resistance training
Small group classes can encourage members to engage in resistance work In a recent development from
Life Fitness, the Cable Motion Dual Adjustable Pulley now includes a touch-screen console, offering video exercise demonstrations. This ensures that the machine can be used by members of all fi tness levels and abilities without any personal tuition. And in alignment with its focus on
engaging and motivating its users, Matrix will soon be incorporating QR codes on its equipment. The barcodes, which are scanned using a smartphone, have been designed to help gym-goers understand the benefi ts of using each product and how to do so correctly and safely.
GYM FLOOR ZONES The layout and design of a gym floor is paramount in determining what equipment is being used, and by whom. A typical Gym Group site will include
at least 40 per cent resistance equipment – but rather than being grouped together, this equipment is spread out throughout the gym, with the aim of increasing accessibility and comfort. Pure Gym adopts a similar approach in a bid to address the issue of
‘intimidating’ strength training areas. The trend towards functional training zones also means that operators have to
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think strategically when dividing up the gym fl oor. “Many club owners are starting to realise the importance of resistance training areas versus the cardio fl oor’,” says Collins. “Forward-thinking facilities are using larger areas for resistance training to allow trainers and clients to perform dynamic exercises.” Nevertheless, Barrett acknowledges
that a balanced approach to equipment use is important: “Functional equipment allows PTs to be more involved in the exercise. However, incorporating conventional strength machines ensures that clients can be confi dent of replicating a session on their own.” Many gym operators also now offer
a range of small group classes – a particularly valuable method when it comes to encouraging members to engage in resistance training. Total Gym sessions, for example,
deliver whole body, cable-based resistance training. These sessions are based on the idea of one-to-one contact time but within a positive group dynamic. And there are signifi cant cost advantages of operating in this way, as Greg Sellar, master trainer for GRAVITY/Total Gym, explains: “By working with a trainer in a small group, the hourly profi tability for a trainer and
Read Health Club Management online at
healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital
a facility is increased by around 200 per cent, while the cost of training for the client decreases by around 50 per cent.”
MAINTAINING THE MOMENTUM As the focus shifts towards a more creative and user-friendly resistance offering, operators, suppliers and trainers are starting to see changing attitudes across their consumer groups. Kevin Yates, head of marketing and
retention for Leisure Connection, concludes: “I believe the whole industry is really championing resistance training. I am buying less CV equipment, more consumers are becoming aware of the benefi ts of strength training, and people’s mindsets are moving away from ‘I have to go to the gym’ to ‘I can’t wait to go to the gym’.” However, challenges still remain,
and education must be an ongoing process for members and trainers alike. Operators, suppliers and trainers must continue to work together to uphold the position of resistance training as an indispensable part of any effective exercise programme.
healthclub@leisuremedia.com lauren applegarth
march 2012 © cybertrek 2012
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