Recently, TODAY likened group exercise floors to the wild kingdom, discussing how some members can become territorial of their space. And it’s not confined to group exercise rooms. Some members often mark a space, elliptical or piece of selectorized equipment with a towel or water bottle, and feel like they “own” it. If someone attempts to use “their” space or piece of equipment, a confrontation can arise.
Chelsea Dale, the vice president of Group X for O2 Fitness in North Carolina, agreed that this is a problem, especially in group exercise classes. “We see this in many classes,” she said. “People have their space in the studios they feel most comfortable in. People tend to be very put off when ‘their space’ is taken … We see this overwhelming in [cycling] classes, where members can put their shoes, water bottle or towel on a bike before class starts.”
Much of this problem can arise in classes that are filled to the brim with members. As a result, O2 Fitness utilizes a sign-in sheet at the front desk to ensure popular classes or ones with only a specific amount of equipment, don’t become over-filled. “We will also add additional classes of the format that is filling up, so that hopefully the amount of people will be divided over multiple classes,” said Dale.
However, Dale warned: “You have to be careful with this — give [members] too many options and the class numbers dip too low. Packed classes are a great energy booster for participants and the instructor.”
Although territorial members will likely always exist in Group X rooms, Dale explained that having a well-mannered and well-spoken instructor in charge can help eliminate tension if a confrontation arises. In addition, O2 Fitness asks members not to mark pieces of equipment or space as their own. “We ask members not to do this, as we run a first-come, first-serve mentality in class spaces,” she said.
Ultimately, Dale said the issue is a challenge that requires constant brainstorming to solve. “It’s a difficult thing for us to manage because, of course, we want to please our regulars, but we also don’t want new people to shy away due to this,” she said. “It’s a very careful balance.”
Chelsea Dale’s Solutions to Territorial Members:
- Make use of sign-up sheets for popular classes so that overcrowding doesn’t become an issue.
- A good mannered and well-spoken instructor is key to eliminate any issues that arise in an overcrowded class.
- Invite new people to join regulars at the front of the class. That way, new members can follow along easier. This makes the regulars feel valued and newbies feel part of the community.
- Encourage everyone to relax and have a good time…it’s supposed to be fun!
Rachel Zabonick is the Editor of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@clubsolutionsmagazine.com. Reach out to her about exciting events or programs your club has implemented, or to share the amazing accomplishments of a member.
