You have questions, we have answers. We took some time this month to speak with Tedros Teame, the locker room manager at The Houstonian, about how clubs can create amazing locker rooms.
“What are some simple steps clubs can take to improve their locker rooms?”
TT: It is important to have a very attentive staff in terms of friendliness and facility upkeep. Guests like to find smiling faces that would proudly show them all available amenities and services in the locker room.
“How should clubs use technology/media in locker rooms?”
TT: Guests want to have access to the Internet and be connected at all times. Hotspots and Wi-Fi are a must for any facility. If space permits, big screen televisions are always a welcome respite from a hard workout. Allowing members to use their cellular phones inside the locker room should be carefully monitored to avoid potential misuse i.e. picture taking, disruptive and loud conversations.
“What are some major turn-offs members discover in locker rooms that can easily be avoided?”
TT: The first impression is key to a successful relationship — bad odors, a noisy environment, broken fixtures and definitely dirty facilities turn off guests. Cleanliness and maintenance go hand in hand to keep your guests happy and members proud of their club.
“What are some emerging trends in locker rooms?”
TT: In the high-end types of locker rooms, amenities are trending toward products and services similar to those found in spas. Locker rooms are starting to offer ancillary services i.e. barbershops and massages, while the general trend in the health club is to offer more types of beverages and foods to meet the increasing demand of healthy choices. Locker rooms are also becoming more eco-friendly and aware of environmental challenges. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to see more air dryers replacing the old paper dispensers.
How Teame Enjoys a Locker Room:
“After a nice workout, I like to enjoy a steamy sauna, followed by a nice shower, pampered by an aromatic shampoo and body wash to melt away all the tensions of the day. Finally, to complete my day, our wide choice of grooming amenities offers an enviable array of products that cater to every need.”
About Tedros Teame:
Tedros has been at The Houstonian for almost eight years and has managed the locker room for seven. His background was in sales, but he said, “I love the interaction and the opportunity of building relationships that only a locker room can offer.”
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Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
