event review
IHRSA celebrates its 30th birthday in 2011. We ask a selection of delegates to give their feedback on this year’s Annual Convention and Trade Show, which took place in San Francisco, US, on 16–19 March
UK operators are still investing in new concepts and innovation for their clubs. Technology led the way, with some fantastic new ideas from top suppliers. The UFC is opening up some
TURNING 30 I
KEVIN YATES, HEAD OF COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT, LEISURE CONNECTION TRADE SHOW FLOOR
t was great to see another strong UK presence at IHRSA, which supports the fact that even in tougher times,
show through demonstrations as well as participation, for example Batuka which is looking to grow in the US following the sensational success of Zumba. Star Trac is making waves with its
interesting opportunities to the strength programming market via its cage fi ghting concept, while TRX Fitness concentrated on creating some noise around its conditioning training and group programming offering, with the launch of new accelerating and decelerating equipment which can be added to existing TRX units. It was encouraging to have so many classes championed throughout the
plate loading system, Max Rack, designed to make working out with plates effective, rewarding and safe. Recent design changes have produced a sturdy piece of equipment – a solid investment. Star Trac’s new Spinner bike, The Blade, welcomed plenty of attention as well, bringing the Spinning experience closer than ever to actual cycling. Advances in technology are starting
to set a trend. MyRide is really pushing the industry in the right direction, with investment in virtual footage that takes group cycling participants through
scenery such as the Californian mountains via HD- ready, interactive consoles. Precor’s
connective software system is also putting an emphasis on advances in technology. Its system can not only monitor the progress of individual members, but also track usage of the equipment and monitor maintenance and upkeep. Life Fitness is showing some great
ways to innovate fi tness equipment using technology: the introduction of the Virtual Trainer for iPods, applications on the web and member tracking are excellent. MYZONE is going to a big thing for
the future and could change the way we interact with members both in the facilities and outside – it’s a new and exciting way for gym members to get results. A belt records users’ activities and – with colour-coded, motivational guidance – allows them to comfortably work out in the right training zones to ensure they reach their fi tness and weight loss goals. One to watch. In the future, we could see
Keep going:
Freemotion gives a demonstration of its new range of bikes
62 Read Health Club Management online at
healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital
service providers choosing specifi c technologies to fi t around members and their requirements – technologies that adapt to get the most from a workout or interact with members’ needs. With such advances, the procurement of equipment might start to be based more on how its technology provider interacts with your member service systems on-site and less on the equipment programme functionality and capability.
may 2011 © cybertrek 2011
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