| IHRSA Report | In Brief
uring the course of 2009, the highly publicized debate in the United
D
States over healthcare reform highlighted the need for a comprehen-
sive approach to prevention. That includes government support of
private and local prevention initiatives.
There are several different types of prevention from a healthcare
standpoint, encompassing everything from vaccines and screenings to healthy
lifestyles that incorporate regular exercise and a proper diet.
Health
The fitness industry plays a critical role in prevention, particularly in reducing
the risk for chronic disease. Decades of scientific research have shown that
Promotion =
regular, moderate-to-vigorous exercise helps prevent chronic disease and other
medical conditions, and may reduce the risk of illnesses, such as cancer, arthritis,
and dementia.
Industry
As the link between exercise and health is more widely recognized, the fitness
industry can play an increasingly visible role in the prevention and wellness
Promotion
movement. The industry is not merely one of sports and leisure; it has the power
to mitigate critical public health problems, such as skyrocketing healthcare spending,
obesity, and sedentary lifestyles. This movement also represents an opportunity
for fitness businesses to increase revenue by enhancing health-promotion and
wellness programming.
IHRSA is strongly committed to health-promotion programming as a manage-
ment strategy for clubs to retain current members; bring in new members and
prospects; reach out to the community; and build a club’s brand. Currently,
IHRSA offers two annual health-promotion programs for member clubs: I Lost
It at the Club, and Get Active America!
I Lost It at the Club is an eight-week program that begins next month, on
January 11. The program, which is in its sixth year, has been successful in various
types of club settings. Last year, the program helped more than 4,000 people lose
in excess of 22,000 pounds. Programming materials for clubs focus on how to
help members adopt healthy lifestyle habits that last a lifetime—not simply short-
term weight-loss goals resulting from New Year’s resolutions.
The community involvement and social interaction that both
programs foster help promote the message of prevention to a
wider audience beyond the current club membership. Additionally,
participation provides a foundation for clubs to partner with other
community organizations, such as nonprofits, health or medical orga-
nizations, and health associations, such as the local chapters of the
American Heart Association (AHA). This can raise the profile of the
club in the community and build a positive reputation as a health-
focused business.
Beyond the club and the community, IHRSA supports health promotion by
lobbying for the passage of legislation at the state and federal levels that provides
financial incentives for people to exercise. In Congress, that includes the Workforce
Health Improvement Program (WHIP) Act and the Personal Health Investment
Today (PHIT) Act. When fitness professionals reach out to their members of
Congress to support these bills, they’re further demonstrating their commitment
to helping their community lead healthier lives. As Americans struggle to control
their weight, keep their families healthy, and keep healthcare costs down, the
timing for this legislation and the support of fitness professionals and the industry
have never been more important.
By getting involved in legislative issues and participating in health-promotion
programs, you’re not only improving your business, but serving the local community
and the fitness industry at large. Your club is a relevant resource for all things related
to prevention and wellness, and it should get all the attention it deserves. Your partici-
pation and initiative are critical to the growth and reputation of the industry.
—|
.org
For additional information about I Lost It at the Club, log on to
www.ihrsa.org/ilostitattheclub.
84 Club Business International | DECEMBER 2009 |
www.ihrsa.org
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