Industry Buzz: Help Members Avoid Fast Food

Enter many communities and you’ll find fast food joints on every corner, often times placed one right after the other. James Mcllroy recognized this for what it was: a barrier keeping some individuals — including himself — from living a healthy lifestyle.

“During my weight loss and health conscious journey, I realized the number one problem our community is faced with today is the high accessibility to unhealthy stuff we call ‘food,’’’ he said, referring to fast food restaurants specifically.

As a result, Mcllroy realized that to remedy the issue, access to natural, healthier foods needed to be made more convenient. So he founded Food4Fuel in Loves Park, Illinois, a company that prepackages healthy meals people can order online.

Consumers aren’t the only ones taking notice of the product. So far, Mcllroy has partnered with Anytime Fitness locations and Peak Sports Club in the Loves Park area as well. The clubs now sell Food4Fuel’s products to members on-site, giving members access to fast-food options that are both healthy and convenient.

“I wanted to build awareness around the problem, educate and inspire people, as well as offer a solution that will spring-board people into a higher level of health consciousness,” said Mcllroy.

It’s vital that clubs continue to think of innovative and effective ways for members to improve both their fitness and nutrition habits. And companies such as Food4Fuel make that job even easier through the convenient provision of healthy foods to your members.

However, that’s not the only route clubs can take. If selling healthy foods within your club isn’t an option, consider hosting seminars or cooking classes. Partner with a local dietitian or nutritionist.

In addition, be sure to check out Denise Hernandez’s “Weight Management” blog for even more tips on how to help members with their wellbeing. In order for members to reach their health and fitness goals, the nutrition part of the equation can’t be left behind.

How are you helping members with nutrition? Share your best practices in the comments below.

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.