liverpool.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Yoga Latte is served ... with homemade cakes A FORWARD thinking instructor is showing how yoga can suit a range of needs; teaching anyone from runners who want to improve their overall fitness to people living with health conditions.

Lucy Kenyon teaches classes in and around the Barnsley area; working in gyms including The Club at Burntwood Court and DW Fitness, as well as delivering smaller sessions and workshops in her own homebased studio.

Lucy first discovered yoga after she was diagnosed with lupus and researching suitable ways to get back into exercise. After falling in love with it, she trained to become a teacher through the British Wheel of Yoga – a decision which opened up a whole new career for her. She said: “When I felt better, I started to do some exercises, such as Tai Chi and swimming, and then yoga. I really got into it and enjoyed it.”

After becoming qualified, Lucy found her classes were really taking off and she now teaches about 20 each week, including one for people living with and beyond cancer.

To meet the needs of participants, these sessions are more gentle than Lucy’s other classes, with a focus on breathing and longer periods of relaxation.

She added: “When I was coming back to exercise, something I found really tricky was that there wasn’t much out there that was specific [to my needs]. I did Tai Chi because that

was the gentlest thing I could find.

“Because I’ve been ill, I can relate to that side of things. I know how hard it was – and still is – but yoga helps me manage my condition.”

Lucy also holds more in depth workshops for those who want to enjoy longer sessions and following a successful event in February, she already has three more of her popular ‘Yoga Latte’ sessions – three hours of yoga and relaxation in a local church hall, plus a break for coffee and homemade cakes – planned in for later in the year. She added: “When I first started Yoga Latte, I had about six people but now it’s 30 plus – and I usually get some really good feedback from them.”

One of Lucy’s latest projects involves going into workplaces to deliver lunchtime classes to employees – something she thinks will become more popular as people look to take time out from their busy lives. She’s also noticed an increase in men attending her classes, with some participants now using yoga as a way to complement other forms of training.

She added: “Yoga is becoming popular because everyone is so busy.

At Burntwood, there is a big running community and my classes are also becoming more popular with men.

“People are realising they are not getting as good as they can be with their running and it’s because they’re not stretching out properly, so they’re coming to yoga.”

At Script Media, we try to get things right but occasionally, we make mistakes. If you have a complaint about a story featured in our magazine or on our website, please, in the first instance, contact us by email: ce@scriptmedia.co.uk We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice as demanded by the Independent Press Standards Organisation. For details on the code and what to do should you be unsatisfied with the way we handle your complaint, please visit www.ipso.co.uk

One of Lucy’s Yoga Latte workshops.

Centre makes a splash with top rating for second time

TONBRIDGE Swimming Pool has celebrated retaining its ranking as one of the country’s top performing centres.

The centre, which is operated by tmactive on behalf of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council, passed the toughest assessment offered by Sport England’s national quality scheme, Quest, to be rated ‘outstanding’ for a second time.

It is one of only 16 centres nationally to achieve this award along with Larkfield Leisure Centre, also operated by tmactive.

Chief executive of tmactive Martin Guyton said: “This is a truly excellent achievement and all credit goes to Gary Littlejohn and his team at the centre for all of their hard work in ensuring that Tonbridge Swimming Pool is one of the best performing centres in the country.”

The Quest Stretch plaque was unveiled by Alan Nicholl, chairman of Tonbridge and Malling Leisure Trust (tmactive), coun Maria Heslop, Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council’s cabinet member for community services, and Tonbridge Swimming Pool’s general manager Gary Littlejohn.

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UK FITNESS SCENE

5

New state-of-the-art gym’s journey from travel warehouse

By Christina Eccles

A TRAVEL warehouse in Durham has been successfully transformed into a state-of-the-art gym; complete with four studios and an on-site healthy eating cafe.

Four experienced personal trainers have launched Gym Unique after taking over the site – complete with three old travel buses – stripping it back and kitting it out from scratch, thanks to guidance and support from Physical Company.

The site is just one mile out of Durham city centre and attracts members from nearby towns and cities including Sunderland, Newcastle, Washington and Gateshead who appreciate the ease of access off the A1 and parking facilities.

Director James Tindale, pictured, said: “Converting a travel warehouse gave us a generous footprint, high ceilings and a regular shape.

“We wanted to maximise the space but not fall into the trap of packing it out with too many cardio machines, preferring instead to install a big rig, some key resistance machines, plenty of free weights and a generous selection of functional training equipment.”

With their combined experience

as personal trainers, the directors could see all the options from a practical point-of-view and visualise how members would use the kit and space – and how the trainers would work the gym floor.

James worked closely with Paul Farrell at Physical Company to make the most of every square inch of space, with the company’s total solutions package including design advice, flooring, delivery and installation.

Paul visited the site early on and made recommendations on the best use of space and kit to fulfil the potential of the gym space and adjoining studios in which 70 classes a week are timetabled to run.

He added: “James was absolutely clear that he wanted Gym Unique to

be as practical as it is stylish. The big rig is the central point of focus so we started with that and built out from there. The host of rig attachments give plenty of functional training options while a range of strength and conditioning kit, such as prowlers, battle ropes and tracker tyres provide endless options for PTs and clients to work with.”

Making the most of the floor length, a sprint track was created to run along the right-hand side of the gym. 20 cardio machines were carefully placed in the gym to allow users to maximise their time on the range of bikes, treadmills, rowers and cross trainers without impacting on the gym floor activities.

James added: “One of my bugbears is cramped gym space where people

can barely move around machines and each other. Half way into the build, we were suddenly hit by a health and safety regulation that required us to install a fire escape staircase in the middle of the gym.

“Paul was fantastic: he calmly worked around this, rejigged the plans and incorporated the staircase as a feature, much to our relief.

“To be honest, we had so much else to think about, having one company manage every aspect of the fit out was perfect: when things changed – as they are bound to do – I just had to make one call instead of several to different suppliers.

The process was seamless from start to finish – we couldn’t be happier.”

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UK FITNESS SCENE The fitness industry’s future boils down to nurturing talent and mutual respect, according to CEO of Life Leisure Malcolm McPhail. In an exclusive column for Workout, he explains why.

Dangers of losing talent of tomorrow by failing to take right action today THE UK fitness industry is in real trouble. That seems an odd thing to say when you consider that one in every seven people in the UK is a member of a gym, and that the sector as a whole increased its market value by 6.3 per cent last year. But it is true.

Why? Because we are in danger of losing our talent of tomorrow by failing to take the right actions today.

The future of any industry is dictated by younger generations having the right skills, experiences and opportunities to move thinking and business practices forward. A sector that doesn’t invest in nurturing young talent is not a sector that will survive with any kind of longevity.

So it was with dismay that I read the results of a study by ukactive published last year which revealed that a third of fitness professionals are considering leaving the sector; for those who’d already taken the decision to leave, a lack of clear career progression and unmet expectations around their role were key decision drivers.

I was, however, not surprised and from what I have seen across the industry I have no doubt that a huge proportion of these individuals will be in their 20s. The fact of the matter is that while the fitness industry is – at least externally – synonymous with a younger workforce, we are woefully unprepared to deal with the needs of young people who could, and should, become the managers, CEOs and industry strategists we need.

As I say these words, I can almost hear a unified chorus erupt from managers up and down the country.

“The problem is”, they’ll moan “that these youngsters want something for nothing – promotion without putting in the graft”. This is a view that could be our undoing if left unchecked.

Don’t mistake ambition for arrogance Don’t get me wrong. There will be young people out there who really do take the ‘Mick’; those blinded by

self-entitlement who really do think the bare minimum deserves reward.

I know there are young people like this because it is a character flaw that transcends age. You will find fitness professionals in their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s who all fall into this category.

It is not a box purely ticked by those who’ve grown up in a digital era.

Let me also make another thing clear though. In my view, so-called ‘millennials’ do often want things quickly. They want to become overnight industry sensations, which in turn means they have high expectations of the package they want from a role. But what’s wrong with that?

I had high expectations of those around me when I was young, but also of myself, a fact which drove me to achieve what I have in my career.

Where ambition, urgency and expectation sit on youthful shoulders, it doesn’t make these traits any less credible or valid. Just because the individual in question might be under 25, these traits doesn’t automatically signify unjustifiable arrogance. Few could argue with the extreme capability and intelligence of Scott Lloyd, for example. CEO of Next Generation by 23, not to mention a personal inspiration and mentor to me; nobody would dare berate him for wanting things to happen quickly. If they did, I bet they would regret it pretty quickly.

Forget managing and focus on mutual respect What all this means is that we have to do things differently. Recognising emerging employee traits and adapting management styles accordingly isn’t ‘pandering to unrealistic demands’. It is sensible and, quite frankly, necessary legacy planning.

The trouble is, this isn’t what’s happening. All too often, young people’s high expectations are either met with old-school management practices which leave them feeling ignored, a ‘cog in the machine’; or dismissed

Direct debits are solution to increased membership engagement. Who knew?!

THE fitness industry is fickle.

Enthusiastic gymgoers will eagerly muscle onto a gym membership, only to drop off a couple of months down the line. Member acquisition is a challenge, and retention is a new ball game altogether.

Ultimately, the secret to healthy membership attrition is to make their fitness journey stress-free and the point of purchase is a good place to make that happen.

Online joining is an ingenious 24-hour sales aid, with the ability to speed up the sign-up process, reduce manual errors on entry, and market your centre at the same time.

Failed Direct Debit payments lend a big hand to the decline in

membership retention. Again, the key comes down to an online portal.

MyPayments provides a quick and secure way for your customers to pay defaulted payments without any complications. 46 per cent of customers across DFC’s service choose to pay through My Payments due to its convenience and simplicity and approximately 50 per cent have had success in stage one of the default process.

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Malcolm McPhail as ‘needy’ by managers who lack the self-confidence to be challenged by or promote their millennial peers.

Because that’s what they are. Our peers. Peers that we need to stop managing and start leading if we are to give this industry the future it deserves.

That’s how I see it anyway. I want people to be the best they can be at whatever role or opportunity they choose. I don’t care how old they are. And as such, I’ve made a point of getting to know each and every young person who works at Life Leisure. Of offering them a career progression route built on recognising individual performance and the ability to demonstrate behaviours that reflect our business ethos, rather than on previous experience, time spent in a particular role or tasks ticked off a ‘paygrade checklist’. Job descriptions favour age. A behaviour model favours talent and offers opportunity.

Yes, millennial employees need to earn my respect and prove they will put the hard work in to get the ‘overnight’ success they desire; they have to have skin in the game. But I have to put the graft into creating an environment where they can do this. I have to earn their respect. It’s all about achieving a mutually beneficial level of understanding and appreciation for each other. At Life Leisure, I’ve got 18-year-olds who know they can challenge me, but they also know they’ll need to bring their ‘A game’ to do so.

And do you know what, the results speak for themselves. We have one of the best staff retention rates in the industry and, looking at our latest figures, our average employee turnover is hovering at just 1.73 per cent, even though we have a workforce where 43 per cent are under the age of 25.

What’s more, these young people stay with us for the long haul. The average age of our ‘sentinels’ – company champions who embody what we stand for and steer key aspects

of strategy – is 38, with the average service of these individual being 11 years. We recruit, respect and retain young people. Simple as that.

Because of that, I know if I left tomorrow Life Leisure has a talent base and structure in place that would see it keep evolving and building momentum for years to come – a future based on young talent learning from more senior professionals and vice versa. Imagine if we could say that for the fitness industry as a whole?

Building a fitness industry with a future Well, if we take action now we won’t have to imagine. Organisations such as CIMSPA and UKactive are increasingly working with both private and public operators to look at this very area. At how we can give young people the support they need to become future leaders by adapting working practises; at harnessing the power of millennial ambition – rather than being fearful of it – by setting up more opportunities for two-way mentoring, apprenticeships and entrepreneurialism; at creating a culture of mutual respect.

I have stepped up my game by becoming a CIMSPA board member.

I refuse to let this industry lose top class youngsters to other sectors.

Having spent some time now with the new chair of CIMSPA, Marc Woods and the very talented team at CIMSPA I am convinced that we will make a real difference in the next few years.

But true change can only come with the buy-in of managers. Managers who have the self-confidence and foresight to give young people the chances and responsibilities they want, coupled with a clear progression path that isn’t restricted by past procedures. Every generation should have the opportunity to make a difference. It is why all the best leaders are rebellious. So why don’t we all rebel against a world that gives millennials a bad press and instead welcome a world where young voices and hard work based on ambition, become a vital part of UK fitness industry strategy. n Malcolm is a trustee of CIMSPA and the CEO of Life Leisure, a charitable trust and not for profit social enterprise company that manages sports and leisure facilities in and around Stockport.

Julie in Yopi venture A YOGA instructor has worked alongside a care home group to develop a new exercise class for residents.

Julie Brown has joined forces with Macklin Care Homes, which operates six care homes in Northern Ireland, to develop Yopi – yoga inspired movements for older people.

Julie has been teaching yoga and mindfulness classes to community groups, organisations and employers for the last seven years.

She developed the Yopi course and trained each of the activity co-ordinators from the Macklin Care Homes on structuring sessions, getting to know the body and delivering the Yopi course.

Julie said: “Over the years, I have

seen time and time again, the benefits of gentle exercise to older persons.

“In developing this new initiative for Macklin Care Homes, I used my learnings from my experience of working in the community and combined it with gentle yoga-inspired movements to create Yopi – a bespoke wellness programme that’s already been enthusiastically welcomed by many residents.

“From helping older persons to improve their wellness and mobility, to creating a stimulating activity that residents look forward to every week, Yopi complements the existing activities plan that happens in each of the Macklin Care Homes every week day.”

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UK FITNESS SCENE

Masterclass launch for celebrity PT Richard

By Christina Eccles AWARD-WINNING celebrity personal trainer Richard Callender has launched his new partnership with Future Fit Training by hosting a masterclass in London for fitness professionals.

The event, which took place at the Everyone Active Queen Mother Sports Centre, included taster sessions of Richard’s Urban Funk and Armageddon workouts, while Future Fit’s head of PT Paul Swainson got attendees thinking with insight into motivation and behaviour change and tips on how to help clients think differently to get better results.

Everyone who attended the event also gained free access to the Future Fit online Motivational Communication video masterclass where they can learn more strategies and techniques on this key topic.

Richard said: “The energy in the room was awesome and the feedback on the night and since has been really positive.

“I love to fill a hall with fitness fans

but when you bring together likeminded, qualified fit pros alongside nearly qualified participants, the atmosphere feels charged.

“They were really eager to learn, totally up for it, picked up Urban Funk pretty well and smashed Armageddon. It was a great night and kicked off my partnership with Future Fit brilliantly.”

Physical Company also offered a Titan Bag, worth £95, for the winner of a ‘Heads or Tails’ shuttle run game, which was won by newly qualified PT Chris Tinsley.

Everyone who attended also left with a goody bag including fitness snacks, gels, muscle relief products, Bounce Balls, a Physical Company resistance band and the new Point Blank cold brew coffee energy drink. They also picked up a T-shirt from Richard, a free pass from Everyone Active and a REPS-endorsed certificate for participating.

Paul added: “We definitely had an engaged audience. There was a real buzz from the start and it was great to see so many people stick around afterwards to speak to Richard and

Richard Callender and Paul Swainson present Chris Tinsley with his prize from Physical Company. me.

“We got a lot of great feedback and ideas for future events – with people asking what’s up next and suggesting other regional locations.

Watch this space.”

Proceeds from the event were awarded to Everyone Active’s chosen charity Mind, with over £450 raised.

Sunday 22nd April 2018 Sunday 13th May 2018 Sunday 3rd June 2018 Sunday 15th June 2018 Sunday 29th July 2018 Sunday 29th July 2018 Sund Sunday 16th September 2018

Manchester South London Derby/Nottingham Birmingham North London Edinburgh Bristol

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£26m leisure centre plan for Dover DOVER District Council has signed a 12-year management contract with Places for People Leisure, as part of a major investment in facilities which includes the construction of the new £26m Dover District Leisure Centre.

PfP Leisure take over the management of the existing Dover Leisure Centre on Townwall Street from April 1, which will remain open until the new leisure centre opens at Whitfield early in 2019.

The new centre will include the first county standard competition swimming pool in Kent, fitness gym and studios and a cafe, as well as two outdoor 3G artificial pitches for fivea-side football.

Business development director at Places for People Leisure John Bates said: “As a social enterprise with a mission to create active places and healthy people, we are pleased to be supporting Dover District Council at this exciting time as they plan to invest in and enhance the leisure provision within the area.

“The new centre will boast a range of facilities and we are looking forward to working in partnership to complement this with a range of activities that we hope will inspire all members of the community to enjoy physical activity and adopt healthier lifestyles.”

UK FITNESS SCENE

Switched-on members cut club bill by £6k

By Christina Eccles FIT gym members at a North Somerset health club have helped the facility slash £6,000 off its electricity bill.

Having installed the kit, which puts power back into the building’s electrical supply while being used, in September 2013, theclub at Cadbury House in Congresbury has now calculated how much energy has been produced since they took delivery of the machines.

Part of the Technogym Artis range, the 28 bikes and cross trainers were designed so that the human energy produced during exercise is recycled and renewed.

In addition, the 14 treadmills reduce energy consumption by 30 per cent, helping lower further the energy consumption of the health club, while the physical activity performed on both the cardio and strength equipment is recycled to power the equipment display consoles.

It’s been calculated that each non running machine feeds around 100w per hour back into the building’s power supply which means approximately 1kWh of energy per

Director Jason Eaton in the club day per machine, which costs on average about 13p.

Multiplied up, the 28 non running machines have therefore created over £1,300 of energy per year, equating to about £6,000 since their installation.

Health club director Jason Eaton said: “The installation of this equipment really was the very latest in health club technology.

“It’s amazing to think how much money has been saved over the years.

It makes sense to harness the energy produced by those using the nonrunning machines and it’s great to

see the technology in practice.

“To show that we’re reducing the level of energy needed to power the club is great for the environment while at the same time our members are getting the optimum work out.

“Imagine how much energy would be produced if all health clubs, gyms, hotels and private clubs had similar equipment not to mention people having this in their own homes.

“We’re constantly looking at how we can improve our members’ experience and is what sets us apart from all other health clubs.”

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UK FITNESS SCENE

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Sue shares MBE honour with family FOUNDER and CEO of Promote PR Sue Anstiss has been presented with her MBE by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales at an Investiture service at Buckingham Palace.

The prestigious Queen’s honour was made in recognition of Sue’s unwavering support for community sport and her work to raise the profile and increase the impact of women’s sport.

Sue said: “It was a fantastic experience to go to Buckingham Palace with my whole family. My three teenage daughters were surprisingly moved by the experience of watching me receive the award from Prince Charles.

“I am hopeful that my being awarded an MBE for this activity helps to further raise profile of the Women’s Sport Trust charity and its work to increase the impact of women’s sport through the promotion of diverse athlete role models, increasing media coverage and improving the funding landscape.”

How Sophie’s planning to open her tenth gym by the end of 2020 A FITNESS entrepreneur is gearing up to open her fifth Anytime Fitness club – and plans to make it 10 by the end of 2020.

Sophie Hoyle, alongside her brother and sister, is set to open a new club in Liverpool, following success with gyms in Knutsford, Macclesfield, Bramhall and Stockton Heath.

Sophie deeply researches the demographics of the target areas and tailors the offering at each club to cater for the strong female membership numbers they attract.

This strategic approach coupled with leveraging the power of the Anytime Fitness brand, which has over 4,000 locations worldwide and 140 in the UK, has proven to be a recipe for success.

Sophie said: “All of our gyms are in the affluent South Manchester and Cheshire area, which has a lot of stay-at-home mums. As a result, we have more people who go to the gym in the day and our female membership is higher than average.

“This influences the sort of

equipment you put in and the quantities of it. For example, we have more cardio equipment and we make sure we have a wellequipped studio and a strong calendar of classes. Our members’ average age is around 38 and to reflect this, we have more stretch classes than you’d traditionally see on a class timetable.

“We have a high dwell time in our clubs and to cater for our members, we put a lot of time and effort into the members’ and reception areas.

“We’ve installed coffee machines and comfy seating areas so if they like, they can stay and chat with friends. The motivation is that we want a gym that people will go into and use and have a reason to come back to.”

Sophie and her family plan to open a further location this year and aims to take their club total to 10 by the end of 2020.

She added: “I find that franchisees that do well are those that are actively involved. In regard to Anytime Fitness, you really do have

Sophie Hoyle to be very actively involved if you want to get good inspections, and while there is the temptation to step away with gyms, I prefer to be actively involved. I’m not an ownermanager or anything, but I do have daily involvement.”

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

Talking point: What are your views on virtual classes? Are members embracing them in your gym or do you prefer to stick with instructor-led classes only?

Send your answers to ce@scriptmedia.co.uk or contact us via Twitter or Facebook. We’ll print the best responses next issue.

Editor’s Comment We’ve ended up with an eclectic mix of stories this month, as we speak to fitness professionals in all corners of the industry – and it’s been so inspiring to see such great work going on.

First up, we have yoga teacher Lucy Kenyon who is working with anyone from runners looking to get better at their sport to people living with or recovering from health conditions; proving that practicing yoga can have benefits for many people.

You can read more about Lucy’s story on page three and after recently trying out one of her ‘Yoga Latte’ workshops for myself, I definitely think that yoga followed by homemade cake and relaxation is definitely my new favourite way to work out!

I also recently visited PLM Fitness in Whalley – see page 20 for the feature – where a dedicated team is tapping into a growing trend for boutique fitness; investing in making this facility a five star club in every area.

It was so interesting to take a look around and hear more about what owners Phil and Sara are doing. And with big plans for future expansion, this club definitely appears to be one to watch.

While I was in the Lancashire area, I popped over to Burnley to try out a HIITSTEP class for this month’s challenge feature.

I really enjoyed the experience, so a big thank you to instructor Holly and the venue, Fitness Evolution, for letting me join in.

Find out how I got on on page 16 and as always, if you have a class you would like one of our team to try, get in touch.

We’ve also been really pleased to hear such a positive reaction to last issue’s National Fitness Awards’ news.

There appears to be such a buzz around our announcement of Aintree Racecourse as the venue for this year’s event and we can’t wait to tell you more about our plans for this year over the coming months.

We’re still accepting nominations up to the closing date of July 30 and have lots of exciting sponsorship opportunities available for brands who want to be part of the event. So if you would like to know more about getting involved – either by entering or sponsoring a category – contact us for more details.

Enjoy the issue and have a great month!

Christina Eccles

CONGRATULATIONS to this month’s Workout Way to Go winner, Andrew Clamp.

Andrew, nicknamed The Vice, is an ultimate fighter who is rising up the rankings and hopes to eventually compete in the UFC. He was nominated by gym owner Royce Banks of Royce’s Gym in Wigan, after his spectacular results achieved in recent fitness tests set by his coach and former UFC fighter Tom Blackledge. The tests were done on the Concept 2 Skii Erg machine and for a 1000m test, Andrew’s time was three

minutes and three seconds – elevating him to just outside the top 10 in the world.

Royce, who held the World Record twice in his age group with a time of three minutes, 20 seconds for 1000m, said: “I’m quite excited for him myself, I just hope he can fulfil his dream and go all the way in the UFC. If fitness, power and determination has anything to do with it, I’m sure he will. He is a pleasure to work with and have in the gym.”

Way to go Andrew! You’re our April winner!

Picture of the month

Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre has celebrated another milestone, with a topping out ceremony to mark the highest point of the building work being completed.

Representatives from Epping Forest District Council, Places for People Leisure, Pellikaan Construction and architects Pozzoni attended the ceremony, where community representatives and local school pupils were also given a tour of the build.

Cabinet member for leisure at Epping Forest District Council Coun Helen Kane said: “It’s fantastic to see the design for the new leisure centre coming to life before us. When completed the new modern and sustainable leisure centre will offer a broad range of activities and services to bring the whole community together.”

#social media ...

@CibesLiftUK: Our sales and marketing director Gary Sullivan, has been featured in this month’s ‪@WorkOutUK urging the ‪#fitnessindustry to do more to help people with ‪#disabilities access their facilities. @gym_career: We are proud to be the sponsor of the Training and Recruitment section of ‪@ WorkOutUK magazine again this month. @FitnessAwards: We’re so excited to announce our date and venue for the 2018 NFAs! This year we’re heading to Aintree

Racecourse in Liverpool on Friday December 7 for the industry’s biggest end of year party. We can’t wait! @S3_Fitness: Got some ‪@ TRXtraining set up here in Saint Petersburg. Ready to take some Russian PTs through S3 training sessions. ‪#trx ‪#trxworkout ‪#trxchester ‪#trxcrunches ‪#trxtraining ‪#bodyweight ‪#suspensiontraining ‪#chestertweets ‪@randyhetrick ‪@ WorkOutUK @ChristinaEccles: Great morning visiting ‪@plmfitness! Thanks for

Follow us on Twitter @ WorkOutUK or contact us on Facebook at www. facebook. com/workout magazine

the warm welcome and look out for a feature in ‪@WorkOutUK! @BHLiveActive: Will you be raising money for ‪@sportrelief?

Join us this Friday for our treadmill challenge to see how far we can run throughout the day.

Everyone’s distance will be added up to see which ‪@BHLiveActive centre has travelled the furthest ‪#whatevermovesyou ‪@WorkOutUK @Stetops: Super excited to hear about the new venue for this year’s ‪@FitnessAwards. This event just keeps getting better and better ‪#BestoftheBest

16

A HIIT class with a difference is proving popular with members of all ages at a gym in Burnley. Workout editor Christina Eccles joined in with a session.

How Dave stepped up to the mark with new invention SPORT and fitness psychologist and former GB athlete Dave Readle invented HIITSTEP almost by accident when he was working in a local gym.

Due to old sporting injuries, when completing exercises such as press ups in his own training, he modified them by using a tyre to support himself.

But when asked by the gym to cover a HIIT class, he realised he would need an alternative, so grabbed a step to use for the same purpose – and the concept of HIITSTEP was born.

The 30 minute high intensity class uses only bodyweight and the step – making it suitable for all fitness levels – and is set to bespoke soundtracks, which have been created by some of the UK’s top

house DJs. In each class, the track begins with ‘It’s HIITSTEP time’ and exercises are called out during the workout.

The music contains breakdowns and build ups specific to when an exercises starts and stops and each session always culminates in a no holds barred finisher.

Dave explained: “There are workout tracks with popular house music from clubbing days as well as PPL free house music that has been created and owned by HIITSTEP. “As the workouts contain the exercises, the instructor is able to coach and help provide regressions for class participants and not worry about calling out exercises.”

After rolling out the first instruct-

or courses last year, the HIITSTEP concept is gathering momentum, with gyms in Liverpool, Manchester, Lancashire, Scotland and Essex all providing it to their members.

At Fitness Evolution gym at Burnley College, members are particularly enjoying the workouts – with six HIITSTEP classes on offer per week – and according to instructor Holly Lynch, the class is the perfect fit for its demographic of college staff, students and the wider community.

She added: “HIIT is very current and contemporary and because it’s only half an hour, it also means the classes are very accessible.

“We pride ourselves on offering a great variety and want to cater to as many people as possible. We felt

HIITSTEP was a good match – and the feedback has been really good.”

Plans this year include pushing the classes out to a wider audience and more gyms, with nationwide instructor days in the pipeline.

HIITSTEP has also spread to the USA, Canada, Australia and Madagascar and social media star the HIIT Mum from Australia has been instrumental in endorsing the brand on the other side of the world.

Dave added: “The feedback has been excellent, classes in many of the gyms have waiting lists and it is becoming the favourite class for members even when compared to your more traditional classes.

“People like the fact that it is only 30 minutes, you work extremely hard and the music is awesome.”

Holly’s class puts the HIIT into HIITSTEP ...

COMBINING the benefits of high intensity interval training with the added dimension of using a step, HIITSTEP is certainly different to other HIIT classes I’ve tried before.

The session was fun, easy to follow and there were options to regress the moves to something more simple for anyone who was struggling to complete a certain type of exercise.

The step, set at medium height to ensure it wasn’t too high or too close to the floor, was a useful addition, especially for exercises like burpees and press ups.

And although I don’t have the best co-ordination in the world and couldn’t pick up the sequence of exercises straight away, working in rounds meant that by the second or third attempt, I’d managed

to master most of them. Not bad for a first attempt and helpful for giving me the encouragement I needed to carry on when I started to feel the burn!

Holly was a great teacher, which always helps when you’re trying a class out for the first time. She was motivating and encouraging without being ‘shouty’ or in your face and always had an option to make the exercises easier if we needed to use it – perfect for beginners.

It was also clear to see how enthusiastic she is about this class and putting sessions on at easily accessible points during the day, such as lunchtimes, shows how this club is working hard to engage with as many people as possible.

30 minutes is just the right length for a class like this. It’s long enough to feel like

you’ve had a good workout but not so long that it becomes too exhausting! Although the aches in my arms and legs the next day showed I had definitely been working hard.

I was also really wowed by the class setting. Fitness Evolution is a really impressive facility and is proving to be a welcome addition to the local area.

It’s modern, well equipped and has a very friendly atmosphere, so it’s easy to see why the club is so popular with students and staff at Burnley College and the wider community.

High intensity classes are generally great for people who don’t want to spend hours in the gym but still want to see results – and HIITSTEP seems to fit the bill perfectly. I can see why so many people are converts.

UK FITNESS SCENE

18

Setting a budget is a necessary task for any operator looking to run a successful business.

Amidst an increasingly competitive environment, how do you identify the best areas to increase profit and minimise costs? And if you have to make tough decisions, how can you maintain staff morale? In the second part of a series, Everyone Active Regional Director Duncan Jefford shares his approach to budget setting.

How to set budgets ... even if it means making tough decisions

WHEN you approach budget setting, you have two options: zero-based budgeting and historical budgeting.

Unless you are a new business, my recommendation is to always use historical budget setting. To do this, use data and take learnings from the last year as your starting point. Once you have the data, the next step is to make sure you involve your general managers or senior staff in the process of budget setting.

My preferred approach is to sit down one-on-one with my team and discuss the best way to get the most ROI. We want people to be invested in the goals we create and the best way to do that is to set them together.

Inevitably, you will need to find ways to make some savings. The biggest area where savings can be made is with payroll.

In the public sector, payroll is often 50-60 per cent of the turnover. In private sector, it is about 30 per cent, and with discount operators, it can be about 15-20 per cent. In all cases, payroll is the easiest place to save

money, but you need to proceed with caution: it is also one of the most important areas of your business.

While efficiencies can often be made, be careful not to make so many changes that it impacts customer service.

When determining how to save money from a payroll perspective, consider using colleague ratios.

This helps ensure that members are looked after and profit is maximised.

This is the cost of staff as a percentage against turnover. For each part of your facility, that ratio will be different.

For example, for the gym, we work off a metric of 15-25 per cent. Overall, we work off a ratio of 50-60 per cent depending on the site, and then break it down into departments.

When it comes to identifying areas where you can save money, it’s also important to understand your competition. How do you plan to differentiate your service? If you are going to go head-to-head on service, for example, you might want to

up your staffing costs to make the experience better. If you’re going to compete on price, consider a leaner staffing model. At the end of the day it’s all about maximising profit, whichever model you choose.

Another area where savings can be made is with utilities. Sometimes overlooked, utilities pose a big opportunity, especially as water, gas and electricity rates continue to increase. About 12 per cent of our costs as a business sit within utilities, so making even a one per cent decrease can have a big impact.

To do this, we employ an Energy Champion per site whose role is to ensure our utility costs are as efficient as possible.

One easy change to make is to ensure LED lighting is installed throughout your facility. A big cost is heating the pool, so things like variable speed drives can help immensely. A business management system that automates lighting, heating and air conditioning can also make a big difference. We’re

also experimenting with solar panels at some sites to help lower our electricity costs.

If you know you need to save money in an area but are struggling to see how to do it, my advice would be think of things a little differently.

Our philosophy has always been to spend £1 to generate £2, rather than continually making cuts. It’s about profit, not turnover.

Making cuts is never easy, but if your budget involves cutting back, it is critical to get your team on board. It is essential that the team understands and buys into the decisions. Encourage them to ask questions and be transparent with your responses.

Once you’ve drawn up your budget, it’s important to review it daily and keep an eye on how the bottom line is performing.

If you review it at regular intervals, you’ll quickly notice if you’re overspending and can make changes before it affects your financial goals too drastically.

Creating a unique boutique ...

Advertiser’s announcement WE know that members need a social support mechanism within a club or studio. Take a selective approach to targeting this section of the population and offer them something fun and inclusive, but versatile to your scheduling needs.

Take this combo below, shown at Spinning® Showcase | P.R.O.S Fitness Conference by Athleticum® in Blackpool. A truly fun and energetic experience was had by all.

SPINNING® | SPINPOWER® The original cycling brand Epic energy and an explosion of power in two workout zones with 160 x Precor Spin® bikes including the new Spinner® Chrono with Power. All shapes, sizes and fitness levels all riding together, with the core of the program that anyone can ride the bike, in the heart of the sessions.

Then mix it up with the launch of three new and authentic programs that are capturing the imagination of the boutique studio lovers.

They all provide progression of movement or multiply the intensity of the workout. And even better, all of them can be applied on a Queenax™ Bridge too for maximum studio versatility.

CROSSCORE® | Rotational Bodyweight Training This is ultimately suspended

bodyweight training on steroids.

It’s the next level in the evolution because it allows for multiple training applications in one unit. Once you experience the CrossCore® there is no going back.

4DPRO® | FOUR TRAINING DEVICES IN ONE Say goodbye to boredom once and for all: a few simple moves are all it takes to convert the 4D PRO® bungee trainer into four highly versatile training tools. Regardless

of how young or old your target group is or how fit or unfit your members are: it allows you to offer everyone an individual, custom training option.

ANITIGRAVITY® | FITNESS | DREAM OF FLIGHT AntiGravity® Fitness is the original aerial yoga and suspension fitness technique created by Christopher Harrison. Everyone works at their own pace. Everyone leaves the class a success.

With eight different programs available depending on the instructor certification and studio license – AntiGravity® Fundamentals | Aerial Yoga | Suspension Fitness | Pilates | AIRbarre | Restorative Yoga | Just Kids | 1on1 For more information on any of these programs, contact Athleticum® on info@athleticum. co.uk, call 0208 8199161 or visit www.athleticum.co.uk

20

UK FITNESS SCENE

A new health club in the Ribble Valley is aiming to bring something different to the area; offering 24/7 opening and a luxury, boutique feel. Workout editor Christina Eccles took a look around.

Five-star health club offers city vibe 24/7 PLM Fitness in Whalley opened last November and is already filling a gap in the market for locals who want a high end, five star fitness facility, which combines quality and service with the convenience of 24-hour access.

Features at the club include the latest equipment from Technogym, luxury changing facilities complete with products from Neal’s Yard Remedies, a meal prep service from local company the Wellness Kitchen and an ‘Italian courtyard’ style mezzanine area serving fresh coffee.

Pricing is also kept simple with a flat rate membership offer of £40 per month.

Owner Phil Lawrence Moss, who has worked in the fitness industry for almost 20 years, explained: “This new development is designed to be a boutique, luxury facility offering 24/7 access to state-of-the-art equipment.

“I believe that people wanted the flexibility and equipment availability of a budget gym but are now realising that service and attention to detail is what sets a facility apart and ultimately delivers results.”

Phil and partner Sara Dewhurst, who has a background in psychology, have also worked hard to ensure PLM Fitness is welcoming and non intimidating, with low level lighting and no mirrors.

They also use pictures of the facilities on their marketing rather than models to ensure prospective members are encouraged to focus on health and wellbeing rather than aesthetics.

Phil added: “We have no images of people on kit.

Our priority is health and dropping those barriers.

“We’ve had a really wide variety of clients but a lot tend to be around the age of 30 plus – people who have busy lifestyles but prioritise their health as part of it.

“We base our success on results and programming. You’ve got to take people’s lifestyles into account, as they all change and affect the results they will get in the gym.”

The gym has already signed up 200 members in

just three months, with locals enjoying the fact they can benefit from somewhere with a ‘city vibe’ on their doorstep without having to venture into Manchester.

There are also big plans in the pipeline for expansion. Currently Phil and Sara are purely focusing on the gym side of things but would eventually like to take on more space to create a studio for classes such as yoga, Pilates and indoor cycling and to install a spa area for relaxation.

Phil added: “The idea behind the relaxation/ spa facility would be to promote the fact that health isn’t just about using the fitness facilities and eating ‘clean’ but also about relaxation and the importance of having time away from busy lifestyles and environments, even if just for an hour or two in order to improve positive wellbeing.

“The classes would be a fantastic addition, to not only attract a section of the market that are often intimidated by a gym environment, but will also offer a pay as you go option for the many visitors to the Ribble Valley who wish to maintain their routines whilst visiting the area.

“Class users who have never used a gym before are often more likely to try the gym after a level of trust has been established between themselves and the instructor.”

22

ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Global fitness company is in great shape for 2018 ...

David Hughes, MD for Dyaco UK Ltd gives us an insight into the company and what the future holds for it both in the UK and globally ...

WHO is Dyaco International and what are the commercial plans globally?

Dyaco International is a global fitness company, founded in 1990, that manufactures world-class fitness and wellness products for home, commercial and medical markets; it owns both Spirit Fitness and Xterra Fitness.

2018 will be an incredibly busy, yet exciting year for Dyaco. Following the launch of our Global Commercial and Medical Division, we’re preparing to unveil a versatile range of new equipment across the Spirit Fitness, UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) and Johnny G brands in our portfolio.

This year is the launch of the first UFC and Johnny G products and we predict that they’ll be a huge success.

Both brands are world-renowned across the sports and fitness sectors and we feel that they will resonate with both commercial and consumer markets.

By becoming a vehicle for these exciting brands, Dyaco plans to become a major player in the global fitness industry.

Daniel Clayton We’ve already turned heads with some major senior appointments which will help us towards our goals.

High-profile Dyaco International appointments so far include Daniel Clayton, former vice president at Johnson Health Tech and managing director at Technogym Asia, who has joined as president – Dyaco Commercial and Medical Division.

Alongside Daniel, other international appointments announced include Gary Peak, formally managing director for Johnson Health Tech Australia, who joins as president of Spirit

‘With the perfect balance of great products and experienced and motivated staff, Dyaco will become a major player in the health and fitness industry’ Commercial and Medical Division North America. Robert Lake moves from his current position as regional director EMEA at Octane Fitness to become vice president global key accounts and Arjan van Dijk, formally sales director at Johnson Health Tech Benelux, will become vice president commercial strategy and infrastructure. After 12 years at ICG, Graham Stoney joins as director of group training.

What can we expect to see in the UK?

We’ve launched Dyaco UK, which will have a direct office to drive the commercial, medical and retail business. With a specialist team and investment in resource, products and servicing, we’re able to better serve our existing customers but also attract new customers with a strong portfolio of products and brands.

There are some exciting new Spirit Fitness product launches, including the new Spirit Strength range and additions to the Spirit commercial CV line, which provide leisure club operators with high quality and affordable options for their locations.

With the ever-growing popularity of functional fitness, we’re also excited to see the uptake of the UFC commercial range and the ability for clubs to have bespoke ‘UFC Zones’ complete with programming on their gym floors.

We believe our versatile portfolio of products is suitable for all markets and as well as core health club clients, we’re confident of making a huge impact in vertical markets too.

We’ve also become a part of ukactive’s Strategic Partner Group which was something we were very keen to do.

Having an additional insight into the UK fitness industry is very beneficial to us and we’re looking forward to working closely together and help promote increased physical activity in the UK.

Who is the new team in the UK?

We’ve got some great personnel on board. I’ll be heading up the UK business as managing director and we’re delighted to have been able to attract some big names from the fitness industry. Andy Loughray joins as UK sales director after six years at Matrix Fitness and previously spent over 14 years with Polaris Fitness.

Sarah Hitchcock has been appointed as commercial director, previously holding the same role at Matrix Fitness UK after initially joining the company in 2009. Janette Rose has been appointed as marketing manager and also brings extensive fitness experience to the role, with previous posts at Precor, Matrix Fitness and Technogym.

The dedicated UK sales team, led by Andy, also has extensive experience in the industry as well as a wealth of contacts. We already have some great installations in the pipeline across a number of markets.

How is Dyaco different from other fitness equipment suppliers?

We very much see Dyaco as a disruptor in the health and fitness industry. While there are suppliers of greater size, we see our competitive

advantage as our ability to quickly manoeuvre and capitalise on the ever-changing marketplace.

In recent years, the industry has moved on significantly in adopting digital technology but at the same time, gone back to basics with the popularity of bodyweight exercises, free weights and functional training.

We cater for all markets and aim to be at the cutting edge of any developments in the industry to react accordingly and provide operators and gym users with the equipment they need and want. Having a range of brands in our offering allows us to cater for a broad range of requirements and have solutions for facilities of all shapes and sizes.

Where can we see you this year?

Following a successful show at IHRSA, we will also be exhibiting at FIBO, Elevate and ukactive events.

What does the future hold for Dyaco, both globally and in the UK?

We’re very excited at what the future holds. The raft of high-profile appointments shows that we’re here to stay in the fitness industry as well as the world-recognised brands that we’ll be distributing.

Pictured, from left, Sarah Hitchcock, Andy Loughray and Janette Rose

ADVERTISER”S ANNOUNCEMENT

23

Over 300m fans worldwide Dyaco holds the global licence to manufacture and distribute UFC branded Kombat and fitness equipment in both professional and retail markets.

With over 300m fans worldwide, the agreement allows Dyaco and their customers to capitalise on the popularity of mixed martial arts and one of the most popular brands in the world.

UFC has a hugely engaged and aspirational audience and Dyaco’s products will be across both home and commercial markets.

Supporting the licencing agreement, Dyaco will invest in new research and development to create advanced products for UFC that are performance relevant and driven by technology. The components within Dyaco’s UFC offering comprise: ■ UFC Ultimate Kombat – Commercial combat training equipment and accessories, including UFC branded gloves and punchbags.

■ UFC Ultimate MXS (Strength Series) – Commercial selectorised strength and plate loaded machines, plus benches.

■ UFC Ultimate Training – Functional Training Rigs, free weights and accessories.

UFC at-home products will be distributed directly to consumers through an agreement with global retail giant Amazon.

Dyaco signed a development agreement with Spinning® inventor Johnny Goldberg and through Spirit Fitness, will manufacture the future generations of Johnny G indoor bikes to be provided alongside the very best programming.

Indoor cycling has been a part of the fitness industry for nearly 25 years and is a staple on the class timetables of health clubs worldwide.

In partnership with

Johnny G, Dyaco will be at the forefront of developing the future of this timelessly popular fitness training category.

Users will engage body, mind and bike for an authentic riding experience, inspiring them to ride beyond boundaries in a way that only Johnny G knows how.

The first wave of new commercial Johnny G bikes will be launched this year and available to see at FIBO.

Spirit Fitness has been manufacturing fitness equipment for over 30 years and is the core Commercial CV and Strength brand from Dyaco.

All products are built with premium-grade components to give users a smooth workout experience and the newly released Spirit 900 CV range is already proving a popular upgrade to clubs and facilities across a number of markets. The much-anticipated new strength range is due out later this year.

Contact E: uk-info@dyaco.com T: 0800 0293865 W: www.dyaco.co.uk

24

Software provider launches academy

MEMBER engagement software provider TRP has launched a new academy to help operators worldwide improve their customer experience.

The Customer Engagement Academy’s mission is to increase quality interactions between clubs and their members, improving customer experience and, ultimately, club success.

CEA Chairman Mike Hills said: “We felt the industry was missing a resource like the CEA, so as experts in the field of customer engagement within health and fitness saw this as a gap we were (very happily) obliged to fill. We have got some really exciting plans for where we can take the CEA over the next few years, with the Member Engagement in the Global Health and Fitness Industry Survey and Report just the start.”

The survey, which will take place annually – measuring changes in customer engagement practices over time – is the flagship of the launch and will provide a snapshot of operators’ current customer engagement practices in 2018.

Mike added: “We would encourage as many operators as possible to take part to ensure as representative a picture as possible is painted – this is a survey by the industry, for the industry so the quality of the output will be dependent on the input we get from you and we are very grateful to everyone who takes part.”

UK FITNESS SCENE

Fit For Purpose ...

By John Halls, managing director, Physical Company

IMITATION is the sincerest form of flattery and never more so than in the leisure industry.

Some of the best group exercise sessions that have rolled out across entire operator estates started small in a niche space. Take ‘Boot Camp’ for example. Once only to be found outdoors in parks and public spaces with military-style instructors pushing people out of their comfort zone, now moderated and indoors at a leisure centre near you.

Dance is another one – inspiration from ballet and ballroom, salsa and merengue (the origin of Zumba) have been packaged up to pack leisure centre halls out at peak times as people embrace the mainstream ‘take’ on the initial niche. And, of course, boxing has emerged from the ring to spawn numerous workouts and routines where people can punch their way to fitness without the risk of bruising.

Looking at the start point, you might wonder how, from small beginnings, big workout franchises and ‘waiting list only’ classes can grow. First up, there needs to be a spark of inspiration, a group ex instructor prepared to take the essence of a sport or fitness fad and build it out into a safe, accessible workout format. Then the belief of the product designers to modify any key kit that’s used – boxing gloves, planks of wood, boulders, rigging – to fit an indoor space, meet safety guidelines and be cost-effective to produce en masse. By refining a concept, it can suit people of all

John Halls fitness levels, be safe and usable in an indoor space and scalable to be affordable.

At Physical Company we closely watch fitness and exercise trends and love the challenge to modify a concept or product to create a refined, workable version for mass, gym or group ex appeal. Our non-concrete Atlas Stones and square tyre are good examples of where a little creative take on the original can make such things accessible to fitness fans in a leisure centre studio or gym.

The latest trend that can’t have escaped your notice is the stellar rise of boutique fitness facilities and their winning formula based on experience and results. Hats off to them for showing how ‘less is more’ and how the smaller group dynamic can prove to be so powerful. This model has huge potential to scale up but how can leisure operators

take a slice of the boutique fitness pie?

I’ve seen operators try – setting out studios and sports halls with steps, dumbbells tucked underneath, mats, kettlebells alongside, battle rope stations set out separately, splitting the group to make the kit and space go further….

At best it’s a bit clunky and messy: at worst it’s an accident waiting to happen with kit strewn all over the place.

The beauty of the boutique model is its neat, fully loaded single station set up. Operators challenged us to design a piece of kit that would allow them to offer small group/ boutique style training within their facilities.

Cue our new EVO Bench, so-called to reflect the evolution of the boutique fitness market and give a nod to the set-up which inspired us.

The multi-functional bench opens to reveal all the kit you’ll need in the class while also acting as a step, plyo platform and fully adjustable abs and upper body exercise bench.

Afterwards, all the kit tucks back into the bench for safe storage until the next time. Neat in more ways than one.

Larger operators probably can’t – and probably shouldn’t – do a direct mimic of the boutique fitness model. In the same way an indoor boot camp class is somewhat removed from the outdoor park experience, a leisure centre ‘boutique’ style class will work best if operators take the concept but adapt it in a flattering way to make it fit for their purpose and membership.

Club blazes the trail with boutique-style HIIT class A BOUTIQUE-style HIIT class has arrived at David Lloyd Trafford Park, following a successful launch in London.

Blaze classes incorporate cardio, strength, boxing and mixed martial arts, with MYZONE belts used throughout to monitor heart rates.

During the class, members move from station to station, completing exercises that last either three or four minutes.

There is a combat section to test

core strength and agility, Woodway treadmills set to steep inclines for maximum cardio activity and a weights section that works on total body strength. All of this is set to powerful soundtracks mixed by high profile DJs, with lights beating in time with the music to create a fully immersive fitness environment.

General manager of David Lloyd Trafford Jake French said: “Blaze is set to be our signature class here at Trafford, bringing a boutique style of

fitness to our newly improved club.

“What sets Blaze apart from any other city boutique studios is that the class is offered alongside the club membership at David Lloyd Trafford.

“It means our members can enjoy the new cutting edge studio alongside our luxurious changing facilities and showers, our recently refurbished state of the art gym facility and all of our other amazing timetabled classes, and this is all within their membership price.”

PERFECTING YOUR CLASS TIMETABLE

26

Our People is a workforce management platform aimed at staff that don’t work from a desk. In this month’s issue, we spoke to Our People’s founder, Ross McCaw, about common group exercise headaches and how operators can overcome them.

Helping meet the challenge of group exercise sickness cover Clubs not using ViPR ‘missing out ...’

LONDON’S Central YMCA Club has been successfully using ViPR classes to reach a large crosssection of its membership base.

The club offers three or four circuit classes a day and most incorporate ViPR during a session.

Fitness manager Hamit Buhara said: “I am yet to find a piece of equipment other than ViPR that you can integrate with every single client.

“From working with sportsbased clients to the de-conditioned market, ViPR has given me so many opportunities to build my client base.

“I think the clubs that aren’t using ViPR are missing an opportunity; my clients are always kept interested due to the volume of exercise variations on offer.”

WE regularly hear from operators that have trouble getting cover when group exercise instructors call in sick. Any ideas on smart ways to deal with this?

Judging from a survey we recently undertook, it’s a common problem.

During one-to-one telephone interviews with duty managers, health club managers, head office staff, assistants and receptionists, 67 per cent said ensuring sufficient staffing levels to cover shifts is an important operational challenge and 63 per cent claimed last minute shift cover is a problem.

Large operators can have upwards of 10,000 staff working across their sites and even small operators struggle when so many staff don’t have access to a computer whilst at work.

That’s why we developed the Our People platform to help change the way operators communicate and engage with their staff. It provides a range of tools, including broadcasts that enable the operator to message the team in its entirety, individually or in sub groups, such as group exercise instructors.

New capability, which Londonbased clubs, Third Space, are using to communicate with freelance instructors, means targeted messages can be broadcast specifically to registered instructors that are qualified to cover the shift that’s available. So if you’re not qualified to teach Pilates, for instance, you won’t receive the message that a shift is available. The sender then simply chooses an instructor from the list of those responding and the cover

Ross McCaw

teacher receives confirmation they can add directly to the calendar on their phone. It’s so quick and easy.

The team member’s also reminded of their shift 24 hours and two hours before the class to be doubly sure they don’t forget.

Operators have told us they often lose thousands of pounds of revenue each month due to cancelled classes, so its no surprise that during our research, shift cover and staff availability also scored highest on the list of valuable benefits a mobile app could bring to staff communications.

But importantly, the tool also allows management to measure its success.

They can even run reports to see who the most ‘useful/helpful’ staff are.

Another common complaint we hear is the time it takes to fill out PPL PRS forms. So many operators simply pay for an annual licence just to be sure they’re covered. Is there an easier way?

It’s certainly a challenge and we know that many instructors just choose a Spotify play list or CD that they use time and time again. The problem here is that not only is it illegal to play music without a licence, it becomes repetitive if members hear the same music week in, week out and they lose the excitement and motivation of going to a class.

At Our People we’ve come at this from a two-pronged attack; providing operators with a platform to distribute approved music to their employees, as well as ensuring they abide by PPL PRS rules.

As with the targeted messaging we just discussed, operators can specifically choose who has access to their licensed music files. And rather than streaming it live, where the quality can be poor if the internet connection is weak, because employees have to download the music directly to their phone or device, operators can guarantee the sound will be good quality.

All PPL PRS reporting is done automatically too, saving operators valuable time and therefore money. The Our People manager console generates a report at end of each month, detailing how many tracks have been downloaded, which can be sent straight to PPL PRS. We know many big brand health club chains we work with simply buy an annual licence so they can use unlimited music, but it can work out more cost effective to simply pay for what you use. With the Our People app operators can test this and truly get to grips with how many tracks their instructors download and use.

Boutique gym chain rolls out workouts after triple trial ...

BOUTIQUE gym chain 24/7 Fitness is rolling out Les Mills virtual studio classes after successfully trialling the concept in three clubs.

The workouts combine world-leading fitness programs with pumping sound and motivation from some of the hottest instructors on the planet.

24/7 Fitness’ marketing director Sarah Francis said: “Working times are changing, many people work shifts, and there’s a nationwide increase in self-employment with people setting their own hours.

This has led to demand for classes in the very early morning, and late evening.

“We trialled LMV in three of our gyms, as part of the evolution of our studio timetable. The classes are popular with people working odd hours, and those who want five studio based workouts a week, rather than just the usual two or three, but we’ve also noticed some interesting trends.

“Virtual classes tend to be attended by novice gymgoers, particularly women over 35, to learn the workouts and format before attending instructor-led classes.

“They’re often quieter than instructor-led classes, which can help if a member is self-conscious or hasn’t been to the gym in a while.

“It’s world away from doing a DVD

at home though – the sound system, massive screens, mirrors, kit and studio floor add a lot of extra value.

“At a time where many budget gyms are cutting their branded stu-

dio timetable, we’re increasing ours – and virtual is part of our premium product mix. It’s been so successful for us that we’re rolling it out across the full chain in 2018.”

PERFECTING YOUR CLASS TIMETABLE

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Sisters ready to bring brand to UK AN Australian dance fitness brand is set to take the UK market by storm after the success of its first instructor training days.

TAPfit, which combines easy to follow routines with patented equipment to deliver a fitness class with a difference, was created by four Australian sisters; triplets Annie, Rachel and Fiona, and younger sister Katherine Johnson.

All four sisters represented their country at the World Dance Championships in Germany and after achieving success with the concept at home, and with support from the national governing body for group exercise, EMD UK, they are now hoping to carve out a niche in the UK dance fitness industry.

Katherine said: “My sisters and I are all qualified dance teachers with over 20 years’ teaching experience each and Annie and I are also qualified personal trainers. Our extensive backgrounds and experience in teaching dance gives us a unique insight into choreographing routines that are simple yet fun. Coupled with our knowledge of personal training, we’ve really been able to make these routines as effective as possible.”

Each class includes routines from celebrity choreographers, who have danced with the likes of Justin Bieber and Katy Perry.

Another difference is that participants wear Feet Beat – an attachment that slips over any kind of trainer to help them ‘become the beat’ rather than just dancing to it.

Katherine added: “The amazing thing about TAPfit is the feet beat. Instead of dancing to

the music, you become the music.

“The thing about dance is that instead of going to the gym and counting reps, when you dance it is joyous and about having that hour to escape. Dance fitness will always be appealing as it’s fun, effective and set to music you love.”

UK TAPfit instructors will receive new workouts and new music periodically, a two week weight-loss programme, over 100 recipes online to share with their class, discount on apparel and equipment and tools to help make their classes a success.

The first UK instructor days have already taken place, with more to follow over the next couple of months, and Katherine told Workout, so far they have been received really well.

She added: “We’ve been watching the UK fitness market since our launch in Australia and are impressed with the dynamic landscape here.

“That said, we feel the time is right for a new dance-fitness brand and TAPfit is the natural progression from other programs because you become the beat. This has proven benefits and offers instructors and studios alike a fresh new, original concept to offer fitness UK fans.

“This year we are focusing on our instructors in the UK. It's an exciting market and the instructors we meet are so positive and inspiring, all with unique stories of why they want to pursue TAPfit as a career. We will be here to support our UK instructors through every step of their journey.”

Class timetable: moving goalposts A CLASS timetable is rarely set in stone. New classes appear on the scene, old ones die off. Even if the classes remain, their start times will change, as will their popularity or the number of spaces available.

Each time a new schedule is created, this needs to be pointed out to the customers, so they can get their bookings made well in advance and keep the classes full. This sometimes means that a new timetable diagram is created somehow, and then uploaded to a website or possibly emailed to clients. It seems advantageous, therefore, that having an online class booking system, which displays the class timetable and the up to minute availability on a smart phone or computer, would be a

huge improvement.

Of course, changes in the class timetable still need to be made, new classes added and price changes input, however, the booking system updates will be immediately apparent to all users just by logging into the app. SportSoft’s online booking system is data driven and displays the current configuration in the database, so no mailshots or web page updates are needed, keeping matters simple and reducing the workload.

SportSoft’s Paul Duncalf said: “This may sound harsh, but receptionists should concentrate on making clients feel important and welcome, not doing their class bookings for them.”

For more information visit www.sportsoft.co.uk

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Global fitness media brand, BodyPower will be releasing their new e-learning subscription platform later this month.

BodyPower Academy brings industry leading educators together creating the most comprehensive e-learning subscription the industry has ever seen.

BodyPower Academy was created due to the underlying issue of quality content on offer to fitness professionals upon qualifying.

BodyPower Managing Director, Steve Orton said “The fitness industry sees an extraordinary high dropout rate among its qualified professionals. We believe this is partly because fitness professionals cannot learn enough, quickly enough, in order to survive. BodyPower Academy offers a platform for trainers to continue their education, learning from the most trusted experts in the industry. Our Head of Education, Mark Laws has scoured the globe identifying key contributors who will provide credible & informative content.”

“The content on offer will be in the form of articles, video & audio with over 25 new

pieces being available each week to subscribers. Orton goes on to add “BodyPower Academy is appropriate for all levels, from newly qualified trainers to seasoned coaches. Subscribers will benefit from an archive of educators work covering categories such as training, nutrition, business development & self development. Further to this we have established partnerships with industry leading companies that will offer subscribers discounts on courses, supplements, equipment and much more.”

BodyPower are hosting an event at Warwick University on Sunday 22nd April 2018 to launch the academy, for any personal trainer wanting to attend then tickets can be purchased for £1 from visiting bodypower.com.

Included will be a two-week subscription trial and opportunity to meet industry leading educators.

For anyone wanting to know more about BodyPower Academy and be kept up to date with developments, interest can be registered via the BodyPower website.

BodyPower MD Steve Orton

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Co-located with the BodyPower expo

“Of BodyPowers 100,000 visitors, 20% are trade delegates. To accommodate for this we have created BodyPower Trade, a show dedicated to Trade. Co-located with the BodyPower consumer event it, it’s an environment suited to B2B.”

trade match area

Do you want to find a product to increase company profits?

Do you have a product new to market that you want to get in front of key decision makers in the leisure industry?

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With over 36 seminars focusing on industry trends and increasing your facility’s profits

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With key heads from the leisure industry attending can you afford to give competitor advantage away by not exhibiting?

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With BodyPower weeks away it was great to catch up with BodyPower MD Steve Orton about the show in October as well as BodyPower’s emerging and developing presence as an all round Fitness brand.

BodyPower MD Steve Orton

Steve thanks for your time today, so second year of FTS what is new?

2017 was a new concept, whereby we focused heavily on education, current trends, round tables and offering a real insight into what is happening in the fitness market.

2018, the name change is a big focus for us. We have had huge success previously with events and expos that say what they are on the tin and this is a focus moving forwards. Fitness Training Show relates to all aspects of the fitness world where ‘training’ is either a direct impact or has an influence.

Be it directly a fitness professional ‘training’ a class or individual, utilizing the right training equipment through to owners understanding the impact of a trainer /team of trainers impacting their bottom line through to the latest trends in training, ensuring all clients have the right content, knowledge and education from their gym environment. It’s an event for those that have a fitness facility and want to better their business or themselves.

For visitors what I can say is ,if you play a role direct or indirect around the training be it physical, nutrition or man management of those that apply training this show is where you should be. We have world class educators, theory, practical areas, along with an exhibition showcasing latest products and trends in the training market.

Something that has been missing in the UK fitness industry.

Ok so it’s a fitness training show then?

Yes in all aspects of the name training, training your staff, personal training and the general use of the word ‘training consumer’.

What other Training for staff will be available?

There are now over 7,000 gyms 23,000 registered personal trainers and 1 in 7 adult members of the public do some form of training be it in a gym/cross fit SGT etc.

We at Bodypower feel it is necessary to have a yearly show dedicated to these groups and individuals as no one does this to date.

Moving on from 2017, education and theory will play a big part, Seminars are another key component of the show with fitness enthusiasts and professionals giving immediate value. We have worked hard at Bodypower over 10 years we have amassed a body of speakers that are world renowned and second to non. I am not going to name drop in this interview, but we intend the full seminar list to be released early/mid-summer. Our market knowledge allows us to bring over specialists in small group training, gen pop training, body composition, hypertrophy, community engagement as well as various other hot topics!

There’s a huge amount of fitness professionals coming into the industry that do not have the right knowledge or business acumen to make a success.

Through this event we will allow those people as well as experienced trainers to further themselves and push on in their careers.

So has the trade element gone completely?

Absolutely not, but the term trade isn’t directly relevant to this event. There will still be companies exhibiting, however the products will be directly relatable to latest trends, best equipment to use, case studies of success stories and a focus on how you can make money from secondary spend.

It is not going to be a show with rows and rows of exhibitors, we will challenge exhibitors to show off their equipment and services in practical action and even providing training on the spot. B2B purchasing directors and key decision makers will still be involved but bring your training gear this year as we want you to experience the products and understand where the market is currently …

So how do I book?

This year visitors can book Free of charge for the exhibition and a variety of content, there are also a range of chargeable tickets whereby the quality of the content rockets and the value for money is exceptional. If people want to network, listen and learn or speak about products no problem, if you are serious about developing your career, learning and listening to international speakers and experts I’d highly recommend you book a ticket and make the most of the quality we will provide.

You can register your interest and be kept aware of when the first tickets go live at www.bodypower.com/fts

www.bodypower.com/fts

INDOOR CYCLING AND ROWING

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‘Spin to a Million’ event raises cash in boost for Trust

A ‘SPIN to a Million’ event at a Belfast gym brought 31 teams together to raise money for the Mary Peters Trust.

Dame Mary challenged Northern Ireland businesses, sporting organisations and talented young athletes to help raise vital funds for her sporting charity by taking part in an all-day spinathon.

Teams had the opportunity to ‘buy’ a bike for the day and keep the pedalling going constantly from 8.30am to 5.30pm, with a goal to collectively cycle for 1m seconds – 278 hours.

The event took place at Olympia Leisure Centre, Better Gym and was launched by Mary and four time Paralympic gold medallist Michael McKillop.

A host of her celebrity friends including Cool FM’s breakfast radio presenter Pete Snodden, Miss Northern Ireland Anna Henry and sports personalities were also there on the day to take part and provide encouragement to competitors.

All proceeds from the event will go to support the trust’s work in developing elite young athletes across Northern Ireland.

Dame Mary said: “We couldn’t have done it without Better Gyms supporting us. The spin instructors who donated their time were so motivational and really kept everyone going.

“This ‘Spin to a Million’ is to ensure funding remains in place to enhance the development of our Carl Framptons and Bethany Firths of the future. I want to thank everyone involved.”

Operators getting in the zone with Wattbike

SINCE breaking onto the indoor cycling scene 10 years ago, Wattbike have spent a decade at the forefront of innovation in this sector.

Wattbike Zones are now being installed across the country, with large operators, boutique studios and independents creating Zones with bespoke Wattbike graphics and branding to draw in the crowds.

With a self-professed obsession with performance, Wattbike have created a new genre of indoor cycling. Spinning was a onedimensional workout but with Wattbike came performance-based training which shifted the focus of indoor cycling and enticed a whole new consumer into the gym.

In September 2017, Wattbike unveiled the first smart bike in the world; the ATOM. With patented technology and aimed at the home market, the ATOM has unrivalled connectivity to apps such as Zwift and built in, climb software to allow riders to simulate gradient changes and mimic real climbs automatically.

Data is in the Wattbike’s DNA.

The bikes’ technology initiated a unique way of collecting data that was calibrated and accurate.

The patented sensor measures power at a level of accuracy that no other bike can match. It is this level of data that enabled Wattbike to create the patented Polar View and Pedalling Effectiveness Score (PES) technologies.

Historically, Wattbike were the first and only indoor bike to have been developed in partnership with British Cycling, and are still to this day, the only indoor bike to have been endorsed by them.

Following seven successful years with British Cycling, Wattbike elevated to a global level when they were chosen and endorsed by the UCI World Cycling Centre and housed in six of the UCI’s satellite centres around the world.

Today, the Wattbike is used by the world’s top cycling federations in addition to professional teams and elite athletes across every major sport.

Beyond the fitness industry, Wattbike fundamentally altered military testing by partnering

with the British Army to design a bespoke performance test, the Alternative Aerobic Assessment (A3). And from the health sector, in partnership with Wattbike, Discovery Vitality delivered approximately 100,000 fitness assessments across South Africa last year.

Wattbike managing director Richard Baker said: “We have a history of innovation and you’ll never find us standing still. We focus on leading, not following advancements, and strive to always be revolutionising our products, software, technology and education.

“We work with excellence; elite athletes, the best sport scientists in the world and the top professional federations. Our determination to continually transform and improve our offering has made us the bike of choice for the health, fitness and sporting sectors.”

Having completely revolutionised indoor cycling over the past 10 years, Wattbike have no plans to slow down now. Wattbike are the ones to watch, so expect the unexpected for 2018.

INDOOR CYCLING AND ROWING

40

Firefighter Wayne’s ‘spinathon’ raises £4k for air ambulance charity

Staff and members at MSF Fitness in Telford came together for a charity fitness event, which raised funds to buy a defibrillator for the club.

The Wattbike Challenge raised nearly £400, through riders paying £10 each to take part and additional donations.

If your club has been raising funds for charity then send us the details for the next issue of WorkOut. Email us at ce@scriptmedia.co.uk

A 12 hour ‘spinathon’ at a leisure centre in Cambridgeshire has raised over £4,000 for charity.

Firefighter Wayne Marshall, who is also a qualified Spinning instructor, organised the event to raise money for Magpas Air Ambulance after witnessing their hard work first hand when responding to incidents.

He explained: “I’m employed as a crew commander with Cambridge Fire and Rescue Service and attend many incidents that involve serious injuries and trauma. Often paramedics at the scene request the air ambulance and we see first hand the work they do, which is amazing.”

The event took place at George Campbell Leisure Centre in March, where staff and members were keen to get involved.

About 70 riders took part – who all

received a finisher’s medal and goody bag, with Wayne also managing to gain support from many local businesses including supplier Life Fitness.

He added: “We did something similar last year for six hours where we raised £2,100 for the charity. We

Introducing the new Concept2 BikeErg CONCEPT2 has just added a third product to its line of ergometers, with the new Concept2 BikeErg. Joining the SkiErg and the famous indoor rower, the BikeErg brings to cycling the strengths and features they’ve previously brought to rowing and cross-country skiing.

The BikeErg is based on the same flywheel technology as the SkiErg and indoor rower. You can adjust the resistance on the flywheel just like the gears on a regular bike. Unlike a spin bike, it also has a clutch, allowing you

to freewheel just as on a road bike.

At the heart of every Concept2 machine is the performance monitor. This is what ensures the consistency of all Concept2 ergometers, and allows you to compare your workouts across sessions and different machines. The monitor shows your workout in a number of different measurements, including calories, watts and pace per 1000m. It also has both Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, allowing you to connect to a wide range of heart

rate monitors, as well as apps such as Zwift.

Managing director of Concept2 UK Alex Dunne said: “For years customers have been asking us to make a bike like our rowers, and we’re delighted that we’re now able to do so. The reaction from the market has been great, and we’re already seeing it show up in a wide range of programming.”

The BikeErg is available from concept2.co.uk and costs £816.67 ex VAT. Concept2 will be demonstrating the new BikeErg at Elevate.

thought this year we could double the time – and we managed to also double the funds raised.

“It was great and a really successful day.”

Wayne is now looking to expand the concept by organising a full fitness event to raise more money for the cause and bring something different to the local area.

The Big Eastern Weekend is planned for May next year and will offer a range of activities and fitness classes. *Has your gym done something to raise money for charity? Send us details about what you did, who was involved and how much money was raised, plus some pictures from the day, and we could include your story in a future issue of Workout. Email ce@scriptmedia.co.uk or contact us via Facebook and Twitter.

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TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT SPONSORED BY

CIMSPA first for YMCA Awards

By Christina Eccles

New TRX role for Olivier TRX has announced a range of new appointments, including Olivier Ciaravino as Vice President, International In his new role, Olivier will take on a variety of responsibilities, including leading the company’s international strategy ventures and the international team.

UK country manager Gavin Whelan,

pictured, will be joining Olivier to help lead the international TRX force with budgeting, planning, channel management and implementation.

Jaimeson Adams has also joined the company; taking on the role of TRX director of sales in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America, focusing on the increase in sales and representation internationally.

YMCA Awards has become the UK’s first awarding organisation to achieve CIMSPA accreditation across three new qualifications.

The new qualifications will be accredited by CIMSPA from August 2018 and are YMCA Level Two Certificate in Gym Instructing, YMCA Level Three Diploma in Personal Training (Practitioner) and YMCA Level Three Diploma in Gym Instructing and Personal Training (Practitioner).

The new CIMSPA Professional Standards for Gym Instructor and Personal Trainer (Practitioner) is the first of its kind and was created in consultation with many major employers including the likes of Hilton, Virgin Active, Nuffield Health and Parkwood Leisure.

The three new qualifications have been adapted from the original coursework outlines and aim to further enhance the learning experience for both students and training providers.

For learners, these new qualifications will allow them to develop more practical experience, such as people skills, with a wider range of clients.

The adapted qualification will also increase flexibility for learners, especially at their end point assessment, giving them the opportunity to build their coursework around an area of their choosing.

Group education and skills director of Central YMCA Lady Andrée Deane-Barron said: “I am pleased to announce that we are again leading the sector by becoming the very first awarding organisation to launch CIMPSA endorsed gym and personal training qualifications aligned to the new professional standards.

“The fitness industry has been crying out for qualifications that reflect the knowledge and skills employers are looking for and through extensive collaboration with industry experts, we have been able to create them.”

Are you looking to become a Bootcamp instructor?

JOIN us for a weekend packed full of ideas and education to help you build and develop your Bootcamp business The Bootcamp instructor training certified training course is aimed at exercise professionals who are either looking to teach Bootcamps or instructors who are wanting to enhance their skills, knowledge and learn new exciting ideas and formats.

The two day training course covers everything from mobilisation drills, movement preparation drills, fun warm up ideas, programme design,

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So if you’re looking at setting up your own bootcamp, train people in large groups and earn more money doing so then the bootcamp course is definitely for you.

Our next instructor training dates are: May 12-13 in Basingstoke.

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To find out more about our bootcamp instructor training courses please visit www.bootcamp-fitness.co.uk

TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT SPONSORED BY In this bi-monthly column for Workout, Active IQ’s head of assessment services Steve Conopo explains the virtues of the new End Point Assessment

Tougher and tighter system will ensure new talent is work-ready New eGym sales role for Justin EGYM has appointed industry veteran Justin Smith as senior sales manager.

Previously managing director at Precor, Justin will report directly to commercial sales director UK Jeremy Jenkins and will focus on new business development; helping to expand eGym’s offering to new communities.

He said: “In my position as MD at Precor, I developed a close partnership with eGym, recognising the mutual benefits the brands could achieve through product integration. “eGym is a disruptive brand which, through product innovation and collaboration, is breaking new ground in fitness delivery. This is one of the most exciting brands to reach our shores in recent history and I am really excited to be on board.”

THE new End-point Assessments (EPAs) for apprentices are set to ensure apprentices emerge with strong skills that will be taken seriously. But there is an education job to be done – and not just with the apprentices – to ensure the End-point Assessments for new Apprenticeship Standards are truly fit for purpose.

Active IQ was one of the first EPA organisations to be approved by the Register of End-point Assessment Organisations for the physical activity sector. This is a great position to be in, but it brings with it great responsibility. In fact, getting End-point Assessments right is so crucial, I am heading up a discrete arm of the business with a dedicated team to fully focus on this area and ensure bespoke support for employers, apprentices and training providers.

Apprenticeships generally are under fire right now with figures across the board apparently dropping by up to one third since the new Levy came in last April. That’s as maybe, but when looking at the active leisure sector, we are seeing great interest and optimism among employers, providers and future apprentices. Our sector embraced apprenticeships long ago: we have good traction already.

Steve Conopo Apprenticeships have sometimes had a bad press, perhaps viewed as a ‘poor relation’ compared to academic education. I suspect the new End-point Assessments will put paid to this misguided reputation: these end-of-apprenticeship assessments are rigorous and apprentices will only succeed if they have had robust and thorough training.

The fact employers can choose their EPA organisation from the approved Register of End-point Assessment Organisations, gives clear blue water between the employer, the training provider and the assessment team.

This is a step forward for the industry whose apprentices must stand up to the scrutiny on an independent assessor.

That shouldn’t worry anyone who values thorough work-ready training and preparation and fair assessment processes. But I fully recognise new systems can take getting used to so we have developed toolkits for apprentices and employers. The apprentices’ kit will ensure they prepare fully to meet the new demands of their employment through the knowledge, skills and behaviours obtained throughout their apprenticeship journey. The employers’ toolkit outlines what is expected and provides supportive guidance, so they can be confident when they put an apprentice forward for their EPA they are absolutely ready.

We believe that well-constructed and informed development of the various apprenticeship assessment plans by CIMSPA will equip apprentices to enjoy a fulfilling career in the active leisure industry. This new system may be tougher and tighter but that’s what the industry needs to ensure the new talent coming through the apprenticeship system is both work-ready and valued.

43

INDUSTRY NEWS

44

Katie reveals the tool box items she couldn’t live without ...

By Katie Bulmer-Cooke

HAVING worked as a personal trainer for over 10 years now, I’ve seen lots of exciting fads come and go and I’ve also been lucky enough to try out a whole range of quality products and services that make my life as a PT so much easier, and in turn improves the service I can deliver to my clients.

Over the years I’ve built up a tool box of things that I simply couldn’t live without. Finding the exact tools to fit the needs of my personal training business has been a result of trying out a variety of options and taking recommendations from my fellow industry professionals.

So in this edition of my column, I’m going to share them with you, and maybe they will make their way into your tool box too.

MyZone Belt I started to use my MyZone belt almost three years ago now and I’ve never done a workout without it since.

I quickly became a super fan and, from day one, saw the huge advantages of using the technology with my clients too. The MyZone app not only allows me to see when my clients have trained but most importantly their intensity,

duration and calories burned.

Using the belt and app with my clients has also enabled me to train people all over the world, adding an extra revenue stream to my fitness business. The app helps to build a sense of community too and I regularly use it to create challenges that all of my clients can take part in, regardless of their geographical location.

Client Management App I’ve tried and tested several websites, systems and apps over the years that are designed to manage client information, track results and create programmes, but nothing ever delivered all of the functions I needed in one place. I often found myself swaying between two to three apps in order to cover all of the functions I needed. Thankfully this segment of the industry is growing and developed at lightening speed and now it is possible to have all of the functions required by the business in one app or system.

Essentially I need a client management system to take payments, have a calendar function, manage my programming and nutritional recommendations and store client PARQ and assessment information.

I’m in the process of moving over to Trainer PA. This app enables two

way communication with clients as well as all the functions I need… and the best part is it’s free!

Everyday Apps As you can probably tell, I love technology, and I’m all for making my life as a trainer easier, so here are my top three apps that I use every single day: 1. SIT (Simple Interval Timer) I can’t be trusted with a simple stop watch, so my clients tell me!

So to ensure I get my work and rest periods spot on to the second I use this app for interval training sessions.

2. Hootsuite Social media plays a huge role in my business and this app allows me to schedule posts so that I can post regularly and effectively while I’m training clients without having to pick up my phone.

3. iMovie I post a lot of workout videos on my social channels and create ‘how to’ videos for my clients.

This app allows me to make quick, easy videos for both. I can add voiceovers and music and it helps me create content on the go without having to sit at my laptop.

■ Follow Katie on Instagram @ katiebulmercooke

Healthy new partnership at club chain VIRGIN Active members will now be able to enjoy new healthy food and drinks in their clubs after the health club chain partnered with Lexington Catering.

Lexington Catering will now be providing food and drink in Virgin Active’s 43 clubs across the UK, under the Athleat food brand.

The Lexington team will work closely with personal trainers to ensure the food offer supports members’ health goals and has also been working with personalised food experts, Vitamojo, to develop a digital platform, bringing fitness and food together to improve the member experience.

Members will be able to pre-order food through the app and website for when their workouts finish, as well as access nutritional information, or simply order from the counter.

Virgin Active UK managing director Robert Cook said: “At Virgin Active we want to turn the ordinary gym into a true lifestyle experience for members, and that means continually investing and innovating in all areas of the business – from the gym floor to the café.

“From getting insight from our personal trainers to enabling members to pre-order their food, this new partnership with Lexington strengthens our commitment to making exercise truly irresistible.”

South Downs Leisure’s walking netballers have celebrated the first anniversary of starting sessions at Worthing Leisure Centre.

The group celebrated reaching the milestone with cake in the Coffee House after their weekly session.

Head Walking Netball coach Alison Hall said: “I feel both privileged and proud to be part of the indoor walking netball sessions at South Downs Leisure.

“It’s great to see how participation levels have increased over the last 12 months, with us regularly having 22 players at each session.

“It’s not only a fantastic way to get fit, but it’s fun too, with the opportunity to make many friends along the way.”

AN independent gym in North Ayrshire battled the elements to stay open for members during the recent spell of bad weather.

MRC Fitness in Dalry opened as normal despite the snow; providing extra free tea, coffee and biscuits for those who made it in.

81 year old Malcolm Clark, who started MRC 34 years ago, and still helps out daughter Lorraine in the club, also gave a helping hand by clearing a path outside the door.

AV SOLUTIONS MYGROUPFIT has launched a new music app, providing group exercise instructors with easy access to legally licensed, original artist music compilations delivered on their mobile device.

App subscribers have seamless access to over 450 original artist mixed albums, with new albums being added monthly.

They can also choose music from the music library by genre and have the ability to store any number of favourites.

MGF manager Dean Steer said, “As a group exercise instructor we all know how busy it gets planning classes, connecting with members and going from class to class amongst everything else.

“The app takes the hard work out of finding great phrased music that can be accessed via mobile – perfect for a busy instructor on the go.”

Helping instructors to stay in the zone ...

OUR Sound Installations team have been busy this year, kitting out some of the top health club chains with new equipment in their spin studios and gyms.

The systems we install for spin studios have different requirements than a regular studio.

We can install the sound systems in such a way that the instructor can stay on the bike, meaning they can stay in the zone and focus on teaching their class.

We can also offer solutions where the spin classes take place within the main gym area. In this case, we would recommend the class members each wear their own set of headphones,

meaning they can fully concentrate on what the instructor is telling them, whilst being able to listen to the music for the class, and not be distracted by other gym members carrying out their own workout.

If you’re thinking of adding a spin studio to your organisation or would like to upgrade the current sound system you have, please get in touch with our installation team, who will discuss what your specific needs are and offer you the best solution for the job at the right price.

For more information email sales@ sound-installs.co.uk, visit www. sound-installs.co.uk or call 01773 828 486.

Sound Dynamics designing their own products 30 years on ARGUABLY the first audio company to design and manufacture sound systems specifically for fitness instructors back in 1989 – and what are we doing in 2018? Designing our own products again.

A year ago, we made the decision to start designing and manufacturing once more and we now have an impressive range of products to be proud of.

The idea behind designing our own products was to remove any unnecessary controls, keeping the systems simple and user friendly, but at the same time, providing our customers with the power and functionality they’d need. By doing this, our customers feel confident stepping up in front of their classes every day and using the equipment.

The class is then delivered in a professional manner with kit that is made specifically for the job in hand.

We’ve designed and manufactured the Black ‘n’ Orange headset microphone systems, putting packages together to make choosing the right one easier.

The SD12M and SD12B powerful portable fitness sound systems have been incredibly popular with both independent instructors and health clubs.

We’ve even made our own range of disco and UV lighting to cope with demand.

Most recently, we’ve created two really cool mixer amplifiers with inbuilt Bluetooth, which we’re really excited about. They’re perfect to power fitness studio speakers and background music in cafes,

restaurants and bars.

If you’re in need of new sound systems, microphones, televisions, projectors or lighting, be sure to get in touch for a quote.

For more information email: orders@sound-dynamics.co.uk, call +44 (0) 1773 824 826 or visit www. sound-dynamics.co.uk

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ELEVATE

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ELEVATE is now in its third year and is well established as the UK’s largest physical activity and fitness trade event.

With just weeks to go until the 2018 show, Workout previews what to watch out for this year.

Latest innovations on show at Elevate AT this year’s show, Elevate attendees will be able to discuss the latest trends and debate the future of fitness with insights into how technology is transforming the sector; whilst also being able to trial the latest innovations within the international exhibition.

In 2018, the exhibition will once again take centre stage and has nearly sold out, with the last few brands confirming their space and activities over the next couple of weeks. eGym will present eGym Premium for the first time in the UK, an ultraadvanced software solution which delivers an unrivalled level of automated, individualisation to each and every prescribed training programme.

The software upgrade introduces three new training methods – Adaptive, Isokentic and Explonic – applied as required to deliver results, fast.

Matrix will enable gyms to take HIIT to the next level with their S-Force Performance Trainer which combines a specifically designed motion and magnetic resistance system to automatically increase the intensity the harder the user trains.

Together with Elite Sports

Performance and Rehabilitation Expo and COPA, over 300 exhibitors will be demonstrating high-tech solutions for in-depth analysis, monitoring, rehabilitation and performance. These include MediChecks, Bodystat, Eliko, Open Data Institute, Amplitrain, Miha Bodytec, Bodygee, FitQuest, MyZone, InBody and Seca.

The visitor statistics so far have shown a continued enthusiasm for the event with an over 50 per cent increase on pre-registrations yearon-year. Organisers of COPA and Elite Sports Expo – two shows which will co-locate with Elevate for the first time in 2018 – also look likely to achieve record figures of attendees.

The international exhibition features two full days of seminar sessions, as well as a new Elevate Thought-Leaders’ Conference sponsored by MINDBODY. Speakers include BBC’s Dr Michael Mosley, Sport Relief coach Professor Greg Whyte, Kate Dale from Sport England, This Girl Can architect Tanya Joseph, Robert Cook from Virgin Active, CIMSPA’s Tara Dillon, Philipp Roesch-Schlanderer from eGym and Ben Beevers from

Everyone Active.

The inaugural Elevate Thought Leaders’ Conference will challenge the sector to live up to its full potential, outlining an ambitious vision for its role in society. Speakers will assess the evidence, analyse the current state of play and present the opportunities. From social prescribing to active urban design, digital disruption to community-wide behaviour change initiatives, the Elevate Conference aims to inspire bigger picture thinking that will unleash the full power of the physical activity sector as a force for good in society.

For operators and fitness professionals there are also four other streams of seminars: Strategies for an Active Nation, Evidence Base – Physical Activity for Health and Wellbeing, Performance – Maximising Potential and The Business of Physical Activity.

Over two days, 350 speakers will cover inclusivity, working with GPs and social prescribing, collaboration and partnerships, mental health, active ageing, nutrition, bringing pool operation under control, using data effectively, the ‘how to’ of social

media and creating an experience.

CIMSPA are offering three CPD points per day for attendees for their members.

Founder and director of Elevate Max Quittenton said: “With so much product innovation, new entrants to the market and content, Elevate is the must-attend event for every operator and physical activity professional.

The physical activity sector has much to look forward to and we are committed to creating an industry event dedicated to innovation, networking and growth. With over 300 suppliers represented within the exhibition hall, there are many new products to suit all truly innovative facilities.

“The entire event – including the conference and seminar sessions – is completely free which makes it an ideal opportunity to bring along colleagues and simply dip in and out of sessions and exhibition networking.”

To find out more information about the exhibition highlights, speaker programmes and register for free passes across all three events, please visit: www.elevatearena.com, www. expoelitesports.co.uk and www.copashow.com.

Date of event: May 9-10 Venue: ExCeL London Website: www.elevatearena.com Twitter: @elevatearena Instagram: @elevatearena Facebook: Elevate LinkedIn: Elevate 2018

INDUSTRY NEWS

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The key to retention ...

VIRTUAGYM is a complete member engagement platform with integrated branded mobile apps.

Flexible communication tools enable gym operators and personal trainers alike to increase member touch points, a key driver for retention.

Virtuagym’s mobile coaching and community tools deliver a superior digital member experience by giving members access to options such as in-app and web-based scheduling, workout and nutrition tracking, and discussion groups.

Other features in Virtuagym include online member registration via your own webshop, club and member management and more.

Manage all aspects of your business efficiently and offer engaging services that will keep your members healthy and happy.

For more information, visit virtuagym.com or call +44 20 8133 3657.

Discover first hand how Virtuagym can help your business grow and visit them at Elevate 2018, Booth F32.

ServiceSport team prepares to go coast to coast for charity SERVICESPORT’S annual charity event is scheduled to take place on May 18-20 2018.

Eight ServiceSport employees along with a support team will cycle from Coast to Coast from Whitehaven to Sunderland – a grand total of 225km.

The chosen charities – the Royal British Legion and the Samaritans – are very close to ServiceSport’s hearts and minds, with ex-servicemen and veterans now working for the company and several employees recuperating from personal difficulties.

Event co-ordinator Lee Swann said: “Being ex-military, supporting servicemen, women, families and service personnel who’ve come across hard times is something I’ve always wanted to do.

“Supporting my new colleagues at ServiceSport who have turned to the Samaritans when situations they found themselves in were tough also means a lot to me.

“ServiceSport’s idea this year is to support both charities and be able to put a smile back on those people’s faces.

“It would certainly be a personal achievement to complete the challenge, but what an absolutely wonderful idea for all concerned at ServiceSport.

“We are proud to support these two charities for the first time, so please dig deep by donating what you can to help us raise vital monies for these deserving charities and let us do the rest by Riding for Remembrance.”

For more information and to donate please visit: https://www. gofundme.com/servicesport-ride-forremembrance.

Gerflor pumped-up for Elevate 2018 (stand F11) ELEVATE is the UK's largest fitness and physical activity trade show.

This year’s event on May 9-10 at Excel London is an unrivalled opportunity to learn more about how physical activity, health and performance connect.

The event provides a perfect platform for international flooring specialist Gerflor to showcase several of their high-performing vinyl flooring products including Taraflex which is the most widely specified sports surface in the world.

Chosen by top international

RAZE Air Rower added to Renegade family FOLLOWING on from the hugely successful RAZE Renegade Air Bike, Indigo Fitness have brought the RAZE Renegade Air Rower to the UK fitness market.

Built to the same exacting standards as the Air Bike, the Renegade Air Rower delivers strong resistance with a clever combination of air and magnets.

This means the resistance level can be increased or decreased, making it suitable for all levels of users, but also capable of delivering a killer workout.

The performance monitor has a single, large, screen so you can see all your workout

data with a quick glance, and it tracks all the data points you’d expect; time, distance, calories, watts, strokes, SPM and time/500.

It also features inbuilt target and interval programs and can track your pulse if you’re wearing a compatible chest belt.

Personal trainer, indoor rowing competitor and freestyle wrestler Tom Armstrong said: “This rowing machine was great.

It feels like a high-quality piece of gym equipment.

“There are multiple resistance settings depending on your ability and the sort of workout

you want to get from it. It’s very comfortable to use and adjustable so anyone can use it. The ride itself is extremely smooth and feels a lot like rowing in water.

“I would recommend the Renegade Rower to anyone looking to buy a highquality rowing machine.”

The Renegade Air rower is available in two different models; one featuring eight levels of manually adjustable resistance and the other with 16 levels of touch-button resistance.

Check out https:// indigofitness.com/ renegadecat/for more info.

athletes for its unique construction and technical performance, it has been fitted at every Olympic Games since 1976.

The Powershock 300, 100 and 60 ranges also on show from Gerflor are high impact rubber solutions for fitness, designed to be both functional and hard wearing.

The Elevate show will also afford Gerflor the opportunity to highlight their fast-track GTI Max and Creation LVT ranges.

For more information call 01926 622600, Email: contractuk@gerflor. com or visit www.gerflor.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

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KitLock to the rescue!

What is Total Warrior?

TOTAL Warrior is the Northern Powerhouse in Obstacle Course Racing.

Our events provide the ultimate test of stamina, strength and determination – offering a challenge for everyone.

Which locations are you coming to this year?

We are coming to Leeds on the weekend of June 23 and 24, before moving on to our ‘home’ Lakes event on August 4 and 5.

Get ready for brand new obstacles in 2018! We pack 25 into our courses, giving you greater variety and more obstacles-per-kilometre than any other race.

Do your events cater for beginners too?

Yes! Our events are suitable for all levels of fitness. There’s a great sense of camaraderie between participants, with Warriors sharing their experiences over a beer long after the final person has finished. Obstacle races give you something to work towards in the gym. Check out the Total Warrior Training page for a detailed training plan.

Testimonial: Ben Jones, a director and PT at B-Smart Fitness in Keswick, said: “Total Warrior is a fixture in our gym calendar now – pre-

paring for and participating in their events are a fantastic way to keep members motivated over several months of training for a challenge that we can all then enjoy and endure together. Everyone gets a real buzz from the whole event experience and it has definitely helped create long-lasting bonds between me and my customers.”

Tickets to the two 2018 events are available now from £59.95, before a price increase at midnight on May 3.

To get your ticket, visit www.totalwarrior. co.uk/all-events

LOST another locker key? Go keyless and make the switch to digital cabinet locks.

Replacing locks or broken locker keys can be a major concern for some clubs and gyms. Imagine having several hundred locks to manage, the problem of replacing lost and broken locker keys can be a time consuming and expensive one.

KitLock to the rescue!

KitLock is a digital access solution that uses a four-digit pin code to secure and open locks and cabinets. Fitted in place of standard cam locks, KitLock provides simple keypad access without the hassle of keys, tokens or coins.

What are the main benefits of keyless entry?

The most obvious benefit is having no key to carry around. This is particularly useful if you are a user of a gym or spa. People are far more likely to lose a key than

they are to forget a four-digit code. But if a KitLock code is forgotten, then entering an eight-digit master code will open the locker. From a maintenance perspective, having no more keys to replace saves a great deal of time and money.

James Cannon, facilities manager at triyoga commented on the KitLock and how it has transformed their business. He added: “We design our centres to be slick, beautiful and at the top of their game, whilst also offering comfort and convenience.

The KitLock from Codelocks has allowed us to ensure that this aesthetic goes beyond the studios and treatment rooms and into the changing rooms, much more in keeping with the quality expected from our centres.”

Visit Codelocks at Elevate – Stand Number H12 www.codelocks.com

Full gym installation ... in less than two days!

Book your taster now ...

SINCE becoming master trainer in 2016, Keeley Bowker has been working with the amazing GOFLO suspension trainers within her own studio, creating new and exciting workouts.

Keeley now has the UK distribution and training rights for this innovative, effective and fun bungee sprung suspension trainer.

Ideal for one to one PT sessions, small group training and perfect for rehabilitation – due to shock absorbent bungees… But where it really shines is in larger group sessions. The sprung bungees allow clients to get a fantastic fat burning

workout whilst having fun and building confidence!

With adjustable straps and resistance, you can execute almost every body weight exercise but with a new dimension. Helping to build upper body strength when doing push ups and adding a resistance to runs and squats.

Don’t miss your chance to get qualified in this amazing new concept – free taster courses and full basic courses are now being booked – they will even come to your studio to teach you. Get in touch to book your taster now. Email sales@goflo-uk.co.uk or 0115 752 9320.

WRENS Kitchens’ Nest Gym is looking amazing … after the FFITTECH team did a fantastic job installing this beautiful full gym set up in less than two days.

TGS are the exclusive UK suppliers of the game changing FFITTECH range.

This range is fully loaded with cardio machines, pin loaded and plate loaded strength machines, benches, racks, free weights, accessories and flooring.

Having one brand for all of your fitness requirements ensures that

everything is uniformed, on point and you don’t have to waste time shopping around trying to piece everything together from different suppliers.

Total Gym Solutions is the onestop-shop…taking care of fitness.

If you would like to arrange a viewing to see the equipment and get a feel for the wow factor that the FFITTECH range will give to your gym, health club or fitness studio, then please contact the TGS sales team today on 0115 752 9320 or email: sales@totalgymsolutions.co.uk

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One of the U.K’s Leading Suppliers of...

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