Issuu

August 2018

The UK’s No 1 fitness industry magazine

Study reveals most popular workout By Oliver Dyson

A NEW industry report has revealed indoor group cycling classes are the UK’s most popular group workout. The report, produced by the DataHub and ukactive, shows that group cycling makes up 13 per cent of all exercise classes - beating out pilates and yoga to the top spot and demonstrating the continuing popularity of the high-intensity workout. The report, called Moving Communities: Active Leisure Trends 2018, shows how leisure facilities across the UK are evolving to meet emerging consumer demand. It used data from more than three million customers and 150 million individual visits across 396 leisure centres for the past three years. It also revealed that group workouts are significantly more popular with women than men, with 38 per cent of women visiting for group exercise as opposed to just 14 per cent of men. Women also make up 74 per cent of group exercise participants. Swimming was also shown to rise in popularity with age, responsible for 39 per cent of visits for people aged 75 and over when compared to just eight per cent for those aged 16-24. And for sports played at leisure facilities, football is becoming an

increasingly popular past time, rising from 30 per cent of non-core visits in 2016 to 37 per cent this year. DataHub director Utku Toprakseven said: “Our primary goal in working with ukactive on the Moving Communities report remains addressing the wave of inactivity we face; getting the nation more active and healthy by giving the industry valuable, credible and actionable insight. “This report is a great example for DataHub’s mission coming to life through strong sector partnerships; helping operators and delivery partners to unlock the potential of their data.” CEO of ukactive Steven Ward said: “This report shines a light on the key trends influencing public leisure and our sector now knows more about how customers interact with fitness facilities than ever before – understanding when, where and how they work out. “Armed with this knowledge, operators are better able to tailor their fitness offerings to meet the wants and needs of their customers, which can only help support our goal to get more people, more active, more often.” n Do you agree with the report? Let Oliver Dyson know by emailing od@ scriptmedia.co.uk

No 299 £3

Deadline for Award entries is extended

Attendees were encouraged to ride with pride at the world’s first spin amphitheatre in London. The Pride Ride was held at 1Rebel’s brand new, 7,000 sq ft spin space, in their Nova, Victoria venue. Drag queens, confetti cannons, glitter bombs, a braiding bar and a post-class prosecco service were enjoyed by attendees. The class was held as part of festivities for London Pride weekend. And the space has been deemed the ‘Spaceship’, with 85 bikes arranged over three stories and centred around a futuristic instructor podium which raises and lowers, via scissor lift, to meet attendees eye to eye.

THE DEADLINE to get your entries in for this year’s National Fitness Awards has been extended. Script Events national events co-ordinator Simone Saunders said: “We are keen to make sure everyone has their shot at entering the 2018 NFAs so we have extended the deadline to August 29. “We’ve had some strong entries already and we are really impressed, especially with some of the evidence sent to us. Remember to include your supporting evidence as it plays a crucial role in deciding who makes it to the final shortlists. It gives the judges an idea of your personality and who you are as a nominee.” This year’s event is being held at Liverpool’s Aintree Racecourse on December 7. Nominations have been made easier than ever thanks to the inclusion of an entry form in this month’s issue of Workout. You can find out all about our judging panel in this month’s issue too – turn to page four for profiles on each of them. Turn to pages 11/12 to fill in your nomination form now.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Fitter students have better mental health, study finds By Oliver Dyson A NEW study has found university students who take part in regular physical activity not only perform better, but are more employable and have better mental health. The British Active Students Survey, a joint-report from ukactive, British Universities and Colleges Sport, Precor and Scottish Student Sport has found promoting sports participation and gym membership improves social inclusion too. The report was released at the BUCS Conference. A total of 6,891 students from 104 Higher Education Institutes across the UK responded to the survey. Just over half of respondents, 53 per cent, were meeting the recommended levels of physical activity with 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity a week. A total of 7.1 per cent were classified as inactive, taking fewer than 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity a week. Those who were classified as active scored better than those classified as fairly active or inactive across four aspects of personal wellbeing: life satisfaction, feelings of worthwhile, happiness and anxiety. The survey also showed that students who participate in both sport and gym activities reap the greatest benefits. Inactive students reported more feelings of isolation than active

“The findings of this report provide a great opportunity for higher educational institutions to incorporate opportunities and support for all students to lead an active lifestyle for physical, mental, and social wellbeing.” students. More than 47 per cent of active students said they never or rarely felt feelings of social isolation. Analysis showed that compared to the inactive group, the odds were lower for them feeling left out. Active students also perceived higher levels of attainment than fairly active or inactive students, as well as reporting more time spent studying or in class and a higher self-rating in eight out of ten employability skills than inactive students – particularly for teamwork and drive. The authors have used the findings to call for universities to create more opportunities for physical activity and raise awareness of the wide range of benefits it brings. Chair of ukactive Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson said: “The findings of this report provide a great opportunity for higher educational institutions to incorporate opportunities and support for all students to lead an active lifestyle for physical, mental, and social wellbeing.” Chair of BUCS Professor Sir Ian

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: od@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

Diamond said: “As universities move ever faster to put the student experience at the heart of everything they do, it behoves them to take an evidence-led approach to ensuring that everything is done to maximise the proportion of students who are active. “This report provides a picture of the landscape of student activity and the evidence on which to base policy so as to maximise the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of activity amongst all our students.” Steve Carter, managing director at Precor UK, said: “However students are inspired to take up fitness and sport, we can see from the research findings it not only helps boost their overall self-esteem across a number of areas, but also gives them confidence to achieve strong grades and succeed.”

The SPA Hotel at Ribby Hall Village in Lancashire has invested £500,000 into further improving its facilities. New additions for 2018 include the addition of a second hot tub, a Himalayan Salt Sauna and an outdoor experience shower with mood lighting and body jet to the spa’s outdoor Zen Garden. The changing areas at The SPA have also been improved and new wellbeing therapies including physiotherapy, crystal therapy and yoga have been added to the offering. Spa manager Jane Tregonning said: “We’re particularly delighted with the new Himalayan Salt Sauna with its floor to ceiling windows offering fabulous views. The salt bricks in the walls of the sauna look amazing and are said to support respiratory function and sinus health, to improve mood and sleep and to help balance blood pressure.” Advertising

Editorial

Sales manager: Danielle Hornby Tel: 01226 734709 dlh@scriptmedia.co.uk

Editor: Oliver Dyson Tel: 01226 734463 od@scriptmedia.co.uk

Sales and marketing director: Tony Barry Tel: 01226 734605 tb@scriptmedia.co.uk

Group production editor: Dominic Musgrave Tel: 01226 734407 dm@scriptmedia.co.uk

Sales manager: Daniel Lloyd Tel: 01226 734699 dl@scriptmedia.co.uk

www.workout-uk.co.uk

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

Graphic designer: Scott Firth sf@scriptmedia.co.uk

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

UK FITNESS SCENE

City’s sporting heroes attend gym’s opening

Malcolm and Helen Clark with daughter Lorraine Wallace and their best fitness business in Ayrshire award, given at the Scottish Retail Business Awards held at Ayr Racecourse.

Small Scottish gym wins big MRC Fitness Studio has won the best fitness business award in Ayrshire at the Scottish Retail Business Awards. The business underwent a public vote online, a mystery shopper visit and a judging visit before taking home the prize. The studio, founded over 34 years ago by Helen and Malcolm Clark, also saw Malcolm receive a Lifetime Achievement in Business award. Former Mr Universe competitor Malcolm represented Scotland in the early 1960s in the competition

and is responsible for the gym’s bodybuilding section, while Helen created a slimming club division. MRC is now in second generation ownership by daughter Lorraine Wallace, who is concentrating her team on general fitness, rehab exercises, body maintenance and exercise in later life programming. Lorraine thanked her team, everyone who took the time to vote and the members who have supported MRC Fitness over the past 34 years.

STIRLING sporting stars attended the opening of the city’s new Peak Gym. Team GB basketball athlete Kieron Achara and 2018 Stirling Scottish Marathon winner Michael Wright both attended. They were joined by long standing member of The Peak, Colin Black, who came along to mark the opening. Colin has been a regular supporter of The Peak sport complex and its gym facility. The gym’s new functional training space was unveiled alongside the latest cardio equipment from Life Fitness. Active Stirling, which manages the complex, also launched The Peak Halo – a new fitness cloud powered by Life Fitness which helps members and pay as you go customers set goals and track progress. At the official opening, The Peak was also joined by Provost Christine Simpson, Stirling Council leader Scott Farmer, Councillor Martin Earl, Councillor Chris Kane, Councillor Martin Earl and Councillor Danny Gibson along with Active Stirling’s Chairman Ken Lewandowski and Chief Executive Andrew Bain. Active Stirling chief executive Andrew Bain said: “We wanted to bring new life to our gym and build on the successes of the last nine years. The gym at The Peak has played a pivotal part in changing people’s lives by helping more and more people across the Stirling area, take part in

Team GB basketball player Kieron Achara. regular physical activity and improve their overall health and wellbeing. “It’s important that we continue to provide an inspiring gym environment for them to do so, the latest and innovative gym equipment out there along with the development of digital platforms for our gym and membership teams to help our customers with their training goals and lifestyles in and outside of the gym. “We’re delighted to build on our new and exciting partnership with Life Fitness to bring this new gym experience to The Peak.”

Meet the NFA judges ... THE FULL judging panel for this year’s NFAs has been announced. The five judges have a wealth of experience across the fitness sector but all of them have one thing in common: a passion for celebrating the industry. Here’s your chance to meet and find out more about them. Katie Bulmer-Cooke Fitness entrepreneur Katie BulmerCooke started her fitness business at the age of 16. Fast forward to 2018 and she is a national award winning personal trainer and fitness professional, and consults for a range of businesses within the health and fitness industry. Katie has worked with brands including Reebok, Very.co.uk, Argos and presents at the UK’s biggest conventions. She is a professional speaker, TV and radio presenter and is co-owner of her home town Sunderland’s very first healthy takeaway, Guilt Free Kitchen (the same business plan she presented to Lord Sugar, when she appeared on BBC1’s The Apprentice in 2014). Steve Johnson Steve is co-owner of the multi award winning Tops Fitness & Rehabilitation and prides himself on the fact it has been a business success for well over 40 years. He manages the day to day running of Tops although his true passion is training people to achieve their body transformation goals. His speciality

Dean Hodgkin is coaching bodybuilding athletes to the competition stage and he has created many champions with his athletes of #teamtops. He is still a competitive bodybuilder and last year at the age of 52, he travelled to Russia and achieved the title of Masters Mr World, his crowning moment in competition. But he credits the biggest honour bestowed to him as the Lifetime Achievement award he received at the National Fitness Awards in 2016 which e describes as the biggest shock of his life. He takes the role of judging the awards very seriously and always gets excited to see the high quality of the finalists which seem to improve each year. He said: “I believe in these awards so much so it’s a real pleasure and

Amelia Worrall honour to be involved once more.” Ben Coomber Ben Coomber is a nutritionist, educator, speaker and writer. Ben has the UK’s number one rated health and fitness podcast on iTunes, Ben Coomber Radio with regular Q&As and expert interviews. Ben runs The BTN Academy, an online nutrition education company. Ben also owns Awesome Supplements, a brand offering clarity in the confusing world of supplements. He is a sought-after speaker selling out his own public seminars on nutrition, health and personal development alongside speaking at the major UK fitness events. Dean Hodgkin An industry stalwart with 30 years on the clock, Dean is senior manager at Ragdale Hall Spa and has a rich industry background with experience

of hotel gym, local authority, premium health club and boutique studio sectors. He has written a small library of magazine articles for both consumer and trade publications, authored two fitness books, accrued considerable broadcast experience and has more recently created a number of diverse consumer fitness products being sold through several retail channels. He is a renowned group exercise expert having presented masterclasses, workshops and seminars in 36 countries, leading to him receiving two industry awards. As a sportsman he was three times world and two times European karate champion and still regularly graces the football pitch and tennis court to display his questionable skills! Amelia Worrall Amelia Worrall is commercial director at JD Gyms, having joined the business in 2015. JD Gyms now has 20 gyms across the UK with a further five to open before the end of the year, investing circa £2m in each site. Amelia is responsible for the chain’s day to day operations, sales and marketing functions, systems and processes. Having picked up the award for Best Budget Gym two years running, in 2015 and 2016, Amelia understands what it takes to be an NFAs winner.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Future Fit signs up first Dame Kelly Holmes Trust athlete mentors By Oliver Dyson

FUTURE Fit Training, which recently partnered with the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust, has signed up three of its athlete mentors to study the level three diploma in personal training. Fontaine Wright, ex-badminton player, paralympian swimmer and triathlete David Hill and ex-boxer Hannah Beharry have all made a strong start in their studies and are working their way towards their first assessments and weekend practical training sessions. Future Fit Training is working closely with the selected athletes, who are looking to progress a career in coaching or personal training. The mentors use their experience and discipline to inspire young people facing disadvantage, to address social and work challenges. David Hill was born with no left forearm and through passion and hard work, went on to represent Great Britain for 15 years becoming a two-times Paralympian in swimming and triathlon. Dame Kelly Holmes is a personal role model of David’s and he is proud to work for her charity which enables him to take the skills he has

learned from his sporting career to inspire the next generation. He said: “I wanted to train with Future Fit as I am impressed by the additional modules on behaviour change, circuit training and the business side of being a personal trainer which will be invaluable. “The support provided has been exceptional and the content is not only presented in an easy to absorb manner but clearly links to all my previous sporting experience. “I can’t wait to work through the course and achieve my qualification as I hope to adapt fitness programmes for clients with a disability.” Future Fit Training managing director Rob Johnson said: “I am really pleased that the first three athlete mentors are now on board and making good progress towards their individual qualifications. “Ex-athletes can make exceptional trainers as they bring discipline, commitment and drive to their studies and work. “Fontaine, Dave and Hannah have a valuable role at the Trust and we are only too pleased to play our part by supporting their career transition as they support others.”

David Hill is one of three athlete mentors signed up to study a level three diploma in personal training.

UK FITNESS SCENE

British Rowing appoints four Master Trainers BRITISH Rowing has appointed four indoor rowing Master Trainers to train up fitness professionals. Part of Go Row Indoor, British Rowing’s mass participation indoor rowing programme, the recruitment will see the new trainers help meet the national demand and deliver the instructor training programme. Accredited by CIMSPA and REPS, it requires participants to be a minimum level two fitness instructor. The new trainers are Kate Ingles, level three PT and CYQ fitness instructor of the year 2014; Matt Gleed, PT, TRX master trainer and power plate master trainer; John Healey, PT, strength and conditioning coach and Concept2 qualified instructor; and Denis Page, a fitness professional with 25 years in the industry. Along with the fundamentals of rowing, instructors will also learn

about training plans for members and clients and how to deliver three indoor rowing class formats. British Rowing education and training manager Tim Messent said: “It’s been great to spend time with the new Master Trainers during their two-day training in London. They are true professionals and industry experts. “They bring a huge amount of knowledge, experience and energy to the role and we’re excited to have them on board increasing our ability to run Go Row Indoor workshops for fitness professionals, which have been in high demand.” For more information about the Go Row Indoor training for fitness professionals visit: https://www. britishrowing.org/indoor-rowing/ industry-partners/training-forfitness-professionals/

Community fitness project hopes to transform lives

A NEW community project is hoping to make a positive change to one of the country’s most deprived areas. The Northwood Impact Programme, run by Volair, hopes to use free physical activity to improve health outcomes and community cohesion. In addition to the health benefits, the programme also hopes to motivate people to apply for jobs, socialise and improve their mental wellbeing too. Volair senior healthy lifestyle advisor Andy Perry said: “These

regular sessions will provide an outlet for people who are currently socially isolated due to lack of community activities, which will help them engage with other members of the community who may be in the same situation as themselves and strike up a friendship.” The programme runs at Northwood Community Centre on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays with classes in Tai Chi, Low Circuit, Zumba and Group Groove. All are free.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Advertiser’s announcement

Refit of two new gyms completed FITNESS Systems ha recently completed the redevelopment and refit of two new gyms, for client JD Gyms in Manchester (Whitworth street) & Liverpool (Edge Lane). Both fully established gyms previously run by Ben Dunne had been purchased fully equipped although, out dated and with some failing equipment due to prolong use. Our client, JD specified their requirements and timescales for refit. Requirements, among many included full redesign of floor plans and the inclusion of features such as burn-out rooms. Utilising 40 years of industry experience these requirements were achieved. Notable activities were:New efficient layouts were planned

with accurate CAD software this allowed us to work from the original floor plans originally created for Ben Dunne to then redesign these for the requirements of JD gyms. Refurbishment and repair of existing assets working with a wide range of equipment exceeding from the ranges which we supply working with the likes of techno gym, matrix and concept2 rowing. Bespoke Branding allowed it so that JD Gyms to have the ability to retain the identity throughout the numerous ranges of equipment with: machine branding, Branded Upholstery and bespoke instructional decals. Supplied all of the new equipment with all functional equipment, Force strength and True Fitness Cardio

range. Balancing of assets between the two locations for maximum efficiency and cost saving with all transportation and temporary storage of equipment. With dedicated service engineers, employed and trained by Fitness Systems the client will feel safe by the knowledge knowing that if an issue was to occur we would be on site promptly to carry out any due maintenance The resulting gyms are now modern fully functional, aesthetically pleasing and fully branded throughout. The gyms were completed within the provided budget and given time scale, allowing a punctual re-opening at both sites, taking something, which was previously undervalued, and

providing a vibrant new hub in these key locations. Along with JD Gyms our clientele include all leading high street brands, hotels and sports centres, corporate fitness centres, police and fire services, fitness and personal training studios, commercial facilities, and the residential market. “What a club/gym world class transformation!! Great value for money as it has everything that you need and much, much more.” “Best Gym in Manchester no doubt about that fantastic refurbishment” All reviews sourced form JD Gyms Manchester For more information on the services on offer contact us today on 1204 541710 or email info@fitnesssystems.co.uk

UK FITNESS SCENE

Versaclimber records yearon-year increase in sales

Clare Balding cuts ribbon on new sports complex A NEW state-of-the-art sports complex was opened by Clare Balding in Wiltshire. The Calne Foundation Trust has invested in the development at St Mary’s School Sports Centre in Calne. School headmistress Dr Felicia Kirk spoke about the new opportunities the facility provides to pupils at St Mary’s and St Margaret’s Preparatory School as well as the wider community. In addition to the existing community-shared indoor swimming

pool and gymnasium, it also now includes a sports hall with provision for four badminton courts, netball, tennis, hockey and more. There is also a large dance studio, a multi-purpose room for classes, strength and conditioning and social use and new changing facilities for school use and separately for visiting teams and community users. Clare was guest of honour at the opening and encouraged pupils in attendance to share how sport made them feel, before cutting the ribbon.

VERSACLIMBER UK has had a record year for sales. The total body workout machine specialist achieved a 25 per cent increase in year-on-year sales for 2017/18. A large part of the success followed the launch of Europe’s first Versaclimber group training class at London’s Sweat by BXR last year, which has continued to grow in popularity and attract attention from other fitness outlets into 2018. Versaclimber UK managing director Neil Kelford said: “The last 12 months really has been the year of the Versaclimber. “Thanks to the rise in popularity of group training using the machine, the Versaclimber has been catapulted back into the media limelight. “It has also helped that athletes such as Andy Murray are incorporating the machine into his recovery routine from injury.

Neil Kelford “We have witnessed a significant rise in enquiries from both health club managers and those who want to install a machine at home for personal use, to the point where we have had to fast forward shipments from our American suppliers to meet heightened demand.”

Escape launches newest tool ESCAPE Fitness has launched a new tool to jump start your plyometric training. The Plyo Five includes five boxes to provide multiple options for different sized groups down to one-to-one training. With five step heights, indicated by

individual size markings, each box offers a stable workout surface for users of all abilities. Escape Fitness co-founder Matthew Januszek said: “It’s as perfect to introduce plyometric training as it is for stair workouts and numerous other programming options.”

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: Are you holding any kids’ classes for your area during the summer holidays? Let us know and we’ll feature the best in the next issue. Send your answers to od@scriptmedia.co.uk or contact us via Twitter or Facebook. We’ll print the best responses next issue.

A mother and daughter duo transformed their lives with hard work and dedication. Working one or two times a week with Redcar-based personal trainer Troy Lake, Carole and Vicky Nixon have seen a dramatic change in their health and fitness. Carole, 64, runs Redcar Letting and Sales Ltd and has lost four stone and eight dress sizes, now a size 12. She previously struggled to walk properly and stairs were a challenge. Carole said: “As a busy mum of six and grandmother of five, whilst also running my own business, my diet and exercise has always taken a back seat. Since I started focussing on my health and fitness, the results have been life changing. I used to struggle getting up and down and now I’m running, something I never thought I’d do. It just goes to show that if I can do it, anyone can spare the time to get fit. Your health shouldn’t come second best.” Daughter Vicky, 24, went from a size 12 to a size six and lost two stone working with Troy Lake Personal Training. She is now also expecting her first baby. Vicky said: “When mum and I first started training with Troy, we were both looking to lose weight and tone up, but didn’t expect to do it so quickly. It has been great to see my Mum lose so much weight. She’s much more confident; buying clothes she never thought she would and fitting into boots she hasn’t been able to in 30 years. Troy has helped our whole family, he’s educated us about what foods to eat so now there is always something healthy on the table at home.”

Picture of the month

Minister for Sport, Tracey Crouch, opened up Larkfield Leisure Centre’s new and upgraded facilities. Tracey, who is a customer of the centre, cut the ribbon and spoke to trustees, councillors and staff at the launch. The centre is operated by tmactive on behalf of Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council. Three new group exercise studios, including Kent’s first Immersive Spin Studio, market leading kit and the introduction of free mywellness accounts for users to track and plan their fitness are all included as part of the £1million overhaul.

Look out for updates on the upcoming National Fitness Awards and Conference on our social media pages, where we’ll be revealing all the latest news. Make sure you like the Workout Facebook page and follow @FitnessAwards and @FitConference to keep up to date.

#social media ...

@gym_career We are proud to be sponsoring the Outstanding Achievement Award at this year’s National @FitnessAwards!

@Curtishigh A whole year ago today! Me and @AnthonyOgogo on the front cover of @WorkoutUK for our @WaterRower across the channel! @thinkfitnessgym That’s our entry submitted for this year’s ‪#nationalfitnessawards2018 @WorkoutUK #fingerscrossed #scotland @PilatesPT We don’t exercise to

show off how fashionable we look, we exercise to boost our ﬁtness and feel better in our bodies. Don’t worry about how you look. Any good trainer/ PT will not judge you for what you wear/ look, so don’t waste time worrying about it.

@jordanﬁtnessuk We’ve recently teamed up with @HattonBoxing as their new storage / distribution partner. If you are looking to get your #FitnessProducts distributed with ease across #UK #Europe, get in touch with our logistics experts at #TeamJordan. Article @WorkoutUK www.workout-uk. co.uk/news

@lynnwilson77 Celebration Evening for #NorthwoodTogether a lottery funded project enhancing the community from education to health and fitness @VolairLeisure @LisaCover12 @FitnessDayUK @ BigLocalNwood @WorkoutUK #fitness #community #education @FitnessAwards Our final judge announcement - Big thanks to @ AmeliaWorrall Commercial Director at @JDGyms . Having picked up the award for Best Budget Gym two years running, in 2015 and 2016, Amelia understands what it takes to be an NFAs winner.

Editor’s comment

CAN you believe it is August already? I can’t. It feels like we’ve been in the grip of this heat wave forever, not that I’m complaining. Let’s hope the sun coming out has encouraged plenty of people to get stuck into some fitness too. It’s certainly an advantage for any outdoor classes and gyms lucky enough to have an al fresco area must surely have seen a boost, with members taking advantage of the heat. The drama of the World Cup and a valiant effort from the England team gave us all a bit of excitement last month. And excitement has been building in our office too as we continue to collect nominations for the National Fitness Awards. To give everyone the best chance at getting their nominations and evidence in, we’ve extended the deadline: you still have the chance to put yourself or another worthy candidate forward right up until August 29. One of the best things about the NFAs is how diverse the categories are. Across the 19 different categories we have everything from the always busy Newcomer of the Year to the more specialist Combat Zone Gym of the Year, or always important Rehabilitation Facility of the Year. It is great to see the diverse and successful range of venues and fitness professionals who have been given a shot at the spotlight. Speaking of spotlights, in this month’s issue we place focus on a few different topics. We take a closer look at the world of strength and conditioning training; and pay attention to refurbishment, servicing and maintenance in the gym environment. And this month sees the return of our regular Challenge feature, which took a break last month after we had too much news to cram in (the fitness industry never sleeps!). It saw myself join fitness enthusiast and friend Naomi Brown, to try out the new functional mobility class at Rig’s Fitness in Birmingham. The class was a lot of fun, led well by Tim Kayode, and definitely opened my eyes as to just how inflexible I was. It was great to check in with the NFA winners Rigs too: the gym took home Best Regional Gym of the Year (Midlands and Wales) at last year’s ceremony. Get out and enjoy what’s left of the good weather – and good luck to everyone entering the awards. Oliver

UK FITNESS SCENE

Createability welcomes specialist to its team

Bannatyne Group national operations manager Adrian Worsley with Ricky Hatton.

Operator joins forces with Hatton Boxing FORMER world-champion boxer Ricky Hatton is bringing his Hatton Boxing fitness training to Bannatyne Group members. The high-intensity workout combines the benefits of boxing as a sport with a full body workout and a fun way of exercising to a group fitness setting. Around 150 instructors are now trained to advanced level through the Hatton Training Academy. The programme officially launched last month, and members can join in the 10-week Group Personal Training programme, with classes structured to work through the fundamentals of boxing, ensuring safety, discipline, effort and reward as the focus. No experience is needed and classes are open to all ages and skill levels. Bannatyne Group national operations manager Adrian Worsley

said: “We are delighted to bring Hatton Boxing to Bannatyne health clubs. Hatton Boxing is a brilliant programme, specifically designed to teach the skills and fundamentals of boxing and also provide a challenging fitness programme for members of all abilities and levels. “As a company, we strive to be innovative and deliver the latest industry concepts to our members, and we felt that Hatton Boxing brings another excellent addition to our programme of courses and facilities.” Ricky added: “Boxing is the perfect workout as it effectively exercises the back, body and core and also is high intensity, so it releases those allimportant endorphins. Participants will also improve their hand-eye co-ordination, alongside enjoying what is a hugely addictive and fun workout.”

DESIGN and build company Createability has welcomed David Johns to the team. Johns will be joining the company as business development (projects) specialist, bringing experience from his time as regional director for the North at 1Life. His new role will see him supporting leisure operators end-to-end through their construction projects, interpreting their needs and linking them with Createability’s experts. He said: “Every line drawn on a plan has lasting operational and financial implications for the building’s occupier and so I am looking forward to closely collaborating with project teams, including the asset owners, operators, architects and contractors to deliver their visions in an economically and environmentally responsible manner. “I am also a strong advocate of leisure operators partnering with health and education agencies and hope, through my new role, I can help

David Johns

them to achieve shared objectives and deliver local health improvement agendas.” Createability managing director Ian Cotgrave said: “David has first-class knowledge of this industry, significant operational experience and a keen eye for what can be done to enhance local communities through the delivery of 21st Century sport, leisure and fitness facilities. He will be a real asset to Createability.”

Student loan threshold extended FITNESS students have a higher threshold before they have to pay back their loans. The government backed Advanced Learning Loan has been extended to a repayment threshold of £25,000, meaning students wishing to study in the field of fitness only repay back

the cost of their studies once they’re earning £25,000 a year. The learning loans can be applied for if students are wanting to study courses in exercise referral, sports massage, lower back pain specialist, obesity and diabetes specialist or specialist practitioner.

NOMINATION FORM Category Entered: Gym Name: Gym Opened:

Postcode:

Full Address:

Main Contact:

Job Title:

Telephone Number:

Mobile Number:

Email: Total size (in sqm) of the gym/centre (including pool, studios etc): What is the total of your current membership: What is the total number of staff (Full Time): What is the total number of staff (Part Time): How many studios (if any) do you have: Facilities provided: (tick all that apply) Gym Facilities

Sports Hall

Pool

Creche

Restaurant/Cafe

Spa Facilities

Do you offer any other facilities? Please specify:

Do you offer any classes? Please specifiy:

Person making nomination: Telephone number of person making nomination: Email of person making nomination: Supporting information must be sent to via email to events@scriptmedia.co.uk (tick if evidence sent)

Plese see overleaf for the rest of the form Please return to: Simone Saunders, Script Events, Script Media Group LTD, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S70 2AS

NOMINATION FORM

Please state, in 300 words or less, why you are entering the category indicated and why you think that your gym/centre/individual should be shortlisted:

Plese see overleaf for the rest of the form

Please return to: Simone Saunders, Script Events, Script Media Group LTD, 47 Church Street, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S70 2AS

WorkOut editor Oliver Dyson and his friend Naomi Brown during the class at Rigs Fitness in Birmingham.

Class aimed at increasing your range of movement FLEXIBILITY isn’t something you really think about day to day. But after trying my hand at the new functional mobility class at Birmingham’s Rigs Fitness, it is definitely on my mind now. The award-winning gym – which won regional gym of the year for the Midlands and Wales at last year’s National Fitness Awards – was holding a taster session as part of an open day weekend there last month. Taught by ex-professional footballer, personal trainer and mobility coach Tim Kayode, who now runs The Mobility Project, the class is aimed at increasing your range of movement across your entire body. While it is particularly good for those going through physio it really is for anyone of any age and fitness level. I’m not particularly active outside of some regular cycling. Joining me in the class was Naomi Brown, who follows a strength and conditioning plan and recently came sixth in Viking Power and Strength’s Strongwoman event.

Naomi and Oliver.

We both benefited from just an hour’s session with Tim, who used everything from foam rollers to bars to get us extending our mobility. We started out with a game of handball, which served to get everyone warmed up but also broke the ice. Nothing snaps through any awkwardness like fierce team competition and it was good fun, establishing a rapport between Tim and the seven of us who followed him through the session. We then moved onto some static stretching on mats, which tested our glutes, hamstrings and calves. Work with bands reinforced that before we moved onto bars, which served to show me in particular just how inflexible I had become. But my shoulders and lats appreciated being put to work after years of slumber. All of this introduced me not just to my limits, and how to push them, but also to new muscles I ached in places I didn’t know before. Then we went on to using foam rollers and mobility balls to close the session, which can be agonising at the time but definitely feel like they are working on your fibres. Through all this Tim was attentive to everyone’s individual needs, tailoring the different exercises to suit but keeping us all motivated and in time. He also made us aware of just exactly what parts of the body we were working with each different exercise. For me the main thing I took away from the session was how much this could benefit anyone in everyday life. For those of us who spend a great deal of time sat at a desk in front of a computer, it can become easy for your body to become accustomed to a very short range of movement. Working regularly on your mobility not only helps loosen you up, it makes you feel as though you are actually using your body to its full capability. Naomi said: “I took a lot of knowledge away from the class that I can put into my training in future. Tim explained how important mobility is for everyone from someone who doesn’t train at all to professional athletes. “I know this first hand as someone who always thought they suffered with lower back pain but in actual fact, I had tight glute muscles from repetitive deadlift training for competitions. In the past I have used mobility exercises with a

Personal trainer and mobility coach Tim Kayode. physio which improved my lower back pain and deadlift performance. “I definitely felt a difference immediately after the class and more so the next day. I am going to implement the stretches and movements that Tim showed us into my strength and conditioning plan from now on.” Tim said the class has seen a good response in the nine months he has been running it at Rig’s Fitness. He said: “They have started to see improvements which helps in day to day life too, but also helps in things like doing squats better or deadlifts better. “Everybody can come, it doesn’t matter if you are hypermobile or not been to the gym at all. I cover a wide range but focus on glute mobility which is probably the most common place people struggle.” The functional mobility session runs every Wednesday, 6-7pm at Rig’s Fitness on Willersley Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Why emotional intelligence is the key to success for PTs By Greg Slade PERSONAL fitness and personal training made monumental advancements in the 1900s but the turning point was in the 1980s when personal training became a popular career choice. Today, personal training is seen as one of the most versatile and soughtafter professions with no shortage of opportunities. The service that PTs offer has also changed since the 1980s. PTs need to deliver a more holistic approach to health and wellbeing. With more and more of them not only managing physical fitness but also helping with sleep issues, stress management and mental wellbeing. PTs need to develop an impressive range of skills backed up by in-depth training which spans health, nutrition, training, physiology, human performance, and the delicate area of psychology to truly succeed in today’s competitive market. Gym operators, managers and PTs themselves will know that just because you have a qualification in fitness and personal training doesn’t mean you’ll instantly have a queue of loyal clients. There are some PTs though that do

have exceptional client bases, often with waiting lists. And have you ever wondered how some personal trainers effectively inspire and motivate clients to reach goals while other trainers struggle with this? Knowledge, credentials, experience – and key to this is emotional intelligence. EI often makes all the difference and takes an average PT to a star PT. The definition of emotional intelligence is: the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically. Any good PT can understand human anatomy, grasp the concepts of how to design a good fitness programme and how to execute it but truly great PTs know how to inspire clients with a vision of change. Trainers with a high EI not only inspire, but also support clients to be their very best in more than just health and fitness related goals and they are a mentor and quite often a friend. PTs who can successfully read signals from clients as well as understand their own personal strengths and weaknesses will come

Greg Slade out on top. PTs drive a crucial revenue line for health clubs and gym operators so it’s important that clubs look past the qualification and start to appreciate the person behind the Level three or above. To quote Seth Godin – “people no longer buy products and services, they buy relations, stories and magic,” and this can be applied to the PT world.

Clubs and operators need to start employing the right PTs with the right soft skill set and EI to motivate members otherwise the cycle of members and PTs leaving the sector will continue. Emotional intelligence and an appreciation of it is included in all Training Room Level three courses; and it’s because of this our PTs are graduating with a better understanding of the softer skills needed in developing a strong PT service. Thousands of our graduates are enjoying successful roles within the club and non-club market and have tribes of loyal and successful clients. We urge clubs and operators to look beyond a qualification and look at their people. Emotional intelligence training can be delivered to your team of PTs but going forward look to employ PTs who have already gone over this at the Level three stage. Emotional intelligence leads to success within the workplace almost 90 per cent of the time. A qualification is a threshold competence. PTs need it but it won’t make them your PT stars; emotional intelligence will. n Greg is head of health and fitness at The Training Room.

UK FITNESS SCENE

How GDPR has hit the sports industry By Sam Parton

The cardio kit at Active Stirling’s Raploch Campus has had an upgrade. The kit now includes Technogym treadmills, cross trainers, bikes and a concept two rowing machine in a like for like change with the older equipment. The higher spec kit will also include integrated TV viewing on machines for the first time at Raploch.

Serco launch new app nationwide SERCO Leisure has launched a new app nationwide to make fitness easier for its members. After a successful trial period at Serco Leisure’s Birmingham sites, the Netpulse-developed More Fitness app has now been launched nationwide. It enables members to book classes and sporting activities and log workout sessions by taking a photo of the equipment displays using xCapture. The photos are then digitised, allowing users to keep accurate records of their exercise. The app can also be integrated with wearable devices and offers a range of monthly challenges, where members can earn reward points redeemable at their centre. Serco managing director Jason Holtom said: “With the Birmingham trial being such a success, the rollout nationally for our More Fitness app was always going to be the logical next step. The benefits to our members are far reaching; we’re seeing an increase in attendance, more class bookings, great uptake

of the app challenges, and more engaged customers overall.” Serco management information manager Chris Puszczynski-Phelps said back in 2012, Serco were the first company to offer a dedicated mobile bookings solution for workout classes and sporting activities. He said: “The More Fitness app still allows people to book into their activities, but we’ve now added functionality to encompass the entire fitness experience.” Netpulse head of account management Danny Woods said: “The results Serco have seen in the trial phase are a perfect example of what can be achieved by providing a robust and feature-rich mobile app, which goes far beyond the basic functionality you’d expect to find on a centre website. “Leveraging features such as our native rewards programme, integrations with member wearable devices and our digital referrals engine, Serco Leisure has built a bestin-class mobile app, which engages their users every time they work out.”

THE General Data Protection Regulation has been a hot topic of late, particularly with the likes of Facebook and Google facing public scrutiny for their handling of users’ private data. But what does the new regulation actually mean for us in the sports and fitness industry? Are we still required to make changes to our processes? Are we also at risk of being hit with the massive fines (€20m or four per cent of revenue) that are being thrown around? The short answer to both of those questions is yes, but the main principles behind the regulation are simple and easy to follow for businesses of all sizes. To summarise what the GDPR requires businesses to do; n Be transparent with all data that you collect and why n Keep customers personal data safe and secure n Respect a customer’s rights (to be forgotten, to have a record of all data held on them and to be restricted from processing to third parties) OpenPlay has been investigating these regulations with a fine-tooth comb and has implemented a range of automatic processes to ensure that all sports centres and operators can be fully compliant online. This includes managing customers’ communication preferences in a centralised location, the automatic deletion of customers after long lengths of inactivity and providing alerts for when customers can or should be contacted. There are also a lot of other strategies that leisure providers will need to address, particularly in relation to those who work with

Sam Parton children. There are special inclusions for working with children and it’s important to have a read over the text here: https://gdpr-info.eu/issues/ consent/ It is also important to remember that these laws don’t just relate to the online processing of data. Paper registers or forms also need to be protected, either through locked facilities or stored online and shredded after use to ensure that breaches of data protection aren’t carelessly made! Whilst the regulations have certainly been made to cause a stir and disrupt the lazy processes of many online businesses, ultimately, they are designed to protect all customers’ (including your own!) data. n Sam Parton is co-founder of fitness software company OpenPlay.

Gym rides high on refurb SURREY Sports Park is riding high after a refurb of its cycling provision. A total of 25 new ICG bikes, by ICG and Life Fitness, have been added as part of the Guildford gym’s

refurb, in addition to a new MyRide studio system. The system also means members can exercise outside of the timetabled sessions thanks to virtual rides.

REFURBISHMENT, SERVICING AND PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

Matrix completes upgrades at Leeds Beckett University MATRIX Fitness, the commercial division of Johnson Health Tech, has recently completed a full upgrade of the fitness facilities at Leeds Beckett University to create a high quality, robust health and fitness environment for its sports teams and community. Steeped in a long-standing history as one of the UK’s top sporting universities, Leeds Beckett was looking for a supplier that could provide them with new equipment that not only looked fantastic but also performed to a high standard. With a tech-savvy student demographic, incorporating the latest technology and modern interactive equipment was also important. The team was able to deliver on a wide range equipment that would be perfectly suited to the university’s needs. As part of the install, which has an approximate value of £150K, Matrix Fitness supplied CV equipment from its 3xe range, which comes complete with Wi-Fi access, the ability to watch TV and Virtual Active programming to provide an immersive exercise experience for users. Equipment from their Versa dual use strength line have also been installed. The equipment easily adjusts to allow user to perform two exercises using just one machine, for instance using just one piece of kit,

a student can work the muscles to perform a leg extension or leg curl. The range was a major plus for the university, allowing them to purchase fewer pieces of equipment and save on space yet still getting the same result in performance. To reflect the growing interest in functional training, the team also designed and installed a completely custom made functional training rig. Finally, all equipment has been installed with Matrix Fitness’ intuitive Workout Tracking Network software. The Workout Tracking Network allows users to capture data from all their favourite fitness apps in one place. It also allows the university team to see and track what equipment is being used by students, how long for and check monthly reports to see how members are engaging with their offering. To streamline facility management, the system also allows the team to easily manage guest passes, push notifications, class schedules, facility calendars, member challenges and more. “We pride ourselves on providing a five-star sport and fitness experience for our members,” said Helen Dickson, assistant facilities manager at Leeds Beckett University. “Matrix Fitness’ scientifically advanced range of strength, cardio and functional equipment not only

provides our members with the best tools for their training but also oozes quality and class. “Our customers are delighted with our new gym, so much so, we have never seen it so busy in years. “We’ve been thoroughly impressed by the level of support we have received from the team throughout this process. They have been on hand to answer any question, no matter how small, which has reassured us of our decision every step of the way. “The installation team was impeccable and delivered with care and within our agreed time limits.”

Stephen Nutt, sector specialist – education for Matrix Fitness, added: “We are excited to be working with one of the top sporting universities in the UK and our equipment harnesses the latest technology, making it well suited to the demographic at Leeds Beckett University. “Over the last 12 months we’ve seen some great success within the higher education sector, so we are confident that we can support Leeds Beckett in meeting their objectives and targets for the future thanks to our new equipment in terms of usage, retention and revenue.”

Small things can make a big difference when it comes to refurbishment By Ben Steadman

WITH an increasingly saturated market, the need to keep the look and feel of your gym fresh is more pertinent than ever. Before embarking on a refurbishment what you really need to consider is the scale of your project; are you refreshing your current offering or overhauling the space to create a new user experience? The rise of the boutique gym ensures a steady stream of new and exciting spaces, so clubs are having to be more adventurous in their offering to find a gap in the market. So, have a think about what you can offer your members and make sure that it’s of good quality and delivered to a high standard. It’s the small things that won’t go unnoticed by your members and at EXF we are quickly gaining a reputation for delivering high quality flooring and functional rigs with a difference. If you’re thinking about investing in new flooring as part of your refurbishment then make sure you do your research into the right solution, not only can it give your facility a new lease of life but getting it wrong could prove costly in the long-term. A gym’s flooring can quite often be overlooked however using it to segment your space changes the overall look and member journey for those using the gym. So even if you can’t afford a massive full-blown refurbishment something like changing your

Ben Steadman flooring can make a big impact. Space is another key consideration as it comes with such a premium attached; make each square foot work in your favour. Underutilised natural beams, pillars and walls can be incorporated into your gym functionality with a bespoke functional rig or storage option. Equally, careful consideration of what equipment is being used in your gym can help free up vital square meters.

Gone are the days of lines upon lines of treadmills, cross trainers and bikes. Although still an integral part of a gym’s offering, users frequently want variety to keep up with the everevolving fitness trends. Choice selection of your cardio, strength and functional equipment impacts greatly on a member experience which is why at EXF we pride ourselves on our ability to provide made to measure equipment and storage. If you’re thinking of getting new equipment as part of your refurbishment, my advice would be not to get tied in to long term equipment deals where it makes it hard for you to change supplier. Maybe build your gym in a different way. The very best cardio, strength, functional equipment and flooring is incredibly unlikely to come from the same supplier. Especially without hefty third party margins, so shop around and use specialists for different parts of your refresh. A refurbishment can be as minimal as a new lick of paint or a full gym floor of brand new equipment. Whatever the outcome, make sure there is a reason behind the work and not just to fulfil criteria set out in a five-year plan. Overall, don’t lose sight of who you are and what it is you offer as this is why a member has chosen you over your competitors. n Ben Steadman is business development director at EXF Fitness.

REFURBISHMENT, SERVICING AND PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

The benefits of regular kit servicing to gym operators Why is regular servicing of gym equipment so important? Regular servicing of gym equipment is proven to reduce the number of breakdowns and increase the longevity of equipment, preventing costly repair and replacement. We recommend that each item of equipment is serviced twice a year to meet the strict industry health and safety requirements. During a service, our engineers will follow a checklist for each item of equipment and also look for any potential faults or wear and tear. Engineers carry computer tablets giving them access to all the latest diagnostics equipment, updates and schematic diagrams. All work carried out is inputted into the tablet and cross referenced to each machine so a clear history of work can be drawn up on every single piece of equipment our engineers work on. Our engineers are linked up to the technical department at our head office for further support should they need it. What are the different levels of servicing and maintenance packages available? ServiceSport offers different levels of service to suit a customer’s specific needs. From ad hoc, annual scheduled service agreements, all-

ServiceSport managing director Colin Marriott. inclusive contracts, audit servicing to full estate management. What do gym owners need to think about when choosing the right one for them? Cost and age of equipment are the main considerations, but the health and safety aspect also shouldn’t be ignored. Ultimately a facility is only as good as its equipment, so investing in its upkeep will pay dividends in the long run. What advice would you give to operators when it comes to looking after their equipment on a day to day basis? Keeping equipment maintained is important to help reduce the risk of accidents and ensure it runs smoothly. It’s important to follow a regular maintenance programme,

regardless of how often the equipment is used, and to always keep a careful watch on regular wear and tear, addressing any small issues that may arise. Give all your equipment a wipe down after each session. Don’t use abrasive or oilbased products – a diluted detergent and damp cloth is ideal. Check things like pedals and saddles on spin bikes, and keep an eye out for any wear and tear across your other machines. You should also carry out a more robust check on a monthly basis. How can servicing equipment prolong the life and value of equipment in gyms? Regular servicing of gym equipment is proven to reduce the number of breakdowns and increase the longevity of equipment, preventing costly repair and replacement. We recommend that each item of equipment is serviced twice a year to meet the strict industry health and safety requirements. Does regular servicing add value to gyms from a member health and safety perspective? Very much so. Keeping equipment in tip-top condition minimises the chances of accidents and gives customers peace of mind that the

operator cares about them. Seeing our service engineers on site shows that the equipment is being looked after, giving additional reassurance to the users. How easy is it for gyms that don’t currently have a service contract in place to get a service agreement set up? We service and maintain almost every brand of indoor gym equipment, offering a range of service levels to suit a customer’s specific needs. Our engineers cover the whole of the UK. Fitness facilities across the country set up these plans to ensure that any issues with their equipment can be dealt with quickly and won’t have an effect on their customers. It’s easy to get a service agreement set up – just call 0845 402 2456 and our dedicated service team will be happy to help. Whether you have a small problem which needs fixing or you need us to look at a number of different fitness machines, we can offer professional support through to a service level agreement which suits you. Are smaller operators able to arrange to have one-off servicing on specified equipment and not enter any agreement? Yes, our ad hoc agreements cover this.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

New course provides a foundation for training By Oliver Dyson A STRONG foundation in the basics is key to improving your strength and overall fitness. That’s according to personal trainer, author and ex-special forces rehab specialist Dan Fallon, who has created business Lifelong Movements. Lifelong is based around seven core movements which Dan believes are essential and come in useful in everyday life. And through literature and two-day workshops, he is hoping to educate other fitness professionals on how they can first teach their customers the basics so they can get the most out of their more advanced training. Portsmouth-based Dan said: “Lifelong Movements is based around functional activities which are part of daily living. “There are seven all together which give an insight into whether someone is capable of working through what has been created for them. “For example, if you are asking someone to do single leg bridges and they can do 23 on one side and 26 on the other, they are not really up to scratch – you might want them to do squats but that will be difficult when they can’t master a basic movement like that.” Dan recently held the first of his in-person, twoday courses to teach the essentials of Lifelong Movements at the Poseidon Amateur Boxing Gym, in Southampton’s Ageas Bowl. He sets literature before the course so attendees

can focus on the practical aspects during the actual sessions. “I had some really great feedback. I show each movement and detail what they are looking for. And sometimes the attendees will look as if they have never thought of that movement before, but because of my rehab background I have a good knowledge of clinical anatomy which can explain it. “Once people have completed their level three PT it is these sorts of courses which can take them to the next level.” To find out more about Lifelong Movements, visit www.thelifelongworkshops.com Dan also blogs weekly on his website.

Upgrading to the Assault Air Bike Elite to meet demand

WOLVERSON Fitness has just installed 64 Air Assault Elite bikes to DW fitness locations all over the UK, Ireland and Scotland to help cater for the increased demand for HIIIT based training. Said to offer the world’s toughest workout, the Assault bike – use of which has grown rapidly across the globe – has now come to main stream UK gym goers, with DW Fitness introducing them to selected gyms nationwide. Many Gym users will

recognise the Classic Assault Bike, however the new Elite Bike has been redesigned with a larger steel frame, solid steel cranks, increased corrosion resistance, and a solid aluminium seat post and slider, there is no question that this bike will go for years. To help users with tracking their performance a new LCD display with increased connectivity is also part of the package making the Elite bike the perfect addition to all commercial fitness

environments. Wolverson Fitness is the authorised UK distributor for Air Assault products. Marketing manager Peter McGahan said: “We are extremely excited about the latest addition to the Assault range and we are looking forward to hearing about peoples experiences at DW with the new equipment.” For exclusive deals and information please visit www.wolverson-fitness.com

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Advertiser’s announcement

Planet Fitness opens its second site HEALTH club Planet Fitness has just completed its second site, yearlong project and £300,000 install with brand new fitness equipment from Core Health & Fitness. The club based in Tredegar, has worked with Core Health & Fitness to design its interior décor and layout design creating a dedicated cardio, HIIT, strength & conditioning, group exercise and new indoor cycling studio. When it came to upgrading the fitness facilities, the club wanted to excite its members and worked to create unique decided spaces within the 53,000 sq. ft. premises. This has been complimented by brand new Star Trac cardio, bespoke red custom branded Nautilus strength, Schwinn Indoor cycling

bikes and StairMaster High Intensity. Core Health & Fitness is proud to showcase Planet Fitness as the largest Nautilus Strength equipped gym in Europe. With custom coloured and branded machines across all of the Nautilus strength range – Inspiration®, EVO™, Impact® , Instinct®, Leverage®, HumanSport®, Freedom Trainer™, DAPs and free weights. Every piece of 8-series cardio installed is dedicated to innovation and has led to new ways to offer the best user experience. The 8-series comes with a variety of new connectivity options in the form of the OpenHub Console. The OpenHub consoles provide entertainment, fitness tracking and asset management solution

ECOFIT that will complete the fitness experience to the facility owner and their members. For the ultimate high intensity interval training (HIIT) experience, Planet Fitness decided on StairMaster’s Gauntlet, HIIT Bike™ and HIIT UBE™. Decades after pioneering the toughest workout in the gym, the StairMaster machines are still the ones members choose to push themselves to the limit. Today, StairMaster has added new innovations to the portfolio that make hearts pound, lungs burn and keep members coming back to the workouts they love to hate. Additionally, to accommodate the demand of group training, the Schwinn A.C. Sport™ bike has been chosen to provide user- focused

features, enhanced comfort with adjustable seats and handlebars for optimal bike fit for riders of all shapes and sizes. Duncan Black, western European channel manager of Core Health & Fitness, said: “Planet Fitness is an example of what a training venue can be. “Our relationship is one where innovative products meet a club committed to its members. With easy to use products which are robust enough to last, an investment in Core Health & Fitness products is one both companies can benefit from.” These new additions will complement the ladies’ dedicated gym, studio, boxing ring, AstroTurf pitch and the new strength and conditioning room.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Henry Barratt is a celebrity trainer, elite personal trainer and ex-pro rugby player who has played for the Harlequins, London Wasps and England U21s.

Lessons can be learned from rugby coaches

WITH strength and conditioning training, few have as much of a challenge as rugby coaches preparing pre-season training schedules. Time is of the essence and the key goal is how to get 30-40 players, all with different body types and shapes, as fit and strong as possible in six to eight weeks. A challenge, but not an impossible task. If you’re training an athlete or just working with a client to reach their strength and conditioning goals, we can learn a lot from these coaches, who will be using five fundamental approaches: 1) Basic strength training – All the usual strength related exercises including squat/lunge variations, press variations (dumbbell, bench and cable), pull variations (pull ups, single arm rows). Think simple movements, gradually building the load throughout the 6-8 weeks. 2) Muscle hypertrophy – Compound sets and super sets, overloads, low reps, high weights in order to

break down muscle tissue before replenishing all the nutrients required to rebuild muscle during recovery. 3) Explosive power – Olympic lifting (primarily power cleans), plyometric jumps and hops, speed training (resisted sprints such as sled pulls, parachutes or bungees), overspeed bungee sling shots and sprints. Explosive power training provides that extra boost to become faster and more reactive. 4) Functional movement – An essential tool that should have more emphasis placed on its importance to balance out the body. Instead of focusing on the familiar body building style of a split-routine to target specific muscle groups, use more of an equal full body approach, incorporating balance, co-ordination and muscle length. Used in a circuit style high intensity session, this develops full range of movements through exercises which incorporate all planes of motion. Challenge the body’s ability to

Henry Barratt

stabilise the joints under variable loads, using dbs, bands and body weight for resistance. 5) Game related, competition – Promoting evasion, agility and top end speed. Three on two games, touch rugby games, competitive sprints to score. My personal experience is that it is best to keep an equal mix of the

above five fundamental sessions throughout the six to eight week training periods as well as throughout the seasons. This ensures the body is kept on an even keel incorporating all elements of strength and conditioning, keeping exercises varied and fresh for both physical and mental stimulation. Developments over the last decade ensure that athletes aren’t focusing too much on lifting weights at the expense of their drills and skills. There has been a shift to making the weights sessions shorter and higher in intensity, with a large emphasis on the aerobic and anaerobic fitness conditioning being done in a game related manner. So, when training my clients, I always recommend making exercises as task related as possible with a goal – lunge and tap that cone, squat and rotate to look at an object behind you, press up and pull a sand bag, it makes for a much more engaging session and better results.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Advertiser’s announcement

Dyaco strengthens proposition with gym80 partnership AFTER finalising a strategic partnership with gym80 earlier this year, Dyaco is offering the class-leading gym80 product ranges alongside its growing portfolio of brands. With UFC, Johnny G and Spirit Fitness already among its brands, the gym80 partnership gives Dyaco the platform to provide premium strength equipment to UK operators within the commercial fitness, medical and rehab sectors. Founded in Germany in 1980, gym80 specialises in state-of-the-art plate-loaded and selectorised strength equipment and has over 350 products in its range, which also includes functional and medical equipment. As well as Dyaco being able to provide gym80 equipment, the strategic partnership will see gym80’s expertise utilised to manufacture the selectorised UFC strength equipment that will be available to order soon. gym80 prides itself on superior engineering, high quality materials and precision craftsmanship to manufacture products with a premium look, feel and functionality. The attention to detail and unique features of the products ensure they are durable and built to last. For example, while the majority of other selectorised strength machines on the market are constructed with 2-3mm of steel, gym80 utilises 4mm heavy duty steel to create durable and highperformance strength equipment. Also, many of the gym80 products use Kevlar belts instead of cables, which are significantly more durable, requiring much less maintenance.

PURE KRAFT Designed under the philosophy of free weight training, the PURE KRAFT range of plate loaded machines provide a unique and optimal resistance profile for a direct and maximum training effect. CORE80 The CORE80 range includes 48 pieces of equipment which is manufactured in Germany to the highest standard. Available in five frame colours and 19 padding colours for a bespoke look and feel, the range offers the perfect gateway to the gym80 collection.

But more importantly, it is the functional design and performance of the products that set them apart from other strength ranges. Gym80 products are designed with optimal biomechanics and resistance profiles to ensure the most effective workout for maximum gains. Some of gym80’s core fitness training strength ranges offered by Dyaco include: SYGNUM RANGE The largest element in gym80’s product portfolio, the SYGNUM range comprises SYGNUM Basic, Standards, Dual, Innovation and Cable Art lines of strength products. These are the core strength products for any facility. Primarily selectorised strength training products, the range also incorporates independent training actions within the Dual line, and the Innovation line trains complex muscle chains simultaneously for a full functional training experience.

CIRCULAR The perfect solution for entry-level training, CIRCULAR equipment offers an ideal whole-body workout. The nine core machines within the circuit all provide dual function, (or push/pull), resistance exercises. The products have two six-level independent adjustment settings to suit the individual’s needs. The CIRCULAR range can also be utilised for physical rehabilitation as it is certified in accordance with the German Medical Products Act (MPG). Also available under the medical division of gym80, MED80, are two additional ranges of strength equipment that is specifically designed for the medical and rehabilitation markets within the guidelines of the MPG. These machines marry the unique gym80 training experience and quality with effective rehabilitation and superlative safety.

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

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Institute celebrates its standout coach THE STRENGTH and Conditioning Institute is celebrating a standout member of staff. Senior coach Craig Libby was shortlisted in the Employee of the Year category in the 2018 Times Business Awards, which recognises business excellence across West Kent. The awards are organised by The Times of Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge. Craig has worked at the SCI, in Tonbridge, since 2013, and at first split his workload between there and a private studio in Richmond. But when the successful independent gym moved to its new premises on Cannon Lane in 2015, Craig made the award-winning facility his base and was named senior coach by directors Alex Shoebridge and Martin Shyvers. Craig is a level three PT and strength and conditioning coach and holds countless qualifications in everything from nutrition to applied movement neurology. He is due to graduate next year with a Masters in Obesity and Weight Management from Chester University and was named one of the top six PTs in the country at last year’s National Fitness Awards. Craig said: “To be considered one of the top three employees in the whole of the area – and across many different industries – is absolutely

The changing shape of the sector ... By Paul Dorkings

Gym directors Alex Shoebridge and Martin Shyvers with standout coach Craig Libby (centre). amazing. “A huge thank you to the whole SCI team who have supported and helped me get to this point as a coach.” Alex added: “When you open a gym, one of the hardest challenges is to find staff that you rate, admire and trust. “Craig Libby is the singularly most driven trainer that we have ever had the pleasure to meet – both in terms of his commitment to clients, but also due to his dedication to his own training and professional development.”

STRENGTH and conditioning training is no longer for the super fit and elite sports people. More and more trainers and operators across the UK and globally are recognising the benefits it can deliver to clients and users. Many mainstream commercial gyms are currently introducing, or have already introduced performance style equipment, such as Olympic weightlifting platforms and bumper plates within their facilities. Increasingly these gym operators are reducing the footprint of the equipment to make room for larger weights area and more functional training zones so it’s a trend which is set to continue. Strength and conditioning is a great way to change your body fairly quickly and, delivered effectively and with the right training and education, S and C can deliver huge rewards to clients and members both young and old, conditioned and the de-conditioned. But strength and conditioning is more than just lifting weights – it encompasses the entire development of the human body and focusses on what is needed to improve general movement, health and physical performance. This includes plyometrics, speed

and agility, mobility, core stability and endurance with weight training being just one piece of the overall jigsaw. What’s great about Strength and Conditioning training methods is that they are based on evidence-based practice vs fitness industry gimmicks and raises personal training standards within the industry by empowering practitioners with the knowledge to apply scientifically proven training methods. It also trains those practitioners in effective coaching and behavioural change skills that are hugely in demand. Naturally prestige comes with being a level four Strength and Conditioning coach, the highest level available in the industry. Strength and conditioning training can be used to: n Avoid injury and improve movement efficiency. n Improve all round body strength. n Improve running technique. n Increase power. n Support mental wellbeing and increase confidence and self-esteem. Today, we train thousands of PTs who want to add another string to their bow and stand out from the fierce competition they face. n Paul Dorkings is managing director of Strength and Conditioning Education.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Could you be a competitor at the NFAs? ARE YOU a strength training gym which stands out from the crowd? You could end up lifting the award for Strength Training Gym of the Year at this year’s National Fitness Awards. Last year, it was Ripped Gym in Essex which wowed the judges. The range and number of pieces of equipment available to members, including Hammer Strength kit, gives members the chance to push and develop themselves as far as they want. The owners and staff have a passion for strength training which shines through in their approach, offering knowledge, insight and support to anyone who asks for it. Rounding out their provision is a meal prep service and a 360-degree mirrored posing room.

Ripped caters for everything under one roof. Our judges said: “This is just an ideal no-nonsense gym for anyone interested in strength training. “With everyone having such busy lifestyles these days, they have thought out and delivered to ensure maximum potential is attained.” The 2018 ceremony is taking place at Liverpool’s Aintree Racecourse on December 7. If you think you could be a strong competitor, or know a gym which is, don’t hesitate – take advantage of the extended deadline and get your nomination in before August 29. Either use the form within this issue Last year’s Strength Training Gym of the Year, Ripped Gym, collects their prize at on pages 11 and 12, or visit www. the 2017 NFAs ceremony. nationalfitnessawards.co.uk.

Matrix S-Force makes training hard to resist “THE best way to ensure ongoing strength and conditioning gains is to never get comfortable or familiar with your workout: keep switching it round, up the intensity and change the moves,” said Mark Bitcon, director of performance at the rugby league club Wigan Warriors. His players train up to four times a day with power racks, full racks, free weights, dumbbells, kettlebells and Olympic lifting bars playing a key role. Mark also puts the players through their paces on a range Matrix CV equipment including treadmills, indoor cycles and elliptical trainers. When Matrix prepared to launch its unique S-Force Performance Trainer, the Wigan Warriors were asked to put it through its paces. S-Force harnesses scientificallyproven magnetic resistance training technology to deliver high-intensity, low impact interval training on the gym floor, in circuits and small group training. Magnetic resistance increases the harder the athlete works, creating challenging and

progressive workouts for everyone from beginners to elite athletes. S-Force can be set to enhance athletic performance or deliver individual and group HIIT training. It has five resistance levels and comes pre-loaded with the exclusive Sprint 8 20-minute HIIT workout and popular training programmes at the touch of a button. “S-Force has the potential to really

LifeFitness.co.uk/Hammer-Strength

shake-up the conditioning of our players with key settings specifically designed to improve fast-twitch muscle fibres that are key to explosive athletic power and performance,” says Mark. “It arrived mid-season and I immediately saw it was a game changer for us. For that reason, I decided NOT to put the fit players on it as their in-season, pre and

post-match training is meticulously planned and new kit would be disruptive. “Instead our injured players used the S-Force for recovery and rehab with the high-intensity yet lowimpact moves key to their recovery. The initial results look great and it will definitely feature in our pre-season squad training from November. “The S-Force is a well thought out piece of kit – it feels like an athletic movement, combining running, walking and biking. “You can set it to measure cadence, speed and work resistance and the feedback in terms of power outputs and distance are exactly what you need when trying to condition and push elite athletes and get them to where they need to be. “Whether you’re a Wigan Warrior or a weekend warrior, the S-Force will take your conditioning training up several notches, all the while tapping into your competitive streak to push your performance and hit your targets. There is nothing else like it.”

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING Advertiser’s announcement

Indigo Fitness completes move to larger premises THE UK’s largest strength equipment manufacturer, Indigo Fitness, has completed a move to a new 20,000sq ft. facility in Nuneaton, Warwickshire. The new spacious premises are almost double the size of the previous factory and are sited on a two-and-a-half acre plot, leaving plenty of room for further growth and expansion in the future. Housed in a former Co-operative Society distribution centre that dates back to the 1960’s, we have completed extensive renovations, bringing the building in line with the latest standards of safety and energy efficiency – repairs include a new fully insulated roof and cuttingedge LED lighting throughout, both designed to reduce 35 tonnes of CO2 emissions every year. The repairs were carried out with support from the Investment Fund Grant (Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme) and the Low Carbon Grant (Coventry and Warwickshire Green Business Programme). Having spent almost 15 years at our previous factory, just a few miles away in Hinckley, and even after taking on an additional warehouse in 2016, the continuing growth of our business meant we quickly outgrew the available space. Working conditions were cramped and this was causing inefficiencies throughout our production process, not to mention the problems we had with office space – we temporarily housed our expanded product design department in a storage cupboard. In early 2017 we decided the only way forward was to move to some larger premises but vowed to keep our experienced and talented workforce by staying local. This meant the search was not straightforward, but by the end of the year we had finally found the perfect location. The long awaited new premises include a much-expanded manufacturing space, which has allowed us to invest in extra machinery to increase our production capacity and meet growing demand from customers. The extra space and light (provided by the new roof) has also greatly improved the working environment for our staff. The assembly area now has dedicated assembly bays, as well as a large open plan area that allows us to build and check the biggest of our rigs before we pack and send them onto customers. We also now have plenty of space to store finished goods, something that caused us problems before. The large warehousing area has allowed us

to increase our stock holding of RAZE strength and conditioning equipment and DuraTRAIN fitness flooring tiles and enabled us to take on distribution of Carbon Claw boxing. In addition, and for the first time, we have an impressive showroom where customers can come to view and try out our products. We’re currently showcasing the PWR Station training rig and storage solution, along with the Uptivo heart rate monitoring system, although we’ll be rotating the products and always showing our latest designs. The new office space is greatly improved, not only in terms of size but also layout. Having a blank canvas enabled us to think about what could best suit our business. Overall, the new layout is far more open plan, which allows our staff more opportunity for collaboration and means we have plenty of extra room for the future expansion of our team. Director Jamie Taylor said: “It’s been an exciting couple of years for IndigoFitness and we look at this move to new premises as another chapter in our history. “We are still getting settled in and there are lots of finishing touches still to do, but after a couple of teething problems we are fully operational. “With much more space for production and research and development we will be able to design and manufacture products at a faster pace, leading to a wider equipment offering and reduced lead-times for our customers. The move to new premises is key in our future plans for growth and expansion.”

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

Advertiser’s announcement

Wattbike introduces new ‘off feet’ conditioning to transform Hull KR HULL Kingston Rovers approached Wattbike sports science consultant Eddie Fletcher to help them create a more efficient conditioning programme. Eddie worked closely with Tom Clough, head of athletic performance and Shane Carney, head of strength and conditioning, firstly in preparing the squad pre-season and then monitoring the programme throughout the season and play-offs. Notably, the introduction of off-feet conditioning using the Wattbikes resulted in not one of the squad suffering muscular skeletal injuries in pre-season and the fitness levels of all the players continued to improve throughout the season . “The golden rule in professional sport is to keep your best players on the pitch,” Eddie said. “Data shows that by using Wattbikes, players can hit physiological training zones in a more efficient way than traditional running-based conditioning drills. “Wattbike data makes it easy to track player improvement, which has demonstrated increased leg power, and has also helped improve recovery between on-field repeated high intensity efforts.”

Reducing the time spent on-feet, running on the pitch, can greatly benefit the players in three ways; reduced injury risk, increased conditioning stimulus and increased time players can spend training specific match-skills and playing the sport. Shane Carney, Hull KR head of strength and conditioning, added: “What the bike really lets us do is to target the physiological make-up

of that person and improve them without the stresses on the joints and tendons that repetitive running can cause.” The team have all responded positively to the introduction of the Wattbike training. Lee Jewitt, Hull KR prop, said: “Last year, I thought this would be my last season but now I think I’ve probably got two or three more seasons in me. And that’s just from removing the

impact of running in training every day.” Shaun Lunt, Hull KR hooker and club captain, added: “I’m coming into the twilight years of my career, and if it wasn’t for the Wattbike training I don’t think I’d be feeling as good as I am now. It’s been a revelation.” By linking to the Wattbike Hub app, the parameters that the Wattbike measures provide the athlete with an extraordinary range of monitoring and allows the coaches to have access to a broad range of vital performance data. The Wattbike’s Performance Computer enables the accurate measurement of more than 40 parameters. Combined with a fully customisable ride setup and the feel of riding a real bike, it provides the user with a highly effective and efficient power-based training solution. Robbie Mulhern, Hull KR prop, added: “As a squad, we have to be one of the fittest in the league at the moment. It’s definitely the fittest I’ve ever felt, and I think that’s down to the Wattbike training.” To find out more about how Wattbike can transform your training visit www.wattbike.com

TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT SPONSORED BY

How retail industry lessons could help personal trainers

The Elite Athlete Centre and Hotel at Loughborough University.

New athlete centre set to focus on nutrition LOUGHBOROUGH University’s Elite Athlete Centre and Hotel will place bespoke nutrition at the centre of its offering. Delivered by Imago Venues, the EAC’s team are working with UK Sport, Sport England and the English Institute of Sport to create a world leading training facility that meets the needs of high performance athletes. The facility will also be available to meeting and event organisers. It also offers accommodation with altitude control, rest and relaxation facilities and nutrition for both athletes and delegates.

Kath Grainger, Britain’s most decorated female Olympian and chair of UK Sport, said: “UK Sport is a world leader in the development of elite athletes and I am delighted that Loughborough is continuing to play a fundamental role in the advancement of top level sport. “This investment will create a unique facility that will be of huge benefit to all involved. In particular, the decision to focus on nutrition will be key, as it is such a fundamental building block when it comes to successful performance.” The EAC opens in November.

Programme for diabetics eGym has added a new programme which helps regulate blood glucose levels. Metabolic Fit means eGym can now allow operators to prescribe and manage bespoke, automated training plans on a large scale to people with metabolic conditions such as type two diabetes. The new programme appears under the health training goal option on the eGym strength equipment. Studies have shown that a high number of repetitions over long exercise periods is the optimal training for type two diabetes patients. The eGym programme is developed to increase insulin receptor sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels longterm, by the slow building of strength

endurance. In partnership with the University of Leipzig, eGym conducted a study which measured the impact of the Metabolic Fit programme on a group of type two diabetes patients. Participants trained on the eGym strength circuit at least once a week for six months, following the automated, prescribed programme. At the end of the six months, 39 per cent of participants recorded such a reduction in blood glucose that they were no longer clinically classified as diabetic. In addition, all patients experienced a decrease in blood pressure and a reduction in hip and waist circumference measurements, both indicators of an improvement in long term health.

Tom Knight, former CEO of JJB Sports and chairman of fidobo (find it. book it. do it), knows a thing or two about growing a successful business. Here, he explains how personal trainers can use valuable lessons learned by the retail industry to maximise their membership marketing strategies and broaden their business. MARKETING is a critical element of developing and sustaining a successful personal training business. Unlike gyms and leisure centres, which have dedicated marketing departments, many PTs rely on word of mouth from clients to market and grow their business. And with existing clients to contact, invoices to send and chase, classes to teach and sessions to plan, marketing can become just one more admin task that slides to the bottom of the list. As CEO at JJB Sports, Tom Knight grew the business from two gyms to 48 in just five years. He’s now utilising his extensive experience in a new role as chairman of fibodo, a platform launched to help PTs professionalise their online presence and make every day admin chores, as well as marketing tasks, easier and more effective. “Every industry changes, but retail has seen a particularly dramatic change over the past few years – the move from shopping in person to shopping online. And more recently, shopping using a device,” says Knight. “Seventy per cent of people shop online using their phone. We browse on a phone, we pay with a phone and we have to recognise that people want to do the same for fitness. Mobile is everything now. “Retail has grasped this but other industries, including the fitness sector, need to do the same. Successful businesses are the ones that embrace technological change and run with it.” The fibodo platform enables PTs to professionalise their business and get on with delivering first class training. It takes care of real-time bookings with a live availability planner, offers secure payment options, personalised web pages without any set-up hassle and enables easy integration with social media platforms for direct

marketing to potential customers, including leveraging a direct-link booking button on Facebook to help drive more bookings. PTs can also push marketing communications Tom Knight on upcoming sessions and classes, last-minute availability, new offers and discounts to social media platforms and via email. “Anyone selling anything, be it their time, sports kit or items of clothing, needs a professional, mobilebased presence that enables them to communicate with customers, professionalise their admin and take on competitors – for PTs that’s most likely local gyms and other trainers. “In the old days, if you wanted a PT you opened the yellow pages and if you wanted a new shirt you went to the high street. Now the first place you turn to for both is your mobile. “Yes PTs can write appointments in a diary, get payments in cash and drop flyers in letterboxes, but if they don’t have an electronic system, they risk seeing someone once or twice, then they’re gone. If their details are in your system, you can retain contact and nurture relationships. “Mobile isn’t the future, it’s now. I’m sure in 20 years’ time we’ll be saying ‘how did we cope with iPhones, they’re so dated’; tech just moves on and on and on. PTs need a system that enables them to keep up.” Knight is keen to note technology is only the facilitator. Just as mobile shoppers still need to try on clothes they’ve bought, fibodo doesn’t mean clients won’t have to sweat. “We mustn’t expect technology to do it all for us! At some stage your clients have got to get out of breath. “Mobile phones can help get clients in front of you but then, if they’re not sweating, you’re not doing enough to get them to come back,” he says.

TRAINING AND RECRUITMENT SPONSORED BY In this bi-monthly column for Workout, Active IQ’s director of quality and standards Sarah Edmonds gives us the scoop on the brand-new Level 2 Group Training qualification, which has been developed by Active IQ in partnership with EMD UK and explains what it means for the industry.

Fit for purpose group exercise qualification launches

WITH operators continuing to demand educated, certified and experienced fitness professionals, there has never been a greater time or need in our industry to ensure the professionalisation of our workforce. Over the last 12 months particularly, we have heard calls from across the industry for more rigorous, robust and fit-for-purpose qualifications. With revised training and assessment criteria long overdue, we set out to ensure group exercise instructors coming into the industry are well-equipped to maximise their career opportunity. We chose to partner with EMD UK, the national governing body for group training, to develop the new Level Two Group Training qualification. Together, we met employers and fitness professionals. Feedback revealed that many felt that there was indeed a huge skill gap around the overall delivery of group exercise and that the Level Two Exercise to Music qualification no longer equips instructors with the skills they need to deliver effective and compelling group exercise

training. That came as no surprise considering that the original Level Two Exercise to Music qualification was developed over 10 years ago by Skills Active. Just think how our industry has changed over this period of time! Group exercise has evolved rapidly with the boom of the boutique fitness sector and now plays a prominent role in consumer fitness training habits. It is certainly no longer just about the traditional exercise to music classes. The new Level Two Group Training qualification will give instructors a dynamic and flexible learning path, combining teaching units based on the type of group training they want to teach. Instructors can complete the ‘Group Training’ qualification (for classes like high intensity interval training, bootcamp or circuits) or Group Training (to Music) which adds on the skills needed to plan and teach classes to the beat and phrase of the music (such as Zumba or any Les Mills classes). This qualification hasn’t come a day too early and we hope it will halt

Sarah Edmonds the recent drop in people taking the exercise to music pathway. It will appeal to current fitness participants considering a career in the fitness industry as well as personal trainers and gym instructors keen to capitalise on the growing popularity of group exercise by

increasing their current knowledge and qualifications. As part of the course, we have also developed and written modules that will develop the soft skills needed to engage and retain class participants such as understanding behavioural change and barriers to exercise along with delivering a great customer experience. Again, something much needed and requested by employers. The first of its kind to market this new qualification sits on the Regulated Qualification Framework. It has been mapped to the new CIMSPA professional standards and is also fully endorsed by them. It will be exclusively available to EMD UK to deliver until December 2018. Thereafter, the wider industry can take it up. As we strive to create a higher standard within our industry we are excited to have developed this new qualification and look forward to seeing better-qualified, betterprepared group exercise instructors fire up group training with renewed skill and enthusiasm.

PRODUCT NEWS

Nexus Training and Wearable technology GymCareer kick- – who needs it? starting careers By Dave Wright

RECRUITMENT Advertising specialist, GymCareer, and training provider, Nexus Training, have recently joined forces to help kickstart careers in the health and fitness industry. We caught up with Nexus Training owner, James McNeill, to see how their students are benefitting from the partnership. How has the link with GymCareer been received by your students? The link with GymCareer has been received very well. Employment after qualification is something a lot of potential students have questions about. Having the option of using a company like GymCareer to help them should they wish to work in an established gym environment with access to potential clients is a massive boost. What benefits does this link have for yourself as a training provider? The partnership strengthens the existing career support Nexus Training already offer, we want to show our learners that we’re doing everything we can to improve their footing within the health and fitness industry. The benefits for ourselves are that we feel confident referring our learners to GymCareer, as it’s clear that they’re experts in their field. That is obvious when you look at the gyms they’re linked with. Also,

from a marketing point of view, they’re helpful because there are still people out there who are unaware of the qualifications needed to become a PT. GymCareer has helped inform potential students of what is necessary to follow the career they want. What is the most positive thing you have found from partnering with GymCareer? It’s important to us that we work with companies that will benefit our students once they’ve qualified. It was clear from the start that GymCareer are passionate about what they do and how they’re going to help our students. This matches with our own company’s ethos meaning it was a perfect fit. They’re keen to help in the employment of our students as well as offering further career advice if needed. The staff we have been in contact with have been more than helpful when setting up the partnership as well as providing images and leaflets etc that we can use when discussing the link with the students. GymCareer is always looking for new partnerships with training providers, gyms and other businesses involved in the health and fitness industry. Get in touch at www.gymcareer.com To find out more about Nexus Training, go to www.nexustraining.co.uk

Jordan strengthens Hatton Boxing partnership JORDAN has teamed up with Hatton Boxing. As the functional fitness equipment specialists move into the next phase of their 30 year story, Jordan have strengthened their existing partnership with Hatton in a deal which will see them take the lead as Hatton’s new storage and distribution partner. Jordan will provide end to end support in a role which was previously handled by a third party logistics company. The partnership is just part of Jordan’s development, with a brand refresh and further growth plans also in the works. Managing director of Jordan Fitness Zak Pitt said: “Jordan already provide storage and distribution services to several leading industry brands and therefore it was a logical progression to use our expertise in this area, to support the growth of the Hatton brand. “We have an exceptional track record of operational management, warehousing and logistics, which coupled with the knowledge and experience ensures we can provide solutions, quickly and efficiently. “We have seen tremendous growth in this particular area of our business as many fitness brands, look to better their customer service in line with

growing demand.” Managing director of Hatton Boxing, Jon Eade, said: “We’ve been working closely with Jordan for two years now, so we’ve seen first-hand what an excellent logistical operation they have. “Their knowledge of both our products and our unique customer requirements really sets them apart from other traditional third party logistics providers.” In addition to storage and distribution, Jordan also offer a variety of additional services for companies looking for a warehousing and logistics partner, including supplier management, customer management, quality control and installation. For more information email zak.pitt@jordanfitness.co.uk

THERE is always an argument of how wearable technology gets in the way of the fitness instructor and their training of clients. Who needs tech when all your body just needs to do is to run, jump, lift, push, pull and stretch right? And anyway, Rocky beat Ivan Drago in Rocky 4 without tech! But let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Technology in the fitness industry should amplify not inhibit the members experience. Trainers should learn how to leverage tech to fast track members results, minimise downtime, understand the work/ rest periods, stay connected and most of all, be better engaged with the member. Let’s walk through a situation. The member is walking into a class, the trainer checks them in so that their data can display on the screen – providing a valuable one to one interaction, they are not the fittest in the class, but the instructor can see that they are really putting the effort in and commends them for trying (this member all of a sudden feels better about themselves), after the workout they get an email summary of how many calories and how hard they pushed throughout- physically reminding them of the great session. Their friends and PT comment on their workout – again re-enforcing their exercise experience. Their PT also knows how hard to push them on their next session because they have full visibility of what they have done whilst not with the trainer. They still run, jump, lift, push, pull and stretch… but now they are accountable and the trainer even sets them homework when they are not together.

Dave Wright Overall, the client feels connected – with themselves, their trainer, their club and the exercise experience. Thanks to tech, the client now feels happy and motivated to continue with their fitness journey and as such they stay longer with the club. They continue to pay. The club makes more money. The end. n Dave Wright is the creator and CEO of MYZONE®, CEO and owner of CFM (Creative Fitness Marketing) and owner of the Feelgood Fitness & Voyage Fitness Club Chains. With offices in Chicago (US), Nottingham (UK) and Melbourne (Oz), Dave’s companies have worked directly with over 5,000 health clubs across 65 different countries, encouraging people to be more and stay more physically active. He may be contacted on Dave@ myzone.org

Explore the industry’s future in Lisbon THE 18th annual IHRSA European Congress, which will take place from October 15-18 in Lisbon, Portugal, is a must-attend event for industry leaders doing business in the UK and any of Europe’s varied markets. “The Congress puts many of the major players in Europe beneath the same roof, allowing them to take off their gloves to discuss some of the latest, and most important, challenges facing the industry,” said Florian Cartoux, IHRSA’s director of Europe. The Congress features presentations by authorities and thought-leaders from inside and outside the industry, who will provide stimulating and instructive commentary on best practices, current trends, and a wide range of other vital club topics. Attendees will network with more than 500 of their colleagues, from dozens of countries, during focus group discussions, lunches, and lively evening receptions. They’ll also have the opportunity to tour some of Lisbon’s top health clubs. Another highlight of the Congress

will be the presentation of the 2018 European Club Leadership Award to someone who has made a significant contribution to their company and the industry by virtue of their leadership and professional performance. Last year, Jon Wright, the founder of Xercise4Less, the UK chain, received the award. Applications are available at ihrsa.org/awards and is due by September 7. “If you’re involved in a decisionmaking capacity in this industry—if you’re an executive, owner, investor, general manager, or department manager—the IHRSA European Congress is for you,” added Joe Moore, IHRSA’s president and CEO. Workout magazine readers are eligible to receive Early Bird pricing by using the promo code WOEC during registration atihrsa.org/ congress by September 30. The EPIC SANA Lisboa Hotel discount ends on September 24, unless the hotel sells out before then. For the club tours, pre-registration and an additional fee are required.

CLASSIFIED FITNESS EQUIPMENT

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

MYO strength

Gym Design & Supply £

Equipment Finance

Service & Repair Parts Supply

:www.staffsfitness.co.uk

:sales@staffsfitness.co.uk

:01538 387960

CLASSIFIED FITNESS EQUIPMENT

LOCKS

AUDIO / VISUAL

INSURANCE

CLOTHING & MERCHANDISE

CLASSIFIED LOGISTICS

SOFTWARE

REPAIRS

FLOORING

DIRECT DEBIT COLLECTIONS

WANTED

CLASSIFIED LOCKERS

DISPLAYS

LOCKERS

SUN BEDS

UPHOLSTERY

MANAGEMENT

CLASSIFIED FOR SALE

UPHOLSTERY