NEW BLOG SITE!!!

PLEASE VISIT OUR NEW BLOG SITE AT:  http://mytimefitness24.wordpress.com/

The Word Is Out!

Yesterday we sent out a newsletter to everyone. For those with an email address, we sent the newsletter via email. Everyone else will receive a hard copy via mail.

I have to ask everyone to help us with something - EMAIL ACCURACY. We had over 30% of the  emails bounce (failed to be delivered) due to the email addresses being invalid (5% is considered the max limit).  At the front desk is a MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION form. Everyone must complete one to confirm accurate information, and to indicate any changes you may want to make on your account.

**NOTE - COMPLETE YOUR MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION FORM BY JULY 30th AND BE ENTERED IN A DRAWING FOR A NEW IPOD!!

And now for the big news...We're reducing your membership dues. Beginning September 1st, an individual membership will drop from $45 per month to $24. You can add your spouse for just $10 more, and children for only $5 each. Please check your email or mailbox for a detailed description about this, or get additional info at the front desk.

Secondly, we are eliminating our group exercise program. This was not an easy decision, and Sara, Connie and I debated at length on this. There are many reasons, but ultimately it is about providing preferred services to the majority of our members. Members want new and better cardio equipment more than anything else. We will be taking down the walls around the group ex studio and converting that area into our new Cardio Experience Center. This will be a unique cardio workout area. We'll be adding special lighting, new flat screen TV's and a new audio system to better enjoy TV while exercising. You'll also have the ability to change the TV channel at the cardio center without having to ask someone at the front desk to do it for you.

I've previously mentioned some of the other changes: new software that gives you access to your account, flexibility on when your dues payment is processed, improved social media presence to keep you better informed. We're working on other changes that we'll keep everyone informed on.

THANK YOU  for being a member of MyTime, and we hope you really enjoy the new and improved MyTime Fitness Center.

Big News This Week!

As we've continued working toward our goals, everything seems to be coming together. We'll be making announcements this week. A newsletter will be sent out - via email for those who have provided us with their email address - and U.S. mail for everyone else.

We're really excited about the changes. A little intimidating, but that's part of business. If you're reading this and not sure if we have your email address, please send it to the admin24@mytimefitness24.com email account with your name included. We plan on having a regular newsletter via email only (there will be printed copies at the front desk for those who do not have an email account).

Today I installed three new audio receivers on some of the cardio equipment. Two went on treadmills and one on an Arc Trainer. I replaced the receivers that were having the most difficulties working. The receivers work, but the jacks for the headphones get loosened up and no longer provide reception. The new receivers give you the option of listening to FM radio or TV.

Also, I once again had to reset two of the TV's. Someone continues to push buttons on the TV's, probably thinking they can change the channel that way. The channel has to be changed at the satellite receivers, which are at the front desk. When we get the new system installed, you'll be able to change channels at the cardio equipment without going to the front desk.

Eager to see the responses we get on all the changes. Stay tuned....

New Equipment Decisions

After reviewing all the votes on new cardio equipment, we obtained quotes from the three leading companies in the industry: Cybex, Precor and Star Trac. We spent considerable time looking at each product line and the particulars of each company. We have selected Star Trac based on the features, quality and level of service provided. They were not the lowest bidder, but we trust this company. That counts a great deal.

Here's what we have selected:

• 4 Treadmills
• 4 Total Body Trainers (similar to the Cybex Arc Trainers we now have)
• 2 Upright Bikes
• 2 Recumbent Bikes
• 1 Concept II Brand Rower

A newsletter will be going out be email and snail mail this weekend with these and other details about changes. LOTS of changes! Here we go....

New Equipment Selection

The votes are in! We appreciate everyone giving us input on your cardio equipment preferences. We have quotes from the companies we're looking at, and will be announcing decisions soon.

As with many other aspects of life, technology continues to progress in the fitness industry. Today's equipment is not only more user-friendly, but is also more entertaining, ergonomically sound and eaiser to maintain. Some of the machines have USB ports, ipod charging capability and other innovative features.

We should know details on brand and particular machines by next week. We'll keep you posted...

Progress: Hurry Up and Wait

Anyone that served in the infantry probably remembers that phrase. We're moving forward, but some steps are dependent upon others. So...we're going as fast as we can.

I'm very excited about the new cardio equipment. We're also looking into some very cool entertainment options. I want to talk about all of it, but I'll just jinx it. Hang on, we'll get there!

Still looking at the big 3: Star Trac, Precor and Cybex. We thought about printing off spec sheets for each brand's machines for everyone to review. The really technical stuff would confuse or bore most of you. Just as an example, our current treadmills run on 220 volts and have 4hp DC motors. These were reliable, energy-efficient motors for their time. The new systems are 110 volt with 5hp AC motors. They're more energy-efficient and highly reliable. Some even have the capability to connect wirelessly to your network and provide reports on scheduled maintenance and any malfunctions. They have USB and iPod connections on them. Technology is just soooo cool.

We'll keep you posted!

Progress Report

We've made a choice on the new club management software. Why might this be of interest to you? Some of the services that will be available are all new. You'll be able to visit our website, look up your account information, make payments, changes, etc. Several very member-friendly features that you're sure to make use of.

New cardio equipment. Thank you to all who voted on preferences for new equipment. While we have not made final decisions on brand and/or quantity, we have solid indications as to what we'll be doing. And YES, we're getting a rower!

We'll be hanging new flat screen TV's in the club. We have some ideas on entertainment options that we're working on. More later on that.

We plan on having the new equipment delivered and ready by September 1st. That's the plan. We'll keep you posted on progress...

Success Comes From Helping Others

I've always enjoyed working with people on their fitness and nutrition goals. Many times I help people discover or create goals. We all want to be healthier, but for many the roadmap to getting there is a mystery. It is very rewarding to see people establish goals and make progress toward them. I would probably be a little wealthier if I were a better 'business person' when it comes to training and advice. I just really enjoy helping others.

I recently experienced similar 'charity' from another club owner. One of the changes we're making is our club management software. While that may be boring details to most people, it is extremely important to the proper operation and management of a fitness center. One of the companies we're looking at gave me a reference client to talk to. What an informative and important call that turned out to be.

Everyone is busy. Business owners are constantly hit with sales calls and visits for everything under the sun. I know, I'm one of them. So when this club owner returned my call, I was pleasantly surprised at his willingness to talk with me. Not only did he provide crucial information on the software, he also shared knowledge gleaned from years of owning multiple clubs. After almost an hour discussion, he arranged for us to meet him in the near future at one of his successful clubs for a tour and even more tips and advice.

Here's my point. Sometimes when you help others, it comes back to you. I've enjoyed helping many with the knowledge and experience I've acquired over the years. Here's an example of where it seems to be coming back around to me.

There's a Web Site For Everything...

No matter how bizarre, unique or just outrageously goofy, I can assure you there's a website for everything. One of the tools for experiencing this fact is Stumbleupon (www.stumbleupon.com ). You MUST check it out. Stumbleupon finds sites that you just cannot find anywhere else.

I recently found one that just screamed my name - www.agebadly.com . Oh, these guys rock. Just go to the site and watch their intro video. They get it...old guys and gals that just refuse to give in. I'm one of them. I will NOT age well. I will fight it every second of the way. My 'bucket list' continues to grow, and I have no intention of slowing down.

Case in point: I WILL compete in the Tough Mudder event. If you're not familiar with it, check it out at www.toughmudder.com . There are several events similar to this, but TM looks to be the most difficult. The running will be a challenge for me, since I've had both my knees replaced. Crossing the water 20 feet up using monkey bars will be a little painful since I've had surgery on both my shoulders. My main motivation? Because certain people tell me I can't do it. Errrrrrr.....game on.

Back to the original topic. Websites of all kinds. I've listed a few interesting nuggets for you to read through. I love Stumbling!

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2TZYiu/www.toptenz.net/top-10-manliest-quotes.php

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2sI046/home.bitworks.co.nz/trivia/human.htm

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2radn9/www.geekologie.com/2011/06/20/gone-in-60-seconds-full.jpg

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1lLOhL/www.seenandshared.com/word-clock.htm

Is Summer Defeating Your Fitness Efforts?

Summertime. Everyone is outside enjoying the weather. We always see attendance decline at the fitness center during summer months. Youth sports, family outings, yard work or just lazing around the pool take priority. People who are regulars during winter months suddenly vanish come Spring. Wouldn't it be nice if on April 1st you could 'feeze' your fitness and wellness state and maintain it until Fall? Not have to exercise or eat well during the summer months? Sorry, that option is not available.

No matter our age, we need to take care of ourselves. Even if your time is limited, you can get into the gym 2 or 3 times each week. In fact, you must. Just a 30-minute 'maintenance' workout will do you wonders.

Summer also becomes a time for most that eating well is a hassle. Hot dogs, burgers, ice cream. Ah, the staples of summertime. I get that. We're going to relax a little and eat with friends and family. Just try to limit the poor eating to a few times each week. Also, try not to eat high carb foods in the evening. One additional problem of summer is that daylight lasts until 9pm! We're still thinking its daytime and ok to keep eating. Common sense will guide you if you listen to it.

Stay committed. Soon, we'll have more tools to help you with your goals. I look forward to seeing everyone at the gym!

I’m pleased to see many of you taking the time to vote for your favorite cardio equipment. We wanted to let you – the members – determine what is most important and what we should buy. Ironically, the sheets were laid out on the table in the order of voting, high to low. That was pure coincidence, but funny nonetheless.

Time will go rather quickly from this point. Our goal is to make the changes by September first. There are many changes taking place, and our plan is to have everything up and running by that date.

One of the services we’re going to strongly promote is our Membership Referral program. Referrals from current members are always the best advertising any club could want. With new equipment and some of the other changes, we hope many of you will be inclined to tell friends and family about the club. As an incentive, every time you refer someone who buys a membership, you’ll get $20 in ‘Club Bucks’ credited to your account! You’ll be able to spend it any way you want at the club.

Look for a new Web site soon as well as a revised Facebook presence. We plan to fully embrace social media and other methods of communication to better engage you about YOUR fitness, nutrition and life needs.

If you have topics you want to discuss, or content you want to read about, please let us know. You can reach me at admin24@mytimefitness24.com. Here we go, Pendleton!!

MAJOR Changes Coming To MyTime!

Hello. Where to begin. First, I owe everyone a deep apology for being so unprofessional. I've not posted to this blog or updated our website for a very long time. That's changing.

The economy is still in the tank, small businesses continue to struggle and unemployment is a major issue in our area. So what are we doing about it? Adding new equipment, changing our business model and making other major changes in our offerings.

I'll start with the most exciting changes and move on from there. We're adding all new cardio equipment. There are 'vote' sheets on the table by the weight room, in front of Connie's office. PLEASE take a moment to indicate your preferences in cardio equipment. So far, new treadmills are the most demanded item. We understand that. Most people enjoy walking or running on treadmills year 'round, so we plan on adding at least 4 new ones.

We're also adding some very nice total body trainers (TBT's). These are typically units like the Cybex ARC trainers we currently have. We're looking at offerings from Cybex, Star Trac and Precor. These are the three highest quality companies in the industry. We're not even looking at the lower-end equipment manufacturers.

We'll be adding some new bikes - both upright and recumbent - and a rower. We've not had a rower before, so there's a new toy for everyone. You can get a really good workout on them.

I'm currently creating an entirely new web site. All-new design; no more boring panels and tacky layout. I'm learning! If I could afford it, I would hire it out. We'll see how that goes.

We're also restructuring our entire social media presence. You'll see regular posts on this blog, Facebook, and others. We're also going to use the web site and Facebook as communication tools to keep in touch with you, our members.

There are some other changes that I cannot discuss yet. You'll understand once we make everyone aware. Suffice to say that EVERYONE will like one of them, promise! Ultimately, we are making changes to make the facility more accommodating for more people.

Thank you for being part of MyTime, and we'll keep you informed as we progress.