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Although the bankruptcy of one of the largest fitness chains in Indianapolis indicates a crack in the local fitness market, most managers claim the market is strong and expect continued profitability.
Poor maintenance and customer service both contributed to the locking of Livingwell Fitness Centers doors last October, according to Frank Allen, president and owner of Victory Fitness Centers, which moved into two facilities Livingwell vacated. "You've got to put money back into the club to keep members happy," Allen explained.
Other health clubs contacted listed customer satisfaction and personalized programs as chief assets in attracting and maintaining membership.
Customers are a lot more sophisticated than they were five years ago and more aware of available equipment for their specific needs, said Allen.
"Clients can already classify themselves when they walk into the club," said Bill Pigg, manager of Peak Performance. "They already have determined if they will be a recreational or if they are looking for more rigorous weight and cardiovascular training."
Likewise, "(clubs) are moving away from high-pressure sales because people just don't fall for that anymore," Pigg explained.
What people continue to fall for, however, are the tangible and intangible benefits of fitness. "Being fit gives people confidence and builds their self esteem," said Rich Powell, program director for Scandinavian Health & Racquet Club in Pike Plaza.
In addition to obvious competition from other fitness centers, weight reduction plans such as Weight Watchers, Medi-Plan and Nutri-System are indirectly vying for part of a health clubs' market. Health clubs often work closely with people who are...