Why attend IHRSA’s Congress?

Alison O’Kane

Associate VP of international operations,

IHRSA

Having attended 10 of IHRSA’s 12 annual European Congresses, I look back fondly, recalling the amazing people I have met, as well as the cities it has brought us to – Madrid, Brussels, London, Berlin, Rome, den Haag/Amsterdam, Paris, Lisbon, Dublin, Barcelona, Milan, Vienna. Each event had its own personality, made up of the people who attended and the local culture. Now we come full circle, back to the city that launched the Congress – Madrid.

We’re heading to a city that’s home to one of our strongest international partners, MAS (Management Around Sports). MAS will be providing delegates with recommendations of what to do and see, to help attendees fully experience Spanish culture.

We expect 450+ operators and industry professionals from approximately 30 countries and five continents, making the Congress not only a European event but a global learning experience. There will be ample opportunity to network with peers, speakers and sponsors, with a sponsor showcase featuring the latest product innovations, as well as networking breaks, dinners and a tour of local clubs.

The educational programme will cover all aspects of the health club business such as leadership, sales management, retention and member loyalty, strategies for creating a leading brand, financial management, community engagement, and social media.

One of our keynote speakers, Magnus Lindkvist – an author and trendspotter from Sweden – will address the subject ‘When the Future Begins: Trendspotting, Future-Thinking and the Attack of the Unexpected’.

We hope that you will join us at the IHRSA European Congress in October

This year’s Congress in Madrid offers one of Europe’s best educational and networking opportunities / Photo: shutterstock.com/Matej Kastelic

Ask the experts: Getting recognition for your community outreach initiatives

We’re expanding our involvement within the local community. With that, we’re hoping to generate some positive PR. Can you suggest any PR strategies for our independent club?
Linda Mitchell, director of marketing & public relations for Newtown Athletic Club in Pennsylvania, US,offers her thoughts:

Linda Mitchell

Director of Marketing & Public Relations,

Newtown Athletic Club

“Generating positive PR is an ongoing activity that begins with getting yourself physically outside of your club. Either make the commitment to do it yourself, or assign a capable representative.

Join local business groups such as the Chamber or the Business Association. Join local service groups such as Rotary International, Lions Club, Kiwanis Club or Red Cross. Get involved with charitable organisations at a local or regional level.

Once you’ve joined and become familiar with these groups, take on a few choice leadership roles in the organisations that align closely with your mission. This will demonstrate to the community not only your dedication, but also your ability to achieve goals and make a difference. We found we could make the most impact for good in the community, and gain the most credibility for doing so, by being leaders.

In addition, support local charities and schools through a well-managed system of donating goods and services to their various fundraisers.

Finally, create good relationships with your local media. This is more easily done when your community involvement is already established. Often the local media will be present at community events and interested in how you are contributing. This leads to organic relationships with the media that will give you access when you need it.”

Read more answers to this question at www.ihrsa.org/industryleader

Health clubs should take the lead in the community / Photo: shutterstock.com/Monkey business

Strategic partner for IHRSA in Croatia

IHRSA has announced a new strategic partnership for Croatia, having come to an agreement with CLT Sportski Savjeti – the representative for Les Mills in Croatia.

“IHRSA is pleased to work with a strong partner in the newest European Union country,” says Hans Muench, IHRSA director for Europe. “By partnering with CLT, IHRSA is leveraging global strengths and local expertise in order to grow the sector and raise awareness about the health benefits of exercise.”

CLT’s plans for 2013 include driving growth and improving the professionalism of the Croatian fitness sector via regional seminars, regular networking events, a new internet and social media platform and organised trips to IHRSA’s European Congress and the 33rd Annual IHRSA International Convention & Trade Show.

Laurent Duchene of CLT says: “It was a great experience to attend IHRSA’s 12th European Congress in Vienna, Austria, last year. After networking and sharing best practices with over 450 delegates from 35 countries, I was keen to become part of IHRSA’s network.”

Details of the new partnership were announced at the FRIC Fitness and Wellness International Congress, which took place in Rijeka, Croatia, on 22 June.

“IHRSA and CLT share a common goal of promoting and protecting the global health and fitness industry,” says Joe Moore, IHRSA’s president and CEO. “We look forward to growing this mutually beneficial relationship.”

Duchene: Keen to become part of IHRSA’s network

About IHRSA

Founded in 1981, the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association is the only global trade association, representing more than 10,000 health and fitness facilities and suppliers worldwide.

To learn how IHRSA can help your business thrive, visit www.ihrsa.org
Locate a quality IHRSA club at
www.healthclubs.com