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Customer experience is one of the hottest topics in the fitness industry.

Throughout the sector, health clubs recognise that to win new members – converting them first into fans, and then into advocates – every aspect of the gym experience needs to be meaningfully tailored to their needs. Even when the user is not yet sure what those needs might be.

Various studies have shown that, overwhelmingly, customers are willing to pay higher prices if they feel valued and cared for.

Therefore, the fitness industry needs to purposely think about how to deliver meaningful customer experiences. Great experiences do not happen by chance. They happen because a company has a deep understanding of the customers’ needs and expectations, and has the right processes and culture to deliver that great experience.

The customer experience needs to be designed and prepared. In this process, it is useful to break down the experience into 5 key components for health club owners to think about.

 

THE ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS

The structure underpinning a great gym experience needs to consider the following:

The Product

In the fitness industry, the product is the actual exercise methodology that the health club offers. It’s essential to tailor the product to the likely client base, understand your customer and their needs and offer them a unique and bespoke experience. This should incorporate the following:

• Exercise programs
• Routines
• Strategies to deliver specific outcomes
• Equipment that can support even the most demanding workouts.

Refining the product is what creates the differences between a fit boxing boutique, a bodybuilding gym, or a traditional health club. It is the very first step to start planning the experience.

 

The Relationships 

In a fitness centre, human connections exist between everyone taking part in the experience: between members, instructors, and staff. Relationships can even be created between the customer and the brand! Creating a strong social circle can be one of the best ways to improve member retention and increase motivation.

Therefore, the experience planning process needs to consider what type of relationships should happen in the health club. Should instructors proactively connect with members? Should the club organise activities to provoke member connections? Should the club stay on the side and let members create informal connections on their own? It all depends on the experience to be delivered for members.

There are certain questions gyms should be asking themselves:

• Should the club promote new connections? If so, how?
• What type of relationships do the members expect to have?
• How do you motivate people?
• Who is the authority during a workout?
• How frequently should you communicate with your members?

 

The Facility 

The facility is where the magic happens. Surroundings not only enhance mood but can also affect behaviour. The various spaces of a fitness centre need to be carefully designed to help deliver the experience along the member’s journey.

Designing a fitness space is a complex process that involves many decisions, from selecting the right equipment to having the right smell.

The smallest details can make a difference. A good starting point is to think about:

• What are the limitations in the space you have?
• What equipment should you be using?
• How should the equipment be placed?
• What type of lighting should you have?
• Should you have music?
• How will people move around the facility?
• How should the centre smell?

In today’s competitive world, design expectations are higher. While the best possible fitness equipment is a given if you want to attract and retain members, it’s also important to remember that people feel valued when their surroundings make them feel good. When designing the fitness space, having the right inspiration can take your idea to the next level.

 

The Processes 

As we said, great experiences do not happen by chance. They depend on a series of carefully planned processes in which players from every level of a business take part.

In this key component of an experience, strategies, processes and company culture become the pillars of consistently delivering a good experience.

There are several things to think about when planning these processes.

• Does the company have the right culture?
• Do employees understand their contribution to the experience?
• Are there clear strategies to deliver the experiences?
• Does the company have the right feedback channels to understand which processes need improvement?

Doing a deep dive into your members’ preferences will not only reveal which processes are required but also what their expectations are.

For example, member onboarding is a well-known process for every fitness facility. However, there is not just a single way to deliver that. The perfect onboarding process for an advanced lifter might be very short: a small tour around the facility. But the perfect onboarding process for a newcomer might require a body composition analysis, followed by a personal training session and a 15-day follow-up to see how they are progressing.

The key to delivering the right experience is to understand member expectations and create processes based on them.

 

The Technology 

Last but not least, technology is the fifth component of our fitness experience model. Technology refers to the tools, software and gadgets that enable all the other components to shine.

The right level of digitalisation will depend on the members’ preferences and expectations. There is no one-size-fits-all approach here. For example, a site may decide that to deliver their perfect experience, they need colour-changing lights, HR monitoring, and a member app to book classes. Modern digital tools are ideal to create new connections, motivate members or increase the operational efficiency of your site.

However, another site may decide that the perfect experience for their members is purely analogical and human-based, with very little technology that only facilitates a couple of processes (reservations and availability).

Technology needs to be applied with a clear purpose; it needs to be a means to an end.

 

IN CONCLUSION…

Deconstructing every fitness offering using these five components allows us to look at the gym experience in a more strategic way. By analysing each of the pillars, you can open new paths for innovation in, and improvements to, every aspect of the customer experience at your facility.

 

Source: https://www.lifefitness.com/en-us/blog/five-laws-of-fitness-experience-2255388

Are you looking for a unique workout on the Reformer to strengthen and tone your thighs?

Thigh Stretch on the Reformer is a great exercise to enhance flexibility and range of motion and also promote better posture and overall lower body strength. Let’s take a closer look at the key benefits as Seoyeon Erin Her — Merrithew^® Instructor Trainer and the co-founder of THE FIT Co., Merrithew Host Training Center in Seol, South Korea — guides us through an advanced level thigh stretch repertoire on the Reformer from the STOTT PILATES^® Advanced Reformer Course.

Click to watch the Full Video

 

What are the benefits of Thigh Stretch on the Reformer?

Increased flexibility

Reformer-based thigh stretches target the major muscles of the thighs, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip flexors. Consistent practice can lead to improved flexibility in these areas, allowing you to perform daily activities with ease and grace.

Improved range of motion

This workout helps to elongate the muscles and mobilize the joints, leading to an increased range of motion. Enhanced flexibility and range of motion contribute to better performance in other exercises and activities, reducing the risk of injuries.

Enhanced posture

Tightness in the thigh muscles can contribute to poor posture. Incorporating thigh stretches into your routine can help alleviate muscle imbalances and promote a more upright and aligned posture.

Strengthening and toning

While primarily focusing on stretching, thigh exercises on the Reformer also engage the inner thigh muscles, leading to toning and strengthening of the thighs. Building thigh strength improves overall stability and helps in everyday movements and physical activities.

By incorporating Thigh Stretches on the Reformer into your fitness regimen, you can unlock the transformative power of this exericise, promoting better posture, increased stability, and overall lower body strength.

Remember to listen to your body, start slowly, and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts over time.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-07-06/exercise-of-the-month-thigh-stretch-on-the-reformer

Feeling sore after a workout is one of the most common things exercisers face. Many people believe that it can indicate that you had a good workout, but for some, it could be a setback in their fitness progress.

We asked Merrithew^® Instructor Trainer Lisa Kaye to discuss muscle soreness, why it happens and some tips to relieve it.

 

Why do I feel sore after exercising and is this the sign of a good workout?

“There are a lot of reasons why your muscles feel sore after a workout. However, contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily need to feel sore after exercise to prove you’ve had a good workout.

“One of the most common reasons for muscle soreness is if you’re starting a new workout program. If your first session is particularly intense or long, you are likely to experience Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in the next hours or a day or two after exercise,” Lisa explains.

“But being sore doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve had a more effective workout – it usually means you’re doing something your muscles aren’t used to. So if you regularly exercise and find you aren’t feeling as sore after your session, it’s a key indicator that your muscles have become better at dealing with the strain and are recovering from the activity,” Lisa says.

What is Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness?

DOMS is usually a positive sign for exercisers. It is best described as when your muscles feel sore or strained. You might feel this after an intense workout and that just indicates that your muscles are progressing to a stronger state. DOMS is one of the most common after-effects when you start a new training program or indulge in an intense workout.

Tips for dealing with muscle soreness after a workout

Feeling sore after a workout can make it difficult for some to continue with their fitness journey. But rest assured, mild soreness is common for exercisers of any level. The good news is there are some ways to manage the pain.

Stretch: Gentle stretching after the workout helps reduce lactic acid build-up which is the main cause of soreness. Try some simple stretches like arm circles, leg swings and spinal twists. The Foam Roller^™ is a great tool for reducing muscle soreness and improving post-workout recovery. Try these exercises.

Take it easy: Push yourself, but don’t be too hard, especially if you’re a beginner. Choose a workout program that’s designed for your fitness level. Start with a beginner-friendly program and progress once you feel ready

Cool-down: The cool-down phase is the most important post-workout aspect. Reserve at least 10 minutes at the end of every workout to do some light stretching or for an easy cool-down walk or jog.

Why do I feel less sore after a Pilates workout?

Pilates is one of the most effective low-impact workouts and it’s extremely effective at building participants’ strength without causing too much muscle soreness, Lisa says.

“With Pilates, our aim is to progress you through a series of body weight and spring resistance exercises that will challenge and improve your balance, mobility, core strength and dynamic stability. It will help you work on muscle strength and fluidity rather than feeling sore,” Lisa explains.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-04-17/ask-the-expert-should-i-feel-sore-after-a-workout-and-tips-on-how-to-relieve-it

While establishing IK Pilates in 2018 – Irina Karnaukh had one goal, to create the most comfortable conditions for people who came to her studio. She poured her heart and soul into the studio and its values exude the same.

Located in the heart of the beautiful Kharkiv city, the studio is simple yet very well-equipped. You’ll fall in love as soon as you walk in. The warm wooden flooring, pastel floral paintings, clean aesthetics, and of course, the smiling faces of the IK Pilates team are what make this studio one of a kind.

Despite the war tension in Ukraine, Irina and her team are going strong and training everyone who walks into their studio without second thoughts. Passion? Dedication? Love? What keeps the IK Pilates team glued together and keeps their spirit alive without surrendering to the adversity of the situation? We had the honor of interviewing the studio owner Irina Karnaukh where she shares the inspiring story of IK Pilates.

Can you provide some backstory on IK Pilates Studio’s inception and goals?

“IK Pilates Studio is born out of love. Love not just for sports, for movement, but love for people, the desire to help and bring light and goodness. It’s more than a studio, it’s our family.” says Irina.

“I wanted the studio to be a place where people can come and unwind themselves through mindful movement. This studio is where people can forget everything else and just exist in this little world that we’ve created. I’ve worked hard to achieve where we are today. I stay on top of the latest Pilates education and training to make sure my clients experience the best.” says Irina.

Tell us more about your location and what makes the studio in Kharkiv, Ukraine special.

“The studio is definitely exceptional. How do we know this you may ask? It is because our clients tell us how they feel when they work out here. Hearing them describe how much they love this place is one of our greatest joys and strengths.” explains Irina. “Our team is not just driven by a professional motive, there is a genuine desire to help people feel better and stronger and we’re proud of that”

How has your team of instructors coped with the adversity of the given circumstances?

“In February 2022, when the war began in Ukraine, many people left the city which is just 30 km away from the border with Russia. But many people stayed in the city, including some instructors and clients.”

“Anna, Mariya, Pilates trainers, and massage therapist Ekaterina stayed in the city to help and support people, and later even had Pilates sessions for our clients who also decided to stay. This made me realize how lucky I am to be able to work with a team that is so passionate about what they do.”

“One thing we all know for sure is that together, with each other’s support we can take it one day at a time and not get lost in this whirlwind of violent events.” Irina mentions that they all try to stay in touch as much as possible, both among themselves and their clients which keeps them all motivated.

What do you think are the driving factors that motivate the instructors and clients to show up despite the challenges?

“The desire to live a healthy life and feel alive is why people show up at our studio every day. A lot has changed for us within just one year. We have come to the point where our studio is not just about making money and profit, it is a haven for people to take a break from the chaos and just focus on movement, and enjoy the peace, even if it is just for a while” says Irina.

What would you say is the most important thing that has glued everyone together through these tough times?

“The tough times are like a filter. What truly matters to us retains, everything that is unnecessary passes through. These times made us realize what truly matters to us, and that is support from one another. Together we are strong and able to achieve wonderful things. Knowing that you are not alone and there are people nearby who can resonate with your pain makes you feel like you all belong together. That feeling is unmatched”

Lastly, is there a message you would like to share with the world, specifically with the Pilates community?

“We would like people to never lose the essence of the very emotions that make us all humans- sensitivity, empathy, and caution towards each other. One more thing I’d like to add is that we all need to make the most out of the present moment because the future is uncertain. You have to appreciate what you have and strive to bring goodness to the world.” says Irina. “Appreciate your loved ones and always remember, there is nothing more important than a healthy body “

It isn’t every day that we come across studios like IK Pilates. It gives us immense joy to see their undying spirit and passion for Pilates. Thank you IK Pilates, for being a source of inspiration to the entire Pilates community. We wish Irina and her team all the best.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-02-17/a-portrait-of-bravery-and-inspiration-the-story-of-ik-pilates-studio-ukraine

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

Group workouts and Pilates sessions continue to rise in popularity for all the right reasons. It is a great way to attract more clients and form a loyal client base. Group workout sessions make it easier for fitness enthusiasts to stay connected with like-minded people from the community, thereby improving motivation.

Petra Weitzel, the founder, and owner of Pewe Sports – Pilates Zentrum, a Merrithew^® Host Training Center in Germany, shares some integral tips to keep in mind before organizing a group Pilates session and training more than one person at a time.

Make sure everyone is on the same page

“Group Pilates sessions are all about coordination and sync. It is crucial to ensure that everyone you’re training in the group session is at the same fitness level. It can become difficult to train a group if one person has back pain or shoulder pain.“ says Petra Weitzel, STOTT PILATES^® Certified Group Matwork Specialist. “I recommend knowing everyone’s preferences and physical conditions beforehand and then grouping them together.”

Cultivate a warm and welcoming atmosphere

“Your studio space will set the pace of the workout and it plays a huge role in how your clients feel during the session. The secret to a productive workout session is lots of fresh air coming through, the room temperature should be just right, and lots of natural light. Organize any Pilates equipment you will use during the class such as the Stability Ball^™ or Fitness Circle^® to ensure there is no clutter. Your clients will love this!”

Use proper cueing

“I cannot stress enough how important cueing is, especially when you are training more than one person. This helps you structure the class by guiding everyone to ensure group coordination and improving your client’s awareness of their body position.”

We also asked her to shed light on one of the most common questions people ask, ‘how long until we see results from Pilates?’

“Honestly, it is very different from person to person. It also depends on your motivation and goals. Are you motivated enough to do Pilates every day? Or are you someone who prefers doing it just once a week? Are you willing you challenge yourself with new exercises? All these factors play a huge role in your progress.” she said “As Joseph Pilates said, you will feel better in ten sessions, look better in twenty sessions, and have a completely new body in thirty sessions.”

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-02-09/what-are-the-top-three-tips-for-conducting-a-successful-group-pilates-session

One of the most important things while curating an exercise program for your client is to keep in mind that every client is different and there is no standard program that works for all.

We asked Merrithew^® Master Instructor Trainer, Pablo Vera, to help us identify the core elements that play an important role in determining an ideal workout plan for your clients and can vary depending on your client’s fitness level.

“Movement emerges from the interaction between 3 main factors: individual, task, and the environment. Individual capabilities to interact with the demands during a specific activity and the environment will determine the functional capacity.” says Pablo Vera.

Individual

It is crucial to get information about the client’s biopsychosocial status. This concept is related to physical capabilities of the person such as breathing pattern, mobility, flexibility, strength, endurance, power. Moreover, factors such as stress or anxiety and their beliefs and individual expectations also need to be considered before you chalk out a plan for them. You can use every exercise as an assessment to gather information. An ideal comparison of the individual’s progress from the first sessions vs the future sessions is a great way to identify what works for them.

Task

Ask your clients about the main activities they perform on an everyday basis. Also, consider the sports they love to practice. Once you know their movement patterns, you can work on a routine that helps them improve the muscle functionality in those particular areas.

Challenges

It is crucial to know the different kinds of environments your client is being exposed to and identify the challenges they face in each situation. Once you have a clear idea on the challenges they are facing, you will be able to figure out ways to address those special needs in the Pilates repertoire.

It is important to recognize that the human body is designed to move in patterns, not individual isolated parts. All relevant movement patterns are reviewed within the STOTT PILATES^® Education and STOTT PILATES Principles, to understand each one in the context of the exercises and functional activities.

Keep an eye out for training with Pablo Vera

Pablo will be back in South Korea in 2023 late spring with more insightful workshops focusing on teaching rehab programming. To stay updated and to find Pilates training near you, click here!

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-01-20/ask-the-expert-what-are-the-core-elements-of-developing-effective-exercise-programs-for-your-clients

With the new year comes our aspirations to become fitter and stronger. This is why many of us like to incorporate fitness goals into our new year’s resolutions. From celebrities like David Beckham and Kate Hudson to sports professionals like Cristiano Ronaldo, it is a never-ending list of people who rely on Pilates to work on their flexibility and improve muscle strength. Regardless of age, gender or fitness level, there are numerous ways in which you can also benefit from incorporating Pilates into your workout routine.

When you think of Pilates, there is so much more than what meets the eye. It can help you with injury prevention and recovery, enhance core strength, improve stability and peripheral mobility among the active aging population, reduce stress, and strengthen the entire body among prenatal women.

“Pilates is often marketed as a way to create a long and lean body but honestly much of what makes you long and lean is your diet. What Pilates is vital for, and why you want to make it a priority in your training regimen, is building a strong physical foundation,” says Master Instructor Trainer, PJ O’Clair.

Increases strength and flexibility

It is no wonder that Pilates is one of the most effective ways to increase muscle strength and flexibility. Pilates is all about mindful movement and being in total control of your body. It improves functional strength, thereby improving the way you move in your everyday life.

Adding to this, PJ O’Clair says, “Think about it if your core or foundation is weak how will you be able to live up to the tasks of daily life or participate in the sports you love. I tell my clients “go local before global” which means lets first address the local stabilizing muscles closest to the joint axis of motion then move on to the larger global muscles.”

Improves your posture

Your compromised posture could be a result of weak muscles and shoulder or back pain. Pilates focuses on the ideal movement of muscles and joints to bring awareness to your muscles. Regular Pilates practice can strengthen the neglected postural muscles and gain back control which will help you sit upright.

“With that formula, you will be able to move from a place of integrity and with poise or grace. Another fun saying of mine is- If it isn’t pretty, it isn’t Pilates” says PJ O’Clair.

Promotes body awareness

Pilates makes it easier for you to listen to your body and exercise while ensuring mind-body sync. Pilates is based on the principles of mindfully moving.

“”I believe everyone should learn Pilates at a young age. Pilates teaches how to use the breath to optimize and control movement and promotes self-awareness. Much like yoga or martial arts, it’s a discipline which involves practice but, it’s worth every minute and can be done at any age and level of experience.

– PJ O’Clair, Merrithew^® Master Instructor Trainer

Simple yet effective

If you have never worked out before, getting started with a fitness resolution can be challenging and intimidating. Pilates can help you ease into a routine. Although Reformer workouts are one of the best ways to tone your body, many Pilates workouts only require a mat. You can start with mat Pilates first and move to Reformer workouts once you feel more confident.

Ready to kickstart your 2023 fitness resolution journey?

Our digital workout platform, Merrithew Connect^™ has hundreds of workouts with in-depth guided instructions from the best in the industry – Merrithew Instructor Trainers. You can choose your workout depending on your fitness level and do it anywhere, anytime.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-01-19/here-is-why-pilates-should-be-at-the-top-of-your-2023-fitness-resolutions

Looking for ways to integrate your travel experiences for educational training purposes?

Being on a learning journey can get overwhelming at times. You might crave a change of scenery or a break, but a lot of times your schedules might not permit it. This is when the concept of an education getaway can help you break the monotony. Whether you love the peace and austerity of snowcapped mountains or sophisticated cities with great food- we have listed different options for you.

1. Be Pilates, New Zealand

Located in the picturesque vineyard of Hawke’s Bay region, Be Pilates is a Licensed Training Centre offering Merrithew^® education. Flooded with natural light and fresh air, wooden flooring, and ample space, the studio has the perfect countryside feel. One of the reasons why you’ll love taking training here is because training courses & workshops are scheduled in the afternoons to allow the mornings off for study or cater to your remote work commitments.

You’ll be able to enjoy a work-life balance and make the most out of your spare time exploring restaurants, local boutiques, cafes, beaches, and vineyard tours.

“”We found the location, complete with a lovely waterfall and established trees and we purpose-built this Merrithew LTC for students from around New Zealand and overseas to enjoy as a wonderful premium Pilates retreat style experience.

– Sharon Currie, Founder and STOTT PILATES^® Certified Instructor Trainer

2. Fluid Motion, Hawaii

World-famous beaches, breathtaking sunsets, outdoor activities, water sports, and great culinary experiences – Maui is known for all the right reasons. Monique Jutila, Founder of Merrithew^® Host Training Center, Fluid Motion, feels no differently- “Our studio is in the heart of Kihei directly across from one of the most popular beach destinations on Maui. We have spectacular views of the Ocean, Haleakala, and some of the most amazing sunsets as well as whale breaches during the months of January-March” she says.

Her boutique studio reflects simplicity and laidback vibes- just what you would experience from your staycation at Maui.

“”We pride ourselves on delivering excellent STOTT PILATES® education as well as fostering a genuine sense of community amongst our team and clients.

– Monique Jutila, Founder and STOTT PILATES^® Certified Trainer

Check out the upcoming courses at Fluid Motion and plan a perfect education getaway in paradise.

3. Qi En Movimiento, Spain

Located in the historical and coastal city of Gijón, in the north of Spain, Qi En Movimiento is a unique space with industrial and modernist-style interiors with commendable attention to detail.

“”In “Qi” beyond taking care of the aesthetics of our space and the functionality of our facilities, we strive to offer the most professional and warm treatment to our clients and students. That is the reason why our students and clients define Qi as a cozy and familiar space for them.

– Alejandra Diaz, Founder and STOTT PILATES^® Certified Trainer

If you’re thinking of an education getaway in Spain, book a spot at their upcoming workshops and get a chance to learn from Merrithew^® Master Instructor- Pablo Vera.

4. Sea Breeze, UK

As the name suggests, Sea Breeze is a boutique Reformer Pilates studio located in the heart of St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, England where you’ll enjoy your training with the surreal view of the seafront.

When asked what makes the studio special in an interview with Hastings Independent Press, Pete Gibson, who is the co-founder, and owner of Sea Breeze Pilates along with his partner, Lead Instructor Trainer Brigitte Wrenn says, “The machines literally ‘reform’ your body. The feedback we’ve had since opening goes along the lines of: “We’ve been waiting a long time for something like this to open”.

Their studio has a warm and welcoming environment and the team believes that everyone can benefit from Pilates. The beautiful light-filled studio has amazing sea views and it has been fully refurbished and kitted out with state-of-the-art Merrithew Pilates equipment.

Have a look at the education workshops Sea Breeze is offering during March 2023, which also happens to be the best time to visit the UK!

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2022-12-21/educational-getaways–taking-pilates-training-in-interesting-places