Lockdown V3 – Our Responsibility

Davy McGregor
11 January 2021

Davy McGregor

Managing Director ERA-FIT

Published

11 January 2021

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Ok, you may read the title and think what the hell is this guy talking about. But please be assured this is not a lecture from someone who thinks everything is great in the current situation. Quite the opposite, working closely with clients, gym owners and sport clubs we are seeing the devastating effects first hand. We certainly understand the stark reality of this crisis and the toll it is taking especially on the fitness industry.

However

We are in an industry which aims to create healthy, positive and optimistic environments and opportunities for our clients. And we believe that all of us have a huge responsibility to maintain our high standards even despite the current conditions. Not only when the doors are open again but now, online and away from the facility also.

For many this is lockdown number 3 or maybe 4 for some. It’s tough, it’s getting boring and it’s having huge financial and wellbeing implications on many people’s lives. But… with that in mind I believe we as professionals in the fitness industry have a responsibility. A responsibility to think about the future, so that when “normality” makes a return and gyms, studios and all other fitness and wellbeing facilities doors open we are ready to thrive again with all our clients. This preparation is not always about getting the big jobs done but caring across the board.

Here’s a few ways to do so, to keep positive and ensure a smooth re-opening for you and your clients.

1. Be There

I know this may sound pretty obvious but it’s not always that simple. If you are the owner or the responsible person in charge of a fitness facility you should do everything you can to be the first person clients see as they walk through the door. YOU are your business and YOU have a responsibility to create that positive environment. Welcoming those people who have stayed loyal in these tough times will go a long way.

2. Be Transparent

These lockdowns and the past year will have had financial implications and strains on your business which may call for the need to increase memberships, class fees and session costs. This is just how things work and customers need to respect this however this should be done honestly and customers made aware of potential increases as soon as possible. Yes some clients may not be happy but those that respect your facility will understand. Increases need to be realistic and don’t be afraid of some cancellations. You can’t please everyone.

3. Flush the Toilets (Literally)

“Huh?!” I hear you say… Probably one of the most obvious of all suggestions, especially with the current times. However despite hygiene and cleanliness being prime, you wouldn’t believe how the small things can be forgotten about. In a time where we anti-bac everything within an inch of its life there can be some minor details that are overlooked. Cleaning the training areas and equipment has become the obvious and easy part, but maintaining all areas is essential. Toilets, bins, lockers, desks, carpark… these should all be given the same care. In one gym I attended to do a final equipment check, the dressing room toilet was simmering what looked like a mars bar floating in coca-cola (I do apologise for the graphic description). Not a pretty site and unacceptable for any member to be welcomed to.

4. Small Gestures

The hardest thing to do in life is be generous when you feel the world is against you. However, it is little moments of generosity and kindness that go a long way. As part of the welcome to clients, offer them something positive. One client of ours had a selection box full of tickets that represented prizes. Each client that walked through the door stuck their hand in the box and pulled out a prize ticket. The prizes ranged from a 5p wham bar to a months free membership voucher but the excitement from every client to see what they pulled out was a site to behold. In the 30 mins I was there not one person who entered did not smile when asked to “Pull a ticket and see what you won” and even smiled more when they won a drumstick. We are all just big children at the end of the day and what an easy way to immediately create positivity.

5. Screen Time

This one I think will hit a few nerves but should be a huge priority. With the conversion of classes and sessions to online and zoom calls your coaches’ lives and clients’ lives have been controlled by screens. For at least a short period of time put down the phone and stop boomeranging, snapping, videoing, instagraming the session and concentrate on your client(s). The whole world doesn’t need to know what you are doing and how great of coach you are every minute. Those loyal and potentially new clients are investing their time, their money and themselves in YOU and your business so the least you can do is invest your energy in them but not through a lense. Remember your responsibility to the job!