Fitness industry specialist Stephen Tharrett presents an updated edition to the most comprehensive blueprint ever created for developing, leading, managing, and operating a successful health/fitness business.
Part 1 introduces the reader to the fitness, health, racquet, and sport club industry by touching on the history of the industry, the current practices and trends in the industry, and the attitudes and attributes of the consumer who chooses to be a member of a club.
Part 2 focuses on health/fitness facility engagement and membership, starting with a review of why consumers join facilities, and progressing into the branding, marketing, and sales practices necessary to succeed in the business.
Part 3 provides an overview of member and client retention and the process of utilizing great service and great programming to create memorable experiences for the businesses clients and members.
Part 4 reviews the administrative business functions of the industry, beginning with the formation of a legal business entity, progressing to the financial standards and processes, and concluding with an examination of the key issues involved in buying, leasing, and selling a health/fitness business.
Part 5 looks at the employee side of the health/fitness facility business, starting with a detailed overview of the people-related requirements, and concluding with a discussion of the essential aspects of leadership within the industry.
Part 6 addresses the facility and equipment side of the business, covering topics ranging from facility design to equipment selection.
Part 7 addresses three business models that, in the past decade, have changed the landscape of the health/fitness facility industry.
Part 8 details the key operational and administrative issues within a health/fitness facility, beginning with an overview of the risk management practices in the industry and progressing through the most essential operating practices for both front-of- the-house and behind-the-house club operations.
Part 9 addresses the emerging international market by providing an in-depth overview of the health/fitness club markets in Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Part 10 offers a picture of what the future may hold for the industry.
Part 11 presents case studies of unusual management experiences, ranging from customer and member-related scenarios to employee and big business scenarios and club stories on member engagement and programming. Each case study provides an overview of an unusual or unexpected business event and the actions taken by the respective clubs and their leaders. The club stories provide insights into how some of the industry’s best facility operators engage their clients, customers, and members and stage memorable experiences.
