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CBI, the world's leading magazine for the health and fitness industry, is read by nearly 24,000 health club owners, managers and professionals in 74 countries around the world.

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Page 1: July 2009 Club Business International

> July 2009 21 Doug lipp Service

25 Financial Roundup

43 Green locker Rooms

57 Treadmill Guide

86 IHRSA Board Profiles ®

CLUB BUSINESS InternatIonal

252525252525252525252525252525252525252525252525THE IHRSA GLOBAL

THE RESULTS ARE IN! AND THE WINNERS ARE…

Page 2: July 2009 Club Business International
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When you purchase a pink treadmill, CYBEX will donate 10c/mile* logged during the month of October (Breast Cancer Awareness Month)

to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.Women are 54% of health club members and the fastest growing member groupBreast Cancer Research: A great cause

Exercise: A great benefit for women’s health

Pink Ribbon Run: A great opportunity to show your club cares

CYBEX: A great treadmill

Why your facility should buy a pink 750T TREADMILL

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation is dedicated to preventing breast cancer andfinding a cure in our lifetime by funding clinical and translational research worldwide. For more information about BCRF, visit www.bcrfcure.org.

JOIN THE PINK RIBBON RUNLet your members make their workout work for breast cancer research.

Visit us online www.cybexintl.com to learn moreTo join the Pink Ribbon Run call CYBEX today at +1.774.324.8000

CYBEX also offers great financing packages on our 750T Pink Treadmills!* Financing available for North America only®

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Page 4: July 2009 Club Business International
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“America’s nonfinancial businesses are suffering. But they will emerge from the recession leaner and stronger than ever.” So concluded a special report on American business published recently by The Economist.

That, too, seems to be the sentiment, the sense of things, suggested by many of the people, developments, and statistics reported on in this issue of CBI.

If, like The Economist, we were to boil down all of the opinions and facts into some concise intelligence, it would probably read:

Yes, health clubs have come under pressure. They’ve responded by managing costs and revenues more aggressively and by tapping new opportunities. The industry has again demonstrated that it’s more recession-resilient than most others. Market conditions still portend a significant upside.

The four participants in CBI’s “Financial Roundtable” discus-sion—Brent Knudsen, Dave Remick, Paul Hindsley, and Pete Moore—view the current economic situation seriously, but don’t indulge doomsday scenarios. Remick suggests that clubs can con-

tinue to compete successfully thanks to the steps many of them have already taken. Knudsen notes, “Over the next few years, health will become increasingly important, be studied much more intensely, and experience substantial inno-vation—good news for the fitness industry.”

This year’s installment of “The IHRSA Global 25,” which spotlights the industry’s largest and best-performing club companies in 2008, conveys a similar message. Though there was a slight drop in the number of facilities represented on our charts, and though the rate of growth slowed, the Global 25 continued to post increases.

GoodLife Fitness Clubs, for instance, was able to grow revenues by 41% in ’08; while, on the franchise side, Anytime Fitness, Inc., racked up a 35% improvement. “We antici-pated that 2008 would be a great year for our company, and, despite the economy, it was better than expected,” acknowledges Jeff Klinger, the president of Anytime Fitness.

Similarly, David “Patch” Patchell-Evans, the president and CEO of GoodLife Fitness and chairperson of IHRSA’s board of directors, concurs that ’08, for all its difficulties, was “better than expected,” and observes, “I’m tempted to not view this downturn as a bad thing.” Making his debut appearance as the author of the “First Set” column, he writes, “I can’t predict what’s going to happen with the economy, but I don’t think it matters with respect to our industry. The economy can be terrible, but people still want to look good and feel good. They still want to fit into the jeans that they had last year. They still want to have low cholesterol…

“There’s an important message in that,” he explains. “If you look after yourself, you can look after others, and, together, you can look after the economy.

“There are a lot of silver linings here,” Patchell-Evans insists. —|

– Craig R. Waters, [email protected]

| Editor’s Welcome |The mission of IHRSA is to grow, protect, and promote the industry, and to provide its members with benefits that will help them be more successful.

PublishingEditor-In-Chief: Craig R. WatersPublisher: Jay M. AblondiManaging Editor: Rebecca K. MaverickEditor: Jennifer H. McInerneyAssociate Editor: Patricia Glynn Editorial Intern: Mia CoenContributing Editors: Dawn Allcot, Patricia Amend, Phoebe Anderson, Jon Feld, Julie M. King, Catherine Larner, Lesley Mahoney, Jean Suffin, Stephen Wallenfels, Kristen A. Walsh

Advertising, www.cbimediakit.com

Vice President of Advertising & Membership Sales: Michele EynonSenior Account Manager: Jessica GutsteinAdvertising & Associate Membership Manager: Christine PatersonAdvertising Sales Executive: Donna GarrityBusiness Development Publications: Will FinnPublications & Associate Coordinator: Meghan Burnham

Art Direction, Design, Production: HM Studios, Boston, MA

internAtiOnAl heAlth, rACQuet & sPOrtsClub AssOCiAtiOnPresident & CEO: Joe MooreChief Operating Officer: Anita LawlorExecutive Vice President of Public Policy: Helen DurkinExecutive Vice President of Global Products: Jay Ablondi

Club business internAtiOnAl editOriAl & Advertising OffiCes:c/o ihrsA seaport Center 70 fargo street, boston, MA 02210 usA800-228-4772 usA & Canada 617-951-0055 | 617-951-0056 fAXe-mail: [email protected] www.ihrsa.org

to order reprints of articles, call 800-228-4772 ext. 192 or visit www.ihrsa.org/cbi

Club business international (issn 1043-9692, usPs 766-570) is published monthly ©2009 by the international health, racquet & sportsclub Association, seaport Center 70 fargo street, boston, MA 02210. All rights reserved. Periodicals postage paid at boston, Massachusetts, and additional mailing offices. Canadian sales Agreement #40767601.subscription rate for members is $48 per year, which is included in the dues. Additional subscrip-tions $24.95 per year (usA) and $75 (international). POstMAster: Please send change of address to Club business international, c/o ihrsA, seaport Center 70 fargo street, boston, Massachusetts 02210

Volume 29, Issue 7

Kerry b

rett

4 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

®

Page 7: July 2009 Club Business International

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CBI_Cardiotouchscreen.indd 1 5/27/08 2:19:14 PM

Page 8: July 2009 Club Business International

34 IHRSA Global 25Last year was problematic for businesses of every sort, including health clubs. The hopeful fact that was once more reaffirmed, however, is that the fitness industry is more recession-resilient than most others.

25 Financial RoundupInvestment gurus Brent Knudsen, Dave Remick, Paul Hindsley, and Pete Moore assess the industry’s prospects

31 SIBEC09 North AmericaSIBEC09 North America, the industry’s answer to speed dating for club buyers and suppliers, strikes in September

43 Green Locker RoomsEnvironmentally friendly locker-room initiatives can make an important contribution to “Global Transforming”

ConTEnTS | July 09

CLuB BuSINESSInTERnATIonAL

6 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

Features

Above (left to right, top to bottom): luiz urquiza, Alex Alimanestianu, Jonathan fisher, Anastasia Yusina, richard bilton, duncan bannatyne, beth beck, edgard Corona, nicolas loaiza, lynne brick, gary heavin, Carlos gomez, Jim Mizes, Colin Waggett, diana Williams, daren Carter, gene laMott, Art Curtis, Mike sheehan, diane heavin, Chris Palumbo, eric Affeldt, gale landers, Jeff Jervik, Anthony geisler, James Weaver, goto tadaharu, gregg lehman, ramon Canela Pique, sandy hoeffer, Paul underberg, Masuda hidetoshi, Matthew stevens, nick Coutts, Jeff Klinger, steven schwartz, geoffrey dyer, ed Williams, Judi sheppard-Missett, rainer schaller, Michael Motta, tim Miller, neil gillis, giis den hartog, david Patchell-evans, Jean Marie Potter, Pedro ruiz, Peter taunton, gerald Weber, henry dabish, Jörg Pribil, toshikazu saito, Carl liebert, richard branson, rob goldman, royce Pulliam, Chuck runyon, david lloyd, dag lee, loni Wang, bud rockhill, bahram Akradi, ståle Angel, Jan edholm, lisa druxman, larry gurney, toshimitsu Oishi, Phil Wendel, Olga sloutsker

34

Page 9: July 2009 Club Business International

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100 60 100 70 30 100 60 40 70 4070 30 100 40 40 100 40 100 40 70 40 70 40 40 340 70 40 70 40 40

100 10070 70 30 30 100 100 60 70 70 4070 70 30 30 100 40 100 40 40 100 10 40 40 20 70 70 3.1 2.2 2.270 40 40 75 66 6650 40 4025 19 190 0 0 0

3%

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FISHFTD9009PR2R_vb_KOtype.indd 1 3/12/09 12:01:52 PM

Page 10: July 2009 Club Business International

8523

18Asian energy by California Fitness

News & Know How 15 News Mastrov invests in Crunch; IHRSA seats

new board of directors; Gilad Janklowicz is CBI’s fitness role model; and more

21 First Person Customer-service expert Doug Lipp previews

his remarks at IHRSA’s 21st Annual Institute for Professional Club Management

23 On the Move East Bank introduces Maxwell’s, a new

upscale restaurant; u.K. club operator Fitness First makes 24 facilities friendlier for the disabled; plus more

Innovations 53 What’s New Super stuff from ACE, Body Bar, Life

Fitness, Power Systems, Matrix Fitness Systems, and Milnor Laundry Systems

57 F.I.T. Extra The latest treadmills are models of

efficiency and masters of new forms of movement

75 BuyersMart

IHRSA Report 80 First Set IHRSA Chairperson David “Patch” Patchell-

Evans believes this is “The year of Hope” for our industry

82 In Brief Clever locker-room design and

clear, intelligent policies can prevent unpleasant problems

85 International The industry’s ultimate success

depends on global strategies, contends David “Patch” Patchell-Evans

86 Board Profiles CBI is pleased to introduce new IHRSA board

members Kay yuspeh and Bill McBride

89 Member News What’s up at Precor, IDEA, Gerflor,

Sharp Brains, Life Fitness, Matrix Fitness, Expresso Fitness, Workman Publishing, the Medical Fitness Association, and PumpedupMedia.com?

92 Calendar

Reps 4 Editor’s

Welcome

10 Ihrsa.org

12 Letters

94 Marketplace

95 Ad Index

96 Last Rep Could the recession

level the competitive playing field? wonders IHRSA President and CEo Joe Moore

8 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

ConTEnTS | July 09

CLuB BuSINESSInTERnATIonAL

Departments

Fitness First stresses accessibility

Industry relies on global efforts

Page 11: July 2009 Club Business International
Page 12: July 2009 Club Business International

A PREvIEW oF WHAT’S nEW THIS MonTH on WWW.IHRSA.oRG

IHRSA Passport Program Adds Value for Traveling Members > www.healthclubs.com

Do you have many members who will be traveling this sum-mer? When they pack their IHRSA Passport identification, they can retain the value of their membership at your club...even when they’re miles away. The IHRSA Passport Program allows your members to enjoy reciprocal guest privileges at more than 3,400 facilities worldwide when they travel. Finding a club is as easy as logging on to IHRSA’s consumer Website, www.healthclubs.com. The site allows individuals to search for a club by location, guest-fee amount, and amenities offered. —|

For more information about this free member benefit, contact the IHRSA Membership Team at [email protected].

IHRSA Meetings Offer Unparalleled Learning Opportunities> www.ihrsa.org/meetings

IHRSA’s world-renowned events provide a wide array of presentations on business and corporate culture; instructional sessions on all aspects of succeeding in the health club industry; social events for mixing and mingling with peers; and the most spectacular trade shows in the industry. As an IHRSA member, you’re invited to enjoy each of these events at special discounted registration rates. Remaining 2009 IHRSA meetings include: the 21st Annual IHRSA Institute for Professional Club Management, August 2-5, The Resort at Squaw Creek, Lake Tahoe, California; 10th Annual IHRSA/ Fitness Brasil Latin American Conference & Trade Show, october 22-24, Transamerica Expo Center, São Paulo, Brazil; 9th Annual IHRSA European Congress, october 22-25, the Burlington Hotel, Dublin, Ireland; and the 8th Annual IHRSA Asia-Pacific Forum, november 10-13, Tokyo, Japan. —|

Also, save the dates of March 10-13, 2010, for IHRSA’s 29th Annual International Convention & Trade Show, to be held in sunny San Diego! log on to www.ihrsa.org/meetings for more information or to register for any of these events.

Considering a Club Member Advisory Board?> www.ihrsa.org/bestpractices

According to a recent survey, 21% of IHRSA clubs have a member advisory board guiding their businesses, and an equal percentage are considering creating one. A member advisory board can provide operators with valuable insights into how their customers perceive their clubs; what would keep them coming back for more; and what would prompt them to refer new members. This is the topic of the newest IHRSA Best Practice (formerly “Tip”), which can be read at www.ihrsa.org/bestpractices. —|

10 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

ihrsa.org

The Photo G

roup

Page 13: July 2009 Club Business International

More than fourteen years ago, Iron Grip began with a revolutionary product idea and a commitment to our customers’

business growth. As we’ve grown, so have they—24 Hour Fitness, Life Time Fitness, and LA Fitness to name a few. We’ve

earned their trust and we’ll earn yours, too. While other manufacturers may strive to match our quality, they’ll never

match our ability to help your business succeed. So get more than just the world’s best strength equipment—get a long-term

partner dedicated to helping you build your business. Call 800-664-4766 or visit www.irongrip.com for more information.

Our weights are built to last.Just like our customer relationships.

Page 14: July 2009 Club Business International

| Letters |

LES9744 Trade Ad RETENTION CBI.indd 1 12/17/08 3:43:54 PM

Fitness Role Model:

W MagazineCBI

CBI’s

News & Know How

Recently, a Minnesota appeals court judge, confirming a finding by a local court, ruled that a large multipurpose health club in Rochester, Minnesota, was within its rights when it declined to sell a family membership to a

lesbian couple. The club had refused, citing its policy to extend family-member-ship rates only to married couples.

The couple sued the club in 2007, alleging discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in violation of the Minnesota Human Rights Act. A district judge dis-missed the lawsuit, noting that the plaintiffs couldn’t demonstrate that they’d been discriminated against because of their sexual orientation.

The couple, who share finances, own a business together, are raising a daughter together, and had a commitment ceremony in 2002, appealed the decision. They contended that the club’s policy was discriminatory because, under Minnesota law, only heterosexual couples can marry and, thereby, qualify for family memberships. The appeals court, though, upheld the original decision. It found that the club’s policy doesn’t discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation because it denies fam-ily memberships to all unmarried couples, whether heterosexual or homosexual.

The cost of getting fit Down Under might be going a bit over the top, if one organization gets its way. At issue is the pricing of music played during fitness classes throughout Australia. While clubs now pay approximately

.80¢ (USD) per class, with an annual cap of $2,302, proposed increases could see those amounts multiply by a staggering 3,000%.

The Phonographic Performance Company of Australia (PPCA), a nonprofit organization that represents record labels and recording artists, has been recalcu-lating the value of music. They’ve suggested raising fees to either $26.89 per class with no cap, or $22.55 per member per month. A spokeswoman for the PPCA told The (Sydney) Daily Telegraph its intent is “to determine a new and fairer rate for artists… who deserve a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.”

In response, Fitness Australia, the nation’s fitness industry association, has developed an Operation M.U.S.I.C. campaign and, in February, attempted to reach a settlement with the PPCA via a mediated negotiation. That effort failed, however, and the issue was referred to the country’s Copyright Tribunal for a hearing that was scheduled to begin last month.

IHRSA, too, has stepped in, partnering with Fitness First Australia, a leading club company with over 85 locations. Both pledged $135,000 to oppose what many regard as a potentially devastating threat.

Joe Moore, IHRSA’s president and CEO, has expressed concern that the hike could cripple the Australian industry, and worries about the implications for clubs worldwide. “PPCA sister organizations around the world may well decide to restructure their fees in a similar way,” he warns. “For the sake of the global industry, we need to stop this issue.”

A Better Choice?

I just read that CBI selected the beautiful Penelope Cruz as its fitness role model for April. At the end of the article, you included her body measurements: 5', 5", 112 pounds. I’d like to point out that they represent a BMI of 18.6, one-tenth of a percent above what would be considered “underweight.” I’m a board member of the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee and the owner of the S.T.E.P.S., Inc., personal-training center. I believe that a magazine representing an international organization of fitness facilities should be sensitive to the message it’s sending about body image and health. While Ms. Cruz may, in fact, be healthy, we should be holding up healthy lifestyles, not hot bodies, as the pinnacle of what we promote in clubs. —|

Irv Rubenstein | Ph.D., Exercise Physiology | President | S.T.E.P.S., Inc. | Nashville, TN

Thriving Rivals> In the March issue of CBI, Carol Scott, of the ECA World Fitness Alliance, rightly praises freestyle instructors who produce innovative and motivating group-fitness programming (see “Letters,” pg. 14).

Let’s acknowledge, too, that prechoreographed programming, such as Les Mills’, makes high-quality group fitness available in far more facilities—and, ultimately, to far more consumers—than would be possible otherwise. It’s pretty rare for a single instructor to do everything that’s required superbly, and then, in addition, sustain great performance over time.

The strength of standardized classes is that they eliminate the need for every instructor to be an expert choreographer, an exercise scientist, a wise selector of music, and so forth. Les Mills enables talented instructors to focus on performance, motivation, coaching, and connection—secure in the knowledge that training, choreography, and music have already been taken care of.

For club management, third-party programming is often a more stable solution. With prechoreography, a popular instructor may leave the club, but great programs and consumer loyalty remain.

Congratulations to the brilliant, innovative freestyle instructors out there… and long may the two business models thrive alongside each other. —|

Phillip Mills | Cofounder | Les Mills International | Auckland, New Zealand

Nurturing Healthy Habits> Thank you for writing about my new venture, Great Play, LLC, a kids’ fitness club model, in the June issue of CBI (see “youth Revolution,” pg. 34). I think it’s critically important that, as an industry, we create the healthy habits and sense of being “athletic” and “fit” in childhood that will carry forward for a lifetime of healthy habits.

Based on my work with behavioral scientists at FitLinxx, I started to notice that, even with all that we do as an industry to create healthy habits for adults, the pivotal point for shaping behavior is when we’re still kids. unfortunately, we’re doing a pretty lousy job of that, nationally. Schools are cutting physical education and recess, and youth sports leagues are often overly competitive and/or poorly coached. Most kids are inactive by age 14, and the associated outcomes are now well documented and tragic. Many kids just fall through the cracks with respect to fitness and athletics.

As the parents of two boys, who are 9 and 10, my wife, Jyl, and I have had a front-row seat to the issues. Generally speaking, we see the cycle of kids beginning to self-identify as being athletic or not (“I’m not good at soccer. I don’t want to play!”) as early as age 5, which is just nuts. By starting kids out with a toolkit of basic motor skills and then more complex sports skills, and building confidence, we’ve seen them start a virtuous cycle of involvement, improvement, and continued involvement. This sense of confidence, of “I’m an athlete,” can set them on the right course to last a lifetime.—|

Keith Camhi | Cofounder, Great Play, LLC | Stamford, CT | Founder/Chairman, FitLinxx | Norwalk, CT

12 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

Page 15: July 2009 Club Business International

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Page 16: July 2009 Club Business International

Want a LastingImpression?

© 2009 Hampton Fitness Products Inc.

Free weights shouldn’t be taken lightly.

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Check out our entire line of urethane products at www.HamptonFit.comor call us at 877-339-9733 for a dealer near you.

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Page 17: July 2009 Club Business International

w w w . i h r s a . o r g | J u L y 2 0 0 9 | C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l 15

News & Know HowDoctors’ Orders To assist medical professionals with advising patients about engaging in physical activity, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recently released ACSM’s Exercise is Medicine: A Clinician’s Guide to Exercise Prescription, by Steven Jonas, M.D., MPH, M.S., and Edward M. Phillips, M.D. —|

News 15 | First Person 21 | On the Move 23

Page 18: July 2009 Club Business International

F U E L Y O U R L I F E

Pro3700

Keep your members happy and challenged in 2009 on the all-new xRide and the new Pro3700. With a natural, smooth flow offering forward and reverse motion to challenge muscles differently, state-of-the-art features like MultiGrip handlebars for highly effective upper-body conditioning, the most advanced electronics for greater workout variety; you’ll soon realize why these Octane ellipticals are igniting a global fitness revolution!

© Copyright 2009. All rights reserved by Octane Fitness.

Page 19: July 2009 Club Business International

| News & Know How | News

NEFC Invests in Crunch FitnessBankruptcy filing facilitates turnaround

In early May, the ownership of Crunch Fitness, the innovative chain based in New York City, filed for

Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. At the same time, the company announced its intention to sell its $102.4 million in assets and debts to the New Evolution Fitness Company (NEFC), a private-equity firm created by industry veteran Mark Mas-trov, who founded 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc., and his business partner, Jim Rowley, a former 24 Hour senior executive. Financial support was provided by affiliates of Angelo, Gordon & Co., a fund-man-agement firm based in New York City.

The Crunch deal, which is expected to be finalized by the end of this month, would leave the current management team intact; however, the bankruptcy process does allow for other interested bidders to submit competing offers.

According to Bloomberg.com, Crunch gyms have “suffered operating losses as

a result of deficient membership sales”—i.e., close to a 25% drop in memberships—and have been unable “to divest themselves of certain unprof-itable club locations that are saddled with overpriced long-term leases.”

Still, Mastrov regards the unique brand as an appealing prospect. It

involves 22 clubs in six U.S. cities and has 73,000 members nationwide. Only two Crunch locations—both in Manhattan—will be closed. “I’ve always considered Crunch to be one of the most innovative

and cutting-edge brands in the health and fitness industry, since its inception in 1989,” observes Mastrov.

Upon completion of the transaction, Mastrov would become chairman of Crunch’s board of directors, and Rowley would serve as its vice chairman. The pair also recently launched a new club brand, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Gym, a mixed martial arts concept (see “CBI Interview,” April CBI, pg. 38). —|

Industry leaders: Current and former members of IHRSA’s board of directors include: front row, l. to r., Richard Bilton, Sandy Hoeffer, Laurie Smith, Chairperson David Patchell-Evans, Ex-officio Gene LaMott, Michael Levy, Lynne Brick, and Phil Wendel; and back row, l. to r., Susan Cooper, Bill McBride, Kilian Fisher, Art Curtis, Rick Beusman, Jeff Klinger, Frank napolitano, Bob Shoulders, Mike Raymond, and Kay yuspeh. not pictured: David Hardy. —|

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Cybex Picks up PGA Tour Endorsement… and Aglialoro tees up for greater success on the golf course

> The recent decision by the PGA Tour to outfit its mobile fitness and therapy centers with equipment manufactured by Cybex International, Inc. (nASDAQ: CyBI), was particularly grati-fying—both professionally and personally—for John Aglialoro, the chairman and CEo of the company.

The fact that the centers now feature his company’s treadmills, stationary bikes, Arc Trainers, FT-450 Functional Trainers, and adjustable benches has a very special meaning for Aglialoro since he, himself, is a dedicated golfer. “I love golf—the experience, camara-derie, and competition,” he says. “However, I’m not able to get out on the fairways as often as I’d like.”

The Cybex equipment has been installed in a total of four units—a fitness trailer and a clinical/therapy >

Page 20: July 2009 Club Business International

You could say that “life’s a beach” for Gilad Janklo-wicz—and that would be correct, at least, in part. For a remarkable 26 years, the well-muscled and

personable trainer has been filming his still-popular fitness show, Bodies In Motion, along the idyllic Hawaiian coastline. But, for this aerobics guru, who once led classes at The Honolulu Club, an IHRSA-member facility, it’s not all fun in the sun.

Janklowicz will typically shoot upwards of six 30-min-ute show segments a day. He tells dietdetective.com that the extended filming schedule, while “very grueling,” always “feels like a great accomplishment.” In addition to swimming and soccer games, Janklowicz visits the gym two to three times a week to lift weights. And, while he certainly wants fans to keep tuning in and sweating along with him, he also encourages them to patronize their local clubs. “I highly recommend that people get to the gym a couple times a week for a weight-training session.”

In 2007, Janklowicz was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame and, today, we honor him as CBI’s fitness role model of the month for July—he’ll turn a healthy 55 years old on the 27th. His youthfulness and vitality are a testament to the power of exercise and a positive attitude. —|

By Jennifer H. McInerney

Among green enthusiasts, California Fitness is already a well known innovator. The Hong Kong-based club company, a wholly owned subsidiary of 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc., made head-lines in 2007 for implementing “Powered by you” workouts on its elliptical cross-training machines. The specially rigged equipment captures the energy that exercisers produce to power the club’s light fixtures, and stores the remaining output in a battery. With more than 800,000 workouts occurring in its clubs monthly—that portends some serious long-term energy-efficiency.

Ever since the momentous unveiling of that game-changing technology, California Fitness has been rolling out one earth-friendly improvement after another. In May 2008, the company introduced a waste-recycling program at its 10 Hong Kong loca-tions, which resulted in the collection of more than 7,000 pounds of plastic bottles and 3,500 pounds of paper. The success of this initiative prompted the Asian industry leader to establish similar recycling operations at its sites in China, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan—which wasn’t quite as simple to do as it is in the u.S.

“Among those four markets, recycling is more popular in Singapore and Taiwan,” notes Ken To, the regional manager

of corporate affairs for California Fitness. “Recycling in China and Malaysia is still at a rather early stage of development, and we had to be attentive when, for example, coping with certain government restrictions and identifying suitable nongovern-mental organizations to partner with.”

Currently operating 28 clubs in Asia, the chain continues to expand and expects to have 100 sites by 2016. —|

Please contact [email protected] with your ‘green’ initiatives.

| Green Scene |

Asian Ambitions

this ‘body in Motion’ is Still in Motion!Fitness Role Model of the Month: Gilad Janklowicz

Gilad Janklowicz In Motion

Energy exercise: California Fitness

| News & Know How | News

18 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

trailer each for the PGA Tour and Cham-pions Tour. The centers are dispatched to each tournament site during the season, and are staffed by therapists, chiroprac-tors, and athletic trainers to help players with their conditioning programs, and with preventive and rehabilitative care.

“Cybex was the clear choice to outfit these mobile facilities,” attests Scott Riehl, the head strength and training coach for the PGA and Champions Tour.

“This was a fun project for us,” notes John Marcotte, vice president of north American Sales for Cybex. “The players had a vote on the equipment brand and chose Cybex based on results.”

Aglialoro concurs, heartily: “The PGA pros could have selected any brand of fitness equipment, and Cybex came out on top, which reinforces our heritage and focus on exercise science, and our leadership position in high performance and biomechanics. As a golf enthusiast, I take great pride in watching Tour events, knowing that the world’s best golfers place their trust in our equipment.” —|

<Cybex Picks up PGA Tour

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The

Evolution

of Power BrandingWho wouldn’t want to be known as the best place in town?

But making a name for yourself is a long careful process. At every

step, you must be sure the quality you represent supports the image you

seek. Try this rule of thumb. To be seen as the best place in town,

associate your name with the best products on Earth.

Email: [email protected] Address: www.ivankobarbell.com

Untitled-3 1 5/28/09 11:06:13 AM

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| News & Know How | First Person

CBI Spends 10 Minutes on the Line with

.orgFor full information about, or to register for, IHRSA’s 21st Annual Institute for Professional Club Management, log on to www.ihrsa.org/institute.

What’s the key to providing club members with superior customer service during a recession? What changes are you making in your own business, or suggesting

that your clients initiate, right now? What tips will you offer when you speak at IHRSA’s 21st Annual Institute for Professional Club Management next month in Lake Tahoe, California?

Doug Lipp, the president of G. Douglas Lipp & Associates, a consulting firm based in Fair oaks, California, is also an accomplished speaker and author. He addresses the topics of domestic and global customer service, leadership, and cultural diversity with clients worldwide. His latest book is The Changing Face of Today’s Customer.

“In these stressful and challenging times, you have to be laser-focused on what you’re all about, and you have to be able to convey this purpose to your employees and customers. you need to have a strategic plan; however, because that phrase is amorphous for most people, I suggest breaking your plan down into vision, mission, and values components, and driving your business model based on that.

I’m carefully exploring these concepts—vision, mission, and values—with my clients, and other businesspeople should do so, too. If they don’t, their company may wander off in irrelevant, unproductive directions, and they’ll waste pre-cious time, energy, and money.

For example, when I was the head of training for Disney, we sent staff, disguised as sweepers and parking-lot attendants, out into the theme parks to listen to customers. We discovered that what they were most concerned about were simply the basics—they wanted a friendly, clean, and safe environment on a consistent basis. If we hadn’t known that, we could have spent hundreds of millions of dollars on new rides that wouldn’t have paid off for the company.

your vision is your raison d’être, the overarching reason that you exist. your mission responds to the challenges of the marketplace. your values serve as a guidepost for employees to help them provide exceptional customer service. These are some of the themes I’ll be discussing in my presentation.

In terms of my own practice, my vision remains the same—i.e., to inspire greatness through training. However, I understand that my mission, my delivery system, has to be flexible. At the

moment, fewer people have the travel and entertainment budgets to attend conferences, so I’m taking the conference to them. I’ve devised a Web-based training program with podcasts and downloadable links that I’m selling to companies worldwide.

If your vision is to provide your community with outstanding health and wellness services, then that, too, remains unchanged. The key is to ascertain what’s happening in your customers’ lives and adjust your delivery system accord-ingly. For instance, for members who are short on funds, you might want to consider giving them a temporary break on their monthly dues; or you might want to promote group personal training that’s less expensive than one-on-one training.

you also want to prompt members to think about your club when they’re not there. Can you dispatch a weekly e-mail blast that they can download onto their iPods or computers? Connect with your members, and they’ll stay connected with you.

you should also think about targeting different market segments. Consider this: A Starbucks in Southern California increased its business by 1,000%, in just three months, by addressing the needs of its deaf and hearing-impaired cus-tomers. The manager discovered, thanks to a focus group, that these customers were having difficulty telling the counter person what they wanted to order because the menus were placed high on the wall. The manager put smaller, laminated versions of the menu at the cash registers so customers could circle what they wanted. And it worked!” —|

– Patricia Amend, [email protected]

Doug Lipp

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| News & Know How | On The Move

CBI_Caption_White

Business Development

Good Eats at the East Bank ClubThe famed East Bank Club has unveiled a new res-taurant called Maxwell’s at the Club that’s now open to members, as well as the public. The club, which takes up two city blocks in Chicago’s north River neighborhood, has more than 10,000 members and 600 employees in its standalone facility.

Serving lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch, Max-well’s offers a distinctive medley of contemporary American offerings, made from scratch. Some menu items list the calorie, fat, and carbohydrate content to help patrons maintain their dietary regimens; the seared ahi tuna and the spa pizza, topped with gar-den vegetables and low-fat mozzarella, are two of the enticing, diet-friendly dishes on the lunch menu. For dinner, Maxwell’s serves up feel-good favorites, such as a hearty filet mignon and lobster risotto. —|

Fitness First Offers an Accessibility FirstFitness First, the u.K. health club operator with 500-plus clubs and more than 1.5 million members worldwide, has embarked on a mission to enable the disabled. Twenty-four of its facilities are slated to be accredited through the Inclusive Fitness Initiative’s (IFI’s) national Sports Foundation (nSF) Program. The clubs will be remodeled to include access ramps and elevators, and the personal training staff will undergo instruction to help them better serve handicapped members. “Fitness First is committed to making the world a fitter place—with no exclusions,” says John Gramble, the firm’s managing director. “It’s a landmark step forward, and we’re proud to be the first major health club group to offer [greater accessibility].” —|

Public Service Healthtrax Tracks Self-Defense and MS Fundraising

It was, effectively, a one-two punch. At Glastonbury,

Connecticut’s Healthtrax Fitness and Wellness

Center, a recent fund-raiser simultaneously empowered women and raised funds to

help the victims of multi-ple sclerosis (MS). Two

two-hour-long self-defense classes were offered at the

club, in April and May. Participants learned the skills required to avoid and, if necessary, defend themselves against sexual assault. All proceeds from the sessions—which were priced at $20 for members, and $25 for nonmembers— benefited the Bike MS: bkm/Steelcase Ride and the national MS Society, Connecticut Chapter. —|

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MAnuFACTuRER & SuPPLIER ALERT!!Give your company the edge by partici-pating in the “early-bird” selection of exhibit space for IHRSA 2010, to be held March 10-13, in San Diego, California. Contact Tom Hunt at [email protected] or call +1 617-951-0055 to learn more. —|

Page 26: July 2009 Club Business International

All the Tools You NeedTo Manage Your Club

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Page 27: July 2009 Club Business International

| CBI Interview |

By Patricia Amend

CBI: Can you give us your sense of the current state of the economy? Has it hit bottom? When do you think we’ll see a turnaround?

Brent Knudsen: Suggesting that there’s a point when things begin to turn one way or another is misleading. We were in a recession for nearly a year before we knew it, and there are a number of dynamics that will continue to evolve as we work through the economic issues worldwide. The factors contributing to the current situation took years to develop, and we won’t suddenly turn a corner and find that we’re back where we were before.

Innovation will be the key to growth, but, first, we’re going to have to endure the pain involved in transitioning from the old to the new. I believe there will be significant advances in energy and communication. Over the next few years, health will become increasingly important, be studied much more intensely, and experience substantial innovation—good news for the fitness industry.

dave remICK: The recovery will likely be slow. However, we’re building a consensus for a bottom. You have to understand that public psychology is as important as economic data. It will be a breakthrough, of sorts, when people begin believing that things have stopped getting worse.

The areas hit hardest by the housing bubble will recover more slowly than the broader economy. I suspect that credit availability won’t approach early-2007 levels for some time, if ever, and this will hamper a consumer-driven rebound.

If housing prices start to stabilize this summer and fall, we could start to see signs of very modest growth late in the fourth quarter, with a turnaround likely in 2010. The painful, dramatic loss in jobs that began in late ’08 and continued this year demonstrates that the business sector has reacted quickly to the economic situation. The silver lining is that we should reach the bottom more quickly and start to rebound sooner.

Paul HIndsley: I don’t think the economy has hit bottom yet, but I do think that the rate of decline, today, isn’t as severe as it’s been over the past six months. For a recovery to occur, managers and investors need to feel that they have some visibility with respect to near-term forecasts, so that inventories/spending/hiring can resume. Certainly, this visibility will vary from sector to sector, but lagging indicators, such as unemployment and GDP, need to show some stabilization. There also need to be some solid signs of risk-taking in the credit markets, along with narrowing spreads.

CBI asked four of the investment community’s savviest insiders how clubs can survive, and thrive, in the current economy

The four participants in CBI’s economic roundtable discussion boast decades of experience in the financial markets and have studied the fitness sector, specifically. They are:

» Brent Knudsen is the founder and managing part-ner of Partnership Capital Growth Advisors (PCGA), a private-equity firm based in San Francisco specializing in “healthy, active, and sustain-able living” companies.

» dave remick is the direc-tor of The Mercanti Group, an investment bank with offices in New York City; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Los Angeles.

» Paul Hindsley is a princi-pal in the consumer and retail division of William Blair & Company, LLC, an investment firm with its headquarters in Chicago.

» Pete moore is a principal and head of the active lifestyle and wellness group at Sagent Advisors Inc., an investment-banking firm based in in New York City. —|

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Highlights» State of the economy

» Turnaround requirements

» Short/long-term outlook

» Recession opportunities

>

Financial Roundtable

Brent Knudsen dave remick Paul Hindsley Pete moore

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| CBI Interview |

Pete moore: The u.S. economy will certainly continue to feel the effects of the recession through the third quarter of this year. First- and second-quarter earnings will be down sharply for publicly traded companies because of weak consumer spending and limited expenditures for new capital projects and growth initiatives, since most busi-nesses have been hoarding cash and cutting costs. By the beginning of the fourth quarter, the u.S. economy will begin to inch out of the recession, and consumer confidence will rise.

I don’t see the credit markets ‘reopening’ until early 2010. By then, the banks will have written off most of their bad loans, and the government and Fed will have done everything in their power to get the economy moving. If there was a sudden infusion of addi-

tional capital by the government in the SBA loan market, or if the government were to find a way to force banks to aggressively lend to consumers and small businesses, the economy might improve more quickly. Consumer confidence and liquid credit markets are the keys to a turnaround.

CBI: What do you see happening with respect to companies with 3-10 clubs for the rest of this year and into 2010? How can they compete effectively in these difficult economic times?

Knudsen: A sharp club operator who offers a great value will succeed in any economy. For small regional chains, there are real advantages to scale, including greater efficiency, less overhead per facility, and the ability to provide flexibility to members who travel or move within an area. The world needs to shrink generally—

e.g., fewer retail locations, efficient consolidation to reduce unnecessary overhead, etc. But I believe the funda-mental, bottom-line key to success in the club industry is simply a great product at a great price.

There are also a number of opportunities that smaller clubs can capitalize on. I’m intrigued by some of the personal-training-only facilities. Great group programs are important. The way to compete and win is to be innovative and fresh—to have a product that members want.

remICK: Maintaining the member relationship is going to be key. Local and regional operators know their markets better than the national players and should use that to their advantage. They have to present a

compelling value proposition to their members, and should add to that value rather than reducing price. The clubs that can effectively differentiate their offering, and convince existing and prospective members that there’s no better value, will be better able to weather ’09 and 2010.

They can compete successfully by increasing the level of service pro-vided; offering more amenities without increasing rates; scrutinizing their profit and loss (P&L) to see where they can cut expenses; negotiating price breaks with vendors; and mining their member data to identify, and then tar-get, their most productive members.

HIndsley: I see continued pressure on initiation fees and dues, as well as a decline in nondues revenues, through most of this year, with some improvement in 2010. While the national chains planned quite a few new club openings for ’09, I expect

a slowdown later this year and into 2010. That should help smaller club companies maintain their existing market share. They can compete with better service, competitive prices, unique offerings, and a fresh feel.

moore: For the remainder of this year, my advice to club operators would be: Control your attrition rates and try to repeat your ’08 perfor-mance. unless you’ve identified real, executable growth opportunities and require additional capital, or are in a distressed situation, don’t go looking for new investors.

After the second quarter, after we’ve seen six months of data on Life Time Fitness, Inc., and Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. (TSI), as well as surveys of privately owned clubs, the private-equity community will rest reassured that the industry has once again proven it’s ‘recession-resilient.’ Then operators will be able to acquire investment capital at reasonable valuations.

The only way small operators are going to be able to compete effectively is by focusing on the member and providing a differentiated approach—that could be a convenience/price proposition; a personal-training/high-service strategy; or a full-amenities/multisport offering.

CBI: The debt markets don’t appear attractive for cash-flow-based lending right now. What does this mean in the short run, and when do you think they’ll open up again? Do you expect more large transactions and private-equity money to material-ize in the industry then?

Knudsen: Recently, the Wall Street Journal published an article reporting that local and regional lending had actu-ally increased over the past 18 months. We’re currently working on cash-flow transactions with a number of local and regional banks—banks whose names we didn’t know before. Private equity is very smart, and, today, they’re investing in fitness clubs because they appreciate the long-term cash-flow dynamics.

26 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L Y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

“For the remainder of this year, my advice to club operators would be: Control your attrition rates and try to repeat your ’08 performance.”

Page 29: July 2009 Club Business International

| CBI Interview |

remICK: Banks are hesitant to lend right now unless they’re very comfort-able with their asset coverage. This means that, near-term, new projects will be tougher to fund with debt. So much capital has left the debt mar-kets; I don’t expect them to get back to their early-2007 levels for a very long time. The credit markets have changed in a fundamental way, and, as a result, less debt will be available to fund transactions. Deals will still get done, but valuations will come down in a meaningful way. Private equity will still be attracted to the industry because of the recurring-revenue aspect of its membership model and heightened public awareness about the importance of personal fitness.

HIndsley: Private-equity investors continue to be very interested in the fitness sector, and many would be excited about the opportunity to invest at today’s depressed valuation levels.

Very tight, and expensive, credit conditions limit their ability to finance transactions and, thus, require cre-ative structuring and a flexible seller.

moore: In the short run, it will be difficult for operators to obtain adequate financing to open new facilities. While asset-based equipment financing continues to be available, straight cash-flow loans aren’t easy to complete on reasonable terms and without a personal guarantee. I expect lending to revive by the end of the first quarter of 2010, albeit rates will be priced accordingly, and only good operators will be able to access financing.

That’s why focusing on ’09 perfor-mance is so critical. Last year’s results are the first hoop an operator will have to jump through—detailing how they fared during the downturn and what was in the trough, with respect to earn-ings, at the worst point in the cycle.

I’d expect to see private-equity investors return to the market late

this year or early next year. There should be a round of large mergers, but I don’t see that occurring because, to date, no company has been success-ful at managing multiple brands, and price expectations may inhibit any deals from taking place. In the middle-market, I do expect to see some regional operators join forces.

CBI: Apparently, these are times when “cash is king.” What do you expect to see in this industry in the short run—more attractive real-estate deals; more new-builds versus acquisitions; regional com-panies adding to their portfolios?

Knudsen: All of the above. Smart people understand that this is a great time to build and buy—everything is on a one-half-off sale. Regional companies will grow, as will national players. Local players will need to be more innovative, and should consider

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consolidating with their friends to obtain greater strength.

remICK: Landlords are willing to cut good deals in this economic environ-ment. Operators who take advantage of that will be well positioned down the road. Club companies with a healthy business model and a solid balance sheet should be able to increase their market share. Operators should con-sider both acquisitions and new-builds

as part of their expansion strategy. Knowing the cost of what you’re getting into is key, and, in the case of an acquisition, making sure that you avoid insurmountable cultural or member-relations problems is important.

moore: I believe there will be slow growth for the next 12 months. When the credit and private-equity markets reopen, clubs will quickly attempt to lock in attractive real-estate deals.

In 2010, I see strong operators taking advantage of attractive real-estate opportunities in the markets that they dominate and fully understand. I also see mid-market operators adding ‘Express’ satellite facilities to form a ‘hub-and-spoke’ cluster to increase their market share.

There may be a few notable mergers, but the main merger and acquisitions (M&A) activity will be with regional com-panies buying out weaker competitors and taking over their membership base.

In three years, I’d expect significant M&A activity to pick up, with the possibility of large publicly traded companies, which don’t currently have any health club assets, making large acquisitions in the sector.

CBI: What can club companies do now to make themselves more attractive to equity investors when things do turn around?

Knudsen: Perform! Equity investors love strong performance—a stable and growing membership, as well as top- and bottom-line growth. Be innovative, attract and retain mem-bers, focus on what’s right for your membership. Be the very best at what you do, and financing won’t be a problem.

remICK: Develop a deep management team. Identify areas to grow the top line and improve the bottom line. And commit the time and resources required to develop a solid financial-reporting capability.

HIndsley: To attract private-equity investors, local and smaller operators have to demonstrate that they have the ability to grow. They have to have a differentiated value proposition, a management team with depth and experience, and a track record of success in multiple markets.

moore: Surviving 2009 and controlling your attrition rates—those are truly the keys. —|

– Patricia Amend, [email protected]

| CBI Interview |

28 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L Y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

Page 31: July 2009 Club Business International
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Page 33: July 2009 Club Business International

Buy& Sell SPECTACuLAR!

SIBEC09 North America convenes in California

Two monThs ago, in late May, more than 120 representatives of some of the finest fitness facilities in the U.K. gathered at the Belfry Hotel in North Warwickshire, England, to confer with many of the industry’s leading vendors during SIBEC09 UK. Two months from now, September 10-13, a similar blue-ribbon gathering of club operators and suppliers will take place at the luxurious Langham Huntington Hotel and Spa, in Pasadena, California, during SIBEC09 North America.

SIBEC (Sports Industry Buying Equipment Convention), produced by McLean Events International, Ltd., a U.K. company with U.S. offices in Weare, New Hampshire, is a unique forum that brings together many of the most accomplished club operators, manufacturers, and service providers for intense, focused, one-on-one meetings to discuss industry needs and solutions.

Last year’s event in Dallas attracted emissaries of nearly 60 clubs, blanketing the alphabet from “A” (ACAC Fitness and Wellness Centers) to “X” (Xsport Fitness) and facilitating more than 1,650 individual meetings.

SIBEC09, with its concise, precisely structured format, makes it possible for opera-tors to do the latter quickly, efficiently, and inexpensively in a relaxed environment. Club operators attend as the guests of SIBEC, with virtually all expenses fully paid. The potential buyers and sellers both preselect the parties they want to meet with, and are then scheduled for a series of concentrated 20-minute meetings with one another over two dedicated business days—an efficient, fast-paced process that’s been described as “corporate speed dating.” SIBEC09 also offers seminars and a wide variety of networking opportunities.

The process provides distinct advantages for both operators and suppliers. Joseph Rossie, the executive director of the East Bank Club in Chicago, calls SIBEC “the best venue in the industry for putting vendors together with leading club owners and operators.” For complete information about SIBEC09 North America, log on to www.sibecna.com. —|

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North AmericaSIBEC09

Page 34: July 2009 Club Business International

Ah-ha!This is the moment you discover thevalue of IHRSA Group Purchasing.

Save hundreds, even thousands, just by changing the

way you think about purchasing . . . to IHRSA Group

Purchasing. That’s all it takes and you’ll start saving

immediately on a variety of products and services that

you use every day in your club.

That’s the power of IHRSA Group Purchasing!

Imagine saving an average of up to 25% on cleaning

products, payroll, office supplies and more. Now more

than ever, powerful savings on locker room amenities,

cleaning supplies and insurance can actually help you

to manage this tough economy.

Ah-ha!

This is the moment when it makes real sense. With

IHRSA’s Group Purchasing Program, we find the

savings for you. You just need to take advantage of

them. It’s that simple.

IHRSA GROUP PURCHASING 101:We have arranged for substantial discounts with more than 20 key companies and are adding newvendors all the time. Save on items you use on a daily basis like payroll companies, office supplies,printing, and retail items. The benefits?

• It’s free!

• Free newsletters announce new vendors, feature products and “hot deals” of the month.

• Some vendors extend their discounts to your employees, which you can use in your employee

benefit package.

• It will significantly reduce your purchasing costs on items that are essential to your club’s

operations.

• It can impact your bottom line, and that’s more important than ever.

CURRENT GROUP PURCHASING VENDORS

START SAVING NOW— IT’S EASY!Visit www.ihrsa.org/grouppurchasing and take a look at the vendors IHRSA has engaged on your behalf.Contact those vendors, let them know you’re an IHRSA member and place your order. Reap the rewardsof instant savings (or perhaps found income)!

You’ve known for years that IHRSA’s Group Purchasing Program can offer you a wealth of savings. Ah-ha. . . now you know how to make it work for you!

To learn more, visit us online at www.ihrsa.org/grouppurchasing,call 800.228.4772 or email [email protected].

Our initial proposal from

PrimePay offered a savings

of over $200 per month! The

transition was smooth and

the support staff at PrimePay

was extremely helpful. We

have been very pleased with

all the support and full range

of services that PrimePay

offers. I am more than happy

to recommend PrimePay as I

now feel I have a payroll

company that shows interest

in us. Again, IHRSA has

provided a great benefit.

Lorinda Drake CrowThe Belmont Athletic ClubLong Beach, California

TO LEARN MOREVisit us online at www.ihrsa.org/grouppurchasing,call 800.228.4772 or email, [email protected].

UTILITIES

ADMINISTRATIVESUPPLIES & SERVICES

SALES & MARKETING

HOUSEKEEPING INSURANCE

GP spread-0709CBI:GP spread-0409CBI 5/29/09 8:49 AM Page 1

Page 35: July 2009 Club Business International

Ah-ha!This is the moment you discover thevalue of IHRSA Group Purchasing.

Save hundreds, even thousands, just by changing the

way you think about purchasing . . . to IHRSA Group

Purchasing. That’s all it takes and you’ll start saving

immediately on a variety of products and services that

you use every day in your club.

That’s the power of IHRSA Group Purchasing!

Imagine saving an average of up to 25% on cleaning

products, payroll, office supplies and more. Now more

than ever, powerful savings on locker room amenities,

cleaning supplies and insurance can actually help you

to manage this tough economy.

Ah-ha!

This is the moment when it makes real sense. With

IHRSA’s Group Purchasing Program, we find the

savings for you. You just need to take advantage of

them. It’s that simple.

IHRSA GROUP PURCHASING 101:We have arranged for substantial discounts with more than 20 key companies and are adding newvendors all the time. Save on items you use on a daily basis like payroll companies, office supplies,printing, and retail items. The benefits?

• It’s free!

• Free newsletters announce new vendors, feature products and “hot deals” of the month.

• Some vendors extend their discounts to your employees, which you can use in your employee

benefit package.

• It will significantly reduce your purchasing costs on items that are essential to your club’s

operations.

• It can impact your bottom line, and that’s more important than ever.

CURRENT GROUP PURCHASING VENDORS

START SAVING NOW— IT’S EASY!Visit www.ihrsa.org/grouppurchasing and take a look at the vendors IHRSA has engaged on your behalf.Contact those vendors, let them know you’re an IHRSA member and place your order. Reap the rewardsof instant savings (or perhaps found income)!

You’ve known for years that IHRSA’s Group Purchasing Program can offer you a wealth of savings. Ah-ha. . . now you know how to make it work for you!

To learn more, visit us online at www.ihrsa.org/grouppurchasing,call 800.228.4772 or email [email protected].

Our initial proposal from

PrimePay offered a savings

of over $200 per month! The

transition was smooth and

the support staff at PrimePay

was extremely helpful. We

have been very pleased with

all the support and full range

of services that PrimePay

offers. I am more than happy

to recommend PrimePay as I

now feel I have a payroll

company that shows interest

in us. Again, IHRSA has

provided a great benefit.

Lorinda Drake CrowThe Belmont Athletic ClubLong Beach, California

TO LEARN MOREVisit us online at www.ihrsa.org/grouppurchasing,call 800.228.4772 or email, [email protected].

UTILITIES

ADMINISTRATIVESUPPLIES & SERVICES

SALES & MARKETING

HOUSEKEEPING INSURANCE

GP spread-0709CBI:GP spread-0409CBI 5/29/09 8:49 AM Page 1

Page 36: July 2009 Club Business International

34 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L Y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

TTake a look at the photos on the cover of this issue of CBI. Take a look at the photos above and on the following pages.

Do you notice the preponderance of smiles?It may be an unscientific metric, a tenuous metaphor, but those smiles—of IHRSA Global 25

club owners and operators and other industry leaders—say much about the state of the health and fitness club industry in 2008. Yes, the economy slid from a downturn into a recession, and there was, it seemed, no end of bad news—we don’t need to hear, once more, about the subprime mortgage crisis and failed banks, investment firms, and automobile companies.

And the economy, undeniably, had a tremendous impact on, presented major challenges for, and prompted a wide range of responses on the part of clubs. Yes, many found the going difficult, and, yes, a few were forced to close their doors; but, at the same time, there were well-run companies, with the right business model, that not only survived, but actually profited from, these tough economic times.

Those are the businesses, those are the thoroughly tested winners, whose ongoing achieve-ments are chronicled on IHRSA’s 2008 Global 25 lists, which compare companies’ 2007 and 2008 results.

TheIHRSA Global 25

The recession notwithstanding, many club companies continued to gain ground in ’08

By Patricia Amend

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“What we knew before the recession hit has been confirmed over the past year,” reports Jeff Klinger, the president of Anytime Fitness, the franchise company based in Hastings, Minnesota, which enjoyed a good year. “Especially when money is tight, fitness consum-ers demand value for their investment. The way to attract and retain members hasn’t changed—you need to provide them with reasonable membership rates, facilities that make them proud to belong, and good customer services.”

David “Patch” Patchell-Evans, the president and CEO of the GoodLife Fitness Clubs in Canada, and chairperson of IHRSA’s board of directors, concludes that 2008, for all its difficulties, was “better than expected.”

Membership growth may have slowed, but, in many cases, club utilization actually increased as individuals, curtailing their personal spending, decided to derive a better return on their investment in a membership. “I’m tempted to not view this downturn as a bad thing,” observes Patchell-Evans. “When the price of travel goes up, more people stay at home. And because the cost of a lot of other things has also gone up, they’ll want to use the club more often. And, as we know, if they use it more frequently, they get better results and are more likely to remain members. And retention increases.”

In 2007, the companies on the Global 25 “Number of Members” list had a total of 24.6 million members; in 2008, they had 25.8 million, a 4.9% increase. Sim-ilarly, comparing the charts for ’07 and ’08, one finds a negligible drop in the total “Number of Facilities Owned” (from 4,567 to 4,549), but a significant jump in annual “Unit Growth,” from an average of 34.7% in ’07 to 40.3% in ’08. The rate of “Revenue Growth,”

however, fell, from an average of 53.2% in ’07 to 32.9% in ’08.

Some of the statistics weren’t as robust in ’08 as they’d been in ’07, but the underlying optimism remained strong. The truism that the industry is recession-resilient, demonstrated yet again, took on the mantle of accepted wisdom. In addition to driving utilization, the economy also forced club owners and operators to examine every aspect of what they were doing, cut costs, increase efficien-cies, and aggressively explore new opportunities.

“If the economy is off by 5%, but if, somehow, you can do 10% better—you’re still ahead,” points out Patchell-Evans.

Economists now disagree as to how long the recession will last and how slow the recovery will be, but what’s already clear is that the health and fitness club industry will emerge fundamentally changed.

Metrics mastersLike many operators, investors have also spied some silver linings among the story clouds. “There are a few themes that we particularly like right now,” says Brent Knudsen, the founder and managing partner of Partnership Capital Growth Advisors (PCGA), a private-equity firm based in San Francisco that tracks the club industry. “We’re watching com-panies that have a regional presence, and allow

Economists disagree about how long the recession will last, but what’s already clear is that our industry will emerge fundamentally changed.

CAVEATS & CONDITIONSIHRSA’s Global 25 listings are designed to provide basic information about some of the world’s largest and/or fastest-growing club companies, but are not definitive. Many of the firms that should appear on these charts do not because companies were unable or unwilling to provide all of the information required by CBI’s deadline. Readers should also note that the companies listed represent a wide range of business models—from single independent clubs to franchise com-panies; some involved only in health clubs, some active in several related areas. Within the limits of the data provided, CBI has tried to be clear about these distinctions. All companies were asked to provide figures for the one-year period ending on December 31, 2008, or for their fiscal year 2008. CBI makes no claims about the accuracy of the information, which has not been independently corroborated.

>

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36 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L Y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

NuMBER OF FACILITIES OWNED—YEAR 2008

rank & Company number owned other units total units 1 Fitness First Group, Ltd. 538 N/A 538 2 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc. 425+ N/A 425+ 3 Bally Total Fitness Corporation 347 N/A 347 4 L.A. Fitness International, LLC 281 N/A 281 5 Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. 255 Managed: 116 371 6 Virgin Active Group, Ltd. 179 N/A 179 7 Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. 164 Managed: 2 166 8 GoodLife Fitness Clubs 155 Franchised: 5 160 9 ClubCorp 125 Joint Venture: 8; Managed: 10 135 10 SATS Holding AB 113 Franchised: 2 115 11 Central Sports Co., Ltd. 111 Managed: 43 154 12 McFit GmbH 101 N/A 101 13 Renaissance, Inc. 98 Managed: 8; Franchised: 1 107 14a LA Fitness, Plc. 88+ N/A 88 14b David Lloyd Leisure, Ltd. 88 N/A 88 15 Life Time Fitness, Inc. 81 N/A 81 16 Nuffield Health Fitness & Wellbeing Centres 65 N/A 65 17 Gold’s Gym International, Inc. 62 Franchised: 608 670 18 Bannatyne Fitness, Ltd. 61 N/A 61 19a Esporta Group, Ltd. 55 N/A 55 19b Lifestyle Family Fitness, Inc. 55 N/A 55 20 Lucille Roberts Health Clubs 50 N/A 50 21 Equinox Fitness Clubs 46 N/A 46 22 Holmes Place 40 Franchised: 25 65 23 ELIXIA Nordic AS 39 N/A 39 24a Bodytech 36 N/A 36 24b Strata Group 36 N/A 36 25 Columbia Association 35 N/A 35

their members to use the clubs in their system, making it difficult for others to penetrate or succeed in those markets. We also like companies that are low-cost, have flexible business models, have low capital expenditures, and are easy to set up. Third, we like niche-focused com-panies, such as smaller personal-training centers.

“All of the above performed well in 2008,” he points out, “and have continued to do so this year.”

IHRSA’s Global 25 rankings bear this out. So, too, do some of the preliminary figures for 2009. The large regional players who own and operate their clubs topped the lists. In terms of annual revenues, 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc., based in Carlsbad, California, took the No. 1 spot, with $1.4 billion in sales in ’08. Last year’s leader, Fitness First Group, Ltd., the international chain based in the U.K., ranked second, with $1.2 billion in revenues. ClubCorp, based in Dallas, which scored second-place in last year’s IHRSA Global 25, dropped to third, with $921 million in earnings.

When it comes to number of facilities owned, Fitness First maintained its top position from last year with 538 units, followed by 24 Hour Fitness, with 425. Bally Total

Fitness, based in Chicago, which continues to struggle, was third, with 347 locations, and L.A. Fitness International, LLC, of Irvine, California, took fourth, with 281 clubs.

With respect to year-to-year revenue growth, both the owned-and-operated and the franchised club sectors posted startling increases. Revenues for GoodLife Fitness jumped 41%, from $133 million in ’07, to $188 million in ’08. While, on the franchise side, Snap Fitness, Inc., based in Chanhas-sen, Minnesota, had $31 million in revenues, a 72% increase over ’07; and Anytime Fitness posted $20 million in reve-nues in ’08, up from $13 million in ’07, a 35% increase.

It’s not surprising that analysts and other industry observers are watching the low-cost franchise sector so closely—it’s proliferating rapidly. In ’04, Snap Fitness had just 18 units; it finished ’08 with 1,700, a 9,344% increase. Anytime Fitness, which had just 58 units in ’04, ended ’08 with 977, a 1,584% increase.

“We anticipated that 2008 would be a great year for our company, and, despite the economy, it was better than expected,” observes Klinger. “We opened nearly 400 new clubs, and the Twin Cities Business Journal named us the fastest-growing private company in Minnesota.”

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NuMBER OF FRANCHISES—YEAR 2008 rank & Company number of units other units total 1 Curves International, Inc. 9,468 N/A 9,468 2 Jazzercise, Inc. 7,500 N/A 7,500 3 Anytime Fitness 967 Owned: 10 977 4 Snap Fitness, Inc. 851 Owned: 12 863 5 Gold’s Gym International, Inc. 608 Owned: 62 670 6 Contours Express International, LLC 600 N/A 600 7 Fitness Together Holdings 409 N/A 409 8 Stretch-N-Grow 359 N/A 359 9 Lady of America Franchise Corp. 300 Owned: 5 305 10 Stroller Strides, LLC 288 Owned: 1 289

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NuMBER OF MEMBERS—YEAR 2008

rank & Company total 1 Curves International, Inc. 4,000,000 2 Gold’s Gym International, Inc. 3,500,000 3 Bally Total Fitness Corporation 3,100,000 4 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc. 3,000,000+ 5 Fitness First Group, Ltd. 1,500,000 6 Planet Fitness 1,100,000 7 Powerhouse Gyms International 1,098,000 8 Virgin Active Group, Ltd. 993,000 9 Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. 978,000 10 McFit GmbH 700,000 11 Anytime Fitness 600,000 12 Life Time Fitness 567,110 13 Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. 510,000 14a David Lloyd Leisure, Ltd. 450,000 14b Snap Fitness, Inc. 450,000 15 GoodLife Fitness Clubs 445,273 16 Central Sports Co., Ltd. 386,790 17 Renaissance, Inc. 330,000 18a LA Fitness, Plc. 250,000+ 18b Club One, Inc. 250,000 19 Holmes Place 245,371 20 SATS Holding AB 240,000 21a Contours Express International, LLC 200,000 21b Lady of America Franchise Corp. 200,000 22 Lifestyle Family Fitness, Inc. 193,792 23 Lucille Roberts Health Clubs 185,000 24 Nuffield Health Fitness & Wellbeing Centres 170,000 25 ClubCorp 165,688

REVENuES—YEAR 2008

rank & Company revenues $ millions 1 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc. 1,400 2 Fitness First Group, Ltd. 1,177 3 ClubCorp 921 4 Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. 884 5 Life Time Fitness, Inc. 770 6 Virgin Active Group, Ltd. 513 7 Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. 507 8a Bally Total Fitness Corporation 469 8b Central Sports Co., Ltd. 469 9 Renaissance, Inc. 360 10 Powerhouse Gyms International 292 11 LA Fitness, Plc. 192 12 GoodLife Fitness Clubs 188 13 McFit GmbH 164 14 SATS Holding AG 158 15 Kieser Training AG 145 16 Curves International, Inc. 129 17 Injoy Quality Corporation GMBH 120 18 Sport City/Grupo Marti 118 19 Millenium Partners Sports Club Company 112 20 ELIXIA Nordic AS 105 21 Lifestyle Family Fitness, Inc. 104 22a Fitness Together Holdings 100 22b Global Fitness Holdings 100 23 Planet Fitness 99 24 Western Athletic Clubs 97 25 Spectrum Athletic Clubs, Inc. 93

That’s not to say that the economy hasn’t had an impact here, as well. Curves International, Inc., based in Waco, Texas, the world’s largest fitness-franchise company, main-tained its claim to No. 1 honors on the IHRSA Global 25 in terms of number of franchise units, with 9,468 worldwide. However, that’s down from the 10,600 locations it reported in ’07. Curves’ 2008 revenues also dropped 36%, from $200 million in ’07 to $128 million in ’08.

Pitfalls and prospectsAs one might expect, there were no new initial public offerings (IPOs) in ’08. Instead, there was a Chapter 11 filing by a major brand. In addition, there were two major acquisitions.

In December 2008, Bally Total Fitness filed for Chapter 11 a second time. But, on a brighter note, in March of ’08, KSL Capital Partners, LLC (KSL), a private-equity firm

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the IHrsa Global 25

38 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L Y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

COMPANIES AND COuNTRIESCompany Country24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc. u.S.A.A! Body Tech BrazilAnytime Fitness, Inc. u.S.A.Bally Total Fitness Corporation u.S.A.Bannatyne Fitness, Ltd. u.K.Bio Ritmo Academia BrazilBodytech ColumbiaCentral Sports Co., Ltd. JapanClub One, Inc. u.S.A.ClubCorp u.S.A.Columbia Association u.S.A.Contours Express International, LLC u.S.A.Curves International, Inc. u.S.A.David Lloyd Leisure, Ltd. u.K.Elements u.S.A.ELIXIA Nordic AS NorwayEquinox Fitness Clubs u.S.A.Esporta Group, Ltd. u.K.Fitness First Group, Ltd. u.K.Fitness Together Holdings u.S.A.Global Fitness Holdings u.S.A.Gold’s Gym International, Inc. u.S.A.GoodLife Fitness Clubs CanadaGoodlife Operations, Ltd. AustraliaGrup DiR SpainHealth Fitness Corporation u.S.A.Holmes Place GermanyInjoy Quality Corporation GMBH GermanyJazzercise, Inc. u.S.A.Kieser Training AG SwitzerlandKonami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. Japan

Company CountryL.A. Fitness International, LLC u.S.A.LA Boxing Franchise u.S.A.LA Fitness, Plc. u.K.Lady of America Franchise Corp. u.S.A.Life Time Fitness, Inc. u.S.A.Lifestyle Family Fitness, Inc. u.S.A.The Little Gym International u.S.A.Lucille Roberts Health Clubs u.S.A.McFit GmbH GermanyMediFit Corporate Services, Inc. u.S.A.Millennium Partners Sports Club Company u.S.A.Nuffield Health Fitness & Wellbeing Centres u.K.Optisport BV NetherlandsPlanet Fitness u.S.A.Plus One Health Management u.S.A.Powerhouse Gyms International u.S.A.Renaissance, Inc. JapanSATS Holding AB SwedenShenzhen Catic Wellness Co., Ltd. ChinaSnap Fitness, Inc. u.S.A.Spectrum Athletic Clubs, Inc. u.S.A.Sport City/Grupo Marti MexicoStrata Group RussiaStretch-N-Grow u.S.A.StrollerFit u.S.A.Stroller Strides, LLC u.S.A.Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. u.S.A.Virgin Active Group, Ltd. u.K.Vivafit PortugalWestern Athletic Clubs u.S.A.Workout World Japan Co., Ltd. Japan

headquartered in Denver, acquired The Western Athletic Clubs (WAC), which operates nine private, luxury athletic clubs and sports resorts on the West Coast, including The Bay Club in San Francisco and the Pacific Athletic Club in Redwood City, California.

Also, last March, North Castle Partners, LLC, a private-equity firm based in Greenwich, Connecticut, acquired the assets of Fitness Holdings, Inc. (a.k.a., World Health Club), a leading fitness club operator in Alberta, Canada. Three months later, World Health Club acquired the assets of Club Fit, Inc., an operator of five fitness clubs in the city of Edmonton. International Fitness Holdings, Inc., now

operates 19 fitness clubs under the World Health Club and Club Fit brands, with nine in Calgary and 10 in Edmonton.

Are more health club deals likely to be concluded in the near future?

“No,” suggests Rick Caro, the president of Management Vision, Inc., an industry consulting firm based in New York City. “Currently, no private-equity firm can attract the debt needed to retain the proper amount of equity, which would enable them to sell the business at a high enough price to eventually exit,” he explains. “Next year will be a similar story. The debt markets haven’t been easing, and we haven’t been seeing the kind of cash-flow-based lending that’s been available in prior years.”

While the two remaining large publicly held club enti-ties—Life Time Fitness, Inc. (NYSE: LTM), and Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: CLUB)—enjoyed strong performance in ’07 and the first quarter of ’08, both found themselves highly challenged by the deteriorating market.

“We anticipated that 2008 would be a great year for our company, and, despite the economy, it was better than expected.”

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REVENuE GROWTH

2008 revenues 2007 revenues Change rank & Company $ millions $ millions $ millions % Change 1 Fitness First Group, Ltd. 1,177 1,050 127 12 2 Life Time Fitness, Inc. 770 656 114 17 3 Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. 884 811 73 9 4 GoodLife Fitness Clubs 188 133 55 41 5 Workout World Japan Co., Ltd. 86 33 53 161 6 Planet Fitness 99 49 50 102 7 Virgin Active Group, Ltd. 513 471 42 9 8 Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. 507 473 34 7 9 McFit GmbH 164 131 33 25 10 Renaissance, Inc. 360 328 32 10 11 Global Fitness Holdings 100 (projected) 70 30 43 12 Central Sports Co., Ltd. 469 441 28 6 13 Optisport BV 91 69 22 32 14 ELIXIA Nordic AS 105 89 16 18 15 Injoy Quality Corporation GMBH 120 104 16 15 16 Planet Fitness 49 34 15 44 17 Snap Fitness, Inc. 31 18 13 72 18 Bodytech 35 22 13 59 19 Grup DiR 66 54 12 22 20 A! Body Tech 30 19 11 58 21 Rush Fitness Complex 36 26 10 38 22 Kieser Training AG 145 135 10 7 23 Powerhouse Gyms International 292 283 9 3 24 ClubCorp 921 912 9 1 25 Health Fitness Corporation 78 70 8 11

TOP 10 FIVE-YEAR REVENuE GROWTH

2008 revenues 2004 revenues Increase rank & Company $ millions $ millions $ millions % Change 1 Fitness First Group, Ltd. 1,177 710 467 66 2 Life Time Fitness, Inc. 770 312 458 147 3 24 Hour Fitness Worldwide, Inc. 1,400 1,000 400 40 4 Virgin Active Group, Ltd. 513 177 336 190 5 Town Sports International Holdings, Inc. 507 353 154 44 6 Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. 884 762 122 16 7 GoodLife Fitness Clubs 188 68 120 176 8 Renaissance, Inc. 360 261 99 38 9 Fitness Together Holdings 100 25 75 300 10 Lifestyle Family Fitness, Inc. 104 37 67 181

Future prognosisIn testimony before Congress on May 5, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke said that the housing market, which has been in a slump for three years, has shown some signs of bottoming out. Consumer spending, which collapsed in the second half of last year, began to show some signs of life in the first quarter. “We continue to

expect economic activity to bottom out, and then turn up later this year,” he said. Bernanke warned, however, that once the recovery gets under way, it’s likely to be slow.

“The economy will bounce back—it always does. But it will take a while, and there may be some temporary setbacks,” concurs Klinger. “Smart businesses will

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uNIT GROWTH

rank & Company 2008 units 2007 units unit Increase % Change 1 Anytime Fitness 977 608 369 61 2 Jazzercise, Inc. 7,500 7,200 300 4 3 Snap Fitness, Inc. 863 570 293 51 4 Stroller Strides, LLC 289 220 69 31 5 Stretch-N-Grow 359 292 67 23 6 Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. 371 312 59 19 7 Fitness Together Holdings 409 350 59 17 8 L.A. Fitness International, LLC 281 231 50 22 9 Holmes Place 65 16 49 306 10 Little Gym International, Inc. 310 261 49 19 11 Gold’s Gym International, Inc. 670 629 41 7 12 Planet Fitness 269 239 30 13 13 Plus One Health Management 88 60 28 47 14 Vivafit 92 65 27 42 15 Fitness First Group, Ltd. 550+ 528 22 4 16 MediFit Corporate Services, Inc. 193 175 18 10 17 LA Boxing Franchise 115 99 16 16 18 Optisport BV 146 130 16 12 19 Goodlife Operations, Ltd. 33 18 15 83 20 Bodytech 36 24 12 50 21 Virgin Active Group, Ltd. 179 167 12 72 22a McFit GmbH 101 89 12 13 22b Renaissance, Inc. 107 95 12 13 23 Elements 55 44 11 25 24 Life Time Fitness, Inc. 81 70 11 16 25 StrollerFit 96 85 11 13

TOP 10 FIVE-YEAR uNIT GROWTH

rank & Company 2008 units 2004 units units Increased % Change 1 Curves International, Inc. 9,468 8,500 968 11 2 Anytime Fitness 977 58 919 1,584 3 Snap Fitness, Inc. 863 8 855 10,688 4 Fitness Together Holdings 409 129 280 217 5 Contours Express International, LLC 600 363 237 65 6 Stroller Strides, LLC 289 114 175 154 7 Konami Sports & Life Co., Ltd. 371 208 163 78 8 L.A. Fitness International, LLC 281 124 157 127 9 Fitness First Group, Ltd. 538 401 137 34 10 LA Boxing Franchise 115 14 101 721

the IHrsa Global 25

40 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L Y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

prepare for all of the possible scenarios and adjust to changing conditions quickly.”

“I can’t predict what’s going to happen with the econ-omy, but I don’t think it matters with respect to our industry,” concludes Patchell-Evans. “The economy can be terrible, but people still want to look good and feel good. They still want to fit into the jeans that they had last year. They still want to have low cholesterol.

They still want to have a great sex life. And people are beginning to realize that exercise is medicine.

“There’s an important message in that,” he explains. “If you look after yourself, you can look after others, and, together, you can look after the economy.

“There are a lot of silver linings here,” insists Patchell-Evans. —|

– Patricia Amend, [email protected]

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The locker room is where the green revolution gets goingBy Jon Feld

To some extent, we’ve all gone a little bit greener. While it makes good environmental, philosophical, and business sense to do so, retrofitting and building new systems may require serious financial outlays in terms of capital improvements.

If you have the desire, but have questions regarding efficacy and ROGD (return on your green dollar), you’d be well advised to start small, designating and working with a specific area in your club. One of the best places to beta-test a new approach to produc-ing a smaller environmental footprint is your locker rooms.

“Depending on the type of facility, the locker room could very well have the heaviest impact on a club’s carbon foot-print,” suggests Laury Hammel, the founder and president of the Longfellow Clubs, a group of seven facilities in Wayland and Natick, Massachusetts. “In the winter, in clubs without pools or tennis courts, the locker room may be the largest energy sink hole due to HVAC needs; water usage for showers, toilets, urinals, and sinks; electricity powering lights, hair dryers, saunas, and steam rooms; and paper waste in the form of toilet tissue and paper towels.”

How can you get started transforming your club into an efficient and rewarding “Green Scene” facility one area at a time? Read on to identify many of the ways that you can upgrade, improve, and fine-tune your locker rooms before moving on to the rest of your club.

Illumination insights“Lighting can account for up to 25% of the electricity used in the locker room,” points out Gary Graham, the founding principal of Graham/Meus, Inc., Architects, based in Boston. “If advanced lighting technologies and designs are adopted, electricity use for lighting can be cut by more than 50%, electricity demand dramatically reduced, and the locker-room environment significantly enhanced.” All of which adds even more “green” to the bottom line.>

Global Transforming

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Global transforming

The reductions can be achieved through a number of strategies, including:

• Incorporating natural daylighting with skylights, windows, or borrowed lights;

• Utilizing modern, efficient luminaires that employ light indirectly, by reflecting it off of walls, ceilings, and lockers;

• Replacing ballasts and lamps with modern components (e.g., electric ballasts);

• Replacing incandescent lamps with compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs)—a “no-brainer” that’s often subsidized by local utility companies, notes Graham;

• Replacing mercury-vapor lamps, if you have them, with metal-halide or fluorescent lamps, including the new T-5s; and

• Installing state-of-the-art lighting controls, such as motion detectors, “smart” dimming ballasts, and reduced-line voltage devices.

Water wisdomLikewise, the locker room is the most logical—and rewarding—place to put water-conservation techniques into practice. Among the obvious, easy-to-implement options are repairing leaky faucets and pipes, and replacing older toilets and sinks with newer, “low-flow” fixtures. You can take water-consumption reduction a giant step further by:

• Installing waterless urinals, which use a special trap with a lightweight biodegradable oil that lets urine and water pass through, but prevents odors from escaping. “We’ve installed waterless urinals that save us 80% of the flushes and close to 300,000 gallons of water and significant sewage-disposal costs each year,” reports Hammel.

• Replacing conventional shower heads, which typically use 3-7 gallons per minute, with low-flow replacement units that deliver 1.0-2.5 gallons per minute, with no significant “volume-feel” loss for members, according to Graham.

• Installing electronic controls with new plumbing fixtures or retrofitting existing fixtures. Potential water savings have been reported to be as high as 70%, says Graham.

• Go solar. This alternative heating option is becoming much more popular and affordable. “We recently installed the largest solar hot water heater system in New England, and it saves us $12,000-15,000 per year in energy

An effective way to codify your commitment to reducing your club’s carbon footprint is by developing a green purchasing policy, which can cover everything from long-term purchasing contracts for cleaning, shipping, and landscaping, to day-to-day office supplies.

Developing a policy doesn’t have to be difficult, points out Mateo Bueno, director of marketing and strategy at GreenYour.com, a sustainability strategy firm. “Think about areas in which things can be changed with minimal cost or effort, and then build longer-term commitments over time,” he suggests. “The policy should give preference to products that hold a third-party certi-fication or credible green attribute when all else is equal. With

paper, for example, seek post-consumer recycled content paper or Forestry Stewardship Council-certified paper. For cleaning supplies, look for certifications by nonprofit environmental orga-nizations, such as GreenGuard (www.greenguard.org) and Green Seal. When buying appliances and other electronics, seek the Energy Star label (www.energystar.gov), which identifies the most energy-efficient products by class. These third-party certifiers can help you ensure that your dollars are being spent in an environ-mentally responsible way.”

To learn more, visit www.GreenYour.com and type “Green Purchasing Policy” in the search bar. You’ll be directed to a page with green policy samples and more. —|

PERPETuATING GREEN PRACTICES

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Healthworks is eco-healthy

Green IQ at new england village

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costs,” says Hammel. “We’re heating half our showers and half the pool, and we’ll reach payback in four years.”

Green-genius gemsIf you’re thinking about replacing flooring or lockers or doing other work, there are several ways to do so conscien-tiously. “Building products made from renewable resources or with a high recycled content, and/or manufactured using green processes, are available for virtually every element in the locker room; they’re rarely, if ever, much more expen-sive than conventional materials,” advises Graham. “Initial assessments about the sustainability of materials that might be used should begin very early in the design process, to help target key areas for improvement. The choice of healthy materials that release low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is especially important and very easy to justify economically.”

For example, if you’re using wood for flooring or lock-ers, the best way to ensure that it comes from well-man-aged forest operations is to check for certification based on standards developed by the Forest Stewardship Coun-cil (FSC) by logging on to www.fscus.org.

When selecting carpets and rugs, suggests Hammel, look for those that are made from recycled materials that are green-certified and have the highest rating from the Carpet and Rug Institute. “The adhesives that we use on our rugs contain no VOCs,” he adds. “We’ve also moved to using only VOC-free paint.”

Maintenance is another area that offers green opportu-nities. “We’ve completely overhauled our maintenance program,” says Hammel. “We’ve converted all of our cleaning items to Green Seal-certified products, and train our maintenance staff to ensure that they’re using the products correctly.” (Green Seal, www.greenseal.org, is an organization that provides science-based, environmen-tal-certification standards.)

In the “little-things-mean-a-lot” category, using recy-cled-content toilet paper and paper towels helps to decrease a club’s environmental impact. The Healthworks Fitness Centers, which operate five facilities in the Boston area, use only recycled toilet paper and napkins, and eco-friendly bath and cleaning products that are labeled as such. (The Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, requires 30% post-consumer waste content for paper to be considered truly recycled).

Moving away from paper towels altogether, by utilizing high-speed (accelerator) dryers, can also produce dramatic savings—both envi-ronmental and monetary. Will Phillips, the founder of GreenHealthClubs.org, a green-club advocacy forum, and REX (RoundTables for Executives), a CEO-networking organization, reports that a club he worked with switched to air dryers and saved about $500 a month in paper costs. It was also able to eliminate one trash pickup per week.

Keep going green!There are, clearly, a host of ways to save energy and reduce your club’s carbon footprint—e.g., cogeneration units to produce your own electricity, HVAC and equipment main-tenance that can improve the quality and increase the longevity of your infrastructure, etc. But the locker room, where energy and water usage in any club creates a nexus, may well be the best place to begin testing concepts or to roll out a full-blown green initiative.

At some point, notes Phillips, you may not have a choice. “A decade from now, a club that doesn’t employ green prac-tices may not be able to compete successfully. Green is a changing tide for all of us. It’s here to stay, and club owners who don’t board this train are going to be left behind.” —|

– Jon Feld, [email protected]

“ The locker room could very well have the heaviest impact on a club’s carbon footprint.”

shower savvy at Plymouth Fitness

Will Phillips

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Global transforming

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2XL CorporationGymWipes Antibacterial Formula PLuS is the most potent member of 2XL’s Gym-Wipes line, providing the highest level of EPA-registered disinfectant wipes for cleans-ing, sanitation, and protection of all health club surfaces. It’s highly effective against e.

Coli, staph, MRSA, tuberculosis, HIV-1lu, and the Norwalk virus, and is free of alcohol, phenol, and bleach. The wipes are available in buckets and refills, with attractive dispensers and stands.

“Club members appreciate the ability to wipe down surfaces, eliminating sweat and disease-causing organisms,” says 2XL’s Linda Giammanco.

Contact: www.gymwipes.com, 888-977-3726 See our ad on page 60

A-1 Textiles & Hospitality ProductsTowels are one of the biggest monthly replacement items for all health and fit-ness clubs, since they often “walk” out the door or wear out quickly. The white, soft, and absorbent Golden Mills towels, from A-1 Textiles, are manufactured to with-

stand the constant washing, bleaching, and over-drying that they’re subjected to up to 10 times daily in a club setting.

“To save money in this challenging economy, clubs can opt for a downgrade in towel size without sacrificing quality,” adds Carol Moran, A-1’s president.

Contact: www.a1athletictowels.com, 800-351-1819 See our ad on page 61

Aeson Flooring SystemsAeson offers Slipnomor Safety Finish, a hard-wearing, environmentally friendly finish designed to change any existing hard surface into an ADA-compliant, non-slip floor. It’s suitable for use in locker rooms, shower areas,

entrances, high-traffic areas, or anywhere that slips and falls are a concern.

“Slipnomor Safety Finish enables you to take your existing hard surface and change it into a safe, slip-resistant floor without affecting the appearance of the floor’s surface,” states Sam Jamison, director of operations at Aeson’s parent company, Stagestep, Inc.

Contact: www.aesonflooring.com, 800-523-0960 See our ad on page 71

Am-Finn Sauna CompanyAm-Finn recently introduced the Advanced Hybrid Steam Room, an energy-efficient, self-cleaning system designed to replace tile steam rooms, which are susceptible to leaks, mold, and mildew, and require regrouting and retiling maintenance. According to the company, the Hybrid rooms are 50% more energy-efficient than tile.

“As opposed to traditional tile steam rooms, which require constant deep cleaning to keep the environ-ment clean, Am-Finn Hybrid steam systems can be sprayed down with standard household cleaning products,” notes Steve Kuzara, Am-Finn’s head of product development.

Contact: www.am-finn.com, 800-237-2862 See our ad on page 55

Club Resource GroupClub Resource Group’s Clubline Locker Systems are built using high-quality laminates, veneers, solid stock, and bladder-pressed technologies. ClubLine incorporates architectural-grade materials and craftsmanship in its locker lines.

“The architect and club owner have the freedom to choose from a standard product line, or a design-build solution,” says Michael Wendt, Club Resource

Equipping the

Hub of Your ClubThe locker rooms may just be the most-often-visited, highest-traffic areas of your club. As such, they should provide a clean, comfortable, and—if possible—relaxing environment that’s well-stocked with all of the necessary-and-beyond amenities. The following IHRSA associate member companies can help:

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Group’s president and CEO. “This offering provides the integration of our area seating, grooming stations, towel bins, and other case goods for a complete locker room solution.”

Contact: www.clubresourcegroup.com, 800-536-6858 See our ad on page 49

DigilockDigilock offers a keyless-lock solution for locker rooms. users are able to access any available locker by using a self-selected four-digit user code, while management access is assured through electronic manager bypass keys. Digilock is secured with a half-inch deadbolt to prevent break-ins.

“Members are looking for clubs that will enhance their lives, and Digilock is an instant enhancement to the locker-room experience,” says Julie Advocate, manager of sales administration. “Digilock gives club members freedom from keys.”

Contact: www.digilock.com, 707-766-6000 See our ad on page 41

GOJO Industries, Inc.GOJO recently introduced Green Certified Foam Hand, Hair & Body Wash. According to the com-pany, this readily biodegradable formula rinses clean without buildup or residue and is ideal for use in both showers and sinks.

“A facility’s cleanliness has a huge impact on a member’s willingness to stay and take full advantage of all of the services available,” explains Mike Hanes, GOJO’s health and fitness marketing director. “GOJO Green Certified Foam Hand, Hair & Body Wash offers a total solution.”

Contact: www.gojo.com, 800-321-9647 See our ad on page 42

Hollman, Inc.Hollman offers lockers constructed of solid, veneer, and plastic laminate according to Archi-tectural Woodwork Institute standards. Its veneer doors have a consistent grain pattern with no

mineral deposits. Hollman adds that its construction process allows for easy installation and maintenance.

“We have 300,000 square feet of manufacturing space, using the latest green technology and state-of-the-art uV finish line,” says Alex Hoang, Hollman’s sales director. “We’ve also developed the revolutionary keyless security lock to be used in conjunction with our premium lockers to complement a striking, efficient fitness facility.”

Contact: www.hollman.com, 800-433-3630 See our ad on page 55

HydroMassage HydroMassage is an unattended amenity that offers clients a deeply relaxing, 10-minute massage. Its interactive touch-screen allows members to control speed, pressure, and area of massage; they can also watch movies and listen to music. users remain clothed and comfortably dry during their massage experience.

“In tough economic times, one of the most impor-tant things club owners can do is create new sources of nondues revenue,” states Kevin Conaway, Hydro-Massage’s marketing director. “With HydroMassage, members can get a massage after every workout at an affordable price.”

Contact: www.hydromassage.com, 1-800-699-1008 See our ad on page 28

Ideal Products, Inc.Ideal’s Epicenter 2000 Series Athletic Locker features an open-faced design with a security vault, hat shelf, nickel-plated coat rod, two side-mount coat hooks, lower seat, and lock-able storage. This locker is available in a vari-ety of sizes in natural wood species and stained finishes.

“One size does not fit all circumstances,” observes Bob Martin, Ideal’s sales manager. “Some clients arrive at the club in their workout gear and don’t need a full-size locker to store only their car keys or cell phones.”

Contact: www.idealockers.com, 800-884-3325 See our ad on page 62

Jade DistributionJade Distribution offers a line of bulk green cleaning products and other solutions for member protection. Jade can also help clubs save money with a complete line of

“ A decade from now, a club that doesn’t employ green practices may not be able to compete successfully.”

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Global transforming

48 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J u L Y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

earth-sensitive personal care products, including orange-based cleaners and de-greasers as an alterna-tive to harsh chemical cleaners.

“We strive to do what’s best for our environment. When we do it correctly, being ‘green’ helps reduce our carbon footprint and we almost always save money,” notes Dan Brown, CEO of Jade Distribution, Inc.

Contact: www.jadedistribution.com, 800-785-5233 See our ad on page 27

OJMAROjmar’s wireless OTS Transponder Lock is designed to be humidity-resistant and

wear-proof. users can operate lockers by simply pressing what Ojmar calls a “proximity media”—i.e., a card, bracelet, or Wellness key—against the knob. The transponder technology allows the media to be used for other purposes, as well, such as access control or cashless payment, making the system remarkably flexible. Last, but not least, the lock can be easily programmed in a variety of modes—free, dedicated, or designated to a defined user group.

“The ultimate goal of a locker lock must be making customers’ daily use of it easier and more efficient,” says Aitor Elorza, the director of Ojmar’s leisure business unit. “A lock like the OTS does away with traditional problems, such as key loss, locker reserva-tion, and forgetting the locker number, and, at the same time, offers extra features, such as free program-mability and compatibility with other services.”

Contact: www.ojmar.es, (34) 94-374-8484, 800-969-8008 See our ad on page 56

Petra Hygienic Systems International, Ltd.Petra Hygienic Systems offers a variety of premium body-care products for hand and body, hair care, shaving products, personal hygiene, soap dispensers, and more. Petra also carries antibacterial Athletix Wipes—

pre-saturated wipes specially designed to clean dirt, sweat, and body oils from all surfaces of the club.

“At Petra, we know we have to satisfy many different users of the health club: ownership, management, staff, members, and guests. Product acceptance and performance are as important as price, quality, pre-sentation, and service,” observes Benjamin Whitham, Petra Hygienic Systems’ vice president.

Contact: www.petrasoap.com, 800-463-2516 See our ad on page 61

Salsbury IndustriesConstructed of industrial-grade particleboard and covered with plastic laminate, Salsbury’s Designer Lockers are available in blue, gray, black, maple, cherry, and mahogany. They’re available in widths of 12" and 15". units measure 6' high and 18" deep and are available in single-tier, double-tier, triple-tier, six-tier box, and double-tier “S” styles.

“The dimensions of the locker modules are identi-cal, allowing customers to mix and match locker configurations to provide an optimal locker room environment,” says Ricardo Alva, Salsbury’s director of sales.

Contact: www.lockers.com, 800-562-5377 See our ad on page 60

Sports Solutions, Inc.Sports Solutions offers a wide range of spa-quality liquid amenities, varied dispenser presentations, and more than 600 accesso-ries, at pricing to meet every budget and quality requirement.

“Hair- and skin-care formulations should have the athlete’s specific rehydration issues in mind,” says Laurie Schmidt, presi-dent of Sports Solutions. “Our five newest lines of Nutri-Essence Naturals amenities are made from 95%-98% natural, plant-based ingredients. The immediate rehydration of hair and skin proves that these products work.”

Contact: www.sportssolutionsinc.com, 800-969-8008 See our ad on page 50

Treeforms, Inc.Treeforms manufactures wood and plastic laminate lockers, benches, vanities, and towel units in a wide range of designs and finishes. Lockers are available in a variety of sizes and configurations to meet the specific needs of the end user. Treeforms products are avail-able in standard-grade materials or with NAuF (no added urea formaldehyde) and FSC materials.

“We build what you want, we do it right, and we do it on time,” asserts Carol Bauer, Treeforms’ vice president.

Contact: www.treeforms.com, 800-447-8733 See our ad on page 65 —|

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FreeMotion, Incline Trainer. —|

Image sponsored by FreeMotion Fitness

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InnovationsWhat’s New 53 | FIT Extra 57 | BuyersMart 75

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»

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| Innovations | What’s New

Body Bar, Inc.» Body Bar, Inc., has developed the Body Bar Strength Band, which attaches to its flagship product, the weighted bar. Two versions of the Strength Band are available. The Single Strength Band is 5' long, and is utilized by stepping on the middle of the band or otherwise securing it. The Pair version is 3' long, and each band attaches to the user’s feet via fabric stirrups, facilitating bilateral movement and mobility, specifically for group exercise and functional training. Both make use of patented Slastix technology in which a nylon safety cover surrounds the latex tubing, protecting it from nicks, cuts, and abrasions that can degrade the rubber. For more information, contact the company at 1942 Broadway, Ste. 314, Boulder, CO 80302; 800-500-2030; 303-938-6867; www.bodybars.com. —|

Les Mills International » The new Web-based CLUBCOUNT software from Les Mills International gives group fitness managers at health clubs numerous ways to plan, report on, and evaluate their classes. By simply inputting the attendance for each class, users have access to such data as total attendance, attendance against target, attendance against capacity, and average attendance overall and per individual class. CLUB-COUNT includes customizable timetables, audiovisual tutorials, FAQ, and a help service. The software is available to Les Mills’ licensees worldwide, and Gold’s Gym is acquiring it for all of its U.S.-based corporate clubs. “The software gives our licensees the option to benchmark their performance with other clubs of a similar size around the world,” notes Phillip Mills, the cofounder of Les Mills International. For more information, contact the company in the U.S. at 888-669-8876 or internationally via www.lesmills.com. —|

Matrix Fitness Systems» Johnson Health Tech North America, Inc. (JHTNA) offers the Tomahawk MyRide, a new group-cycling console that delivers a virtual indoor class experience that riders can enjoy anytime. It’s available as a wall-mounted unit or as a freestanding kiosk that can be placed directly in front of any indoor bike. With its 15" LCD screen, MyRide guides exercisers and lets them choose from more than 100 classes developed by Indoor Cycling Experience (I.C.E.) Master Trainers. “MyRide is ideal for clubs that don’t have the room, staff, or ability to hold tradi-tional indoor-cycling classes,” explains Becky Jalbert, a product manager at JHTNA. For more information, contact the company at 1600 Landmark Drive, Cottage Grove, WI 53527; 866-693-4863; www.matrixfitness.com. —|

»American Council on Exercise » The American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the American Heart Association (AHA) have developed customized walking plans for people at various ability levels. The effort is part of the AHA’s new national Start! Walking Day, which took place on April 8, to encourage Americans to take a simple step toward improving their fitness. The three free plans, as well as a list of walking paths in several cities, are available for download at startwalkingnow.org. Start! Walking videos are also complimentary to digital cable subscribers on Exercise TV and online at exercisetv.tv/startwalking. And MyStart! Online, a free Web-based fitness and nutrition tracker, offers community support and measurement functions. For more information, contact the company at 4851 Paramount Drive, San Diego, CA 92123; 800-825-3636; 858-279-8227; www.acefitness.org. —|

ACE says Start! Walking

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BB’s Strength Band CLUBCOUNT by Les Mills

Tomahawk’s MyRide

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| Innovations | What’s New

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»Life Fitness» The new Optima Series from Life Fitness is a beautifully designed, comprehensive strength-training solution consisting of single- and multi-exercise machines, as well as benches and racks. This new line adds 20 pieces to the company’s already extensive breadth of products. Ideal for smaller facilities, the Optima Series boasts low-profile, fully shrouded towers that create a consistent look; flat, oval tubing for structural integrity; easy-to-use adjustments; pictorial placards; and drop-down increments on the weight stacks. “The Optima Series integrates style and reliability into a broad range of strength equipment that can be configured to fit any space,” remarks John Stransky, the president of Life Fitness. For more information, contact the company at 5100 River Road, Schiller Park, IL 60176; 847-288-3300; www.lifefitness.com. —|

Life Fitness’ Optima solution

Milnor Laundry Systems» Milnor’s V-Series industrial washer- extractors, with 40-160-pound capacities, now feature new RinSave water-saver software that eliminates excessive rinse and intermediate-extract steps. This innovative process allows a precise, high G-Force to “sling” the water, chemicals, and soil out of the laundry between the last wash step and rinse cycle. Milnor’s V-Series washer-extractors with RinSave software conserve water without compromising wash quality, replacing as many as two rinse steps and saving up to 10 minutes per load. The RinSave water-saving feature can be retrofitted in certain existing Milnor V-Series machines, which can help health club operators save money. For more information, contact the company at 700 Jackson St., Kenner, LA 70063; 800-469-8780; 504-712-7656; www.milnor.com. —|

Power Systems, Inc. » The new three-section X-Ladder from Power Systems helps keep training on target by challenging athletes at all levels with multiple agility drill configurations. The unique X-design allows athletes to perform forward, backward, and lateral movement patterns in the same run, which builds skill and concentration. The X-Ladder is comprised of one 158" section and two 67" sections, which attach with buckles to keep the sections together. Each section has fixed, round rungs made of high-impact PVC to provide instant feedback when stepped on. The X-Ladder comes with its own carrying bag and is priced at $69.95. For more information, contact the company at 5700 Casey Drive, Knoxville, TN 37909; 800-321-6975; 865-769-8223; www.power-systems.com. —|

Power Systems’ X-Ladder

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

Less Is Now MoreThe latest treadmills are models of efficiency and new forms of movement

In an industry in which members are perpetually asking

“What’s new?,” treadmill manufacturers have recently

answered the question with a dazzling array of new features

and functions. In many cases, the evolution is about “less”

being more—i.e., less technology and less energy—along

with new forms of movement. Specific examples include:

• Brudden Technology, headquartered in São Paulo, Brazil, has intro-duced the Shock Absorber Control (SAC) system for its treadmills. “It’s our exclusive impact-absorption solution,” explains Tony Zaros, Brudden’s import/export manager. “Developed in concert with the Universidade Federal de São Paulo, the SAC system allows the runner to train with the level of absorption appropriate for their specific weight by adapting to the user and adjusting the shock with airbags.”

• The H.E.A.T. (High Energy Aerobic Training) Program, developed by GMM Training, based in Rome, Italy, offers MAXRUNNER, which, corporate spokesperson Paolo Tron describes, is designed to emulate outdoor training, while utilizing only muscle energy. “Fully mechanical, the MAXRUNNER reproduces the varying grade present, for instance, in a mountain path via a gradual and flowing incline.”

• NIMS, distributed by Sin Ling Technology Co., Ltd., of Taiwan, marries vibration technology to treadmills. The deck of its Exer-Rest unit vibrates horizontally at walking speeds as low as 0.1 km/hour. “In addition,” notes Cathy Wang, an assistant sales manager at Sin Ling, “our treadmills are powered by DC servo motors, which offer a 20%-30% savings in energy, compared with an AC induction motor.”

• Thorotread, headquartered in Ocala, Florida, literally takes the treadmill backward. In addition to its conventional forward motion, the Thorotread unit offers “what we call ‘Resistance Retro Walking,’” says managing partner Joe Ellis. “It’s a reverse mode that offers a backward speed range of 0.5-3 mph, a backward elevation range of 0-8 degrees, and a pulling load of 5-35 pounds. It simulates a perpetual backward-pulling or dragging motion.”

• Woodway, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, is building on its “green” com-mitment with the EcoMill, a self-powered treadmill with a display and elevation system that’s driven as the user propels the “nearly frictionless” running surface. “The EcoMill actually has the potential to feed the excess power back into the building as the technology improves,” points out Eric Weber, the company’s director of sales and marketing. Woodway’s patented design employs half the electricity used by a conventional treadmill and doesn’t require belt or deck replacements. —|

TREADMILLSBH FITNESS

BH Fitness SK6900 and SK6900TV

The BH Fitness SK6900 is an uncompro-mising commercial treadmill that balances both style and function. It features a powerful 4-HP AC motor, 12 mph top speed, 15% elevation, a 22" x 63" running surface, five Alpha-Numeric LED displays for statistical information, and a large red LED matrix window. The SK6900TV offers all the same features but also includes a 15" touch-sensitive display for workout statistics as well as a full-function, integrated television display.Manufacturer’s list price: $6,599.00 (SK6900); $7,399.00 (SK6900TV)

BH Fitness T10

The BH Fitness T10 offers a cost-effective solution for light commercial facilities. It features a powerful 3.5-HP motor, 12 mph top speed, 15% elevation, a 22" x 60" running surface, and five Alpha-Numeric LED displays for statistical information and a blue backlit LCD matrix window for speed and elevation profiles. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty on the frame, 10 years on the motor, five years on parts, and one year on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $4,299.00

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

BH Fitness T11

The BH Fitness T11 offers an affordable full commercial treadmill capable of withstanding the harshest club environments. It features a powerful 4-HP AC motor, 12 mph top speed, 15% elevation, a 22" x 63" running surface, five alphanumeric LED displays for statistical information, and a blue backlit LCD matrix window for speed and elevation profiles. It’s backed by a 10-year warranty on the motor, three years on parts, and one year on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $5,499.00

BH FITNESS T6-BASIC

The BH Fitness T6-Basic offers a cost-effective solution for light commercial facilities that need quality fitness equipment on a budget. The T6 Basic features a powerful 3.25-HP motor, 12 mph top speed, 15% elevation, a 20" X 60" running surface, and five red LED displays with a 1/4-mile track. It’s backed by a lifetime warranty on the frame, 10 years on the motor, five years on parts, and one year on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $2,199.99

BH FITNESS T8-15

The BH Fitness T8-15 features a 15" motivational entertainment TV with an integrated LCD touch screen. Built for light commercial facilities, the T8-15 features advanced electronics, a powerful 3.5-HP motor, 12 mph top speed, 15% elevation, and a 20" x 60" running surface. Users stay motivated with a variety of programs, including heart-rate interactive. The warranty is lifetime on the frame, five years on the parts, and one year on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $3,999.99

BH FITNESS T8-PRO

The BH Fitness T8-PRO is a high-power solution for light commercial facilities that need quality, affordable fitness equipment. It features advanced elec-tronics, a powerful 3.5-HP motor, 12 mph top speed, 15% elevation, a 22" x 60" running surface, and five red alphanumeric LED displays, with a blue backlit LCD program profile display. Its warranty is lifetime on the frame, 10 years on the motor, five years on parts, and one year on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $3,299.99

BH Fitness T9

The BH Fitness T9 offers a motivational entertainment solution for light commercial facilities that need quality fitness equipment, with integrated television/MP3 capable displays, at affordable prices. It features a powerful 3.5-HP motor, 12 mph top speed, 15% elevation, a 22" x 60" running surface, and a 15" touch screen LCD television with built-in speakers and headphone jack. Its warranty is 10 years on the motor, five years on parts, and one year on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $4,599.00

BODy-SOLID, INC.

T10HRC Commercial Treadmill by Endurance

With its all-steel frame, plentiful 20" x 60" running surface, and high-torque 3-HP motor, the T10HRC treadmill, by Endurance, can hold its own in any commercial setting. It offers 25 user programs, heart-rate control, and an elevation range of 0-15% to help the most determined fitness enthusiasts achieve their goals. The easy-to-read panel and push-button speed controls add ease of operation and instant feedback information to a long list of features.Manufacturer’s list price: $2,999.00

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BRUDDEN/MOvEMENT

E 740

The E 740 incorporates the company’s Shock Absorber Control (SAC) pneumatic system, which enables exercisers to adjust impact according to their weight, workout, and rehabilitation needs. Powered by a 3-HP motor, the treadmill has a maximum speed of 15.5 mph and an elevation range of -5% to 15%. Included are 19 programs and an easy-to-use panel with simple icons and heart-rate monitoring. Anodized aluminum covers the steel frame, and aluminum uprights and handrails add stability.

Movement E 750

The Movement E 750 treadmill presents sophisticated design and high-tech comfort and ergonomics, with a fully interactive electronic display and a 15" television screen. It gives exercisers the choice of three different absorption options on the belt and deck. Its advanced programs allow users to simulate all major marathons and park paths, while monitoring workout performance in easy-to-read graphics. Post-workout, the Movement E 750 generates a report so that exercisers can analyze their performance.

CyBEX INTERNATIONAL, INC.SEE OUR AD ON THE INSIDE FRONT COvERAND PAgE 1

750T

The CYBEX Legacy 750T is a premium treadmill that’s fully equipped to deliver an exceptional user experience. It has a new high-contrast display and enhanced easy-to-use technologies, as well as a high-performance AC drive capable of delivering 6 HP. The Legacy 750T also offers a compact design with a running surface of 22" x 62" and an ultra-low profile hood for a spacious feel.Manufacturer’s list price: $7,495.00

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| Innovations | FIT Extra

CX-445T

The CYBEX CX-445T treadmill is compact and durable, making it ideal for club operators, and offers comfort and convenience, making it ideal for exercisers. Its unique design provides a wide-open running area with an ultra-low hood cover to maximize the workout space and provide an unobstructed path for the user’s stride. The intuitive access of the nine available programs and quick-start make the treadmill easy to use and understand, particularly for first-time users.Manufacturer’s list price: $5,495.00

LCX-425T

The LCX-425T treadmill is designed to provide light-commercial facilities with the functionality and running area of larger commercial treadmills in a space-saving package. Featuring a full 20" x 60" running surface, this treadmill boasts an ultra-low-profile hood to maximize the entire running area and minimize the footprint to just 72" long. Equipped with a 3-HP motor, the LCX-425T incorporates a fully featured console that employs a simplified approach to make it extremely user-friendly.Manufacturer’s list price: $4,495.00

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

Pro3

The durable Pro3 Treadmill features a clean style that complements any décor, and a low step-up height that’s less intimidating for new exercisers. With plenty of programs to satisfy serious runners, the CYBEX Pro3 treadmill is simple to operate for even the occasional user. Programs can be changed on the fly so that exercisers can raise or lower intensity. Users will also appreciate the convenience of dual water bottle holders, utility tray, and Quick Start.Manufacturer’s list price: $6,795.00

FREEMOTION FITNESS

FreeMotion Incline Trainer

The FreeMotion Incline Trainer provides a comfortable, yet challenging, exercise experience. It’s powered by the Direct Rear Velocity System (DRVS), a rear-drive motor system that, combined with urethane deck isolators, provides additional cushioning to minimize impact. The Incline Trainer boasts a 22" x 60" running surface; incline capabilities of -3% to 30%; QuickTouch functions for easy incline adjustments; and Workout TV. The LED console reports on time, incline, pace, distance, calories, heart rate, speed, and more.

FreeMotion Treadmill

The FreeMotion Treadmill, powered by the innovative Direct Rear Velocity System (DRVS), provides a smooth, consistent workout and a long, efficient motor life. Unlike the drive systems on other treadmills, this motor system pulls, rather than pushes, the tread belt, which provides direct, consistent belt tension and alleviates stress on the bearings and rollers. The treadmill features a 22" x 60" walking surface and an optional 12.1" LCD television with the Workout TV console.

1-800-463-2516 or [email protected]

Soap,$avingsand Service.Petra is North America’s premier amenity company,servicing the health and fitness industry for over 20years. Your Petra Partner is ready to assist you andyour facility. Call or email today.

Petra Ad:Layout 3 6/4/09 11:27 AM Page 1

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H/P/COSMOS SPORTS & MEDICAL gMBH

h/p/cosmos mercury

Incorporating a shock-absorbing running surface that measures 59" x 19.7", this premier treadmill can elevate to a maximum 25% grade, and generate a speed range of 0-14 mph. The mercury offers smooth, quiet operation, and a comprehensive programmable control panel with safety components. It features: a maintenance-free, 3-HP, continuous-duty drive motor backed by a 10-year warranty; a three-year warranty on all parts; and an RS 232 interface for a PC, printer, ECG machine, etc.Manufacturer’s list price: $13,000.00

h/p/cosmos pulsar 3p

The larger, more versatile pulsar treadmill offers a 25.6" x 74.8" running surface, a maximum speed of 25 mph, and an elevation range of 0% to 25%. It has a 4.5-HP motor, a programmable control panel with an emergency stop switch and additional safety components; an RS 232 interface for a PC, printer, and medical equipment, such as an ECG machine; and a 10-year warranty on the drive motor and frame, and a three-year warranty on all parts.Manufacturer’s list price: $32,500.00

h/p/cosmos quasar

The quasar boasts a 25.6" x 66.9" track size and a 0-15.5 mph speed range, and can incline to a maximum 28% grade. The treadmill has a 4.5-HP motor, a programmable control panel with an emergency stop switch and additional safety components; an RS 232 interface for a PC, printer, and medical equipment, such as an ECG machine; and a 10-year warranty on the drive motor and frame and a three-year warranty on all parts.Manufacturer’s list price: $19,500.00

h/p/cosmos saturn 300-100

Approximately twice as long and twice as wide as a standard commercial treadmill, the saturn 300-100 incorporates a robust 10-HP motor, a spacious 39.4" x 118" running area, speeds of up to 25 mph, and a maximum incline of 27%. It’s equipped with heart-rate control capability and an RS 232 interface for a PC, printer, or medical equipment. It’s supported by a 10-year warranty on the drive motor and frame, and a three-year warranty on parts.Manufacturer’s list price: $103,000.00

h/p/cosmos venus 200-75

The venus 200-75 treadmill is powered by a 7-HP motor, and offers a 29.5" x 78.7" running surface, a 0-25 mph speed range,

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

Do Something Extraordinary!Invest in your future.

Med cal Fitness and Healthcare C nference

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Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the MFA Annual Medical Fitness and Healthcare Conferenceis the best investment you will make in 2009. Attend the 2009 conference in Orlando andyou’ll get all the latest information on building, operating, marketing, programming andstaffing your medical fitness facility.

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and a 0% to 35% elevation range. Supported by a 10-year warranty on the drive motor and frame, and a three-year warranty on all parts, the venus 200-75 comes equipped with heart-rate control capability and an RS 232 interface for a PC, printer, or medical equipment.Manufacturer’s list price: $54,000.00

h/p/cosmos, saturn rs 450/300

Developed for the Olympic Training Center in Ruhpolding, Germany, the oversized saturn rs 450/300 treadmill, from h/p/cosmos, has a running surface of 4.5 x 3 meters, and a maximum speed of 60 kph. Athletes can use the unique treadmill to train yearlong in almost real conditions for the Olympics and for the biathlon World Cup in 2012 in Ruhpolding.

HOggAN HEALTH INDUSTRIES, INC.

HOGGAN Sprint Runner Treadmill

The human-powered HOGGAN Sprint Runner provides an efficient, intuitive workout; plus, it’s economical and virtually maintenance-free. This commercial model boasts a large, unencumbered running surface that accommodates users of all sizes, and a shock-absorbing deck that reduces impact on the hips, knees, ankles, and back. The open deck design utilizes minimal floor space and maximizes the walk/run area; the incline is adjustable from zero to 12 degrees, and the programming is simple to use.

LANDICE TREADMILLS

Club Series Treadmills

Landice Treadmills has 40 years of field experience in health clubs, and its Club Series treadmills reflect this expertise. Made in the U.S., they are often rated No.1 by magazines. With 4-HP, continuous- duty drive motors and rust-free aluminum frames, the treadmills have state-of-the-art computer graphics and an optional 12" TV with an integrated DVD player. The L9-CLUB’s running surface is 22" x 63"; on the L7-CLUB, it measures 20" x 58".Manufacturer’s list price: $2,995.00

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

Rehabilitation and Wellness Treadmill

Landice’s commercial-grade RTM treadmill is designed for the senior and rehabilitation markets. It offers a low step-up height for easy access; a minimum start speed of 0.1 mph; a decline feature and 15% incline; a reverse capability to work opposing muscle groups and to challenge balance; full dual side handrails for support; and a handheld pause/stop switch. It’s available with either a 58" or 63" walking surface. The control panel displays time, speed, elevation, etc.Manufacturer’s list price: $3,595.00

LIFE FITNESSSEE OUR AD ON PAgE 9

95T Achieve Treadmill

The 95T Achieve treadmill from Life Fitness sets health clubs apart with its sophisticated design and intuitive interface. Everything about the 95T Achieve—from the DX3 Belt and Deck System and Flexdeck technology, to the open sightlines, to the Activity Zone that places the most-often-used controls at the user’s fingertips—is designed to deliver the ultimate cardio experience.

97Te Treadmill

The 97Te offers 28 workouts, including five Zone Training+ programs, military PRT/PFT, Gerkin, and Fit Test protocols, and the patented FlexDeck Shock Absorption System reduces knee and joint stress. The groundbreaking DX3 Belt and Deck System delivers durability and comfort. Heart-rate monitoring is available via Lifepulse digital hand sensors and Polar telemetry, and the E3 integrated LCD system with touch-screen technology provides up to 125 cable TV channels and FM radio.

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

97Ti Treadmill

The 97Ti treadmill offers 28 workouts, a speed of 16 mph, and a 3% decline to a 15% incline. The patented FlexDeck shock- absorption system reduces knee and joint stress, and the DX3 Belt and Deck System provides durability. Exercisers can select from five Zone Training+ workouts, military PRT/PFT, Gerkin, and Fit Test protocols, and use the Lifepulse digital hand sensors and Polar telemetry for heart-rate moni-toring. Personal entertainment is available with a 17" attachable TV.

Classic Series Treadmill

The Life Fitness Classic Series Treadmill is ideal for a basic, comfortable, and reliable walking/running experience. It features seven workouts, including two ZoneTraining+ workouts, and the patented FlexDeck Shock Absorption System. It delivers speeds ranging from 0.5 mph to 12 mph, and features heart-rate moni-toring via Lifepulse digital hand sensors and Polar telemetry. Club owners can also add personal entertainment with the Attachable LCD Entertainment System.

Elevation Series 95T Engage Treadmill

The Elevation Series 95T Engage Treadmill delivers seamless iPod audio and video

integration, a Virtual Trainer for workout motivation and education, USB connectivity, and Workout Landscape Perspectives. The treadmill includes a 15" integrated LCD touch screen to control workouts and watch TV and iPod-delivered video content. A 22" x 60" running surface, 9.5" step-up height, and 26" x 5" soft-grip handrails enhance user comfort. Exercisers can choose from 36 workout programs and six goal types.

Elevation Series 95T Inspire Treadmill With Optional Attachable TV

The Life Fitness 95T Inspire Treadmill includes seamless iPod audio integration, a Virtual Trainer, USB connectivity, and Workout Landscape Perspectives. Its 7" integrated LCD screen allows users to make workout selections and manage their iPod music lists; 36 workout pro-grams and six goal types offer variety. For premium personal entertainment, a 17" attachable HD-ready widescreen TV is optional. The Elevation Series 95T Inspire Treadmill with Attachable TV features an HD-ready 17" diagonal wide-screen television.

MAgNUM FITNESS SySTEMS

T111CH

The T111CH’s polymer suspension system cushions impact to the joints, and the Dura-Deck belt and deck combi-nation ensures minimal maintenance and maximum belt life. Equipped with a 6-HP motor, the T111CH can run at speeds of .1 mph-12 mph in .1-mile increments, and the 20" x 60" running surface inclines to 15% in 0.5% increments.

The console features easy-to-read displays with five constant read-out windows and six others that scroll throughout the workout.Manufacturer’s list price: $6,895.00

MATRIX FITNESS SySTEMSSee our ad on The French coVer

T3x

The value-priced Matrix T3x was designed to provide ease of use and yearsof dependable operation. This treadmill is loaded with premium features, such as the 3.2-HP club-rated drive system and the Ultimate reversible, maintenance-free deck. The user-friendly console offers multiple training programs, including manual, intervals, weight loss, fit test, 5K run, and target heart rate. The easy-to-read LED display provides feedback on time, speed, distance, calories, incline, heart rate, and profile.Manufacturer’s list price: $5,795.00

T3xi

The refined, dependable Matrix T3xi combines a sleek design and reliable performance. Among other features, the 3.6-HP AC club-rated drive system and Ultimate reversible, maintenance-free deck can help clubs distinguish them-selves from the competition. The user-friendly console offers multiple training programs, including manual, intervals, weight loss, fit test, 5K run, and target heart rate. The easy-to-read 7" LCD screen provides feedback on time, speed, distance, pace, calories, incline, level, heart rate, and profile.Manufacturer’s list price: $6,295.00

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

T5x

The refined T5x treadmill is loaded with features. Prominent among them: a 5-HP club-rated AC drive system, and the Ultimate reversible, maintenance-free deck. A 22" wide belt provides exercisers with a sense of security, and the unit’s user-friendly console offers multiple training programs, including manual, intervals, rolling, fit test, 5K run, and target heart rate. The easy-to-read display provides feedback on time, speed, distance, pace, calories, incline, level, heart rate, and profile.Manufacturer’s list price: $7,295.00

MILON INDUSTRIES gMBH

Clubrunner

The Clubrunner treadmill features an exceptional design, a special shock-absorption system that has been scientifically validated, and 13 programs to keep exercisers motivated and deliver results. The Clubrunner uses milon’s proven Smart Card system. Boasting central lubrication, the treadmill is almost maintenance-free. milon is a German manufacturer and complete supplier of electronic fitness and medical training equipment. milon produces all of its own products and has a dedicated distribution and service network.

MOTUS USASee our ad on page 52

M900T Advanced Interactive Interface Treadmill

The sophisticated M900T Series treadmill incorporates soft-touch consoles and touch-sensitive buttons with blue LEDs for easy scrolling of statistics. A variety of custom and pre-programmed courses are at the user’s fingertips. Features include antimicrobial handlebars; spacious accessory trays; Quick Start functions; heart-rate monitoring; and the company’s innovative OneTouch buttons for instant speed and incline adjustments. Smooth, minimal-impact workouts are delivered via Hyundai precision electronics and a 5.7-HP Mitsubishi AC drive motor.

neWM90T Advanced Interactive Interface Treadmill

The M90T Series treadmill is a newly redesigned model of the 995T, featuring an advanced interactive interface. Units incorporate touch-sensitive buttons with blue LEDs for easy scrolling of statistics. Features include antimicrobial handlebars; spacious accessory trays; Quick Start functions; heart-rate monitoring; and the company’s innovative OneTouch buttons for instant speed and incline adjustments. Hyundai precision electronics and a 5.7-HP Mitsubishi AC drive motor, combined with a patented triple shock-absorption system, ensure smooth, minimal-impact workouts.

M990T Advanced Interactive Interface Treadmill

The M990T Series features advanced, interactive consoles with touch-sensitive buttons with blue LEDs for easy scrolling of statistics. These treadmills include custom and pre-programmed workouts and standardized military fitness tests, and are FitLinxx- and CSAFE-ready. Additional features include heart-rate monitoring via telemetry or contact sensors, OneTouch buttons for instant speed and incline adjustments, wax-less belt and deck, Hyundai electronics, a 5.7-HP Mitsubishi AC drive motor, and a patented triple shock-absorption system for minimal-impact workouts.

M990TL Integrated Embedded 15.1" Samsung LCD TV Treadmill

The M990TL Series features a fully integrated, embedded 15.1" Samsung LCD TV screen compatible with MP3, DVD, satellite TV, and 125 cable TV channels. These treadmills offer pre-programmed and custom workouts and all military testing protocols, and are FitLinxx- and CSAFE-ready. Features include touch-sensitive buttons with blue LEDs; heart-rate monitoring via touch or telemetry; One-Touch speed and incline; wax-less belt and deck; Hyundai electronics; 5.7-HP Mitsubishi AC drive motor; and a patented triple shock-absorption system.

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

M995T Advanced Interactive Treadmill

The M995T Series treadmills feature user-friendly interactive consoles and attractive touch-sensitive buttons with blue LEDs. These sleek units incorporate a 5.7-HP Mitsubishi AC motor, Hyundai electronics, and a patented triple shock-absorption system for an ultra-quiet, minimal-impact workout. Treadmills include a variety of custom and pre-pro-grammed courses, OneTouch for instant speed and incline adjustments, heart rate via touch or telemetry, antimicrobial handlebars, spacious accessory trays, and a strong commercial-grade warranty.

M995TL Integrated Embedded 15.1" Samsung LCD TV Treadmill

The M995TL Series offers a fully integrated, embedded 15.1" Samsung LCD TV screen, compatible with DVD, satellite TV, and 125 cable TV channels. These treadmills feature touch-sensitive buttons with blue LEDs; antimicrobial handlebars; a variety of workout programs; touch or telemetry heart rate; OneTouch speed and incline functions; Hyundai electronics; 5.7-HP Mitsubishi AC drive motor; a patented triple shock-absorption system; a speed range of 0.2 mph-13 mph; and an incline range of 0 to 15%.

NAUTILUS, INC.See our ad on page 30

T914

The T914 boasts a custom 4.8-HP AC motor with the patented Quinton Hyperdrive system to deliver maximum torque. REACT Absorption Control Technology provides optimal shock-absorption on the 22" x 60" belt, at speeds of 0.5 mph to 12 mph and elevations up to 15%. It features a low step-up height of 7.5"; Remote Operation Control (ROC) bar with TouchSensor technology; telemetry and contact heart-rate grips; motivating workouts; and a backlit LCD console that provides workout feedback.

T916

The T916 premium treadmill is equipped with a custom 4.8-HP AC motor with the patented Quinton Hyperdrive system, delivering maximum torque. The system powers a 22" x 63" running surface at speeds of 0.5 mph to 12 mph and at elevations up to 15%. It also offers Nautilus’ REACT Absorption Control System; a low step-up height of 7.5"; Remote Operation Control (ROC) bar with TouchSensor technology; 14 exercise programs; and a welded steel frame.

PARAMOUNT FITNESS CORPORATION

7.85T and 7.55T Treadmills

The Paramount 7.85T and 7.55T treadmills offer health clubs a progressive design; durable performance; a wide 22" x 64" running surface with cushioned footfall and firm push-off; and up to 21 training programs with a motivational color LCD screen. A USB port allows facilities to easily upgrade software and insert their logo into the display. User-centric features include a backlit Touch Sensor console, numeric keypad, heart-rate monitor, exercise data-tracking software, and state-of-the-art entertainment options.

PRECOR, INC.

954i Premium Commercial Treadmill

The Precor 954i treadmill boasts a sleek, wraparound console and user-friendly display that integrate with optional Cardio Theater Personal Viewing Screens (PVS). Durable dome switches regulate speed and incline, and exercisers can take advantage of heart-rate telemetry, SmartRate, QuickStart, speeds of 0.5 to 12 mph, and inclines of 0 to 15 degrees. The IFT Drive system creates a smooth feel, increases durability, and reduces power consumption by up to 30%. Ground Effects and Integrated Footplant technologies minimize impact.Manufacturer’s list price: $6,895.00

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

956i and 966i Premium Commercial Treadmills

Precor’s redesigned 956i and 966i treadmills feature cantilevered handrails and a wrap-around console, with optional Cardio Theater Personal Viewing Screens (PVS). A keypad controls entertainment selections and 26 cardio programs. Both units feature touch heart rate, SmartRate, QuickStart, and the IFT Drive system, which creates a smooth feel, increases durability, and reduces power consumption. Ground Effects and Integrated Footplant technologies minimize impact and deliver responsiveness at speeds of 0.5 to 16 mph and inclines of 0 to 15 degrees.Manufacturer’s list price: $7,795.00 (956i); $8,295.00 (966i)

PROMAXIMA FITNESS

STEX 8025T, 8025TL, 8025TX

The STEX 8025T treadmill represents superior commercial treadmill design, and is engineered to support the demanding workload that a full health club can place on it. Combined with heavy-duty construction, the STEX 8025T treadmill also incorporates stunning industrial design that boasts fluid lines and contemporary coloring to attract users and provide visual appeal. It’s available with an attachable LCD TV (model 8025L) or with a built-in LCD TV (model 8025TX).

STEX 8025TW, 8025TWL, 8025TWX

The STEX Cardio line is a technological breakthrough designed for comfort and results, along with durability, to withstand heavy commercial use. Users will appreciate its easy operation, sturdy, stunning design, and dependable engi-neering that ensure high performance. The STEX 8025TW series has a wide 22" x 64", 4-ply, self-lubricating belt. All the treadmills in this series are pre-wired for optional TV entertainment systems, and are iPod-compatible.

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

STEX XS 400

The STEX XS 400 treadmill represents superior commercial treadmill design, and is engineered to support the demanding workload that a full health club or similar commercial fitness facility can place on it. Combined with extremely heavy-duty construction, the STEX XS 400 treadmill also incorporates stunning industrial design that boasts fluid lines and contemporary coloring to attract users and provide visual appeal in either a workout facility or one’s home.

SCIFIT

AC5000

SCIFIT’s sleek AC5000 uses a 3-HP motor to provide durability and a smooth, com-fortable feel. It offers a slow starting speed; an incline up to 15%; an oversized walking/ running surface; and a 450-pound user weight capacity. The compact, easy-to-use console features a one-touch quick start and a variety of programs. Side handrail switches for speed and elevation make it easy to adjust the workout, and optional side handrails are available.Manufacturer’s list price: $5,795.00

AC5000M

SCIFIT’s AC5000M treadmill features a low starting speed, a wide belt, and

whisper-quiet function. With its optional extended handrails for added comfort and security, 3% decline, and reverse speed to 4 mph, the AC5000M is the perfect choice for rehabilitation. An oversized walking/running surface and a 450-pound user weight capacity accommodate all users. Side handrail switches for speed and elevation make it easy to adjust the workout without breaking stride.Manufacturer’s list price: $5,995.00

SPORTSART FITNESS

T680 Xtreme

The T680 Xtreme treadmill is equipped with the ECO-Powr (Extreme Conservation and Output) System, a maintenance-free, self-regulating, brushless drive system that delivers long-term savings by using up to 32% less electricity than standard DC-powered units. It also boasts the comfortable, joint-friendly My-Flex cush-ioning system, as well as the proprietary CardioAdvisor heart-rate-training system. The unit’s entertainment-ready 15.4" LCD screen can display full-screen workout data, full-screen video, or a split-screen combination.Manufacturer’s list price: $7,799.00

STAR TRACSee our ad on page 5

E-TR and E-TRe Treadmills

The E-TR is loaded with options for maximum entertainment, with features such as Made for iPod, a USB charging station, an integrated 900 MHz wireless controller, and a 15" HD personal viewing screen all available as upgrades. The E-TRe comes with a 15" embedded HD

touch screen. The treadmills are equipped with the wrap-around Aero Bar, personal cooling fans, a safety lockout control, iPulse heart-rate display, wireless telemetry, and contact heart-rate monitoring.

E-TRi Treadmill

The E-TRi is loaded with entertainment features, including a 15" HD LCD screen; a NTSC/ATSC digital tuner or PAL/SECAM tuner; Made for iPod integrated connector; USB power port; and a coaxial cable connector at the base. The treadmill is equipped with the wrap-around Aero Bar, personal cooling fans, and a safety lockout control, along with 12 programs, the iPulse dedicated heart-rate display, wireless telemetry, contact heart-rate monitoring, and a quarter-mile motivational track display.

E-TRx and E-TRxe Treadmills

The E-TRx and E-TRxe have been built with the benefit of Star Trac’s 20-plus years of treadmill innovation. The E-TRx offers optional upgrades, including: Made for iPod, USB charging station, integrated 900 MHz wireless controller, and 15" HD personal viewing screen. These features are standard on the E-TRxe. Both models come with dual-adjustable personal fans; a Hot Bar with one-finger speed and elevation controls; contact heart-rate grips; and 20% maximum elevation.

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800-523-0960 • Www.aesonflooring.com

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• Not for use on sport activity floors

SLIP NOMOR SAFETY SYSTEMUpgrades Surface To Commercial-Grade Safety Floor

MONEY BACKGUARANTEE

Toll free in the U.S. & Canada

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E-TRxi Treadmill

The E-TRxi treadmill is built on the culmination of Star Trac’s 20-plus years of treadmill innovation and the company’s flexible E Series entertainment offering. This stunning treadmill features an inte-grated 15" HD personal viewing screen with intuitively placed channel and volume controls; Made for iPod technology; a USB charging station; centered, dual-adjustable personal fans; an easily accessible Hot Bar with one-finger speed and elevation controls; an integrated stop button; contact heart-rate grips; and 20% maximum elevation.

P-TR Treadmill

The high-performance P-TR features a 5-HP motor, a 60" x 20" running surface, a speed range of .5 to 12.5 mph, and an incline of up to 15%. Integrated fans, an Aero Bar, and entertainment-ready capa-bilities increase comfort and motivation. Nine programs, wireless telemetry and contact heart-rate monitoring, and a motivational quarter-mile track offer variety and feedback. It also has a custom aluminum uniframe and a suspension system made from Soft Trac triple-cell neoprene rubber.

S-TR, S-TRc, S-TRx Treadmills

The S-TR and S-TRx treadmills are designed for light commercial facilities seeking a commercial-quality treadmill without a commercial price. The STRc is a customized model for use in unsupervised facilities. All are equipped with user-focused features, such as hourglass-shaped handrails; a 5" step-up height; a stop clip; larger buttons and fewer scrolling letters for easier viewing; 13 programs; personal cooling fans; and multiple cup holders. An integrated 15" HD personal viewing screen is optional.

SteamBathsAll-ElectricSteamGeneratorsAutomatic Controls

Standard or Custom Built

A.S.M.E. Approved

CE Available

e-mail: [email protected]: www.electrosteam.com

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

TECHNOgyMSee our ad on The bacK coVer

Excite Jog 700

Excite Jog, a low-profile commercial-grade treadmill, is powered by a 4-HP motor, with speeds that range from 0.25 to 11.2 mph. Jog offers a reduced footprint and is raised just 8" off the ground. A simplified display with enlarged graphics provides easy navigation and fast access to training programs, with heart-rate programs available through the hand sensors and telemetry. Jog is also available in two color options: Class (traditional gray) and Trend (black).

Excite Run 700 and 900 Series

Run treadmills combine sleek design with durability to meet the performance needs of all user types. Excite versions include an iPod-compatible touch-screen TV display; all models feature Fast Track Control joysticks to adjust speed and incline without compromising the user’s position. Run offers extensive program and testing options, with heart-rate programs available through the hand sensors and/or telemetry. Treadmills are available in two color options: Class (traditional gray) and Trend (black).’’

TRUE FITNESSSee our ad on page 22

CS3.0 and CS5.0 Treadmills

These ruggedly beautiful and durable machines offer a sleek, curving design and innovative, user-friendly features to keep runners and walkers coming back. Both the CS3.0 and the CS5.0 include a 22" x 60" running surface; a unique, cockpit-style console; personal cooling-system fans; and a low 7" step-up height. Each is backed by a lifetime warranty on the frame, five years on the motor, three years on parts, and one year on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $5,999.00

CS4.0

TRUE’s treadmills have been tested on the company’s “treadbuster” for thousands of hours to ensure that they will always “go the distance.” The TRUE CS4.0 is available in 220v only. Designed to stand up to the demands of full-com-mercial usage, it has a stunning, sweeping design that is complemented by a sturdy 5-HP AC MaxDrive motor that propels the belt to a top speed of 12 mph. A generous warranty provides years of worry-free operation.Manufacturer’s list price: $6,899.00

CS6.0 Treadmill

The sleek, curving design of the CS6.0 treadmill brings quiet, durable elegance to health clubs, while innovative, user-friendly features improve exercisers’ workout experiences. The CS6.0 includes a large, 23" x 63" running surface; a unique, cockpit-style console; personal cooling-system fans; and an 18% incline. This workhorse is backed by a lifetime warranty on the frame, five years on the motor, three years on parts, and three years on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $7,699.00

CS8.0 Treadmill

The CS8.0 is designed to stand up to the demands of full-commercial usage. It’s beautiful on the outside and sturdy on the inside, with a 5-HP AC MaxDrive motor that propels the belt to 15 mph.; a 23" x 63" running surface; a cockpit-style console; personal cooling fans; and an 18% incline and -3% decline. The warranty is lifetime on the frame, five years on the motor, three years on parts, and three years on labor.Manufacturer’s list price: $7,999.00

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

PS100 Treadmill

The TRUE PS Series treadmill was engineered to be a real workhorse, but designed to look like a thoroughbred. Built on a commercial-grade frame and outfitted with the most sturdy and durable components in its class, the PS Series treadmill will be attractive and reliable for years to come.Manufacturer’s list price: $2,699.00

PS1100 Treadmill

The TRUE PS1100 light commercial treadmill is engineered for performance and durability. This workhorse is driven by a powerful 5-HP AC Endura-Drive motor that delivers TRUE’s signature smooth and quiet acceleration, and proven reliability.Manufacturer’s list price: $4,499.00

PS900 Treadmill

The TRUE PS900 light commercial treadmill is engineered for performance and dura-bility. This workhorse is driven by a powerful 4-HP DC self-cooling motor that delivers TRUE’s signature smooth and quiet acceleration, and proven reliability.Manufacturer’s list price: $3,699.00

WOODWAy USA

Desmo

WOODWAY’s flagship model, the Desmo, offers uncompromising durability and performance, and a patented running surface that members will appreciate. The Desmo utilizes WOODWAY’s slat and ball bearing surface to provide a nearly frictionless environment. With the Desmo, health clubs experience fewer repairs, less maintenance, and lower electrical costs. WOODWAY provides a generous seven-year wear warranty, with a life expectancy of 200,000 miles on a single running surface.

neWDesmo Elite

WOODWAY, a specialized treadmill man-ufacturer, combines a high-performance running surface with innovative interactive entertainment options to form its latest product, the Desmo Elite. The Desmo Elite adds an embedded 17" LCD touch screen to WOODWAY’s legendary 35-year Desmo history. WOODWAY’s patented running surface is now complemented with inno-vative entertainment options, including a Made for iPod docking station, Internet connectivity, USB workout tracking, and streaming music and video options.

neWEcoMill

The EcoMill is an all “green,” manually powered treadmill that requires zero electricity to operate. The EcoMill is completely self-contained and utilizes a battery to power the display and elevation systems. The user actually generates electricity while exercising, which recharges the battery. The EcoMill takes advantage of WOODWAY’s superior, near frictionless drive system and allows users to work out in an eco-friendly way.

Force

Based on WOODWAY’s patented slat and ball bearing design, the Force utilizes a magnetic braking system (0-150 pounds) that turns the user into “the force” that drives the belt. Exercisers are tethered to the rear of the treadmill and actually spin the belt as they run; adding resistance increases the force needed. Available data includes speed, power, time, heart rate, and distance, as well as horizontal and vertical forces that are shown in graph form.

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| Innovations | FIT Extra Treadmills

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New high-performance Zenterra bamboofitness flooring is great for your business,

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Mercury

The Mercury provides the same quality, reliability, and cost savings that WOOD-WAY’s classic design is known for, and is ideal for health clubs that have financial or space constraints. The treadmill includes WOODWAY’s patented slat and ball bearing surface to provide a nearly frictionless environment, so that clubs experience fewer repairs, less maintenance, and lower electrical costs. WOODWAY provides a seven-year wear warranty, with a life expectancy of 200,000 miles on a single running surface.

Path

The Path provides the same quality, reliability, and cost savings that are expected from WOODWAY in a more compact package for health clubs that require supreme space efficiency. The Path utilizes WOODWAY’s patented slat and ball bearing surface to provide a nearly frictionless environment, so that clubs experience fewer repairs, less maintenance, and lower electrical costs. WOODWAY provides a generous seven-year wear warranty, with a life expectancy of 200,000 miles on a single running surface.

neWSpeedBoard

The new SpeedBoard allows any user, regardless of size or weight, to instantly achieve the speed they desire without the use of elevation or a motor. The SpeedBoard’s sophisticated, curved design is the culmination of years of non-motorized design and development by WOODWAY and Alex Astilean. The key ingredients are WOODWAY’s patented running surface and near-frictionless drive system, which allow the running belt to move freely.

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| Innovations | BuyersMart

Special Advertising Section

The BuyersMart is an effective shopping tool—one that allows you to find out about a wide range of products and services without leaving the comfort of your club. The following companies are also listed on www.ihrsa.org/buyersmart, where an advanced search function enables you to find the companies and products you are looking for easily. For detailed contact information, please refer to the advertiser index at the end of this section.

Product Profiles

®

»

SpoTLIghT

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Sports & Fitness Insurance CorporationSince 1985, Sports & Fitness Insurance (SFIC) has been in the business of insuring health clubs and fitness centers. For the past eight years SFIC has been IHRSA’s only business partner providing General Liability Insurance for our industry. As a member of IHRSA’s Group Purchasing Program, SFIC offers General Liability Insurance, Property Insurance, Professional Liability Insurance, Umbrellas, Worker’s Compensation Insurance and Surety Bonds for facilities in all 50 states.

» at Sports & Fitness Insurance our service and commitment ensure you a perfect fit. contact us at post office box 1967, Madison, MS 39130–1967 800-844-0536, ext 2222 or 2252; 601-898-8464; 601-707-1037 (FaX) [email protected]

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The new CYBEX FT-450 Functional Trainer has a unique patent-pending design that adds two key features to enhance functional training capabilities. First, the Progressive Stabilization Pad, which allows the user to incrementally modify their stability, and the Cable Width Adjustment, which results in

innumerable height and width configurations. No other product offers such game-changing training versatility.

» For more information call us at +1-774-324-8000, or visit us at www.cybexintl.com.

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| Innovations | BuyersMart

Special Advertising Section

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Aeromat/EcoWise Fitness

ASF International CI Solutions

CYBEX International, Inc.

A-1 Textiles

HEX Tanning

aeromat/ecoWise 2070 Zanker road San Jose, ca 95131 Toll-Free: 877-278-6158 Fax: 707-221-4040 [email protected] www.aeromats.com www.ecowisefitness.com

Aeromat/EcoWise Fitness Products specializes in supplying high quality mats and related fitness products to the fitness, sporting and rehabilitation industries, and offers the market both product innovations and brand name recognition.

» For a dealer near you, call today! call toll-free: 877-278-6158 or visit www.aeromats.com or www.ecowisefitness.com.

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The eSpinner™ is a breakthrough new Spinning® bike that brings the experience out of the group cycling room and onto the cardio floor. Now users of all levels and abilities can experience the fun, energy and excitement of a Spinning® class whenever they want, and on their terms.

With a state-of-the-art, embedded touch screen, it’s more than an intuitive

dash board – it’s a virtual Spinning® Master Instructor. Simply choose a goal and intensity level and you’re off to a guided, virtual Spinning® class experience.

» For more information on the eSpinner™ visit www.startrac.com/espinner or call 800-228-6635.

Fitness Sound Systems Dedicated exclusively to Fitness Sound Systems since 1975! Free “Professional Fitness Audio Buyer’s Guide” featuring SupremeProAudio, Samson, Shure, Telex, Audio-Technica and Special Projects wireless microphones, variable speed tape decks and CD players, speakers and amplifiers. SupremeFM wireless

entertainment systems.Free Lifetime Technical Support. 24-hour shipping...99% same day! Largest selection of components with 100% secure online shopping. Competitive prices!

» For more information, please call Jane plaugher at 800-445-7398 or visit www.Supremeaudio.com

group Strength by Iron gripIron Grip’s Group Strength equipment offers superior safety, utility and versatility for group strength training classes. The user-friendly urethane-encased weight plates can be loaded onto a bar, or comfortably handled by the

grips and used in place of dumbbells. Group Strength also includes a sturdy bar and durable commercial-grade collars.

» For more information, visit www.irongrip.com or call 800-664-4766.

rubber Sports SurfacesMondo's wide ranges of sport surfaces are engineered to meet the specific needs of every athletic facility; from gymnasiums, weight rooms and cardio areas to indoor and outdoor running tracks.

Mondo has combined quality, durability and performance in its various product

lines. Engineered to withstand punishment from free weights and barbells. It combines exceptional shock absorption and energy return for unparalleled safety and comfort.

» For more information please visit our website: www.mondousa.com

Special Advertising Section

| Innovations | BuyersMart

Special Advertising Section

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Mondo USA

Paramount Fitness Corp. Star Trac

Supreme Audio, Inc.

Iron Grip Barbell Company

Tune Belt, Inc.

paramount XL2 Strength circuit The new Paramount XL2 Circuit is a modern and space-efficient 16-piece strength conditioning system designed

to meet the performance, reliability and budget demands of today’s com-mercial fitness facilities. Advanced engineering features include a pro-

gressive low-profile contemporary design with fully enclosed weight stacks and premium contoured pads, intuitive exercise adjustments, and precise biomechanics.

» For more information contact paramount Fitness corp., 6450 e. bandini blvd., Los angeles, ca 90040-3185, call (800) 721-2121, (323) 721-2121 or visit www.paramountfitness.com.

For free samples & pricingcall: 1-800-860-1175

visit: www.tunebelt.com

cardio entertainment accessories & Instructor Supplies

• iPod Armbands• Microphone Belts & Batteries• Ten Quality Headphones

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A new study conducted at the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences suggests that exercise is not only good for expectant mothers, but may provide benefits for their unborn babies as well. The study documented improvements in fetal heart rate, respiratory movements, and central nervous system control. —|

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IHRSA Report

First Set 80 | In Brief 82 | International 85 | Board Profiles 86 Member News 88 | Calendar 92 | Coming Soon 92

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| IHRSA Report | First Set

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I have to say, “I’m so excited!” You’re probably thinking, what on earth can you possibly be so excited about in the middle of this recession, depression, swine flu outbreak, and all of the other doomsday scenarios that we’re reading about or having to deal with right now?

I’ll tell you what I’m so excited about. There’s never been a better time in the world to be alive. People are healthier and happier than at any other time in history.

More people are using our clubs than ever before. Of all the industries affected by this negative turn of events, we, arguably, have been affected the least. In fact, what’s bad news to others is good news for us—no matter what happens, people want to go on living, and they want to go on living in a vibrant way.

As long as we remain vibrant, excited, and important to our members, then they’ll keep coming to us. We have a sense of passion about making peoples’ lives better. People are attracted to us because we stand out.

How do we stand out?We stand out as a beacon of opportunity. A beacon of hope. A beacon for

positive change.We’re a candle on a hillside on a pitch-black night. The opportunity we

offer to enjoy health and happiness shines brightly amidst all the bad news. So how do we attract more moths to our life-giving flame?

Ironically, we do it by turning up the heat, by making the flame as bright and hot as possible. We talk, walk, and live positively.

The process begins with you: You need to cultivate a self-image that bespeaks success. Reflect that image to your staff, so they have a leader they can believe in. They’ll be affected positively by your positive attitude, and then they, in turn, will infect all of your current and potential members with an attitude of opportunity—a belief that getting fit does, in fact, make a difference in many areas of one’s life.

Science has shown that, when one lives simply and positively, things tend to get better, which leads to an increase in positive situations all around us. A well-known medical phenomenon is known as the placebo effect, meaning that, if a patient thinks they’re receiving the right medication, they’ll some-times improve even if they’re only getting a worthless sugar pill.

Studies of religion and meditation have demonstrated that thinking about and praying for certain things leads to a greater chance of those things actually happening. The scientifically proven increase in positive response can be as little as 10% or as high as hundreds of percent.

The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association is a not-for-profit trade association open to investor-owned and member-owned fitness, racquet and athletic facilities. Associate memberships are available to manufacturers or suppliers of products and services of use to IHRSA members.

800-228-4772 USA & Canada 617-951-0055 International 617-951-0056 FAXwww.ihrsa.org www.healthclubs.com E-mail: [email protected]

IHRSA Board of Directors

David Patchell-Evans: Chairperson GoodLife Fitness Clubs 519-661-0190 ext. 238

lynne Brick: Brick Bodies Fitness 410-252-8058

Rick Beusman: Saw Mill Club 914-241-0797

Bob Shoulders: Fayetteville Athletic Club 479-587-0500

Mike Raymond: Curves International 254-399-9285

Susan Cooper: BodyBusiness Health Club & Spa 512-459-9424

Art Curtis: Millennium Partners Sports Club Management, LLC 617-476-8910

Sandy Hoeffer: Western Athletic Clubs 415-901-9243

David Hardy: Club Fit Corporation 780-953-4273

Kilian Fisher: ILAM + 353 (0) 45 902235

Jeff Klinger: Anytime Fitness 651-438-5050

Kay yuspeh: Elite Fitness & Racquet Clubs 262-786-0880

Bill McBride: Club One 415-477-3000

Gene laMott: Ex-officio TW Holdings 360-877-3915

SPECIAL ADVISOR LATIN AMERICA

Richard Bilton: Companhia Athletica (55) 11-5181-2000

®

The Year of Hope

David Patchell-Evans IHRSA Chairperson

>

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| IHRSA Report | First Set

w w w . i h r s a . o r g | J U l y 2 0 0 9 | C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l 8 1

I’m betting that, if you focus on employing your own health and happiness as an example for your staff, and if, subsequently, your staff serves as an example to your members, you’ll increase your business by at least 10%.

You become what you think about and what you focus on. As I said, I’m betting—in fact, virtually guaranteeing—that business will improve by 10%, or more, overall when you focus on what you can do as opposed to what might happen. This doesn’t mean that you don’t have to work hard. It means that you do the hard work better, but, as a result, you’ll get better results. And there’s another big bonus! You’ll have a good time because you’ll become more successful by working smarter.

This, folks, is the soul of our business. We succeed by reflecting that truth and by providing a place where people can enrich their lives by becoming what they’re capable of being. You can achieve the metaphysical only if you take care of the physical.

Our job as world leaders in health and fitness, and for IHRSA as a world leader in the club indus-try, is to charge forward as a shining example of what every individual can accomplish. I’m looking forward to setting my own example, and to helping IHRSA continue to be a shining light worldwide. Let’s go for it!

As I said—I’m excited!

– David “Patch” Patchell-Evans, [email protected]

PS: I’d like to thank IHRSA’s board of directors for electing me to the position of board chairperson. I’d also like to thank Chairperson Ex-officio Gene LaMott, in particular, for his encouragement, support, and leadership over the past year; I look forward to his ongoing assistance. I’m also excited to have the oppor-tunity to work with IHRSA President and CEO Joe Moore and the rest of the IHRSA staff as we move ahead in this, IHRSA’s year of hope and world fitness unification. —|

Topics and SpeakersAll webinars take place on Thursday, 2pm EDT

� July 9th: Club Programming for Fun, Retention & ProfitLaurie Cingle, PresidentLaurie Cingle Consulting & Coaching

� August 13th: Personal Training Management –Eight Critical ComponentsBrent Darden, Owner & General ManagerTELOS Fitness Center

� September 10th: Youth Performance Training –Capitalizing on a Multi-Billion Dollar MarketBill Parisi, Founder & CEOParisi Speed School

Summer 2009 WebinarsMaximizing Non-Dues Revenue

International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association | Seaport Center, 70 Fargo Street, Boston, MA 02210 USA

Sponsored byIHRSA webinars continue this summer witha special focus on non-dues revenue, acritical bottom line contributor for your club.Sign up. Log on. Listen in. This is IHRSA-qualityeducation delivered right to your desktop.

Webinars are value-priced at $49 per log-in.Have as many people view and participateas you like. Plus, you get unlimited access toyour webinar archive for 60 days!

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| IHRSA Report | In Brief

Leave Conflicts at the Locker-Room Door

Locker rooms are often the frontline for many contentious, but delicate, facility issues. However, good locker-room design and clear policies can help prevent potentially heated issues—leaving conflict at the door.

Camera phones. Camera phones—cell phones with built-in digital cameras—are small, portable, and look just like a regular cell phone.

If used improperly, they can be threatening to the privacy of your members. In a survey conducted by IHRSA, none of the respondents indicated that camera phones had been misused in their facilities. However, privacy concerns have prompted many club operators—especially those with celebrity clientele—to ban all cell phones in locker rooms and rest rooms. While IHRSA knows of no cases involving the misuse of camera phones in gyms thus far, operators are wise to be concerned about potential future liability.

Children in opposite-gender locker rooms. Many club operators, especially those of family-oriented clubs, struggle with the issue of allowing children in opposite-gender locker rooms. While most would agree that it’s not safe for small children to be left on their own in the locker room, many also believe that bringing children of the opposite sex into a locker room violates the privacy of other members. Here are some tips to help you address this potentially contentious issue:

• If a facility’s layout and budget permit, offer a separate family locker room or other private changing area, such as a bathroom.

• Establish an age-limit restriction on allowing children into opposite-gender locker rooms. If possible, consult a physician to give your club’s policy credibility.

• Offer free, short-term babysitting (for example, a 20-minute limit) while a child’s parent showers or changes.

• Let parents know that a staff member is available to accompany a child who’s over the age limit into the gender-appropriate locker room.

• If an age cut-off is not imposed, create awareness by posting signs reading, “Parents: Bringing an opposite-sex child into this locker room may cause discomfort to other members. Please use discretion.”

Property Theft. Health club locker rooms have unfortunately become a prime target for professional thieves in recent years. Not only do thieves steal personal items, they can also steal credit cards and driver’s licenses and use them to commit identity theft. The following tips can help prevent such outcomes:

• Front-desk staff should make eye contact with all entering and exiting patrons. The possibility of being identified is a powerful deterrent to would-be thieves.

• Require that every guest complete a registration card with a copy of a photo ID, and check that the information on the documents matches the

registration card. Document the time of the visit in case a theft occurs.

• Have staff conduct frequent, random sweeps of locker rooms.

• Remind patrons to lock their lockers and to not bring valuable items into the club.

• Ask patrons to report suspicious individuals to management. Members may spot tell-tale behavior that thieves wouldn’t dare try in front of uniformed staff.

• Membership-tracking software can also help identify thieves. When a theft occurs, study the roster and try to identify the possible perpetrators.

• When designing or renovating locker rooms, install lockers at a 45-degree angle to the walls. This eliminates thief-friendly hiding spots.

• If it’s legal in your state, place surveillance cameras at locker room entrances and exits. —|

.org For more information about locker room safety, please log on to www.ihrsa.org/publicpolicy

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RAVE REVIEWS for the Next Levelin Professional Education!

“Being a single mother of two, I wasvery nervous to leave home. Not onlyhas this been a motivating week work-wise, it has also improved my self-growth as a woman.”

Jennifer Keller, Member Services DirectorTilton Fitness

“You can’t compare the learning youget from the Institute to anything. Therelationships that are built and opensharing of information is so valuable.The class size is small, which keeps it

personable. The training and information I got fromthe Institute has been awesome. I would recommendthis to anyone who wants to learn and grow in thefitness industry.”

Kevin O’Keefe, Sales ManagerMVP Sports Clubs

“I have never attended a conferencewhere I was able to take away somany useful tools to use right away.Thank You!”

Cher Harris, Assistant General ManagerThe Houstonian Club

“The Institute for Professional ClubManagement allowed us the opportunityfor great networking. The size of ourgroup was perfect because we wereable to be ourselves and really get to

share ideas. This was truly a memorable event that Iwill never forget!”

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A New Spectacular Location in the Sierra Nevadas. Out-of-the-Box Ice Breaker. Team BuildingAdventure Sports. Rock Solid Education delivered by Industry Experts. Professional Networking.Bring a Spouse. Optional Fun Day. And the man who made Disneyland hum!

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Page 86: July 2009 Club Business International

IHRSA MeetingsPreparing you for great accomplishments!Plan to attend one or more upcoming IHRSA meetings and you will be preparedfor great accomplishments. Each IHRSA meeting is designed to address specificneeds and provide you with the tools to excel in discrete areas of expertise. For28 years, IHRSA meetings have been synonymous with success.

Register today by visiting ihrsa.org/meetings. Meeting...accomplished!

10th ANNUAL IHRSA / FITNESS BRASIL LATIN AMERICANCONFERENCE & TRADE SHOWOctober 22-24, 2009 | São Paulo, Brazil | Transamérica Expo CenterThe fitness industry is growing fast and setting precedents in Latin America . . . and the worldis taking notice. Join over 10,000 attendees and more than 130 trade show exhibitors inbeautiful São Paulo as we focus on ‘preparation’ that leads to resounding fitness success.

9th ANNUAL IHRSA EUROPEAN CONGRESSOctober 22-25, 2009 | Dublin, IrelandThe European market remains one of the most vibrant, fluid markets in the world today. Jointogether with the movers and shakers in the European fitness community to strategize on howto grow, prosper, and influence the entire European community for the greater good.

8th ANNUAL IHRSA ASIA-PACIFIC FORUMNovember 10-13, 2009 | Tokyo, JapanThe Japanese health club industry boasts at least three companies in multiple categories in the2008 listing of the IHRSA Global Top 25, making Tokyo a perfect setting for the 2009 IHRSAAsia-Pacific Forum. Included in the event will be a tour of some the country's finest clubs,which are run with a distinctive management and operational style that cannot be seen any-where else. Join us for an exciting and invigorating four days at this lively forum!

IHRSA 2010: 29th ANNUAL INTERNATIONALCONVENTION & TRADE SHOWMarch 10-13, 2010 | San Diego, California USA | San Diego Convention CenterIHRSA 2010 returns to San Diego for another spectacular Convention and Trade Show. Witha positive theme, 'The Future is You!', we will focus on moving beyond the economic struggleswe have experienced and celebrate YOU, the individual who is truly at the core of whatmakes the fitness industry so successful.

TO LEARN MORE OR TO REGISTER• Visit ihrsa.org/meetings• Call +1 617-951-0055 or 800-228-4772

International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association | Seaport Center, 70 Fargo Street, Boston, MA 02210 USA

meetings spread-0709CBI:meetings ad-0709CBI 5/29/09 6:41 AM Page 1

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| IHRSA Report | International

International ‘Initiative’Industry’s success depends on global strategy

IHRSA is, in the opinion of many people throughout the world, the global l eader when i t comes to unifying

health clubs, fitness facili-ties, recreation centers, community and workplace health programs, etc. It’s also regarded as the lead-ing organization, world-wide, in terms of political lobbying on behalf of tax policies that minimize puni-tive taxes on, and maximize tax credits for, fitness-related activities.

This leadership position has been attained by IHRSA by consistently doing the right thing, at the right time, and with the noblest of intentions, for more than 28 years. But let’s not grow too comfortable with our laurels. Instead, let’s think of IHRSA’s significant stature as a world leader in health and fitness promotion as simply the beginning:

Like a child who’s learned their ABCs, we’ve gone through primary school, graduated from high school, received an advanced university education, and now—now, we’re really ready to take on the world.

But one of the things that IHRSA knows from experience is that you don’t take on the world by telling it what to do. You take on the world by providing a shining example of what’s been done right, and by building on everyone’s contributions, achievements, and successes. You become the global integrator of best beliefs, best practices, best educa-tional programming, best trade shows, and best networking opportunities.

Today, IHRSA’s principal international goals are to:

1. Grow its international presence from 30% to 50%;

2. Give IHRSA-member clubs in the U.S. an edge over their competition by providing them with information about best practices from throughout the world;

3. Similarly, give offshore IHRSA-member clubs the opportu-nity to learn from everyone else;

4. Continue to make IHRSA’s Annual International Con-vention and Trade Show a worldwide, cutting-edge industry conference;

5. Have IHRSA’s convention and trade-show schedule be regarded as the four most crucial days in the business year;

6 . Cont inue to make IHRSA’s monthly magazine, Club Business International (CBI), the most recognized and important piece of literature in our industry;

7. Fill CBI with information from around the globe,

giving every IHRSA member the greatest competitive advan-tage possible.

As the owner-operator of 170 clubs in Canada, which already operate in two official languages, I have fitness interests in other parts of the world, as well. I’ve also done motivational presentations for fitness professionals on most of the seven continents. Each time I travel, I try to give the best that I have to the people in that country; and I always get back as much as I’ve given. I invariably return with impor-tant ideas and valuable examples of ways to help my own business prosper.

My company, GoodLife Fitness, is the eighth-largest club chain in the world, in part, because I’ve traversed the world to find out what other people are doing right. No matter where you’re from, you’ll become more successful in your own country if you learn from everywhere else. This is our golden opportunity as Americans, Europeans, Africans, Asians, Australians, Indians, etc.: the more we give, and the more we share, the more we get in return, and the more we grow.

As you move forward, pursuing the goal of maximizing the success of your business—whether it’s a small independent club, a major chain, or one of the industry’s incredibly vital suppliers—IHRSA will help you achieve all that you possibly can… anywhere in the world! —|

– David “Patch” Patchell-Evans, [email protected]

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By David “Patch” Patchell-Evans

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| IHRSA Report | Board Profiles

Introducing: Kay Yuspeh and Bill McBride

u KAY YUSPEHElite Fitness and Racquet Clubs

Preface: Kay Yuspeh is the owner of four Elite clubs in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, market. For nearly a decade, she managed the South Shore Racquet Club, also in Milwaukee, before purchasing the Highlander Tennis Club in 1986. Since then, she’s acquired three additional tennis facilities and con-verted them all to the Elite brand. Yuspeh and her team recently broke ground on extensive renovations at the newest location, in Mequon. This 80,000-square-foot club will be enlarged by approxi-mately 10,000 square feet and will undergo an over-haul of all of its amenities.

Preview: Yuspeh, whose expertise includes the ability to manage more than 30 indoor tennis courts, would like to help IHRSA—which began life as the International Racquet Sports Association—refocus on the tennis aspect of the industry, particularly

at the association’s annual convention. “We need more tennis operators to talk to club people about how to run tennis programs, how to grow tennis, and how to make money off of tennis in their clubs,” she observes.

She also suggests that IHRSA should lead a nation-wide promotional campaign about the value of joining a health club.

In addition, Yuspeh would like to offer assistance with the development of a set of standards for the industry, a possibility that IHRSA is currently considering. “I think the way hotels are ranked according to what they offer—with a starred system, 4-star, 5-star, etc.—would be a good way to evaluate health clubs. Some of the big chains have more equipment and amenities, but independent clubs usu-ally offer more personalized service—it’s different. We should all succeed, even though we compete against one another.”

u BILL MCBRIDEClub One, Inc.

Preface: Since 1986, Bill McBride has worked in virtually every corner of club sales, management, and operations. He cur-rently serves as the chief operating officer (COO) of Club One, Inc., in San Francisco. Prior to joining Club One, McBride was the senior vice president of sales and business develop-ment for The Sport & Health Company, an East Coast club company in the Wash-ington, D.C., market. He’s also served as president of the board of directors for the Mid-Atlantic Club Management Association (MACMA).

Preview: Despite the economic and healthcare-related challenges that the industry currently faces, McBride feels that IHRSA is well equipped to maintain its record of success. “I truly believe that IHRSA has the character, integrity, and

mechanisms to continue making this industry great, and to influence the public in an even more dramatic way,” he insists.

One of the more prominent challenges, he notes, is that the industry hasn’t been able to entice the general populace to make use of the traditional club environment. “We must position the industry as truly a place for ‘regular’ people, not just self-motivated exer-cisers. Clubs, collectively, should be reaching a much larger percentage of the population.”

During his time on the board, McBride would like to assist with: legislative initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles via tax and economic incentives; developing improved standards of delivery and operations, to continue pro-fessionalizing the industry; and fostering the industry’s economic growth through partnerships, public-service initiatives, and cooperation among constituencies. —|

Yuspeh McBride

This month, IHRSA welcomes two industry veterans to its board of directors: Kay Yuspeh, the founder and owner of the Elite Fitness and Racquet Clubs, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Bill McBride, the COO of Club One, Inc., based in San Francisco. In this issue of CBI, we take a moment to briefly introduce both Yuspeh and McBride to IHRSA’s membership.

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| IHRSA Report | Member News

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Eric Schuler and Peter Kroon, the cofounders of Twin Oaks Software in Berlin, Connecticut, started their club-services software firm 18 years ago “with a mission to create the service

they couldn’t find when they were on the club side of the business,” explains Sales Manager Carole Oat. Schuler came from Twin Oaks Sports and Fitness, one of the largest health and recreation companies in Vermont, and Kroon had previously served as the president of Healthtrax Properties, Inc., and as vice president of Club Corporation of America (now ClubCorp). The team at the top of Twin Oaks is rounded out by General Manager M.J. Laliberte, another Healthtrax alumna.

Twin Oaks’ success and longevity have been ensured, to a great degree, by its sharp focus. “First,” notes Oat, “we serve health clubs very well and don’t try to be all things to all people. We’ve grown by specializing in the health club field and not grasping at business in adjacent industries. Second, although we have international clients in Canada, Europe, and Russia, we put most of our efforts into our U.S. clients, which allows us to serve them daily and, even, face-to-face, when necessary.”

Strengths“Our key strength is, of course, our people. We hire quality professionals and provide them with an enjoyable work environment, so they stay with us for the long haul. That commitment gives continuity of service to our clients.

“On the solutions side, we believe in one-stop shopping for software and billing. When people have to use different vendors for their club-management technologies, the result is often disjointed and unreliable. We consider Twin Oaks Club Management software to be a ‘best-of-both-worlds’ solution that employs replication to marry online accessibility and the speed of a local network. As a result, the software is never ‘down,’ and a club’s data is stored in two places, reducing the risk of catastrophic loss. In addition to standard functions, we also offer a variety of cutting-edge features, such as paperless contracts; personal training alerts to cell phones and PDAs; sophisticated e-mailing capabilities; a fully featured member portal; and more.

“We also take service a step forward, by following up on delinquent accounts in-house, with our own licensed and bonded member-services department. There’s no outsourcing to third-party collection agencies, which eliminates data-exchange hassles.”

Opportunities“The key drivers of our development and growth must come from within. We continue to find creative new ways for clubs to generate more income, retain members, and become more profitable. Our software engineers work hard to roll out enhancements regularly, maintaining our track record of innovations that produce greater ease-of-use for clients.”

Challenges“Data breaches are a challenge and concern for everyone. Banks are reissuing cards automatically with no forewarning, which, for clubs, increases the number of delin-quent accounts, as many members forget to provide their new information.” —|

Full Disclosure Twin Oaks Software

Pro Forma: year Founded: 1991

2009 Revenues: N/A

Annual Growth Rate: 2005-2008, approximately 16%-20%/year

Employees: 74

Working from the InsideThe Twin Oaks team made a conscious decision, early on, to focus less on outside marketing and more on client development. The firm’s work with new and existing customers centers on soft-ware, billing, marketing, training, member services, and hardware selection.

“If we service clients to the max and provide them with the right tools and support, we can help them be more profitable,” asserts Sales Manager Carole Oat. “For example, when clubs first begin working with us, we do full data conversions, all in extreme detail, com-pletely tested, and tied out to the penny. It’s helped us to establish an excellent track record and a strong reputation in the industry. Our clients get to know their support team, and we become like a partner to them.”

Twin Oaks’ approach has kept client turnover extremely low, at less than 2% per year, and has resulted in a steady influx of new client referrals. That, in turn, has allowed the firm to keep its core pricing the same for 16 years—with no haggling. —|

From l., Laliberte, Schuler, Kroon

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| IHRSA Report | Member News

PumpedUpMedia.com

u PumpedUpMedia.com is a comprehensive media entity that specializes in Internet-targeted local marketing to offer integrated marketing solutions to clients. The com-pany has a fleet of online media sites and listings that help clients enhance their reach to their targeted audience, and specifically to consumers who actively use the Internet to search for information and products related to health, fitness, weight loss, personal wellness, and nutritional supplements. Some of the company’s sites include healthclublist.com, healthandfitnesspros.com, healthgab.com, and exercisefitness routines.com. For more information, contact the company at 10851 King Bay Drive, Boca Raton, Fl 33498; 603-247-5776; www.pumpedupmedia.com. —|

SharpBrains u SharpBrains is a market-research and publishing company focused on the brain fitness field. Its main publica-tions are The State of the Brain Fitness Software Market 2009, and The SharpBrains Guide to Brain Fitness: 18 Interviews with Scientists, Practical Advice, and Product Reviews to Keep Your Brain Sharp. According to Robin Klaus, the chairman of Club One fitness centers, “As our population ages, the

ASSOCIATE PROFILES

Expresso Fitness Corporationu Expresso Fitness Corporation, a supplier and developer of interactive cardio fitness systems, in Sunnyvale, California, has appointed George Pardo to the position of chief financial officer (CFO). Pardo has more than 25 years of financial planning and management experi-ence with high-tech companies, ranging from startups to multinational firms. He joins Expresso from ITM Software, in Santa Clara, California, where he was instrumental in securing the company’s acquisition by BMC Software. Prior to that, Pardo drove the close of funding rounds with NEA and Goldman Sachs at Teneros, in Mountain View, California, which focuses on compre-hensive application and data continuity for Microsoft Exchange e-mail. He also worked at Redline Networks, in Campbell, California; Piiceon, Inc., in Fremont, California, a division of Dynatech Corp.; and Sun Microsystems Professional Services Division, in Santa Clara, California. —|

Gerflor Sports Flooring, LLC u The Washington City Community Center in Utah earned recognition as Gerflor North America’s Outstanding Project of 2008. The state-of-the-art 110,000-square-foot center features Gerflor’s Taraflex flooring, including Sport M Plus and Multi-Use 3.0, in three separate full-sized gyms; a walking/jogging track; a group-cycling/aerobics room; and a childcare area. The popular facility also houses Utah’s largest indoor aquatic complex and a rock-climbing wall. “We made the decision to use Taraflex flooring because of the value of the product to the client and its quality,” says Mark Wilson, the architect of the center. “Taraflex brings tremendous benefits because of

its flexibility to be used for many different sports activities and other purposes,” he adds. Design Team of Salt lake City, Utah, installed the flooring. —|

IDEA Health & Fitness Association u Congratulations to the IDEA Health & Fitness Associ-ation for its recent induction into the National Fitness Hall of Fame. The San Diego-based organization has a membership of more than 23,000 health, fitness, and wellness professionals in 85 countries worldwide. Award recipients were chosen on the basis of their dedi-cation of service to others, and for exceeding the mission of helping millions of people get fit, stay in shape, and live healthy and productive lives. Accepting the award for IDEA was Nicki Anderson, the 2008 IDEA Personal Trainer of the year. “IDEA’s purpose is to ‘Inspire the World to Fitness,’ and its members do this every day, influencing 25 million people every year, through personal training, group-exercise classes, yoga, Pilates—and the list of activities goes on and on,” says Anderson. —|

ASSOCIATE NEWS

>

George Pardo

IDEA founders Peter and Kathie Davis

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| IHRSA Report | Member News

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fields of physical fitness and brain fitness naturally merge and, as this happens, a whole new field of valued-added services will emerge for our members. High-quality informational resources, such as those offered by SharpBrains, are crucial to the success of this merger.” For more information, contact the company at 660 4th St., Ste. 205, San Francisco, CA 94107; 415-318-3467; www.SharpBrains.com. —|

Workman Publishing

u Workman Publishing produces the Younger Next Year books, which were developed by one of America’s top doctors and one of his successful 74-year-old patients. The Younger Next Year series—which promotes its Rule #1, exercise six days a week—has 650,000 copies in print. The company reports that health clubs are ordering books by the thousands to boost membership sales; appeal to the over-40 crowd; and pro-mote going to the gym as a lifelong habit. Special volume discounts are available. For more information, please contact the company at 225 Varick St., New york, Ny 10014; 212-614-7508; www.workman.com. —|

ASSOCIATE PROFILES

Life Fitnessu In partnership with World Sport Chicago, life Fit-ness has updated the fitness facilities at Chicago’s North Grand High School and the lindblom Math and Science Academy to encourage young people in these neighborhoods to work out. Each of the schools received cardio and strength-training equipment, along with on-site education, training support, and a 10-week fitness and nutrition program from the company and its life Fitness Academy. “Increasing awareness in our young people about the impor-tance of fitness and leading an active life is a priority for us,” notes John Stransky, the president of life Fitness, in Schiller Park, Illinois. World Sport Chicago, which was formed as part of Chicago’s bid for the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, is charged with introducing kids to the fun and benefits of sports. —|

Matrix Fitness Systemsu Johnson Health Tech North America Corp. (JHTNA) recently reported that Matrix Fitness Systems’ 2008 U.S. sales increased 25.7%, and global sales grew 25.1% over the corresponding 2007 period. “Much of our domestic growth can be attributed to increased market penetration, and our commitment to customer service,” says Chris Clawson, the president and CEO of JHTNA. Global growth reflected increasing market share in Asia, Europe, North America, and South America, according to Clawson. —|

Medical Fitness Association u To encourage physicians to prescribe exercise as preventative medicine, the Medical Fitness Association (MFA), in Richmond, Virginia, has partnered with the Institute of lifestyle Medicine (IlM) for the Active Doctors, Active Patients conference at the Hyatt Regency in Boston, November 13-15. Active Doctors is a Harvard Medical School Continuing Medical Education course that gives physicians the necessary tools to assess and prescribe exercise to patients. Faculty from Harvard Medical School will present state-of-the-science lectures on physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and coaching psychology, while fitness and wellness practitioners offer a range of hands-on activities, including yoga, Spinning, resistance training, and personal fitness assessments. —|

Precor, Inc.u More than 700 Hilton Fitness By Precor facilities have opened globally since the brand was launched in 2006, and another 150 are due to open this year. The facilities include a total of 9,000 cardiovascular machines and 3,000 strength stations. Recent guest surveys conducted by the Hilton Hotels Corporation have indicated dramatic increases, up to 45%, in overall guest satisfaction at hotels outfitted with

Hilton Fitness By Precor centers. “Hilton Fitness By Precor has significantly raised the bar when it comes to hospitality fitness,” observes Tracy McCurtin, the hospi-tality manager at Precor, based in Woodinville, Washington. —|

ASSOCIATE NEWS

Stransky, at right

Chris Clawson

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| IHRSA Report | Member News

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NEW MEMBERS

ArizonaDESERT SPORTS & FITNESS ExPRESS *9725 N. Thornydale PlazaSte. 131Marana, AZ 85742520-219-4891Ms. Kelly Ramirez

DESERT SPORTS & FITNESS ExPRESS3030 W. ValenciaSte. 272Tucson, AZ 85746520-908-3319

CaliforniaCURvES 750-B N. Brea Blvd.Brea, CA 92821714-990-2878Ms. Shannon Wood

CURvES 9550 Flair DriveEl Monte, CA 91731626-444-6933Ms. Georgann Lamb

CURvES 17627 Ventura Blvd.Encino, CA 91316818-986-7212Ms. Diane Boyd

CURvES 1727 N. Vermont Ave.Ste. 107Los Angeles, CA 90027323-644-9898Ms. Greta Flate

CURvES *2724 Griffith Park Blvd.Los Angeles, CA 90027323-912-9205Ms. Dyan Collins Ralph

CURvES 4870 Eagle Rock Blvd.Los Angeles, CA 90041323-259-5800Ms. Lynda D’Angelo

CURvES 7385 Milliken Ave.Ste. 130Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730909-941-3739Ms. Sonia Roselli

CURvES 3816 La Sierra Ave.Riverside, CA 92505951-343-2878Ms. Mary Curl

CURvES *10615-B Tierrasanta Blvd.San Diego, CA 92124858-496-1194Ms. Barbara Cota

CURvES 1919 BroadwaySanta Monica, CA 90404310-582-9181Ms. Sue Walseth

CURvES 5522 Van Nuys Blvd.Van Nuys, CA 91401818-783-8783Ms. Sarah Lee Pett

SPORTS CONDITIONINg AND REHAB871 S. Tustin Ave.Orange, CA 92866714-633-7227Mrs. Michele Herkimer

YOUR BODY WORKS424 Executive Court NStes. C & DFairfield, CA 94534707-320-8367Ms. Amy Laree Fischer

DelawareSNAP FITNESS7209 Lancaster PikeSte. 1Hockessin, DE 19707Mr. Jeffrey Koff

FloridaANYTIME FITNESS 3930 S.W. 42nd St.Ste. 103Ocala, FL 34474352-433-4176

ANYTIME FITNESS 2504 S. Alafaya TrailUnits 320-340Orlando, FL 32828407-433-0009Mr. Jaime Vicent

SNAP FITNESS4576 Hwy. 20 ENiceville, FL 32578Mr. John Franz

IndianaANYTIME FITNESS 3919 Madison Ave.Indianapolis, IN 46227318-602-3624Mr. Ersal Ozdemir

IowaANYTIME FITNESS 3135 Wiley Blvd. SWCedar Rapids, IA 52404319-396-2447Mr. Rhiannon Pharr

MassachusettsANYTIME FITNESS 81 Shrewsbury St.Boylston, MA 01505508-869-2307Mr. John Cherubini

ANYTIME FITNESS 70 Worcester RoadWebster, MA 01570508-461-7535Mr. Demetrios Baraklilis

MississippiANYTIME FITNESS 1335 E. Pass RoadGulfport, MS 39507228-896-4005Mr. Kenny Knaps

ANYTIME FITNESS 655 Hwy. 49 SRichland, MS 39218601-933-1945Mr. Christopher Dupre

MissouriANYTIME FITNESS 14523 Manchester RoadManchester, MO 63021636-527-6470Mr. William Daniel Lyon

New JerseyANYTIME FITNESS 93 Knights Bridge WayMays Landing, NJ 08330609-226-3009Mr. Michael Collazo

BRICK HAUS FITNESS163-165 Newark Ave.Jersey City, NJ 07302201-830-3172Ms. Sandra Salmon

CAN DO FITNESS1 Deer Trail RoadNorth Caldwell, NJ 07006201-396-0338Mr. Tony Santomauro

HEALTHTRAx FITNESS & WELLNESS AT THE KENNEDY HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER *405 Hurffville-Cross keys RoadSewell, NJ 08080856-582-2180Mr. Douglas Page

New MexicoSNAP FITNESS5740 Night Whisper NWAlbuquerque, NM 87114Ms. Lynn Nannemann —|

IHRSA Membership Eligibility StandardsMembers of the association must comply with IHRSA’s baseline health, safety, and ethical standards. To learn more, visit www.ihrsa.org/standards or contact IHRSA at 617-951-0055.

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Out of Shape by Stan Tran

To obtain complete details about, or to register for, all IHRSA events, log on to www.ihrsa.org/meetings..org

| IHRSA Report | Calendar

AUgUST 6-7Health & Fitness Business Expo & ConferenceDenver, Coloradowww.healthandfitnessbiz.com

AUgUST 12-16 IDEA World Fitness ConventionAnaheim, Californiawww.ideafit.com

AUgUST 18-2028th Annual National Fitness Trade ShowReno/Tahoe, Nevadawww.nationalfitness tradeshow.com

AUgUST 19-23Can-Fit-ProToronto, Canadawww.canfitpro.com

SEPTEMBER 10-13SIBEC North AmericaPasadena, Californiawww.mcleanevents international.com

SEPTEMBER 22-24Leisure Industry WeekBirmingham, Englandwww.liw.co.uk

OCTOBER 9-10FitnessvakdagenUltrechtThe Netherlandswww.fitnessvakdagen.nl

OCTOBER 14-17Club IndustryChicago, Illinoiswww.clubindustryshow.com

NOvEMBER 4-7American Council on Exercise’s Fitness Symposium 2009San Diego, Californiawww.acefitness.org/ symposium

NOvEMBER 4-7SIBEC EuropeSplitCroatiawww.sibec.co.uk

DECEMBER 2-515th Annual MFA Medical Fitness & Healthcare ConferenceOrlando, Floridawww.medicalfitness.org

DECEMBER 3-5Athletic Business Conference & ExpoOrlando, Floridawww.athleticbusiness conference.com —|

Save the date | 2009-2010 IHRSA Events COMINg SOON IN

u Banking on Benefits: Christine O’Neal Thalwitz, the author of The Economic Benefits of Regular Exercise, looks at the bottom line

u Lot of Protection: How to keep your members’ cars safe from thieves

u Artful Interview: CBI checks in with Art Curtis, CEO of Millennium Part-ners Sports Club Management, llC

u Streaming Revenues: Despite the economic downturn, many creative clubs are raking in non- dues-related profits

u Pilates’ Promise: Innovative new equipment and programming are keeping Pilates fresh, inviting, and exciting

u Cycling Roundup: A roundtable discussion with some of the industry’s top group-cycling instructors about new programs, trends, and approaches

CLuB BuSINESS INTERNATIONAl

AUgUST 2-521st Annual Institute for Professional Club Managementlake Tahoe, Californiawww.ihrsa.org/institute

OCTOBER 22-2410th Anniversary IHRSA/Fitness Brasil Latin American Conference & Trade ShowTransamerica Expo Center, São Paulo, Brazil www.ihrsa.org/fitnessbrasil

OCTOBER 22-259th Annual IHRSA European CongressDublin, IrelandThe Burlington Hotelwww.ihrsa.org/congress

NOvEMBER 10-138th Annual IHRSA Asia-Pacific ForumTokyo, Japanwww.ihrsa.org/meetings

MARCH 10-13IHRSA 2010 – The 29th Annual International Convention & Trade ShowSan Diego, California www.ihrsa.org/meetings

MONTHLYIHRSA Online EducationMonthly Webinar Series For details & topics visit: www.ihrsa.org/webinars —|

2009 Industry Events

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Out of Shape by Stan Tran

| Marketplace |

w w w . i h r s a . o r g | J U l y 2 0 0 9 | C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l 9 3

Products & Services

NEW CLUBS IN 2009!Visit us at wellbridge.comor send your resume [email protected].

Fitness | Wellness | Sports | Fun

EXERCISE YOURPOTENTIAL!

Continue your career path inthe fitness industry with ourteam of highly motivated &well compensated industryprofessionals at one of ourstate-of-the-art athletic clubsand spas located in CO, FL,GA, MA, MD, MN, MO, & NM.

Employment

SPORT&YOU

Sport & Health Clubs, Washington DC’s premiere provider of over 20 multi-purpose health clubs, is looking for talented industry professionals to join our team! We want DYNAMIC individuals who will build & develop teams, drive sales, implement & improve business tactics, foster member relationships & want to make $$$!

SPORT&gENERAL MANAgERSLeading & driving all club activities including sales, operations, financial management, retail, programming & staff develop-ment. 5-10 years of health club sales & management experience, including financial management is a must.

SPORT&SALES DIRECTORSDriving sales. Building & training sales teams. Implementing marketing plans. Fostering member relationships. 3-5 years of industry sales & management experience, a proven successful sales record & a desire to make $$$ are all required!

SPORT&BENEFITSCompetitive salaries, aggressive bonus & commission plans, great benefits package, 401(k) plan, relocation assistance, ongoing training & long term career opportunities.

To check us out, visit us at www.sportandhealth.com!

Send resume and total compensation requirements to Director of Recruiting, Chris Ann Becki, [email protected].

Lifestyle Family Fitness is one of the fastest-growing premier fitness clubs in the industry. Investing in our employees, creating a culture of teamwork, and building lasting relationships with our members is what gives Lifestyle Family Fitness the competitive edge to achieve great things!

The Company is in an aggressive growth state with locations in Florida, Indiana, Ohio and North Carolina. Our target markets include the Southeast, Mid-West, and Mid-Atlantic.

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Lifestyle Family Fitness has immediate career opportunities for qualified candidates in the following areas:

SALES / OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT• Regional Sales/Operations Managers • DistrictSales/OperationsManagers• ClubSales/OperationsManagers

TRAINERS / INSTRUCTORS• DistrictandAreaPersonalTrainingManagers• PersonalTrainers

• GroupFitnessInstructors

Experience the benefits of working with some of the most talented people in the fitness industry. Exercise your ability to have a fulfilling career with Lifestyle Family Fitness today!

Lifestyle Family Fitness offers a Competitive Salary, Bonus, & Commission Programs; Robust Benefits Package; State-of-the-Art Fitness Facilities, Certification Reimbursement & Continuing Education, An Energetic, Enthusiastic, Team Oriented Work Environment.

APPLY NOW at www.lff.com. EOE

See your ad here!

Rates start at just $245 per issue for IHRSA members.

visit www.ihrsa.org/classifieds or e-mail [email protected]

for details.

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| Marketplace |

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Consulting

Effectivemarketing

doesn’t have tobe expensive

Get your club noticedand drive in new leadswith a package customdesigned for your club’smarket situation.

advertising that w

orks

ou

t

888•349•4594w w w. c l u b a d s . c o m / p i c k 3

The IHRSA Buyers’ guide brings an

industry trade show right to your computer!

www.ihrsabuyersguide.com

Hiring Right is More Important Than EverDuring these challenging economic times, hiring the right people is crucial. Managers must be disciplined enough to keep spending under budget, and sales representatives must be positive and persistent in order to meet their goals. Find your next star at ActiveCareers.com, the health club industry’s premier online career center. A 60-day job posting is only $149 for IHRSA members, and includes resume bank access.

ActiveCareers.com

Business Opportunities

visit www.ihrsa.org

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – SILICON vALLEY

HEALTH CLUB FOR SALE OR LEASE

27,000 sq ft turnkey, almost new. All equipment, racquetball court, pool. Great opportunity to walk into a fully turnkey health club with membership.

Must see! Original owner retiring. Contact David Taxin: [email protected] or 408-966-5919 cell.

Page 97: July 2009 Club Business International

| Ad Index |

Page Advertiser

60 » 2xL Corporation (gym Wipes) www.gymwipes.com | 888-977-3726

61 » A-1 Textiles & Hospitality Products www.a1athletictowels.com | 800-351-1819

63 » Aerobics and Fitness Association of America www.afaa.com | 877-968-7263

71 » Aeson Flooring Systems www.aesonflooring.com | 800-523-0960

59 » Affiliated Acceptance Corporation www.affiliated.org | 800-233-8483

55 » Am-Finn Sauna Company www.am-finn.com | 800-237-2862

2 & 3 » ASF International www.asfinternational.com | 800-227-3859

49 » Club Resource group www.clubresourcegroup.com | 800-536-6858

Inside Front » CYBEx International, Inc. Cover & 1 www.cybexinternational.com | 508-533-4300

41 » Digilock www.digilock.com | 707-766-6000

71 » Electro-Steam generator Corp. www.electrosteam.com | 866-617-0764

7 » Fiserv www.compete.fiserv.com | 800-242-9522

69 » Fitness Equipment Source, Inc. www.fitnessequipmentsource.com | 800-748-5125

74 » Fitness Flooring www.fitnessfloors.com | 800-428-5306

78 » global Fitness, Inc. www.globalfitness.com | 888-991-9991

42 » gOJO Industries, Inc. www.gojo.com | 800-321-9647

14 » Hampton Fitness www.hamptonfit.com | 805-339-9733

55 » Hollman, Inc. www.hollman.com | 800-433-3630

28 » HydroMassage www.hydromassage.com | 727-536-5566

62 » Ideal Products, Inc. www.idealockers.com | 800-88-IDEAL

Inside Back » THE INDOOR CYCLINg gROUP, Cytech gmbH Cover www.indoorcycling.com | 49(0)911-54450

11 » Iron grip Barbell Company www.irongrip.com | 800-664-4766

Page Advertiser

19 » Ivanko Barbell Company www.ivankobarbell.com | 310-514-1155

27 » Jade Distribution www.jadedistribution.com | 800-785-5233

20 » Les Mills International, Ltd. www.lesmillsusa.com | 888-669-8876

9 » Life Fitness www.lifefitness.com | 800-634-8637

French » Matrix Fitness Systems Cover www.matrix-fitness.com | 866-693-4863

64 » Medical Fitness Association (MFA) www.medicalfitness.org | 804-897-5701

13 » MotionSoft, Inc. www.motionsoft.net | 800-829-4321

52 » MOTUS USA www.motususa.com | 866-668-8766

30 » Nautilus, Inc. www.nautilus.com | 800-NAUTILUS

16 » Octane Fitness www.octanefitness.com | 763-757-2662

56 » OJMAR, S.A. www.ojmar.es | (34) 943748484

61 » Petra Hygienic Systems International, Ltd. www.petrasoap.com | 800-463-2516

87 » PumpedUpMedia.com www.pumpedupmedia.com | 603-247-5776

60 » Salsbury Industries www.lockers.com | 800-562-5377

50 » Sports Solutions, Inc. www.sportssolutionsinc.com | 800-969-8008

5 » Star Trac www.startrac.com | 800-228-6635

Back Cover » TECHNOgYM www.technogymusa.com | 303-875-0306

65 » Treeforms, Inc. www.treeforms.com | 800-447-8733

22 » TRUE Fitness www.truefitness.com | 877-712-7209

24 » Twin Oaks www.tosd.com | 866-278-6750

29 » Zumba Fitness, LLC www.zumba.com | 954-925-3755

w w w . i h r s a . o r g | J U l y 2 0 0 9 | C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l 9 5

Page 98: July 2009 Club Business International

I

| Last Rep |

I just finished reading an article about the construction of a new municipal health club and recreation center, a project initiated several years ago. It made me wonder if, given the economy, this sort of unfair competition will begin to evaporate.

know, I know—wishful thinking!In fact, the recession should prompt local

governments to carefully reexamine their legal and fiscal responsibilities, priorities, and activities. I’d also like to suggest that they face, and rectify, the unconscionable fact that, in many cases, they’re directly competing with for-profit, taxpaying businesses in their own community.

At a time when the federal government is bailing out banks, investment firms, and automobile manufacturers to the tune of billions of dollars, many local governments, on the other hand, are jeopardiz-ing the financial viability of healthy companies.

It’s no secret that municipal authorities are under extreme pressure to curtail spending and raise revenues. The head-lines tell the story of services being curtailed, while fees increase. Police and firefight-ing coverage is cut, and teach-

ers and other government employees laid off, while, despite declining property values, real-estate taxes climb.

It’s a scenario that, it would seem, calls for a fiscally conservative and rigorously responsible approach, rather than reckless entrepreneurial ventures in risky territory. Over the years, many counties and cities have entered the fitness sector, hoping to turn a profit; they subsequently discov-ered that operating a health club successfully isn’t as easy as their hired consultants would have had them believe.

Many of their government-owned facilities were soon awash in red ink—and that was in good

economic times. I can only imagine what the losses look like now.

It’s not as though we didn’t try to warn them.The owners and operators of taxpaying clubs

have been addressing this problem for years. Here, for example, is an excerpt from a letter I wrote in 2000 to a county commission that wanted to spend $25 million building a municipal club: “I believe that selling health club memberships to adults is a commercial activity, and that all taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to pay for the mem-berships of a few. Taxes are better spent on police and fire protection, roadways, social services, and water systems.”

This particular club wasn’t built, in part, because of the pressure that local club operators brought to bear on the three-person panel. I wonder if the com-missioners realize they owe us a debt of gratitude for actively opposing their ill-advised plans. But just think about how many government-owned fitness facilities have been built. Think about how many essential services have been cut and how many civil servants laid off, throughout the country, because tax dollars were spent on municipal centers that never should have been built—centers that duplicate services offered by the private sector.

Perhaps the current economic downturn will cause government officials to reflect on the critical value that small businesses, of all types, impart to society. Perhaps it will prompt them to appreciate the incalculable contribution that entrepreneurs make. Perhaps it will help them to distinguish, in the future, between essential and nonessential government services. Perhaps, even, it will lead them to stop competing with the taxpaying busi-nesses in their communities.

Or is that wishful thinking? —|

– Joe Moore, [email protected]

Joe Moore IHRSA President & CEO

One Hundred Twenty MillionMembers by 2010

Tracy Pow

ell

9 6 C l u b B u s i n e s s I n t e r n a t i o n a l | J U l y 2 0 0 9 | w w w . i h r s a . o r g

Economy’s Impact on Unfair Competition

Page 99: July 2009 Club Business International
Page 100: July 2009 Club Business International

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