In March, the Laura Trott Leisure Centre in Cheshunt became the first UK public sector facility to install eGym as part of the local authority’s drive to get more people active.
“We wanted to make strength training accessible and raise awareness of the associated health benefits, especially amongst women and older adults. We also wanted to add value for our members who are already engaged in some form of strength training,” says Michael Dulku, Fit&Well brand and golf centre manager at The Borough of Broxbourne.
Achieving results
During the first three months, eGym recorded an average strength improvement for individuals aged 20 to 70 of 14 per cent. For those aged 70 to 90, strength has increased by nine per cent on average. These statistics are recorded via the eGym one rep max strength test performed by individuals at regular intervals.
Since the introduction of the equipment, the site has recorded a reduction in member attrition contributing to a 1,060 per cent increase in net gain compared to the same period last year.
In July, the facility logged 2,770 eGym sessions, an increase of 148 per cent on March figures. And since eGym users visit the gym more frequently than non-users, averaging 4.5 visits per person a month, this increased usage is credited with the improvement in retention figures.
Make it accessible and engaging
“eGym helps members to train safely and use the correct technique to achieve the best results in the shortest possible timeframe,” says Dulku. “The automated calculation of resistance based on the strength test result ensures the training is always optimised to a member’s progressive fitness. Even members who are comfortable using free weights find the strength test valuable and can use the results to tweak their training. Regular users also find the muscle imbalance and biological age indicators useful.”
eGym’s mobile applications allows members to access their programmes on their mobile phone. Trainers can update a member’s training plan and instantly view each member’s activity via a tablet device. And with the ability to automatically log activity undertaken both in and outside of the facility via eGym’s connected partners programme, trainers say they feel more engaged with members and the quality of their interactions have improved, all of which helps to keep members focused on their strength training and progress towards their goals.
Shapemaster
What is it?
Shapemaster has come a long way since the 1990s heyday of toning tables. The concept has evolved into a range of dual-function seated exercise machines and multi-function recumbent units, which combine in a timed circuit offering a full body workout in 30 minutes.
Electronically controlled transmissions within the equipment facilitate safe and comfortable exercise with a non-weight-bearing action that can be used passively for muscle and joint activity, or actively by pushing into the electronically controlled transmission unit to increase muscle tone.
The user is guided through a complete range of movement to ensure a comprehensive exercise and undergoes a monthly body composition analysis and exercise review to highlight progress made.
Some healthy figures
There are currently around 40 of Shapemaster’s FeelGood Factory-branded exercise suites in UK leisure centres in addition to independent gyms and rehabilitation centres.
“Our research shows that members exercise on average three to four times a week. Successful suites can attract upwards of 400 new members, each paying upwards of £25 per month, depending on the local demographic,” says David Heathcote, business development manager at Shapemaster Global.
This equates to £82,000 at around 50 per cent capacity (275 members for average opening times) and £112,000 at 75 per cent capacity (375 members), depending on opening times.
Case study- Ramsgate Leisure Centre
The FeelGood Factory at Ramsgate Leisure Centre has proved highly successful, providing significant financial advantage for Your Leisure and health and social benefits for the community. The suite features a
10-station circuit attracting more than 450 members, each paying £25 per month. Following the success of the suite, Your Leisure co-launched a Feelgood Factory on Margate High Street earlier this year.
“When we first looked at the concept in 2012 I was very sceptical about the impact it would have on our business. But since the launch, I’ve been consistently surprised by the continuous flow of new customers, the retention of customers and the benefits these members bring in terms of secondary spend,” says Gavid Vickers, indoor leisure manager.
“The Feelgood concept appeals very much to hard-to-reach segments of our local community particularly older, disabled and deconditioned people. Our ability to grow membership past the 450 point is down to referrals and recommendations from our clients; we didn’t need to use discounts and marketing resources. Simply creating the conditions where people feel comfortable, can make friends and share a sense of community has ensured the success of our Feelgood Factory.”
