3 Ways Health Clubs are Being More Inclusive for Beginners
May 31, 2022
If you’ve ever felt nervous or hesitant to step foot inside a health club, you’re not alone. In fact, 58% of people feel self-conscious when they try new fitness activities.*
But when you take that brave step to make your way in to workout, attend a class, or start a fitness journey altogether, it’s normal to have questions going through your mind. You might be asking yourself:
Will I be able to work the equipment and/or keep up in class?
Will I feel comfortable working out here?
Will I be able to keep up with fellow members?
We’ve all been there. I know I have.
I remember walking into my first yoga class at a health club over 15 years ago—I was nervous because I was unfamiliar with the practice and didn’t really know what I was getting myself into. When I stepped into the studio room, the first thing I saw were two students—one in a handstand and the other in full splits—two things I had never been able to in my life.
If it weren’t for my friend and the nurturing instructor who assured me the class was a safe space for beginners and advanced students alike, I probably would’ve raced for the doors. Because of their caring words (and how fun the class was), I decided to stick with the practice and even became an instructor myself over five years ago.
Now, as a fitness professional, it’s my goal to help clients reach their goals. It’s also my hope to instill confidence in my students (especially newbies) and remind them that, whatever their fitness level is, they belong in my class.
And guess what? There are many health clubs dedicated to creating a safe space for beginners.
Here’s how we do it:
1. Get to know everyone’s name from day one
Taking the time to meet and get to know every new member is invaluable.
If you’re at the front desk:
Make them feel comfortable from the get-go by greeting every member by name as they walk through the doors. As they check in, ask how they’re doing and see if there’s anything you can do to make their experience more comfortable. If it’s a member’s first time in, offer a tour and answer any questions they might have.
If you’re a trainer or instructor:
Give yourself plenty of time to get to know new members before a session or class starts. Arrive about 10 to 15 minutes ahead of time, make introductions, and let them know what they can expect.
Throughout the workout, make a point to remember their name and give words of encouragement. Cheering on first-timers gives them much-needed confidence and encourages them to sign up again.
If you’re a fellow member:
As a club regular, you have the opportunity to make new members feel welcome. When you see someone new, introduce yourself and get to know them a bit better. Ask where they work, what brought them to the club, etc.
When the club community (members included) makes new members feel welcome, it ensures they have the best experience possible. Plus, it increases the likelihood they’ll return for more.
2. Create a supportive environment for beginners
Every member has a different background and unique limitations. It’s important to recognize and welcome individual differences.
If you’re a trainer or instructor:
In a practice like yoga, there are many variations and modifications for poses—and the same can be said for any type of workout or class—so always make a point to offer modifications and reiterate that all poses/exercises are optional.
Some adjustments and corrections require hands-on modifications and/or variations to help avoid injury. Always ask for permission at the beginning of the workout as some clients might be uncomfortable with being touched.
If you’re a fellow member:
In a class, if a movement requires small groups or partners, invite new members to work out with you. Encourage them to ask questions and modify when necessary. Don’t forget to encourage them with a high-five or “great job”, too.
3. Create offerings for beginners
Services and events specifically aimed at beginners introduce fitness services at your health club in an inviting manner.
If you’re the owner or manager:
Host classes and/or workshops aimed to educate beginners (think Yoga 101, Intro to High-Intensity Interval Training, etc.). These offerings encourage members to try something alongside other beginners. A bit of education goes a long way to help new members feel more comfortable as they get started.
Pop-up events also showcase the benefits of a health club membership, but outside of its regular location.
Consider hosting a beginner’s workout at a local park to help newcomers learn more about your facility in a casual environment. (Check out our fitness pop-up event checklist for some other great ideas.)
If you’re a fellow member:
You were a beginner once, too. Take a minute or two to write a review about your experience when you were just getting started. Did you attend a beginner’s workshop or pop-up event? Were you nervous? Were modifications welcomed by your instructor? Talk about it! Your review gives prospective members a feel for what it’ll be like when they come in for the first time.
Starting a new fitness journey doesn’t have to be intimidating or scary. As fitness professionals and fellow members, we all have the power to make it a fun, exciting, and encouraging experience for beginners. Oh, and if you’re a beginner, you’ve totally got this.
*Mindbody. "Consumer Profile." July 2019.
