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Overcoming procrastination is crucial for business growth and longevity. Everyone faces procrastination in some aspect of their work and lives and the time you spend waiting and not acting could help you grow further, faster. Identifying the causes of procrastination for yourself and in your business is one step to help you outgrow it.

To boost your business this quarter, consider these four questions to enhance your motivation and set some ambitious goals for growth. We hope that the advice and action steps provided in this blog will enable you and your business to flourish and thrive in the upcoming season and beyond.

What Is Your WHY?

Returning to your roots, or the reason you got started in your current business, is a key step to reconnect with your motivation. Reflect on the vision, mission, and values of your company. What got you started and what difference do you want to make in the world? For example, our vision at canfitpro is to deliver accessible learning experiences to a global audience, making fitness and mental health part of personal wellness for everyone.

Rediscovering the passion that ignited your journey can be a catalyst for renewed motivation and future success. Reconnecting with that reason and energy can give you the boost you need to get moving again and build momentum. The key to overcoming procrastination is to inspire action in yourself and those around you.

Where Do You Want to Be in Your Business and By When?

Having a vision and knowing the reason you exist is important. But manifesting those goals comes down to how you plan to get there. Procrastination can set in if you do not think about when. Having deadlines for our goals means it is important, keeps us accountable, and helps us set priorities to combat procrastination.

Procrastination can occur when we lack clarity about our goals, and the steps needed to achieve them. You need to get clear on your areas for growth and make a plan to get you there. One approach is to set S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound) Goals. These kinds of goals are tangible and add a level of clarity to our fitness business vision. As we embark on a new quarter, it is crucial to redefine our business objectives, aligning them with both short-term and long-term visions. Harness this energy to refine your destination and establish clear, achievable goals for your journey ahead.

Who Are the Like-Minded Leaders You Need to Meet to Support Your Growth?

Lack of the right knowledge and support from others can also contribute to our tendency to procrastinate. One way to boost motivation and overcome procrastination is to surround yourself with ambitious leaders who share your mindset for growth. Another essential step to ensuring the growth of your business is obtaining the necessary knowledge to reach your goals. You might not realize that you are missing something until you connect with someone who has that knowledge or experience and opens your eyes to this. This fact highlights the importance and value of networking.

Want to enhance your knowledge and network while making important connections? The canfitpro Global Conference and Trade Show is quickly approaching! This is once-a-year, not-to-be-missed opportunity for your personal growth as a fitness business leader and connecting with other industry leaders from across the country and around the world. As a canfitpro Business Member, you will benefit from a discount on your registration! If you are not yet a canfitpro Business Member, you can learn more and sign-up for the Business Membership here. Come and join us in Toronto on August 9th and 10th for the most anticipated fitness learning and workout experiences of the year. This is the place to be for meeting like-minded fitness professionals, leaders, and business owners who share your interests and commitment.

How Sustainable is Your Fitness Business?

On Monday April 22, we celebrate Earth Day. This is an important occasion where we reflect on long-term environmental sustainability, what it means, and how we can contribute. In terms of your company, think about ways to minimize your environmental footprint and support sustainability. Even the smallest action taken today can add to long-term and much needed change.

Sustainability is a broad concept that can be applied to more than just the environment. As per question two above, it is important to set goals, and not just short-term goals, for this quarter. This quarter has the potential to be the start of so much if you take the initiative. Dare to dream big and envision where you want your business, and your life, to be in the next five to 10 years. How many lives can you transform and what kind of impact can you have on the world during that time? How will your life be better because of the contribution your business will make in your community and the employees and members you serve? It is necessary to go beyond your comfort zone and have a fearless and audacious vision. Continuing to procrastinate for the next quarter, year, or five years, how will that affect the longevity, sustainability, and success of your fitness business?

Words to live by:

“If nothing changes, nothing changes. If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’re going to keep getting what you’re getting. You want change, make some.” Courtney C Stevens

The post <strong>Four Questions to Spring into a New Quarter and Elevate Your Fitness Business</strong> appeared first on canfitpro.

Title 

Certification & Education Administrator

Reports to 

Manager of Certification & Education Experience

Department 

canfitpro

Effective Date 

February 2024

Core Values, Purpose and Vision

At canfitpro, we live and breathe our Core Values of Caring Community, Curiosity, Commitment, Customer Mindset and Cultivate a Passion for Fitness, and we are here for a Purpose: To inspire fitness as a desired career and lifestyle to create positive change in the lives of others. Our vision is aspiring to deliver accessible learning experiences to a global audience, making fitness and mental health a part of personal wellness for everyone.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

We believe that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strengthens our entire company for our Associates, Members and the communities we serve in. canfitpro is committed to creating and fostering an environment that allows for inclusive learning, accessibility, diversity of thought and people. It is an expectation that all Associates are committed to understanding, supporting, and creating an inclusive environment.

Job Overview

This role is responsible for supporting the upkeep of certification and continuing education programs while supporting program development, onboarding, and delivery channels.  This role also supports the scheduling of education event curriculum.

Key Responsibility

Provides administrative support to ensure the seamless execution of canfitpro’s certification and education experiences:

• Prepares contracts for PRO TRAINERS, Presenters, and program contributors.
• Updates key documents and resources for distribution to PRO TRAINERS, contributors, presenters, and education partners.
• Maintains certification-related records within the company CRM  and Learning Management Systems.
• Supports the development and revision of courses, materials, and resources related to certification, continuing education, and recertification.

Supports the scheduling of certification and education delivery.

• Assists the Education Experience Coordinator in the scheduling of in-person and online event curriculum.
• Supports the scheduling process for certification courses, exams, and continuing education.

Monitors and maintains the CEC Provider Listing by providing communication and alerts to existing providers of renewal dates and onboarding newly approved CEC Providers:

• Processes new CEC Provider applications and onboard the customers to reflect approved courses and CECs associated.
• Works with B2B Sales Administrator to determine the list of Sponsors with complimentary course approvals for CECs each year.
• Monitors the expiring list and monthly renewals to keep the CEC Provider Listing in good standing and reflect an active list of approved CEC Providers and courses.

Reviews participant feedback and provides tracking and reporting of customer satisfaction for opportunities to enhance programs or courses.

Communication/Business Relationships

Internal Contacts: Membership, Events, Finance

Purpose of Communication: Consistency of member feedback, policy clarification, internal education, contract administration

External Contacts: Vendors, Other fitness organizations

Purpose of Communication: Discovery regarding their products

Qualifications

Education

Minimum Required:

• High School

Preferred:

• Bachelor Degree

Work Experience

Minimum Required:

• 1-3 year of Administration experience

Preferred:

• Product Management, Contract Management

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Minimum Required:

• Basic use of Microsoft Office
• Experience with multi-tasking, working independently and as a part of a team
• Effective organizational and time management skills
• Ability to provide solutions and make recommendations

Preferred:

• Technical proficiency working with learning management systems and contract software

Core Competencies

• Organization – Can marshal sufficient resources (people, funding, support) to get things done. Can orchestrate multiple activities at once to accomplish a goal. Uses resources effectively and efficiently. Arranges information and files in a useful manner.
• Attention to Detail – Employs active listening to collect and gather specific and pertinent details. Includes sufficient detail when documenting or presenting information. Explores the problem and all of its elements until the reasoning has been found so that it can be resolved accurately.
• Time Management – Values time and uses his/her time effectively and efficiently. Concentrates his/her efforts on the more important priorities. Gets more done in less time than others. Can attend to a broader range of activities.
• Learning on the Fly – Learns quickly when facing new problems and is open to change. Versatile learner and enjoys the challenge of unfamiliar tasks. Analyzes both successes and failures for clues on how to improve and/or self-develop. Experiments and thinks outside the box if necessary to find solutions.

Employment Conditions

• This position is a hybrid full-time salaried role based out of canfitpro Home Office at 225 Select Ave.
• Occasionally work off-site and travel may be required

Physical & Sensory Requirements

• Ability to sit, or stand, daily while using a computer
• Continuous screen time demanding audio and visual attention

Working Conditions

• Occasional Travel Required for on-site work

Perks of working at canfitpro

• To help lead canfitpro in its vision- we aspire to deliver accessible learning experiences to a global audience, making fitness and mental health a part of personal wellness for everyone.
• FREE Fitness membership and discounted membership for friends and family.
• Group benefits plan designed to meet employees’ basic and life-changing benefits needs.
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Lunch & Learns to create and support a culture of learning, unlearning and celebrating our differences.
• You will receive a paid day off during your birthday month every year.
• Your career development is supported through free online learning in all areas of our business and a clear learning path will be personalized for your goals.
• canfitpro provides access to our certifications and continuing education at no cost.
• Employee Recognition Program – Bucket list – Earn coins that can be redeemed for various gift cards.

The post Certification & Education Administrator appeared first on canfitpro.

The biggest return on investment you can make for your fitness business comes from being certified and continuously learning and innovating – which is what we mean by ‘Upskilling.’ To stay ahead and be better prepared to tackle potential challenges, it is necessary to prioritize continuing education and lifelong learning. In this article, we focus on the value of continuing education and the importance of certification. It is our role as leaders to work together to define and uphold a standard of practice to reinforce the requirement and maintenance of certification to position fitness as safe, effective, and essential for everyone.

Here are six key ingredients to fostering a culture of continuous education and supporting your staff in obtaining and maintaining their certification – that is vital for them and essential for your business.

1.Boost Your Credibility in the Fitness Industry

Certification and credibility go hand in hand. As you know, in Canada the fitness industry is a self-regulated profession. Therefore, it is up to us to set and uphold the standard of practice for fitness professionals in our industry. The reputation of the fitness industry is in our hands –each of us working as fitness professionals are responsible for creating and upholding the reputation as a profession, and it only takes a few bad experiences to tarnish the entire industry’s reputation. Every club and fitness business can contribute and make a difference in how we are serving fitness consumers, which translates to the impact we have on the health and well-being of other’s lives – we rise together. We have a duty to each other and to all Canadians who trust and expect quality services and results from us. Your training and certifications have a pivotal role in consumer impressions not only in your business but also for the overall impression of the fitness industry. How successful you can be is dependent on the overall reputation of the fitness industry as a whole. Be the difference you seek!

2. Savour the Connections You Will Build

With every course, certification, and event you attend, you have an opportunity to make new connections. You will form connections with fellow certification candidates during the training and certification process thereby expanding your professional network. You never know what kind of valuable opportunities could arise from such chance meetings. A new business partnership could come out of people with shared vision, goals and values coming together to learn something new. Beyond the connections in the classroom, training studio, or conference there are the connections you make that grow into lifelong relationships and friendships. I’m confident you can recall a time when you attended a training or certification or went to a conference and met someone that literally changed the trajectory of your career. These relationships and connections with like-minded leaders are invaluable!

3. Cultivate Your Confidence

When we learn more our confidence and belief in our own abilities expands. The confidence gained through ongoing personal and professional development will give you more clarity of purpose to move you forward on your journey to serve and uphold the standard of practice for your own business.

4. Add New Flavour to Your Revenue Streams

Learning new skills and obtaining new certifications allows you to expand, diversify, and increase your offerings. This can lead to new revenue streams to boost the profitability of your business. For instance, you or someone on your team could take a certification to provide a new club service, personal training or group fitness program, or class format. Doing so can attract more clients with your diversified offerings and provide you with more income.

5. Spice Up Your Career to Stay Motivated

In any profession, things can become stagnant after working in the same position for an extended period. Innovation is essential to keep you motivated. Getting a new certification can rejuvenate and add excitement to what you do and even how you lead. There is a sense of both pride and excitement that comes with acquiring new skills or certification, and if it’s been some time since you learned something new or took a certification course, I encourage you to. Having recently completed a coaching course, I feel exhilarated and invite you to experience the same.

During March, canfitpro has a sale on our certification courses. Check out our current offerings here for some inspiration on how to spice up your career.

6. Invest in Yourself

The idea of allocating time and effort to certification or continuing education may seem like a distraction from your business or regular operations. But it most assuredly is not! When you invest time in learning, you are investing in yourself. You can expect not only a return on investment but also an increased sense of self-worth and accomplishment.

Final Thoughts There are unlimited benefits and valuable reasons to invest in education, obtain a certification, and pursue continuing education. Together we can positively influence the standards in the Canadian Fitness Industry and by each of us doing our part we are elevating our reputation for generations of fitness professionals and fitness enthusiasts, for decades to come. I hope this article has provided you with some things to consider and will inspire you to find learning opportunities to nourish your soul and career this year.

The canfitpro Global Conference and Tradeshow on August 9-10 is going to be the fitness education event of the year! If you are looking for a premium buffet of options for personal and professional development than this is it. Like sharing a delicious meal with friends, learning together is better with friends. So, make your canfitpro learning experience more enjoyable by inviting your staff and colleagues to join you at this event.

The post Uphold Standards of Practice by Fostering a Culture of Education & Certification appeared first on canfitpro.

I’m excited to share some important information about canfitpro’s Global Conference & Trade Show taking place from August 7-10, 2024. In response to feedback from our members and delegates, we are exploring a new format this year. The conference will align with the Trade Show schedule and will be a two-day event on Friday, August 9 and Saturday, August 10. We feel confident that this will be a positive change that will improve the overall event experience for delegates and attendees.

We’ve heard from many delegates and attendees that because the conference takes place in August, they would like it to be slightly shorter so they can enjoy more summer vacation time with family and friends. Our goal is to respond to your valuable input and let you know we’re listening.

This change will not impact the pre-conference events and intensives that will still take place on Wednesday, August 7 and Thursday, August 8.

Everything you love about canfitpro’s Global Conference & Trade Show, including the world-class opening and closing keynote presentations, informative and entertaining featured sessions, new and award-winning speakers, and the delegate networking opportunities, will be better than ever!

By registering for the full event, you get access to the entire online conference event and recordings, which gives you the chance to watch and revisit even more educational sessions and add extra continuing education credits (CECs). As a reminder, with full-event registration you can earn up to 12 CECs.
Global Registration 2024

What to expect at canfitpro’s 2024 Global Conference & Trade Show:

Friday, August 9: Opening keynote address and awards ceremony featuring Hamza Khan, global expert in the future of work and people-first leadership. Khan is a multi-award-winning Canadian entrepreneur, best-selling author and international speaker.

As well as:

• Saturday, August 10: Closing keynote address featuring an inspiring leader and well-known national figure, followed by the Fitness Professional of the Year awards ceremony.

• Saturday, August 10: NEW mid-day general session featuring a global fitness industry trainer and coach.

• Les Mills Experience: Open to all delegates & consumers

• Trade Show: Celebrity meet ‘n’ greets

• Trade Show: Performance stages and fitness competitions

• NEW: Professional networking sessions hosted by top industry experts

• NEW: The Pickleball Ontario Championship Series hosted by canfitpro on the Trade Show floor! Watch athletes play and compete for the provincial championship and see why this sport is taking its place in the mainstream of Canadian life and fitness activities.

More details are coming soon!

As a loyal canfitpro member and delegate we want to provide you with a special registration discount code. When you register, please type in ‘LOYALTY’ at checkout to receive $42 off your registration, for a rate of $399+ tax – the same as last year’s Early Bird rate. This offer is available until February 29, 2024. Visit www.canfitpro.com to register today to take advantage of this special rate! Please note that conference registration rates for 2024 have been updated to ensure canfitpro can continue to deliver the best possible experience and the high-quality education you deserve.

Many of you have told me canfitpro’s Global Conference & Trade Show is the highlight of your year. I couldn’t agree more. It’s our chance to come together as a community to share, learn and inspire each other to give fitness, health, and wellness the platform it deserves.

Please connect with me or the canfitpro Member Experience Team (info@canfitpro.com) if you have any questions and please take advantage of the amazing discount available until the end of February. I can’t wait to see you all this August!

Yours in health & fitness, Mo

Maureen (Mo) Hagan
Chief Operating Officer

The post canfitpro’s Global Conference & Trade Show Announcements appeared first on canfitpro.

Like buildings, businesses need strong foundations. Without it, you risk taking the whole enterprise down.

There’s a lot of questions to answer: What’s a distraction? What’s worth your time? What’s going to grow revenue? What’s actually going to slow you down?

After working with over 53,000 fitness businesses, I’ve learned there’s only a handful of things you need to focus on.

My team and I developed a resource to simplify the convoluted path toward growing a fitness business. We call it the 1-Page Fitness Business Plan, and it’s 17 years of experience packed into a single resource.

Growing a profitable business isn’t easy.

But it is simple.

Don’t Underestimate Your Vision

It starts with having a clear personal and business vision. You can achieve great things in your business…but you can’t sprint into the dark and hope to reach a destination you haven’t decided on.

Vision gives light to your path, and helps you decide what factors to consider as you grow your business. If you’re going to grow your studio or gym business, then you’re likely going to be signing a lease on a space for one, five, or even 10 years.

You better be clear on what that commitment should produce for you. That’s a significant investment of time, energy, and resources. A clear vision is the difference between a bulging bank account and a thriving client base…and loads of unhealthy debt with no prospects in sight.

Get Laser-Specific On What Your Goals Are

With your vision in hand, you can set clear targets for the business. This is how you make your vision real and practical.

There are five categories of targets every fitness business must have: revenue, expenses, profit, client count, and personal income.

These are areas of focus that help guide your decision making. Without these numbers, you’ll never know if you’re on track or off track. It’s like trying to fly a plane with no idea what any of the instruments on the dashboard mean. The likelihood of getting to your destination would be slim.

Understand Your Ideal Client

The final piece of your foundation is defining your perfect client. It constantly amazes me how much this critical task is overlooked.

Get honest about who you like working with, who you want to work with, and who will pay the best.

When you clarify your vision, set clear targets, and identify your ideal clients, you’re well on your way to building a solid business foundation.

Create Your 1-Page Plan

Ready to elevate your business to more solid ground this year?

I encourage you to download a free 1-Page Fitness Business Plan template to keep you focused, eliminate overwhelm, and guide your marketing and sales strategies.

You can download it at the link: npefitness.com/canfitpro

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Hormonal imbalances that cause menopause and andropause:

Menopause occurs after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle, typically occurring in women in their mid-thirties to early fifties due to declining follicles and hormonal changes in the ovaries. This decline includes decreased levels of estrogen and progesterone, essential for crucial bodily functions.

Andropause denotes a rapid decline in testosterone levels, starting in men’s thirties at a rate of 1% annually. Depleted testosterone levels may lead to health issues later in life, necessitating medical attention for analysis, understanding, and treatment of the imbalance.

Hormone Optimization and Fitness

Depletion of estrogen and progesterone in women causes various issues, including mental health concerns, vasomotor symptoms, decreased bone density, weight gain, fatigue, and reduced sex drive. Men may also experience muscle and bone loss, increased belly fat, cardiovascular issues, and diminished sex drive due to declining testosterone levels.

Hence, it becomes imperative to maintain steady hormone levels for people facing imbalances. Maintaining an active lifestyle is one of the keys to a happy and healthy life. The endorphins released while being physically active strengthen both body and mind and can complement the path to recovery and should be practiced alongside hormone replacement therapy.

How does Science & Humans help with hormone imbalances?

Hormone imbalances, which lead to significant lifestyle issues, can be treated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Natural hormones, known as bioidentical hormones (bHRT), are synthesized from natural sources to closely resemble endogenous hormones. For mid-life women, the most common form of bHRT we prescribe includes compounded creams and gels.

Our process begins with comprehensive bloodwork testing for over 20 biomarkers of health. Following analysis, patients will log on to see a clinician specializing in mid-life hormone health to assess their symptoms. Treatment plans are customized for each patient and prescriptions are delivered to their door!

What can YOU do to support mid-life clients?

By continuing to educate clients on the impacts of menopause and andropause you will stand out as a trusted fitness expert for clients. When you identify clients who need support with hormone optimization you will be able to provide them with a discount code and access to timely, evidence-based medical support through Science & Humans. Join us as an affiliate and follow the step-by-step instructions to receive compensation for each referral and client discounts through our affiliate program.

We look forward to partnering with you!

The post Hormone Optimization: Menopause and Andropause Support appeared first on canfitpro.

Leaders, particularly those in executive roles, need to understand the importance of their actions as a powerful motivator for their company and brand. One important shift, which can bring significant gains to our industry, both on an individual and collective level, comes from diversifying our expectations and definitions of success for ourselves and our perspectives on who we hire and why. This article will explore mindset and operational shifts to support you in contributing to the inclusive fitness movement and the benefits of doing so.

Diversify your Expectations

Sometimes we become preoccupied with revenue goals and performance metrics of our business. Diversifying your resources, beginning with your talent/employee base, will open opportunities to attract more people of diverse backgrounds to your business. This shift contributes to a more holistic business strategy that acknowledges the unique backgrounds and needs of everyone, thereby demonstrating your understanding that success is different for every person, and it allows you to be more equitable in your expectations. An important attribute to cultivate to help you in diversifying your expectations is empathy. Exercising empathy and having a beginner’s mindset can support you in building connections, particularly with new clients. For example, recognize that for a new client or first-time gym member just getting in the door is such an accomplishment and deserves recognition.

Diversify your expectations for yourself and for others even within your business – especially setting too high expectations. This involves communicating with your staff and collaborating with them to create strategies for managing your core values of your business. At canfitpro, we value the creation of a Caring Community that supports inclusiveness, honors diversity, and respects individual needs. This is crucial for optimal performance in our roles and responsibilities.

Keep Learning

Advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in your organization means always being open to learning and unlearning. This learning is not always easy, but it is necessary.

At canfitpro, DEI is critical to our operations, hiring practices, courses, and events. Explore some of our previous blogs on our website, including these articles and many more, to start and continue your learning journey: I Didn’t See Myself Reflected in Yoga, So I Made My Own Space, Re-education & Re-definition: Why and How Fitness Creates The Infrastructure for Both,  and Creating Inclusivity and Safe Spaces in your Fitness Club.

Keep on learning and lead by example. Be the champion of learning at your organization and encourage your team to join you at learning events such as the canfitpro Global Conference & Tradeshow in Toronto August 8-10th.

Get Feedback from a DEI Audit

Feeling safe and comfortable is important for mental and emotional health. Nurturing inclusive spaces is crucial for this reason. Sometimes we are unaware of practices or behaviors that make certain groups feel like they don’t belong, due to our own biases and blind spots. This is why seeking an external viewpoint can be highly advantageous.

It takes courage to ask for feedback. Numerous companies are seeking consultants to assess and advise on DEI improvements. It’s great to see many fitness professionals pursuing advanced trainings and education in this area to support this important work, which is so beneficial for creating change in our industry. For your audit, it is ideal to have someone who is well-versed in DEI and has a good understanding of our industry to give you the most thoughtful and rigorous feedback.

Practice Deep Listening

It’s important for individuals to feel heard and valued within their community. There are many ways to go about this. For instance, conduct a company survey or host a town hall. Enhance your deep listening by following these best practice tips for active listening: be present versus gathering responses in your mind, avoid talking/interrupting, acknowledge what you heard by paraphrasing back, and ask more questions then simply giving information/advice. When individuals feel their voices are acknowledged and perspectives respected, they will feel more included in your business’s overarching narrative. This is what builds a stronger culture and more loyalty to your company and brand. Your clients and customers will feel a positive impact from this intangible connection.

Final Thoughts

Motion is essential for building and sustaining movement. Even the tiniest stone thrown into the water can create a large ripple. Imagine your organization at the heart of a ripple, with the power to build momentum, creating change and making a greater difference. Time and practice are necessary. As fitness professionals, we are aware that a total body transformation cannot be achieved with just one workout. Each session holds its own value, but when combined, these workouts can have a transformative effect. How can you contribute to the inclusive fitness movement in your business over the next 10 months? Take a S.M.A.R.T. goals approach as follows: Set one goal specifically focused on improving diversity, equity, and inclusion in your business. Then select one to three actions/steps that you can commit to daily/weekly/monthly. Continually reassess your S.M.A.R.T. goals to determine how realistic it was and adjust accordingly to keep MO’ving forward towards your specific goal. Ask your staff to join you on this mission and invite them to provide feedback. Feedback will help you stay accountable and focused. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities. Celebrate the small steps towards success along the way.

The post How to Contribute to Building the Inclusive Fitness Movement appeared first on canfitpro.

Fitness experts in Canada are forecasting a new era of fitness that focuses on aging gracefully, mental wellness, active recovery, and social interaction. Each year, the canfitpro Health & Fitness Trends Report sheds light on what to expect in the Canadian fitness industry. Findings from this year’s canfitpro Health & Fitness Trends Survey sourced insights from over 65,000 fitness professionals and business owners across Canada.  In this blog, we discuss and compare key findings from the latest reports and articles on fitness trends in 2024 and compare these to canfitpro Health & Fitness Trends Report.

Both canfitpro’s and ACSM’s reports feature and emphasize Top 10 trends. Even though the chart-topping trends differ, some similarities can be used to enhance organizational objectives. The reason for the differing Top 10 trends can be attributed to the varying contexts. In addition, when considering what recommendations and advice to follow, learn and understand these latest trends, specifically here in Canada with the canfitpro Health & Fitness Trends Report  as this will give priority to the needs and wants of your context and community to maximize your revenue.

Among the Top 10 trends, the ones that are most similar are canfitpro’s « Active aging/older adult programs » and the ACSM’s « Fitness programs for older adults ». “Personal Training” appeared in the Top 10 in both reports. The interest and investment in maintaining good health and mobility to maintain independence by experts and consumers is not surprising and deserves more attention from fitness industry professionals, as it ranked so highly in both reports. Looking to learn more about active aging and develop a fitness business strategy? Check out canfitpro’s Active Aging Certificate.

Both reports emphasize the importance of investing in upskilling and specialization and the demand to hire qualified fitness professionals. Fitness professionals see a need for ongoing education, learning, research, and self-study to stay on top of the industry and ensure they have the knowledge and skillset to meet the evolving needs of their clients and community. Consumers expect a high standard of quality, expertise, and performance from fit pros. Each of us as business owners and operators need to take responsibility for upholding the standard that consumers have for us. What are you doing for your personal and professional development as a fitness business leader this year? In what ways can you develop your skills and foster a culture of learning and growth for everyone in your organization? Increasing your knowledge and expertise is not only personally fulfilling but also an investment in the quality of services you can provide to your customers and clients, and is regarded by experts in the field as worthy of your time and attention.

The significance of mental health and mindfulness is evident in both trend reports. The canfitpro Health & Fitness Trends Survey reported two trends – Trend #3 “Mental Health & Stress Management Programs” and Trend #7 “Mind Body Programs” which both highlight the increased value assigned to mental health in addition to physical health and fitness. Julie Le Gruiec, Fitness Director of Éconofitness gyms in Quebec, identifies five fitness trends which included a focus on global well-being. Le Gruiec says this trend “working out in 2024 should focus on our overall well-being” and encourages us to look for ways “to be active and have fun” while you work out, which supports the increased attention on a holistic approach to fitness and prioritizing mental health. Further contributing commentary from the Fitness Industry Council of Canada (FIC) also recognizes the benefits of exercise for mind, body, and social well-being. Erin Phelan of the FIC (Fitness Industry Council of Canada) writes in FitBiz Weekly that the community building aspect that is possible through gyms and fitness facilities is more important than ever before to reducing feelings of loneliness which can help with maintaining good mental health. Incidentally, the canfitpro Health & Fitness Trends Report finds group fitness classes and programs as one of the top trends in 2024.

So, what does this mean and how can you use these trends and this information in your fitness business strategy? Wellness Consultant and Educator Debbie Bellenger, who is quoted in the canfitpro Health & Fitness Trends Report, observes how the industry trends are shifting as consumers’ needs change. This is wonderful to see and presents a remarkable opportunity for fitness professionals to expand their skill sets. One great action item for club owners, operators, directors, and managers going into 2024 would be to complete an audit of programs and services to see if you are offering classes and programs in the top five categories on the trends list. Consider sharing these resources and reports with your colleagues, staff, and associates.

Our analysis indicates that fitness professionals can have the greatest impact this year by focusing on active aging programs, investing in certified professionals, and prioritizing mind-body programs and mental health. We hope that this knowledge and information will assist fitness business owners in understanding the needs and interests of fitness professionals and consumers, expanding their expertise, and diversifying their skill set, and better serving their consumers and inspiring their team.

What intentions and goals do you have for yourself and your business for 2024? How do you plan to prioritize self-care and servant leadership in your goals and intentions? Now is the time to consider your training and development requirements and determine the support you need to perform at your best this year.

In closing, one important goal to consider is building social capital and investing in relationships with your members and clients. The 2023 Toronto’s Vital Signs Report highlights loneliness as a significant contributor to negative health outcomes. Based on this report, 28% of adults in Canada feel lonely three out of four days, with a higher percentage of 37% reported by adults in Toronto. Considering that trust and social connection are related it is more important than ever for leaders and operators to realize the significance that club community and socialization has on the overall health and well-being of members, and to focus on ‘member experience’ as much as you would the programs and services you offer. Do NOT underestimate the value of group fitness experiences and the power of group camaraderie!

Take into consideration how you can assist your staff in developing new skills, building social connection, and fostering team unity this year. There is no easier way to build your relationships, network with fellow industry peers, and learn from top industry experts than right here in Canada at canfitpro Global Conference & Tradeshow in Toronto – an investment that will pay off for years to come. Mark your calendars and send out a hold-the-date invite to your staff for August 7-10, 2024! Or check out one of our online ASPIRES events like canfitpro ASPIRES Nutrition on March 1, 2024.

The post Understand Fitness Trends and Uplevel Your Business Strategy for 2024 appeared first on canfitpro.

Title

Manager of Information Technology

Reports to

Director of Operations

Department

Information Technology

Effective Date

November 2023

Core Values, Purpose and Vision

At canfitpro, we live and breathe our Core Values of Caring Community, Curiosity, Commitment, Customer Mindset and Cultivate a Passion for Fitness, and we are here for a Purpose: To inspire fitness as a desired career and lifestyle to create positive change in the lives of others. Our vision is aspiring to deliver accessible learning experiences to a global audience, making fitness and mental health a part of personal wellness for everyone

Job Overview

The Manager of Information Technology provides management of canfitpro cloud-based applications and Microsoft systems and solutions, including hardware and software maintenance, training and consultation, development of resources and recommendations about future planning.  The IT Manager is responsible for implementing all technology and computing applications while managing a team of 4 and overseeing their performance and development. Providing these services in an effective and efficient manner will ensure maximum access to and implementation of technology services and resources.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement policies and procedures for electronic data processing and computer systems operations and development

• Maintain current and accurate inventory of technology hardware, software and resources
• Provide recommendations about accessing information and support
• Troubleshoot all technology issues, provide training and orientations
• Monitor and maintain technology to ensure maximum access

Manage information systems personnel and contractors to design, develop, implement, operate and administer computer and telecommunications software, networks and information systems

• Control the computer systems budgets and expenditures
• Vendor management and Contract management
• Direct and manage project development from beginning to end

Plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the operations of information systems and electronic data processing (EDP)

• Communicate complex technical concepts in non-technical language.
• Collaborate with management team to discuss system requirements, specifications, costs and timelines

Manages direct reports and the people requirements of the Department/Team using provided tools and resources to ensure the successful execution of all key responsibilities and tasks, retention of great talent, and high Associate engagement.

• Facilitates recruitment of direct reports alongside the People and Culture Department to ensure adequate resourcing based on approved Department/Team budget.
• Leads the onboarding, coaching, learning, development, and performance management of all direct reports to ensure a positive and safe working experience.

Communication/Business Relationships

Key Business Relationships

Internal (within the Organization

Contacts: COO, Directors, Management Team & All Staff

Purpose of Communication: IT related project updates, service maintenance updates, progress reporting and policy implementation

External (outside the Organization)

Contacts: Third party vendors/Partners

Purpose of Communication: Contract management, hardware and software purchasing, gather and share information related to services and access, resource management and resolving issues

Qualifications/Education

Minimum Required:

• Post-Secondary Education in information technology, computer science, software engineering or a related field

Work Experience

Minimum Required:

• 3-5 years IT management experience
• ITIL Foundations certification and 1-2 years’ experience working in an ITIL or MOF help desk environment
• Proven experience in managing cloud-based solutions and Microsoft 365 systems

Preferred:

• Scum Master Certification – with 1-2 years’ experience leading an ASP.Net development team
• PMP, CAPM or other formal training in project management

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Minimum Required:

• Computer hardware and software systems and programs, Including: HTML, XML,PHP, Perl, MSSQL, MySQL, Active Directory, MS Exchange, MS Access, ASP.Net
• Computer networks, network administration and network installation
• Network Infrastructure Management
• Open source solution implementation
• Computer troubleshooting
• POS experience
• Strong verbal and written, presentation and communications skills
• Analytical and problem solving, decision making skills
• Business Analysis Principles

Preferred:

• Microsoft certifications in: SQL Server, Active Directory, Exchange, Server, Windows, Share Point, Project
• Mobile Development IOs/Android

Core Competencies

Developing Direct Reports and Others: Provides challenging tasks and assignments. Holds frequent development discussions. Is aware of each direct report’s career goals. Constructs compelling development plans and executes them. Pushes direct reports to accept. Will take on direct reports who require more support and attention. Is a people builder.

Motivating Others: Creates a climate in which people want to do their best. Can motivate direct reports and team or project members. Can assess each person’s hot button and use it to get the best out of them. Empowers others. Invites input from each person and shares ownership and visibility. Makes each individual feel their work is important. Is someone people like working for and with.

Planning: Accurately scopes out length and difficulty of tasks and projects and sets objectives and goals. Develops schedules and assignments and breaks down work into steps. Anticipates and adjusts for problems and roadblocks. Measures performance against goals and consistently evaluates results.

Customer Focus: Is dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of both internal and external customers. Gets customer information and uses it to help improve our products and services. Acts with the customer in mind. Establishes and maintains effective relationships with customers and gains their trust and respect.

Total work System: Provides organization or enterprise-wide common systems for designing and measuring work processes. Seeks to reduce variances in organization processes. Delivers the highest-quality products and services which meet the needs and requirements of internal and external customers. Is committed to continuous improvement through empowerment and management by data. Leverage’s technology to positively impact quality. Is willing to re-engineer processes from scratch. Supports an environment that leads to the most efficient and effective work processes. Is open to suggestions and experimentation.

People Leadership

number of Reports

• 4 direct reports

Titles of Direct Reports

• Dynamics 365 Developer
• IT Business Analyst
• IT Service Desk Analyst
• Systems Administrator

Working Conditions

• Travel (outside of the regular commute)
• Exposure to noisy environments
• Continuous sitting, use of computer, keyboard and phone
• Continuous screen time demanding audio and visual attention

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