Every month, Club Solutions sits down with an industry expert to share in their knowledge. This issue, we sat down with Kristen Green.
1. How did you get started in the fitness industry?
In my early 20s, I found a new passion for exercise and, in particular, weight training. After outgrowing training in our home garage, I became a member at a small local gym in our area. Not long after, the owners were looking to sell the business. With a leap of faith and no experience, we bought the gym. I worked in all operational aspects of the business including front desk reception, marketing, finance, group fitness and personal training. Using this experience, I was then able to apply to university to gain a professional qualification in sports and exercise science.
2. What has been the key to your organization’s success? What are you most proud of?
Aquafit has now celebrated 19 years in business. Undoubtedly, this longevity could not have been achieved without our dedicated and passionate team. Although there’ve been many team changes over this time, what’s remained constant is the commitment to our members, Aquafit, and our internal and external community. When hiring, we look for a culture fit for our teams. We’re looking for a professional presentation, a can-do attitude and great customer service ethos. At the Australian Fitness Awards last year, I was very proud to accept the “Employer of Choice” award on behalf of the Aquafit team. Although this is just one of many moments I am proud of, it’s important recognition and validation for the work the team is doing.
3. What has been one of the biggest accomplishments of your career?
In an industry career spanning 30 years, I’ve been fortunate to have many achievements and personal recognition I’m very proud of. However, having the opportunity to co-found and establish the Aquafit business in 2004 is definitely the biggest. I had the incredible opportunity to literally build a new fitness business and be entrusted the responsibility of building a team culture which leveraged the values of community, respect, compassion and understanding.
4. What has been one of the biggest challenges you have faced in your career? And how did you overcome it?
Earlier in my career, I worked for a large international fitness organization. Although one of the most challenging periods in my career, it also proved to be instrumental in the success of my career. While I gained valuable operational experience during this time, I was also personally challenged in values alignment. I felt I was the proverbial “square peg in a round hole” when it came to culture fit. When I made the decision to ultimately leave, I took with me a valuable lesson. I learned you should never compromise your personal values to work for an organization. It was at this point I learned the critical importance of an inclusive culture and leadership at work.
5. What is one lesson you have learned that other fitness professionals can learn from?
Culture is everything in business. I believe culture is a critical driver of business success. With a positive and inclusive workplace culture, anything is possible and a great culture starts with leadership and a clearly communicated vision and mission.
6. One fact that others may not know?
I was a nationally-ranked bodybuilder in Australia in the 1990s. Competing also gave me the opportunity to learn valuable lessons about myself and others. Apart from the positive benefits of a strong, healthy body, I learned self-discipline, commitment and the ability to be resilient in the face of life’s imminent challenges.
