06 Jan The importance of community

The first ever gym I used was a local council gym in my home town of East Kilbride when I was only 15 years old. Back then we just didn’t have the same choice in gyms and they weren’t as popular as they are today. Although it was a small gym, it had a great atmosphere and their was a brilliant camaraderie amongst the members. Everyone from the trainers, managers and receptionists knew your name and you instantly felt comfortable and part of the place. When I look back, it is with fondness because I truly believe I wouldn’t be where I am had I not joined that gym.

These days the gym scene is far different. We have bigger gyms, more equipment, more trainers and more choice to make when choosing a gym than ever before. Although if I was starting out in a gym today as the same 15 year old boy I highly doubt I’d follow the same path. These days the common theme is for people to join a huge gym where you’re identified by an 8 digit pin number rather than by your name. These days we’re more inclined to stick our headphones on and not even say hello to the person on the treadmill beside us. All sense of community has been lost in our gyms today and that’s a real shame.

 
When we were building the club one of the most important things we wanted was for it to be a place where people enjoyed going. A place where people knew they would see familiar faces, be comfortable and feel supported. We wanted people to know that we cared and that they were more than simply a number to us. We want to take the time to get to know the people that join our gym and we want them to feel part of our community.

 
We have a great team at the club and everyone tries to support our members in all aspects of a healthier lifestyle, not just in delivering fitness results. We are a gym that our members are proud to say they are a member of and have a sense of belonging. I truly believe those that look for value and seek that personal touch will fall in love with our club. Fitness is more than activity, it’s a lifestyle.

Derek Brettell
The Club Gym Sales Director