Well, we found out late last week that our neighborhood gym is closing :( I'm so sad about this! It's a small friendly place, low key and reminds me of the gym where I first got into Fitness Management. There are also Gold's Gyms closing around town. You might think it's just a sign of the times that a large chain as well as a small neighborhood gym are both closing. However, some key differences in management styles make a huge difference in the success of a gym during tough economic times. If you are in the market for a gym and convenience is not an issue (meaning you have several to choose from), ask your sales representative these questions: "What do you require for an individual to become a Group Fitness Instructor? a Personal Trainer? Do you have annual fees for continued membership? Who is responsible for cleaning mats, machines, locker rooms, bathrooms, showers? How often is it done and are records available in public view? Is the facility locally owned? How many AEDs are in the facility and where are they located?"
Let me take you through each of these questions and talk about why they are important. Only one for today, more is to come...
Certification Requirements for Instructors
So this is one of my biggest pet peeves about many gyms.
Group Fitness first: Oftentimes, if someone is good at a class and can pick music, they get a timeslot on the schedule. However, there are so many elements that go into great experience. First and foremost, participants should be kept safe. Fitness Instructors should have a basic knowledge of CPR and First Aid. They should have a way to contact the front desk in case of an emergency. Do they demonstrate outstanding role model technique for their participants? Can they choreograph to the beat? Do they care if you come to their class (learn your name, give encouragement)? Are they enjoying themselves or just there to collect a paycheck. Instructors should carry some sort of certification, whether a generic "Group Fitness Instructor" certification or a certification for each specific program they teach.
Certification Requirements for Personal Trainers
Any Joe Schmoe can go online and get a certification for Personal Training. This is a complete tragedy, since these individuals are paid to guide individuals of all health and fitness statuses through weight loss programs, athletic training programs, injury rehabilitation, fitness for special populations and more. Check to see what your potential gym requires of their trainers. Each should be required to have a certification that is NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies) approved. You should be able to easily determine if their certification qualifies by doing a quick search on the website and looking for their seal. You also have to personally connect with your trainer. Some trainers are more boot camp style, others are more nuturing. What style motivates you? Also, what your trainer says should make sense and be progressive. After discussing your goals, your trainer should create a plan for you and be able to tell you why s/he has chosen such a program for you. Talk about the timeline in which you should be seeing results reasonably and see what happens. Ask questions of your trainer and me! I'm here to help! :)
Next, we'll talk about gym cleanliness and safety. Until next time! :)
