Welcome to the AB Forum

We currently use a benchmark of 10 participants as a measure as to whether or not a class remains on the schedule. This is somewhat of an arbitrary number. Is there a calculation that I can use to give me a more definitive benchmark? Thanks.

Chris: Rob Bishop, one of the authors of AB's For-Profits column, wrote a piece last year about How to Eliminate an Ineffective Fitness Program. His last piece of advice? Make sure decisions are based on what's best for your facility. "Do what's best for your facility, and make decisions based on the best data you can gather," Rob wrote. "Remember, all of your programs and services should drive revenue and enhance retention." Hope that helps...

Not much to add except to share that I have used the following when making go/no go decisions about group and other related programs: (1) Yes profitability is key one. If it isn't making money for you, its costing you resources, so kill it. (2) Exception to rule 1, if its bringing outsiders into the club, and exposing them...and its not costing the organization too much, let it go and see if it doesn't produce new members/participants. (3) While I have not had the option to do this, based on my observations I would use unique and innovative new programs in just this way: Promote them and attempt to build a class or group, open to outsiders and insiders as well. See what that programs outcome is in terms of drawing new folks or existing folks in....for the program itself and into the facility as well.