How the Fitness Industry Can Bounce Back Into the New Normal
For many, COVID-19 has been a humbling experience. Small businesses primarily suffered a significant blow, and this includes the fitness industry. Many gyms had to close down and lay off personal trainers. Some had to resort to other means to ensure they remain in business. One thing is certain — the fitness industry will bounce back from these adversities. They have been a crucial partner in ensuring the health and well-being of many people. While they can invest in home gyms, fitness centers have a different effect on some people, giving them a sense of purpose and belonging.
How the Fitness Industry Can Bounce Back
The fitness industry may have taken a break, but this doesn’t mean that gyms and health clubs will close down for good. Here are some ways that the fitness industry can reshape itself going forward:
Adapt to the New Normal
One of the first things that the fitness industry has to understand is that they need to adapt to the new normal. They cannot start their operations without considering the health and safety of their patrons. Even if there are safety protocols in place, there should be a renewed focus on improving sanitation and physical distancing. Some of the practices that they can include are placing alcohol stations, sticker markings for distancing reminders and limiting the number of people at a given time.
Improve Marketing Campaigns
It will also be crucial for the fitness industry to improve their marketing. Some companies choose to launch Instagram workouts to help keep their community engaged. Through virtual training, they can continue promoting their gyms. Of course, this means encouraging their personal trainers to record or conduct virtual workouts at the comforts of their home. Some invest in marketing strategies, such as ordering custom logo floor mats to highlight their fitness center. Others sell training gear to their gym members.
Postpone Membership Price Hikes
While it can be tempting to raise the prices of membership fees to cover for the losses, it would be most prudent for health clubs, particularly for the big ones, to postpone any planned increases in the monthly or yearly membership fees. In fact, some suggest that it would be best to offer discounts for existing members who wish to retain their memberships to encourage continued patronage.
Blend Physical and Virtual Offerings
There are some workout regimens that can be offered virtually, such as Zumba and yoga. However, there are some exercises that are best done under direct supervision by a professional trainer, including pilates and weight training. In such cases, health clubs should look at offering both physical and virtual training for their members. It is also crucial to point out that some people go to the gym, not only for their physical health, but also for their mental well-being. With that being said, there is a need to offer both in-person and online engagements.
Change Gym Set Up
There is no denying that the fitness industry will remain a steady partner in ensuring the health and wellness of people. However, they must know that their old set-up will not work anymore. More health-conscious people may not risk going to the gym if they know it is not built to protect them from exposure to the virus. This is why it will become mandatory for gyms to change their set-up. In fact, some think that gyms with outdoor and open-air training areas will be the safest option. It will be a slow and tedious process before the fitness industry can bounce back. However, the idea is not far-fetched, particularly if they can adjust to the changes quickly.
