Humanity is evolving with the latest innovations to connect. Technology makes it possible to stay more connected to our families, friends and interests than ever. But as a professional in the health club arena, how can you use technology to engage with members and let them know about all the exciting offerings that differentiate your club from competitors? The truth is that modern technology is far more powerful and user-friendly than you might think.
Need a Roadmap to the Digital Landscape?
The digital landscape impacts everyone, whether it be at a young age for some or mid-life for others. It’s essential to embrace it. Technology can make people feel close to others who are miles away. Mobile devices are loaded with apps that drive connection with family, friends and even strangers. Immersive video games have developed their own culture, connecting users to a world of engagement and storytelling. Our favorite sports teams and celebrities are in the palm of our hand, whether we’re streaming the latest game or gasping at gossip. With diverse technology and members on different levels of technological literacy, how do you maximize its effectiveness?
Taking Steps to Understand
To start connecting with members, develop an understanding of the technology you’ve invested in already. Think of the many facets of your smartphone. Are there more opportunities available to maximize your mobile experience? Understanding your club’s tools will help you spread your message, letting members know about special events, small group training, new equipment and programming. If you discover gaps in your knowledge when it comes to your technology, your equipment provider can be a valuable source of information. Certain providers even offer websites full of resources to help you make the most of your investment.
The Digital Age as an Advantage
With a solid understanding in place, you can use the technology at your fingertips to connect with members, inside or outside your facility. Many of today’s fitness solutions include integrated connectivity, streamlining your digitized materials to your members. Better still, certain console interfaces offer access to popular apps across generations, integrating even further into your members’ daily routines. Using a customized workout tracking network for fitness challenges can help your members feel like an essential cog in your health club machine. Trainers can assign programs to be tracked through wearables and the equipment being used. Motivating reward and referral programs lead back to boosting your club’s engagement and acquisition. Innovation is prevalent in modern fitness technology, and this is just the beginning. By continuing to gain knowledge about the technology already in your facility, you can discover the unique connectivity opportunities the virtual age offers.
Ashley Haberman is the U.S. marketing manager at Johnson Health Tech North America — parent company of Matrix Fitness. He can be reached at ashley.haberman@johnsonfit.com, or visit matrixconnectedsolutions.com.
