Every month, Club Solutions sits down with an industry expert to share in their wealth of knowledge. In the July issue, we sat down with Meg Negron, the director of operations at Healthworks and Republic Fitness.
1. How did you get started in the fitness industry?
As part of my bachelor’s in exercise science, I had to complete an internship and had the luck of landing a position in corporate wellness. There, I was able to try out teaching group fitness, personal training and creating employee wellness programs. Later, I joined the Healthworks team — a place with dynamic ideas and innovative programs for members and staff.
I am blessed to have found an industry that was fun and ever-changing with an impact that was lifelong for our communities. What a combo.
2. What’s been a key to your organization’s success? What are you most proud of?
We listen. Period. The act of sharing honestly is the best example of community, and that open communication has served us well. So many members and teammates have been with us 10 years or more — some close to 30 years.
3. What has been one of the biggest accomplishments of your career?
I am so proud of our 2022 focus: The year to feel better. We looked critically at public health data in our area and across the country and found a huge opportunity to be part of improving anxiety and mental health issues through movement. Almost half the women we serve were experiencing anxiety, and a lot of that stress came from concerns for their health. We chose to spread joy focusing on programs that make you feel better with support and encouragement. Goals are important, but falling in love with exercise is where it all begins.
4. What has been one of the biggest challenges you have faced in your career? And how did you overcome it?
Personally, one of the most difficult times was earning my master’s while in my first real management position. I would work all day, take classes at night and try to find time for life in between. I ended up dropping to part time and taking an additional year to earn my degree. At the time it felt like failing. Looking back, I am so thankful.
Management is all about navigating deadlines and solving problems. Learning to adapt and focus on the end goal has always served me well. Success does not always look exactly as planned and being willing to change your trajectory is so critical.
5. What is one lesson you have learned that other fitness professionals can learn from?
Find the yes. If you commit to looking for it you will always find it. There is always a path forward whether it is managing a team or training a client. Lean into those opportunities.
6. Tell us one fact about yourself others may not know.
I went to a French immersion elementary and high school, learning almost all my subjects in French — including math. My family has no connection to France, so it was totally random. I am also a complete reality TV junkie.
To learn more about Meg Negron, connect with her on LinkedIn.
