In this data-driven environment, it is becoming increasingly important to offer the “latest” technology to remain relevant. The problem is that it can be difficult to determine which technology is worth the investment. With each trade show, forum and blog post, owners and trainers are presented with something new and “leading edge.” How do you filter through all the numbers to determine what is truly worth your investment? Here are three suggestions:
Is it relevant to your client’s goals?
This may seem obvious, but it is actually a question that needs to be asked. All too often, new technology has a bit of a “gee whiz” factor: new, interesting and different. But does it really have the power to change outcomes? Evaluate the technology you are considering and ask yourself the following:
Will this make a difference in my client’s experience?
Will their workout or training plan change based on this data?
Can they expect results that will help them achieve their goals?
Is it easy to implement?
Adding new technology should simplify your life, not complicate it. And you definitely don’t want to have to hire new staff to operate it. So while the technology may be rocket science, the implementation should be turn-key. For instance, VO2 Max testing can be added as a profitable service to benefit results in all your cardio fitness classes and training. While the testing itself is high-end, the implementation of custom training zones can fit in quite seamlessly with your existing cardio classes.
Are the results user friendly?
Evaluate the results:
Do they make sense at a glance? Are the graphs, tables or numbers clear and concise?
Can your trainers explain the data without stumbling over their words?
Is the data readily available for use? Can your client immediately hop on the treadmill or head to a spin class with their newfound wisdom? Can they program their app on the spot?
The biomarker and technology boom within fitness certainly has the attention of gym owners. The truth is, though, just because you can measure something doesn’t mean you should. Keep your outcomes in mind — such as relevancy implementation and results — to ensure the successful implementation of technology in your gym.
Julie Kofoed is the vice president of marketing at KORR Medical Technologies. She can be reached at jkofoed@korr.com or visit korr.com.
