In 2007 I started a Christian fitness production company called Trill Fitness. The goal was to produce CD’s for group fitness instructors and then eventually produce a fitness video for the general public. I was quite excited about the venture. I began to write as well. I focused mostly on fitness but would add an element of faith when and where possible. But, after a year I became much more involved with my local fitness center and Trill Fitness as a production company was put on the back burner.

I began to solidify my position in the fitness industry through obtaining several certifications, writing about fitness and the industry, and management. At one point I even started my own studio, Trill Fitness Studio. It was many years of learning and growing skills that I will be forever grateful for.

In the mean time I also began writing for The Knoxville News-Sentinel. It was then that I knew that I loved to do one thing, write. I can hardly believe how much I enjoy interviewing people, writing features, figuring out the best way to phrase a sentence (this will be a life-time of learning). I knew I loved research but hadn’t explored writing as a profession. It changed everything!

The more I write, the more I love to write. And here I am; full-circle. No, I am not currently pursuing the development of a fitness video (though I will never weigh that out), nope not opening a gym (never-again), nope, I’ve come full-circle back to my love, my first love, and my voice: Christian.

I have been writing more articles from a Christian perspective- my perspective. I write often about faith and family (among many other things) in The Knoxville News-Sentinel.   Those articles are news-oriented and localized. It wasn’t until I wrote a column in the paper about submission that I knew I wanted to write more faith-based perspective pieces. Two months later a website was born.

In November 2011 I began an online magazine style website, Women of God Magazine, where I am the managing editor. My writing voice has been dormant for many years now; I just had to wake it. Since finding my voice I have come to realize, Lord willing, I’d like to write for as long as I can move my fingers (hoping that is a very long time).

For some of you, you may be wondering about my fitness industry goals.  I’m not actively pursuing much in the fitness industry currently. I am still working with a few companies such as Fitmarc and The Healthy Living Expos, I am still writing fitness articles when needed, and I teach group fitness classes.

So, here I am, full-circle, refocused and excited. Not always sure what the future will bring but aware that God is sovereignly working all things together for my good and His glory. He has given me a voice and I am thankful and humbled to get to share it with you.

Q. How did you get started with social media?

Garst:  I had been using facets of social media years before it was called “social media”. Having owned a number of online businesses over the past 19 years, the social aspects of an online business were very familiar to me. Social media services evolved very naturally from there.

Q. Why did you believe this was an important area to consult in?

 Garst:  Social media has huge application to the small business owner. The problem for most small business owners is that they are not knowledgeable enough to capitalize effectively on social media. In some cases, they simply do not have the time to teach themselves the ins and outs and this is where coaching services can be invaluable to a small business owner.

Q. Why is social media important for small businesses?

 Garst:  Social media can help small business owners stand out in an increasingly busy and noisy marketplace. It will also help increase traffic and help build their brand. Other benefits are new relationships and partnerships that they would ordinarily not achieve. Additionally, the marketing costs associated with social media is substantially less than traditional marketing methods that are no longer working as effectively as they have in the past.

Q.  Are there any hindrances to social media?

 Garst: I think the biggest hindrance for most as it relates to social media is TIME. While many tout social media as a free marketing tool, the real cost associated with social media is time. It takes time to develop relationships online and those that take the time to build a community online will reap long term benefits for their company.

Q. Where do you see the future of social media?

 Garst: I have been online for right at 20 years and have seen many marketing methods come and go but I have never seen a marketing technique invade our very culture as social media is doing. Social media has become a way of life for many of us. It is the first thing many do when they get up in the morning and possibly the last thing they do at night. People are using social media to communicate, connect with old acquaintances and form new ones. Social media is definitely not a fad; it is here to stay and will continually evolve.

Q. Any advice for getting started?

 Garst: My best advice is to get started. Get your business involved in social media as quickly as you can because this is where people are. If you do not have the knowledge to do this yourself, hire someone to help you and/or to coach you at a minimum. It will save you countless hours in the long run and your time is valuable. Focus on what you can create income with and let someone else lend their social media expertise to your business.

Q. What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most?

 Garst: I love the excitement that a client has when they see results from what I have implemented on their behalf or what I have taught them to do themselves. It is very exciting to know that you have impacted someone’s business in a positive manner.

Garst has been operating online businesses for almost 20 years. She lives in Tampa, Florida with her husband of 26 years and two children, Tyler and Logan. Tyler just completed basic training and Logan is a junior in high school. You can connect with Garst via her website, email and social media platforms:

Website: http://www.socialmediabranding.com

Email:  kim@kimgarst.com

http://www.twitter.com/kimgarst

http://www.fb.com/socialmedibrandinggal

http://www.linkedin.com/in/kimgarst

BODYPUMP, one of the most popular Les Mills program in the U.S. exceeded its' reputation at the Lonestar event

Lights, camera, action. Those are words familiar with big screen movies, concerts and star studded red carpet events. But this weekend, Fitmarc put on a production to the likes of Hollywood and a rock concert for the fitness industry. Special effects, smoke machines, and big screens filled the room as over 1100 group fitness instructors, volunteers, staff, and fitness executives gathered for the Fitmarc Lonestar Event this weekend at the Arlington Convention Center in Arlington, Texas.

“I think these past two days; the anticipation leading up to it was felt by everyone. These two days have flown by and now we can sit back and say, ‘We did it.’ We pulled off one of the biggest Les Mills events in history here in Arlington in a very long time,” said Denisse Taylor, Marketing and Event Coordinator for Fitmarc.

Owner and CEO, Robert Dyer of Fort Worth founded Fitmarc in February of 2006. The company has since grown into a robust team of close to 50 fitness professionals and is the regional distributor for LES MILLS™ in the south central United States which includes Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Wyoming.

“Robert is an amazing boss to work for. I’ve never learned so much or grown so much as a person working for anyone else. The

Robert Dyer, CEO and Founder of Fitmarc

team is amazing. We have a very tight knit group with a ‘let’s get it done’ attitude and team effort mentality,” said Taylor

It’s that effort and attitude that allowed for over 700 barbells and 750 group fitness steps to be set up for classes such as BODYPUMP® and BODYSTEP®. Not to mention the couple hundred bikes provided by Star Trac(r). Staff and volunteers were “all hands on deck” at all times which made for a smooth and organized experience.

Les Mills® Programs are led by Program Directors located in New Zealand.  Fitmarc brought the entire Director team along with assistants in for the big event. Joining his New Zealand team was the CEO of Les Mills International, Phillip Mills. “It’s just always incredible to be here. Such a buzz to see their energy. Our presenters are just so wonderful and all these beautiful instructors. I’m sort of in awe of it,” said Mills.

Sal Pellegrino, Director of Business Development at Star Trac speaks with participants at the Lonestar event

Finding ways to motivate and ignite passion in fitness instructors around the world is something Mills and his staff are continually researching. Fimarcs’ Lonestar event went above and beyond their expectations. “This is what it takes to get people to exercise these days, to get the world moving. Robert Dyer is one of the coolest guys in the fitness industry. What can you say; look at this,” expressed Mills.

Participants at the event shared the same sentiment as Mills. Hear what they had to say by clicking HERE.

Fitmarc provides quarterly events for fitness professionals specifically certified in a Les Mills program for continuing education and credits throughout the year. For more information about Fitmarc or to find an event near you, visit their website at www.fitmarc.com.

Video by See-Hear click to learn more!

Nicole Sanchez Borne is an elementary school teacher and BODYFLOW enthusiast.

Nicolle Sanchez Borne, Kramer, Louisiana

“Fantastic. I couldn’t have asked for more. I have been looking forward to this since March- whenever the tickets came available. Incredible.”

Sarah Callihan, Pleasanton, Texas

“This was awesome. Just huge. It’s my first time coming to an event. You don’t have to take the classes the whole time. You just kind of sit back and take it all in. Definite must if you are an instructor.”

Eliza Riley; Charlotte, Texas

“Amazing! I like the fact that they had a live band at the after party. Just coming and getting to be with the presenters and instructors who inspire us the most is incredible. I like the education because it helps you become a better instructor with your own members. It makes you a better member too when you take classes.”

Teresa Rosiere-Martin; Tulsa, Oklahoma

“This is my second event to attend. I had just gotten certified in BODYFLOW® when I went to last year’s big quarterly. Last year’s

Teresa Rosiere-Martin is a stay at home mother of seven. She teaches BODYFLOW and BODYCOMBAT at The Grand and Gold's in Tulsa

impact was huge because I really wasn’t aware of what I had gotten into. It was the atmosphere, the energy, just the whole experience was empowering. I walked away feeling very confident knowing what I needed to bring as an instructor. I believe it has delivered the same this year as well. This is a time for me to refuel. It’s important because you can get into a rut and routine. Bringing the presenters from New Zealand has brought this alive for us. Instead of just watching it on the videos, I’m here with them which makes it bigger.”

Erin Yost; Birmingham, Alabama

“This is my first mega quarterly and unlike anything I’ve ever been to. It was an experience. It’s like being at concert except you’re participating. We are piloting CX WORX at our club and it was great to be able o do it with the Program Director. We’ve had great results at home and it was good to see how they are delivering it and how we can deliver it at home.”

Joanie Moody; Birmingham, Alabama

“The group fitness programs are just amazing. It makes you do things you didn’t know you could do. I’m not the same person I was before doing this by no means. Fitmarc puts on the best one’s ever. I’ve been to all of them all over the U.S. Their presentation and everything is very organized and well done. I work in I.T. disaster recovery for a financial institution, this is my stress reliever.”

Kaitlyn Webb on the left and mother Robyn Webb on the right. The mother-dauther duo inspire each other through Les Mills BODYATTACK

Robyn Webb; Birmingham, Alabama

“I just love the event. The way Les Mills puts all their programs together- it pushes folks to the next level. It’s not just a group fitness class. This is my first super quarterly and I love it. I’ve always been to minis (smaller quarterly events). It’s just amazing how big it is.”

Kaitlyn Webb; Auburn, Alabama

“I just went through ATTACK a month ago. That was my mom’s first training and now it’s my favorite program. This was my first quarterly. It was like a rock concert. I called it an exercise rock concert. It was definitely a great first trip to Texas. Getting to see Lisa Osborne and get my picture taken with her. Who wouldn’t want to work out in an environment like that? They inspire you. Makes me want to be a trainer.”

Jonathan Hill, Alexandria, Louisiana

Participant Jonathan Hill with wife Kellie Hill enjoying the big event.

I just came with my wife. She is an instructor. I liked it. It was cool. I took ATTACK, COMBAT, CX WORX and SH’BAM. I really like BODYATTACK®. It works your whole body. Since my wife is an instructor, I know all the moves. Everything was awesome- it was good.

Chris Maddox; Fort Worth, Texas

“Every single event that Robert Dyer does I always walk away saying ‘Wow- that was the best one’ and this one is the same. From a production stand point the sound was incredible. It was organized and just awesome. It was amazing to be on stage. The size of the stage felt like a Justin Timberlake concert.  The Dyers make themselves available and the education was very helpful. From a scale of 1 to 10 it’s a 15.”

T.J. Torres; Fort Worth, Texas

“The event is great. Stage, music, lighting, is amazing. The whole energy, interacting with other instructors- it’s all just pretty amazing. We have quite a bit of our members here, about 10-15 for both days. It’s great to get to be with them here. It’s great for them to see who we learn from. It’s like a domino effect.”

Angel Fuerte; Grand Praire, Texas

“I went last year as a member and this is my first time as an instructor. I got certified three days ago. I got chills on the first day. I get it now- I see what my instructors have been through. I’m blown away just to be with so many who have the same passion and energy and get to bring it back to my members. Bring the same energy- just amazing.”

Jonathan Steele; College Station, Texas

“Awesome and amazing. It was very inspiring because the people you see on the DVD’s were here- it makes it real. It is a job but for them to take time to come out and spend time with us- almost words can’t describe it. The atmosphere was electric.”

Jennifer Jones; Houston, Texas

“It was my first one. It was a nice introduction to the other formats that I wasn’t familiar with. It has been a lot of fun meeting new people. BODYVIVE® was something I really enjoyed. It’s a nice break from higher intensity- as far as impact. VIVE was good for strengthening and nice and low impact but you still got that workout.”

Erin Risken; San Antonio, Texas

“It was the most inspiring and motivating event for the instructors. Being able to see the Presenters for the DVD’s, it was like being in the DVD. The instructors have a lot of passion and heart. People have been exercising for seven hours. Watching people lifting barbells together (from on stage) gave me chill bumps. It’s really about the members. When these instructors leave and go back to the members, it’s a ball of energy that goes back. Changing more lives, that’s what this is about.”

Andrea Williams; The Woodlands, Texas

“It was larger than life, from the lighting to the music. I got goose bumps. The screens, all the special effects, just awesome. Just watching people who are so inspirational to us, people who are “super-stars’ to the instructors is just great. The trainers take time to answer questions. They’re very accommodating, very special.”

Gina Whitney; Nashville, Tennessee

“A-mazing. When the Program Directors are saying this is the biggest class we’ve ever done and the best class we’ve ever done- you know you are doing something right. The Dyers should be very proud of themselves. It was very inspiring to see the Program Directors inspired by us. That was amazing.”

Symone Schilling; Alabama (originally from Germany)

“I could see the difference from the way we do it in Germany and here. The energy is different- here it is relaxed. The way the people communicated with each other was so nice, very affectionate. It’s like a family. It was hard (tiring) but I have much fun. The energy just pushed me. The energy in the room even if I had pain pushed me to the finish.”

Proasis 8 flavors

There are so many protein products on the market; it can be difficult to wade through them all. Recently I was asked to review the liquid protein products of Protica. There were several different products to review and I even enlisted the taste buds of one credible critic- my five year old son. My review is simply on taste and texture. For more information about the product please review their website at http://www.protica.com/.

The Isometric® meal replacement shot

The meal replacement is advertised to have:

20 grams of protein

20 grams of low-glycemic carbohydrates

9 grams of omega-rich fatty acids

10 grams of prebiotic dietary fiber

one full serving of fruit

one full serving of vegetables

27 vitamins and minerals

Provided in 3.2 fluid ounce ready-to-drink vial.

I tasted the “apple pie” and it was delicious. I did not complete the vial because I did not want to replace a meal. However, the consistency is thick enough that if I were to drink it for breakfast or lunch it would potentially be sufficient to get me to the next meal. It went down smoothly. The “exotic fruits” flavor was tart and therefore much less appealing for my taste. It also appeared to be thicker. It may have been the same consistency but with the tartness it wasn’t palatable for me. I would suggest consulting a physician prior to replacing a meal with this product or any other.

Proasis™ protein shots

This product is described on their website as providing 25 grams of protein, zero carbohydrates (no sugar), and zero fat in an all-natural, ready-to-drink vial weighing less than three fluid ounces.

There are five flavors and several others coming soon. I enjoyed the “clear fruit punch” the most. The consistency is slightly thicker than water. If you enjoy diet drinks, you will like Proasis™. The flavor reminds me slightly of a diet sweetener. There are five grams of sugar and it is sweetened by 10 mg of stevia extract. I had one after a run and felt great after. It was convenient and easy to use. They do not need refrigerating so all I needed to do was shake, open and drink.

Pedia Gro (for ages two and up)

My five year old was kind to provide a taste test. He loved this drink. My son would be the smallest of kids and the biggest of food critics. He isn’t easily coerced into eating foods. He has had two and has truly enjoyed both drinks. I thought it was the smoothest and lightest of all of the products. I preferred it to the Proasis™ simply because the taste was less strong.

The product includes:

10 grams of protein
10 grams of low-glycemic carbohydrates
Zero fat
80 calories
27 vitamins and minerals

Fruitasia™ ready-to-drink fruit and vegetable shot

This was my favorite of all of the products.

Some claims from the website include: 100% fruits and vegetables (from concentrate with other all-natural ingredients) and 5 full servings of fruit and vegetables.

I enjoyed the “juicy orange”. I may have enjoyed it because it was sweeter (9 grams of sugar) and had the exact consistency of water. It was refreshing. Easy to drink. I did not feel like I was drinking a “healthy” drink. I would most definitely purchase this product. Another benefit was the amount of potassium (16mg).

Protein gem™ protein snack

The protein gem is the consistency of jello and the general taste is that of the other products. If you like jello you will love this product. Unfortunately, I do not like jello so after one bite I had made up my mind not to finish.

Here is what you can expect in the gem: 25 grams of protein, one full serving of fruit, five grams of prebiotic dietary fiber, zero carbohydrates (no sugar), and zero fat in a ready-to-eat six-ounce cup.

Overall

The overall taste was satisfactory and the textures were smooth. Extremely convenient to use! Consult a physician or dietitian prior to trying any product including Protica as a dietary supplement. You may also consult the  U.S. Food and Drug Administration at http://www.fda.gov/.

For more information visit them on their website by clicking HERE.

Hampton is an internationally known author, speaker, motivator and business consultant and has been in the industry since 1979. His experience in the industry has contributed to the success of his online campaign. Hampton is now taking the steps to launch the campaign with programs in cities throughout the United States. But if you have ever spoken with Hampton you will quickly realize that there are few more singularly passionate people out there. He is focused on the fitness industry and has a gut passion to help others. This desire stems from his personal loss and struggle.

In 1986, with no history of breast cancer in her family Hampton’s wife was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. “With two small children (4 and 6) this was devastating and unimaginably shocking,” said Hampton.  The doctor said she only had three years to live and immediately she began aggressive cancer procedures. His wife lived 8 1/2 years. “(She lived for so long) due to her positive attitude and determination but endured horrific consequences and many, many treatments including chemotherapy (multiple times), radiation therapy, multiple surgeries including comprehensive chest wall excision and others,” he said.

This traumatic event caused Hampton, who had been involved heavily in the fitness industry to re-think his approach to helping people improve their lives in health and wellness. He then dedicated his efforts to helping others understand the horrific consequences their lifestyle can subject them to. “While my wife of 20 years had no lifestyle factors that contributed to her illness, the terrible pain, agony & hopelessness that the disease created will be what others are going to face if they continue to live an inactive lifestyle with poor nutritional habits,” he said. Since his wife death he has been developing programs to help but none have been quite as large as the WFC.

Motivated by a desire to educate others in a practical way Hampton saw the need to take the campaign off-line. WFC will be launching a mentorship program, conducting seminars and providing fitness classes at the Knoxville Y, Downtown and Cansler locations on August 11 through 13 in Knoxville, TN. “While the campaign began initially through social media the long term goal has always been to expand that venue and create global change through an initial series of program launches around the United States,” said Hampton.

Another unique aspect of the WFC, it is not funded and is currently completely volunteer based. Though it is not funded they do accept sponsorships to help offset costs for the WFC city launches. The event in Knoxville is free.

To find out more about the Weekly Fitness Challenge and details about the upcoming launch visit their website at http://weeklyfitnesschallenge.com or follow them on twitter at http://twitter.com/weeklyfitnessch

The WFC was recently featured in the news. To see the article in the Knoxville News-Sentinel click HERE.

(Note: I have the privilege to serve as a volunteer as the Tennessee State Representative)

Midttun: EnergyCare USA is not based in Ecuador; however the parent organization EnergyCare was found in Ecuador in 2007.  EnergyCare USA was established in 2010.
Q: What exactly are the sports bands and what is their function?

Midttun: Our durable Sports Band contains Atraxlite™ technology. Atraxlite™ facilitates the molecular alignment process, otherwise known as MAP™. This process has been found to increase overall strength, balance and range of motion. The waterproof Sports Band has an easy snap closure, is available in a variety of colors and can be worn by anyone of any age, gender or physical capability.

Q. Where do the bands go?

Midttun: The bands can be placed on the wrist or ankles. Should you wear the product on your wrist, the closure of both the sports and health band should be worn on the “palm side” of your hand on whichever wrist you choose. This is found to maximize the effectiveness of the product. To find your best size, please visit us on the web at energycareusa.com and open the Sizing Chart located on the product page.

Q:  I saw you have health bands too. Are they similar to the sports bands? What do they do?

Midttun: The comfortable Health Band contains Atraxlite™ technology, the same technology found in our Sports Band. Atraxlite™ facilitates the molecular alignment process, otherwise known as MAP™. This process has been found to increase overall strength, balance and range of motion. The flexible Health Band is made of cloth material and has a Velcro closure. The Health Band is also available in a variety of colors and can be worn by anyone of any age, gender or physical capability.

Q. How did you develop and discover the product?

Midttun: EnergyCare International (our associates and supplier in Ecuador) developed the product with support of our organization.  The technology is a culmination of efforts involving the age old science of Light Energy and the positive effects it has on all life forms.
Q.  What inspired you to develop the product?

Midttun: EnergyCare products were developed by Cristina Taramelli and her son Cesar Taramelli who were inspired by their desires to share holistic and natural ways of health and wellness to their community and now the rest of the world.

Q. How many people are behind the brand?

Midttun: The brand is supported operationally here in the USA and abroad by an office staff of 20+ and over 200 resellers and distributors.  These numbers are growing every day, in fact we are very proud to announce that we have professional sports athletes and top fitness instructors who not only endorse our product but also have invested and purchased their own inventory to resell to their viewing audience.

Q. Who are some of your athlete affiliates?

Midttun: Currently we have three of the most recognized body builders in the world on our team.  Jay Cutler, Phil Heath and infamous Ronnie Coleman.

In the NHL (Hockey) we have; Max Talbot, Bruno Gervais, James Neal and the Pittsburgh Penguins.  In the NBA we are working with Paul Pierce from the Celtics and his great foundation the Truth on Health. LPGA we have Kristy McPherson and her testimonial and support of our product alone is very news worthy.  In the MLB we have Scott Richmond (BlueJays), Jason Romano (Former starter for Dodgers and Red’s), Paul O’Neil (former Yankee Great) and more.

A Review of EnergyCare Sports Band and the Dream Pillow

As fitness professional I work hard to take care of my body. My body is my well being in many ways. Recently I have had right neck pain. It appears to be muscular. Because I write, I believe that some of the pain is due to the angle I’m consistently holding my head in. When I was first contacted by the Business Development Consultant, Bobby Smith, about the product I was skeptical. I was happy to write about it and learn but I simply said I can’t endorse something I’m not sure about. How can simply lying on a pillow or wearing a band help reduce pain? They sent me product to sample, and to my surprise my neck has been completely pain free and I am sleeping better! I don’t share this lightly, I was a skeptic, and I’m not easily persuaded.  I haven’t taken the band off nor have I slept without the pillow since.

For more information about EnergyCare USA visit their website at www.energycareusa.com.

Additional information:

EnergyCare is now offering the opportunity for those that have a passion for health, wellness, and fitness to represent the EnergyCare line of products.  For more information please contact Bob Smith at BSmith@energycareusa.com or via phone at 410-561-5176

Feel free to visit these star affiliates webpages.

Darin Steen: http://www.energycareusa.com/affiliates/DarinSteen/ecDarinSteen.html
Max Talbot: http://www.energycareusa.com/affiliates/MaxTalbot/ecMaxTalbotPage.html
Jason Romano: http://www.energycareusa.com/affiliates/Romano/Romano.html
Dr. Mitch Mally: http://www.energycareusa.com/affiliates/DrMally/ecDrMallyPage.html
Darren Miller: http://www.energycareusa.com/affiliates/DarrenMiller/ecDarrenMillerPage.html
Jay Cutler: http://www.energycareusa.com/affiliates/Jay/ecJayPage.html
Kristy McPherson: http://www.energycareusa.com/affiliates/KristyMcPherson/ecKMcPherson.html

The other day I was feeding my daughter some waffles. I didn’t add anything to them; I simply cut up the waffle as is. I then proceeded to make myself a waffle but I added a little butter and syrup. I like to splurge once in a while. When I sat down I began to feed her the plain waffle. She looked at it and looked at mine but kept eating hers. It wasn’t until I gave her a piece that she understood what she was missing. The salty and creamy taste of the butter mixed with the sweet flavor of the syrup captured the taste buds of my 20 month old and she has refused to go back to the old since. If someone shared with you that there was a new, potentially easier, free, dare I say better, way to market your business would you take a bite at it? Social media is the new way to get your brand out to your customers. The old way is still useful but the new definitely should not be ignored.

Benefits

There are too many benefits to list.  Really! But, I will attempt to speak to my top 5:

1. It’s free! In this economy anything free is of great benefit. There are a few exceptions to this rule. Those are only if you choose to organize your social media using tools such as Hootsuite or Tweetadder. Those are tools that are wonderful but social sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Foursquare are free.
2. It’s constant. You can tweet, update your facebook page, check-in as many times as you’d like. It is not limited, though I would caution too much of a good thing can be more a distraction than a help. You don’t want to annoy your audience and potentially hurt your brand. But, it isn’t something you need to wait to be printed, it’s there always available.
3. It connects. Connecting to your audience and customers really hasn’t gotten any easier than this. If people are following you, they have chosen to do so. This is good news. It means they are interested, even if only slightly, and your job is to engage them, share useful information and let them know you are there. You can personalize your business.
4. It’s simple. Simple is good when you are busy. You simply need to know how to use a computer and type. Using social media is not and does not need to be complicated. There are also tools to assist you in managing your social media such as Hootsuite, which I mentioned earlier.
5. It’s advertising. Social media is a great tool for blasting out information about events, programs, changes, and your brand. It can drive traffic to your website where people can see the full picture of what your business provides.

Getting Started

Getting started is simple. But there are a few tricks to building your connections. I will share those soon along with building a facebook page for your business. In the mean time, start an account and start following others, friend request, and check in. Social media sites give you plenty of tricks for the trade. Here is a list of a few social media sites to help you get started:

Facebook

Twitter

Flickr

Bebo

LinkedIn

LiveJournal

Foursquare

No Expert Needed

Not an expert? Me neither. But I have been successful in using social media to help share my business events, brand, and articles. I also really enjoy being engaged with people around the world. I have consulted with people as far away as Canada which would not have happened had I not started my Facebook Page. I am connected to hundreds of professionals through Linkedin which has proven to be helpful and useful for giving and receiving professional advice, consulting and learning more about fitness industry trends, and I just recently became active on Twitter. You don’t have to be an expert, you just have to get started.

Look for an article next week about what to do once you’ve started and how to keep it growing.

For more information about my social networks check out all my urls HERE.

“If we all worked on the assumption that what is accepted as true were really true, there would be little hope of advance.” Orville Wright

I’ve been told no quite a bit. As a matter of fact, rejection is really a way of life for me. When I was a teenager I went to a local talent agency and told them I wanted to be like Oprah. They not only told me no, they laughed in my face. I was a bit surprised that they didn’t show more discretion, I mean I was a young girl. Today, I have no desire to be Oprah, just me, but I still have to battle rejection. Rejection has helped me to grow as a person, rejection has helped fuel me to push harder, and rejection has helped direct my steps.

Personal Growth

By the grace of God, I have never been crushed by rejection. OK once. I was in high school and really thought I would be a collegiate cheerleader and did not make the squad. As a highschooler things like that seem so very important, so I was crushed. But overall I have not been crushed; instead I have been able to find a way to learn from being told no. Much of the growth comes in the form of growing in humility.  Rejection can be humbling. It means someone doesn’t believe you are the right fit or have the right skills or maybe someone is just better suited. And you know what? It’s really okay. And you know what else? It may not be true and you may know it. You may realize that you are suited, you do have the skills. But, it’s just not your time. For me, it can be humbling but what I also have learned is patience and perseverance.

If we all worked under the assumption that every rejection was the summation of our entire lives then we’d never pursue anything ever again. Seriously, would you? I’ve learned through rejection to be patient, which for me means also to trust the Lord and to keep pressing on.  I think I’ve written over 100 articles now for various publications since December, 2010. I think I’ve pitched about 50 that have never been accepted or printed. That’s a lot. So for every article I am told ‘no’ I have two published. Had I decided the first month of pursuing writing as a vocation that rejection would mean that I was not skilled, not suited, and was not suppose to write at all, I would only have two articles printed and many other things just would not be. I’ve learned to persevere and be patient. But, patience does not mean complacency.

Fuel for the job

Patience does not always mean sit and wait. It is an attitude of your heart. For me, to be patient meant that I would wait for “my time to come” not that I would wait and hope that things would fall into my lap. Sure, things have at times worked out easier, maybe I’ve met the right person at the right time or had an idea that just seemed to click but most of what I do takes hard work, determination, and pursuit. I can’t just wait. Rejection has also fueled my pursuit.

Recently I was told, “We just don’t believe you have the skills necessary for the job.” I was never told what skills he was referring to and to this day I have no idea what he meant. I was disappointed, confused and discouraged. How was I going to grow if I didn’t know what I needed to grow in? I took those words and began to think about what skills would be needed for the position I was interested in and went to work. If I didn’t have the skills I’d like to learn. His words fueled a great fire in me that has been burning ever since. In some ways, that confusing time was such a gift. I would never have pushed quite as hard in areas of social media, sales, and interaction with Executives. I have had the opportunity many opportunities come from that one rejection. If I didn’t try to learn I would have just assumed that what was accepted as true were really true, there would be little hope of advance. It was good for me! Can you say that about rejection? I think you can.

New Direction

Earlier I shared that I didn’t make a cheerleading squad. I had zero plans to waste the gifts God had given me so I decided to try for the band instead. I ended up marching for the Pride of the Southland Marching band, traveling with the team and then playing in the pep band for the Tennessee Lady Vols Basketball team. Time after time, rejection has turned into a new direction, new focus, new opportunities. Every opportunity is an opportunity to learn and grow. Every rejection is an opportunity to reevaluate and take action. I believe the Lord is directing my steps. I am confident that every rejection is for my good.

Well, I must be off now to go and think of new ideas, business ventures and articles. I will be rejected but hopefully the one idea that is not will serve the greater good. Oh, and don’t be surprised if I come to you with an idea. It’s okay if you don’t like it, I’m okay with rejection.

I’ve launched new programs at two fitness facilities where programs already existed as well as starting a program at my own studio. It was tough business. No I wasn’t crunching numbers (though some of that was happening) or dealing with bills, it was tough because people and feelings were involved. Launching a new program at an existing facility takes great care. Here are some things I learned along the way.

The Announcement

We are going to assume that you have already decided that the new program is good for your club and it is now only a matter of getting started. If you are a Group Fitness Manager or owner it is good to think about how you will announce a new program. Here are a few options and the pros and cons:

1. Write a letter: Writing a letter could be good because it guarantees that everyone will receive it. A letter might provide an opportunity to clearly explain the process. Be prepared to write when the new program will be launched, how, why, where, etc. Don’t leave anything for the imagination, if you do the letter could cause more harm than good. It could open up the potential for gossip and cause unnecessary panic. The difficult task would be guaranteeing that everyone reads the letter. I would suggest requiring the team to sign a document verifying that he/she has read the letter and understands the changes.
2. Hold a meeting: A meeting could be good as it provides an opportunity to demonstrate passion and confidence as well as provide assurance. Everything that would be in the letter would be verbalized. There could also be an opportunity for questions and answers. But, you would need to be prepared to answer clearly and potentially answer to opposition. Questions that other people may not have been overly concerned about could be verbalized and may create more confusion; that is unless you are ready to clearly assist your team. Are you ready to answer those questions? Get ready and be prepared for anything.
3. Email: I would not suggest using email to make a big announcement. There are a number of reasons why email could just become a problem. Been there, done that. Not a good idea.
4. A Combination: I think having a combination of all three could be beneficial. Send a letter announcing the changes, an email to announce an upcoming meeting and host a meeting for Q&A. This gives your team time to digest the news and come up with clear questions.

Communicate Clearly and avoid the following:

1. No facts:  You must know as much as humanly possible. Know the facts, know the how’s, whys, what’s and where’s. Specifics clearly shared will be your best friends. Vague unclear statements will cause turmoil. Trust me, I’ve seen it, it’s not good.  Instructors want to make sure their “fun job” or their “extra income” will be there and they don’t want it messed with!
2. Empty promises: Don’t make promises you can’t keep. This bears repeating, don’t make promises you can’t keep. Remember, it’s a business so to promise something like, “Everything will stay the same,” “We are only adding, not taking away,” “We will be able to keep this program and add many others” to be frank those are lies. They are empty promises. If you are introducing a new program it could change things and may even replace existing programming. Being upfront about this potential at the very beginning will save you and your team heartache in the future.
3. Spitting on the old: It is so exciting to have something new, isn’t it. You can see the potential for growth in attendance in group fitness classes, the opportunity for greater membership sales, the chance for new and fresh marketing. Really the benefits could be endless. Remember though, everyone may not be as excited yet, they may not see the big picture. As you introduce the program or service avoid negatively speaking about the current. Try to keep it positive and thank your team for their hard work thus far. Don’t dwell here because clearly there’s a reason for the change or addition, but don’t overlook the work that was previously done either.

The Implementation

I haven’t seen an organization yet to date that lays out program implementation as clearly as Les Mills® International.  Their website provides resources including branding, marketing materials, press releases, flyers, posters, and plans for launching their fitness programs. Their programs are unique but the way they launch new programs doesn’t have to be. Another organization that seems to educate and provide great resources is Zumba®. So, what’s their secret?

I’m not going to share everything!  You’ll need to “Turn it Up” with Les Mills® or “Join the Party” with Zumba® to find out their secrets but I will tell you a few tips to making it a smoother transition for your team:

1. Slow & Controlled: It sounds like I’m sharing a technique for lifting weights. It is a bit like weight training. If you have never lifted before you wouldn’t go in a weight room and load on the heaviest squat bar, would you? No. You’d begin slowly adding weight, maybe start with lower weights higher repetition but even then it wouldn’t be your maximum. Same applies. If you go into an already established program and the next day make swift changes, you will most likely fail and lose a few folks through the process. Let’s just say, you’ll tear a muscle. If you were to add Les Mills programming, their system doesn’t really allow for knee jerk implementation. I will share ways to launch a program in a different post.
2. It’s a TEAM effort: As Group Fitness Manager I tried to make sure that everyone was involved: the general manager, personal training staff, childcare workers, the tech guy, cleaning staff, you name them. Involving as many as possible helps build unity and excitement and helps spread the word. It’s not just a “group fitness thing”. No, it’s a club change, members will be talking about it and you want your staff to be educated, knowledgeable and able to endorse it.
3. Provide Ownership: Ask your group fitness instructors to own the program. What I mean is practice together, work together, plan together, etc. Spend the time preparing for the launch of your new program together and make sure they know it’s their program. They will determine the success or failure; they are the ones in front of your patrons. You need to make sure they are sold out for it- make it their program.

You may lose a few

In the beginning I mentioned that for many instructors, teaching is simply just their “fun job”. It’s true; they are doing it because it is fun and relatively stress-free. When you start messing with the “fun job” you might be surprised by the response. Some will simply quit or stay for a while and then eventually quit. Change is hard! Change is really difficult if you don’t agree. If you’ve managed anyone at all you know it’s hard to change a schedule let alone an entire program. Offering new classes that have the potential of changing the entire program is just too much for some and if you are truly going to implement a new program that also could mean a change in philosophy, methodology, technique, and general standards. For some programs it is an entire culture change or shall I say; culture shock. You must be ready and willing to say goodbye to some instructors and trust that you have done the research and know you are doing what is best for your facility.

When introducing a new program to your club it is good to not only think about what is best for the members but how it will affect your staff. Implement with care.

I’ll be sharing my thoughts on launching new programs and how to make it successful in an upcoming article.

For more information about Les Mills, visit them at their website at www.lesmill.com for Zumba, www.zumba.com.