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Wednesday, November 25, 2009



ACTIVE AGING lifestyles vs. ANTI AGING gimmicks
The fitness industry’s approach to beauty & wellness solutions

or FITNESS AS THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH?

It seems that while the American population continues to chase after instant easy diet fixes – the overall result is adversely a growing case of obesity and medical concerns. With a quickly growing pool of senior adults, we need an alternative solution to ensure health and wellness can be achieved and supported. While the beauty and cosmetic industry seeks to stake a share in the health and fitness industry through shallow surface quick fix concoctions for short term satisfaction – the fitness industry actively attacks the root of the issue promoting and supporting long-term effective approaches to health and wellness – an approach that takes some elbow grease and commitment – tackling beauty and health from the inside out. In a point in time where “active aging” is suddenly becoming the industry buzz -- catering to this population and their specific needs is an urgent concern. What are you as a fitness facility doing to prepare?

In a brief survey we interviewed 3 active seniors about the cardio equipment they use regularly at Hancock Wellness Center located in Indiana.*



Richard, age 76 Pete, age 66 Marcy, age 67

Which piece of cardio do you prefer and why?

Richard: “Elliptical. They are easy on my joints and the movement is smooth.”
Pete: “Treadmill. I love walking and these treadmills pass the time!”
Marcy: “Treadmill. I can adjust tilt and speed easily, watch TV and listen to my iPod all at
the same time.”

What is your favorite feature about it?

Richard: “I like the speed options/levels and the natural movement of the unit to my body”
Pete: “I like the speed variations in the OneTouch™ feature, it keeps intervals simple to increase and
decrease and it meets my needs in a smooth manner. It’s more comfortable than walking on the
regular ground!”
Marcy: “The TV is my favorite feature”

Is entertainment (a personal viewing TV) important to you?

Richard: “TV is very important. I can do more (exercise) with less effort (perceived effort) when paying
attention to something that entertains me rather than focusing on time
Pete: “I enjoy the fact that I can plug into the unit to hear better as well as view my choice of
program.”
Marcy: “The TV is important to me because it make the time go faster and I look forward to
watching my regular program ‘Good Morning America’ while getting exercise. It keeps my
workouts regular and often!”

How long have you been a member there?

Richard: “I’ve been a member since 2003”
Pete: “I’ve been a member since 2007”
Marcy: “I’ve been a member for about 4 years”

What would be on your “wish list” for the cardio equipment featured at your home gym?

Richard: “I can’t imagine anything more”
Pete: “It has everything I want and more, I like that every work is new!
Marcy: “To have a TV on ALL cardio units! (the recumbent and upright bikes)”

ENCOURAGING SELF MANAGEMENT & MEDICAL SAVINGS FOR SENIORS

According to an article published by the Surgeon General in August of 2009, self-management programs are going to be huge in promoting healthy-aging and in our responsibility as a national effort to effectively care for the rapidly growing segment of elderly (65+) adults. Our efforts to contributing positively to this market is going to be significant whether we come from the perspective of a gym providing the services and support or the vendors developing and supplying the equipment. In 2007, 38 million people were ages 65 or older. By the year 2030 that numbers is estimated to be at 71.5 million people. With the foresight to see a quickly aging population, we have an incredible opportunity in this health and fitness market to provide alternative health care solutions proven to work long-term where Medicare and social security cannot.

The top 3 causes of death in those 65 or older are heart disease (32%), cancer (22%) and strokes (8%). 60% of all causes of death in those 65 or older fall into one of these 3 categories. All of which are highly preventable when implementing a regular work out plan.

It is common knowledge that exercise has its benefits. What may not be so common is the broadcasting of the benefits and necessity of living healthy active lives so that it may serve as a preventative maintenance program over the span of a lifetime. We need to educate the senior population on HOW TO stay healthy & strong and to reinforce how staying active has a direct connection to keeping their most common medical problems minimized, and ultimately REDUCING THEIR MEDICAL COSTS.

The time you spend today investing in your health is truly an investment in your tomorrow.

So how can you take everything you are reading about the growing market of active aging and apply it to your facility? Keep in mind that not only are you trying to cater to a market of aging adults, but you also want to educate them on the reasons why they should join your gym and stay active in general. Understand their point of view and express the benefits and solutions to those issues.

EDUCATE TO MOTIVATE

The older group of aging adults doesn’t typically consider spending more than a pretty penny on a fitness membership they feel is not really catering to their special needs and requests. Why not give them a reason or two to re-think the importance of investing in a fitness membership at your gym. While advertising doesn’t need to be a prominent expense – let it be more a list of options that your sales staff and personal trainers are actively promoting and sharing with potential members.

SPEAK THEIR LANGUAGE

· Older adults 65+ are so concerned nonetheless enticed by marketing to “lose weight” or “get fit.” Rather, it is references to “reducing fatigue” or “increasing energy” that will perk up their ears. Older age causes more fatigue due to loss of strength and/or will, according to Colin Milner of the ICAA, and offering them opportunities to get involved and advertising the benefits of stimulating their over body, mind, social, and emotional wellbeing is a much better approach to capturing their attention and motivation.

· While today’s day and age is very tech-savvy – realize the elder generation is on a slower learning curve – try to find ways of incorporating technology that are user friendly and effective for them in terms of helping them stick to and regulate a workout that fits with their lifestyle and needs.

ADVERTISE FREE OFFERS SPECIFIC TO THEIR CONCERNS

· Offer a blend of physical activity, healthy lifestyle and a socially-oriented group exercise programs that allow older adults to take greater control of their health.

· Offer free health examinations and suggestions for implementing an active plan to target and reverse their health concerns

· Offer free personal training sessions to get them acclimated with the specific units that are geared toward their needs. Having someone actually walk them through a workout has a psychological positive effect of comfort when coming back for the first time to a typically intimidating environment for them.

BANANA GEORGE BLAIR, 93 YEARS YOUNG, Bare foot Water Ski Extraordinaire

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifHU49yCslke1hJKa-lw1ZeaYPFUDYMfKjAOjzetGGr5IlyCzt-P928CPewv17usGX-WkLYDpeBn9yIGvm9fNU-SJiHNXZtRofJ3CQU9Om4E6hksYg5TfAdtssWgDeTukOTaM7RMU-ov4/s400/Thumbs-up-cr.bananageorge.jpg

"Banana George" Blair, an avid bare foot water skier, knows the importance of investing in your health today to prepare for a better tomorrow continues to prove that age is just a number. Given his achievements and smashing world records -- maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle is important to sustaining your energy levels, enhancing quality of life and ensuring that you can be in good health for generations to come!

FACILITY CHECKLIST ON AGE FRIENDLY CARDIO EQUIPMENT

So how age-friendly is your cardio? Here are some of the favorite and appealing features appreciated by those in the active aging group as compiled by a few of our clients over 65 years old.

TREADMILLS

ÿ Simple operative functions

ÿ Large display consoles, easy to read

ÿ Low Step up heights

ÿ Extended handrails (optional)

ÿ Low start speed, low resistance levels

ÿ Heart rate monitoring via touch

ÿ Simple stop button

ÿ Antimicrobial handlebars/sanitary

ÿ Entertainment (optional, but helps with mental stimulation)

UPRIGHT BIKES

ÿ Simple operative functions

ÿ Large display consoles, easy to read

ÿ Step through/walk through design

ÿ Gas pneumatic seats (for easy adjustments)

ÿ Large pedals w/straps

ÿ Comfort-padded cushion seat

ÿ Ergonomic handlebar design

ÿ Heart rate monitoring via touch

ÿ Entertainment (optional, but helps with mental stimulation)

RECUMBENT BIKES

ÿ Simple operative functions

ÿ Large display consoles, easy to read

ÿ Step through/walk through design

ÿ Easy sliding seat adjustments

ÿ Large pedals w/straps

ÿ Comfort-padded cushion seat

ÿ Dual handlebar locations (front bar & retractable armrests)

ÿ Heart rate monitoring via touch

ÿ Entertainment (optional, but helps with mental stimulation)

CROSSTRAINER ELLIPTICALS

ÿ Simple operative functions

ÿ Large display consoles, easy to read

ÿ Stationary and moving handlebars

ÿ Comfortable stride movement that duplicates a natural body stride

ÿ Large comfort foot base with slip resistant lining

ÿ Heart rate monitoring via touch

ÿ Entertainment (optional, but helps with mental stimulation)

STEPPERS

ÿ Simple operative functions

ÿ Large display consoles, easy to read

ÿ Ergonomic handlebar design

ÿ Heart rate monitoring via touch

ÿ Large pedal platform base

ÿ Entertainment (optional, but helps with mental stimulation)


Motus USA offers cardiovascular products with a look and feel that appeals and caters to a wide variety of individuals pursing a life of health and wellness to last them a lifetime. Exercise equipment -- specifically cardio equipment can often be intimidating and confusing for those looking to get a simple workout in. Our line of products have gone through extensive testing and feedback sessions and have found certain elements to be the standout elements that multiple users enjoy and love. Simple, Smart Solutions -- we continue to press forward incorporating elements that enhance the workout experience while keeping the functionality effective, efficient and easy to operate.

*The individuals that participated in this survey are all regular gym members at Hancock Health and Wellness Center, located in Greenfield, IN. For more information on their facility and senior programming offered, visit their website at http://www.hancockwellnesscenter.com/

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

BANANA GEORGE 93 YEARS YOUNG!



"Banana George" Blair, 93 years young, continues to prove that age is just a number, and maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle is important to sustaining your energy levels, enhancing quality of life and ensuring that you can be in good health for generations to come! Partnering up with the ICAA (International Council on Active Aging) will be an great opportunity for Motus to better collaborate with the rapidly growing segment of active aging communities and see what we can do to support and encourage active lifestyles that will contribute to those of all ages and activity levels and deliver on our mission "Exercise.Entertain.Enjoy."



Roy Greenberg (CEO & President of Motus USA) shares the same passion for life and business as Banana George -- as an avid bare foot water skier as well, he knows the importance of investing in your health today to prepare for a better tomorrow. With years of experience in the fitness industry, Roy continutes to spearhead the company, developing the key line of cardiovascular products with a look and feel that appeals and caters to a wide variety of individuals pursing a life of health and wellness to last them a lifetime. Exercise equipment -- specifically cardio equipment can often be intimidating and confusing for those looking to get a simple workout in. Our line of products have gone through extensive testing and feedback sessions and have found certain elements to be the standout elements that multiple users enjoy and love. Simple, Smart Solutions -- we continue to press forward incorporating elements that enhance the workout experience while keeping the functionality effective, efficient and easy to operate.



Banana George's official website: http://www.bananageorge.com/






Thursday, October 8, 2009

UPGRADED LOOK OF THE M-RACING SERIES!!


M-RACING FUSION Model
Download Spec Sheet

The M-Racing Series has a new look to it with brand new flywheel design and new on-board computers sporting the "Team Motus USA" logo.

M-RACING NRG Model (step through)
Download Spec Sheet




M-RACING FEATURES
The M-Racing Series are prime value for money with all "accessories" INCLUDED -- nothing additional to purchase. Striking appeal meets attractive value.
  • Advanced Rear Wheel Design
  • Step Through Design (NRG model)
  • Dual sided SPD pedals w/clip and cage
  • On-board computer & heart rate monitor
  • Ultra quiet Kevlar belt driven operation
  • Accujust8 resistance adjustment
  • SmartAdjust seat & handlebar knobs
  • Bottle holder & Sport bottle
  • Ergonomic seat & handlebar


DISPLAY FEEDBACK:
  • Heart rate, time, calories, speed, distance, RPM
COMPUTER FUNCTIONS:
  • Calendar, facility temperature, clock, target heart rate, body fat, recovery
For more information & Pricing on these fabulous bikes call Motus USA at 310.515.1000 or email them at sales@motususa.com. Specifications on the M-Racing bikes can be found at http://www.motususa.com/cardio/indoor.htm.


"Playing Ball With The Big Boys" Motus USA client HAX , featured in Club Solutions Oct Issue


In a re-purposed airplane hangar three miles east of LAX in Los Angeles, club members, high school and middle school athletes are working out and practicing alongside some of today’s most famous star athletes.



When Jeff Herdman visualized owning a fitness club in Southern California, he imagined a club unlike any other. After locating an unused airplane hangar at Hawthorne Airport, a few miles east of LAX, Herdman launched his brainchild – an athletic club that focuses its attention on basketball and volleyball players of all ages, while also catering to traditional exercisers. read the full article..

Monday, September 28, 2009

Finding the Ka-Ching!($$$) In Your Cardio Ka-Lunkers.

Motus USA On Their Innovative Financing Solutions. NFTJ Interview with Motus USA 2009.

Fitness centers are constantly working to maintain that delicate balance between member retention and boosting their bottom line. With people approaching gym memberships more selectively and with higher expectations, gyms today are working hard to ensure that they keep their existing members happy as well as continuing to grow new membership sales. Motus USA is launching their “Cash for Cardio Clunkers™” program to help encourage and assist in new equipment purchases. In this industry, we can appreciate those equipment manufacturers like Motus, who will rise to the occasion and bring to the table innovative solutions to meet today’s challenging reality.


NFTJ: “Cash for Cardio Clunkers™” that’s got a very nice ring to it! In light of today’s economy and the hesitancy of many facilities to spend big money – this seems to offer people an affordable way to trade in and trade up?

MOTUS USA: YES! That is exactly the solution that we are striving to bring to the table.Cash for Clunkers” was such a huge success in automobile world -- affording people a way to positively impact the environment (getting gas guzzlers off the road) as well as giving them a cost break to purchase a newer, and more gas efficient vehicle. Our spin-off campaign “Cash for Cardio Clunkers™” was established to basically offer the same advantages – just in a cardio equipment setting.

NFTJ:
How does this program differentiate itself from the typical
trade in deals that many other manufacturers offer as well?

MOTUS: “Cash for Cardio Clunkers™” was made possible by our strong industry relationships that are working tightly with us to ensure we can assess the highest trade in value on equipment and pass forward that savings to our customers. We really go to bat for our clients – working with our in-house financing department allowing all parties to win in the end – members get excited by the new equipment changes, we secure a new client relationship and the client is en-route to brand new equipment.

NFTJ: Today, many clubs are looking high and low for sources of financing for equipment upgrades. What is your view on the matter and how do you as an equipment manufacturer, approach that issue to get your clients financed?

MOTUS: After conversing with several new and existing clients, we were able to tap into some of the looming concerns and issues they have today, and re-thought how we can better address and innovatively attack the concerns. Club owners are finding that equipment manufacturers are no longer able to offer the bulk discounts and financing that they could a year ago. The banks have tightened up their lines of credit and it is harder for clubs to get approved for financing. In light of this situation, we were able to come up with some creative equipment solutions uniquely tailored and planned out to assist those clubs in securing the financial backing they needed.


BURBANK ATHLETIC CLUBS


"Motus USA really went above and beyond to ensure I got the financing I needed to install brand new Motus USA integrated cardio into my two new Burbank Athletic Club locations -- formerly World Gym facilities. The members love the equipment, and I am impressed that percentage of closed deals on walk-in sales have increased since trading in the old cardio for the new Motus USA equipment." - Greg Bedrossian, CEO & Owner


NFTJ: Do you feel that there are people who see Motus equipment with their “integrated LCD TV screens” and automatically rule it out as expensive and not an option when it comes to tight budgets?

MOTUS: That is a possibility. Motus equipment, however, is highly competitive in pricing – quite frankly we offer the best value for money. We’ve had clients tell us how pleasantly surprised they were at the affordable pricing despite the “expensive look and feel” of the units. We simply offer great products at very affordable price points and it is unfortunate that many would make an assumption and miss out on both (1) A great product that delivers on value and (2) A superior level of customer service that we pride ourselves on.

NFTJ: What would be your top 4 reasons as to why a gym should consider this “Cash for Cardio Clunkers™” Program you are offering?

MOTUS: Here are 4 compelling reasons WHY a club should take advantage of “Cash for Cardio Clunkers.™” #1 Old cardio equipment gives members a reason to move gyms – or at least to shop around! #2 Newer cardio equipment consumes energy more efficiently. #3 Newer equipment attracts new members and expresses value and appreciation to your existing members. #4 New equipment equals lowered maintenance costs. (and did I mention, this program won’t last forever, we are encouraging our existing clients to TAKE ADVANTAGE OF HIGH TRADE IN VALUES NOW.)

NFTJ: What would you advise those gym owners who are not ready to make a purchase on brand new equipment, but are looking for cost effective ways to re-energize their member excitement and cardio regimes?

MOTUS: Leasing like-new equipment and trading up down the road to the brand new equipment can work nicely as a creative way to generate a buzz and excitement with members and new prospects about the new equipment in the club.

NFTJ: In light of today’s economy, what would you say to those fitness facilities, many of whom are having a difficult time justifying spending money on equipment upgrades.

MOTUS: While the state of the economy continues to press in on us, we need to resist the urge to just “survive.” Let’s keep in mind that beyond the daily regimen of operations – we have a bigger issue to attack and open our doors to – we need to continue to broadcast the importance of maintaining healthy & fit lifestyles, offering our services and expertise to see people engaged, excited and motivated! Very often – a novel offer, class or advertising that new piece of equipment can be that extra added draw to set apart one club from another. We know getting financing is not the easiest thing to secure these days, and we at Motus USA do what is necessary to positively affect the health club industry, supporting them to excel and do what they do best – attract and retain members! Economic cycles will come and go but the value of impacting individuals for the good remains a constant. By actively addressing the critical issues that press in on club owners, we are able to come up with creative working solutions to overcome those barriers.

For more information on how you can take advantage of Cash for Cardio Clunkers please contact them at 866.668.8766 or email sale@motususa.com. For more information please visit their website at www.motususa.com.

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