Blogging is Back-I am Back

Hello All, I missed writing and entries into our blog, we were up to 324 readers last August when the "Percieved Competition" began to change his business model to emulate our every move. After a few conversations, there is not any threat of this information being USED to compete against us.

I have tons of great stuff to share, so I will start with a little retention tip info from some friends of ours.

Beat the Dog Days of SummerThe family road trip, summer blockbuster movies, outdoor BBQ's, special events, water skiing, hiking, swimming, camping and the best that mother nature has to offer. In the summer months, these are your most fierce competition. What plans do you have to keep your members motivated throughout the dog days of summer?Certainly, no health club will be able to compete with these activities that members have anticipated all year, and we don't suggest you try. However, there are steps that can be taken to help you retain more members during these typically slow months. The old saying, "If you can't beat them, join them," holds true in this situation and should be considered for your summer schedule.Changing your attitude and looking at the summer months as an advantage, instead of a disadvantage, is the key to developing a strategic plan to keep things exciting and retain more members throughout these long summer months. Make use of the great outdoor weather by planning optional outdoor workout sessions or take a break and do a group nature hike, etc. Earlier in the season is a great time to start a "get in shape for summer" contest. The key is to be creative and focus on the advantages of the summer months, instead of dwelling on the negative aspects of this time of year. Another way to get your members involved during the summer is to participate in charity events. They're perfect because they not only get your members excited about a new goal and activity, but they also help promote your club within the community and helps support a worthy cause. The training sessions for this event will get your members into a good routine for the summer months and encourage them to work out. Forming a team within your club for the charity events helps foster the member/club relationship and makes the members feel as though they are part of community within your club. Check local papers and news websites for information about upcoming events, or consider starting your own event to support your favorite cause.