Industry Press Room - Athletic Business

Monday, April 30, 2012

Action Floor Earns Negative Carbon Footprint Certification

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Action Floor Systems

(MERCER, WI) Action Floor Systems, manufacturer of premium hardwood maple and supplier of synthetic sports floors, has been certified as a Negative Carbon Footprint provider following a Life Cycle Assessment conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the University of Wisconsin. Action Floor’s mill is the only one accredited by the Maple Flooring Manufacturers Association (MFMA) to receive this credential.

Action’s Negative Carbon Footprint certification reflects a sustainability-based manufacturing model, with verified adherence to ISO 14000 series standards (ISO 2006). The company’s own third party-verifiable SCORES program (Sustainable Construction Of Renewable Engineered Surfaces) has driven the push for minimizing environmental impact from all aspects of the manufacturing process.

“This is a game-changer,” says Tom Abendroth, Action Floor president. “Our ongoing efforts to assess and address our environmental impacts and establish groundbreaking best practices have landed us in a position that’s all our own in the industry.”

“Carbon footprint” refers to the net sum of carbon waste in the form of carbon dioxide (CO2) released into the atmosphere through all of an entity’s activities. These include raw material acquisition, transportation, manufacturing processes, energy usage, waste and emission management and other factors. An overall negative carbon footprint can be achieved by critically assessing and reversing all carbon waste associated, either directly or indirectly, with all activities, and taking steps to offset carbon emissions through forestry replenishment and new growth.

Abendroth adds, “Achieving a carbon neutral footprint has been the Holy Grail for many manufacturers, but through our recycling, re-use, conservation and reforestation efforts, we have actually attained a carbon negative standing. It is an extraordinary achievement.”

Action Floor’s SCORES sustainability model has led to the company being registered on the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) product database, and Action products contribute toward LEED® EQ 4.3 Low-Emitting Materials certification (LEED Green Building Rating Systems).

Action Floor Systems manufactures high-performance hardwood sports floor systems, constructed of hard maple grown exclusively in northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The company also offers Herculan® polyurethane synthetic systems, RexCourt® vinyl sheet, ReFlex® recycled rubber flooring products, and AirRide floor cover systems. For more information, contact Action Floor Systems, 4781 North U.S. Highway 51 Mercer, WI 54547-9708 Phone 1-800-746-3512 Fax 715.476.3585 E-mail info@actionfloors.com or visit www.actionfloors.com.

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Friday, April 27, 2012

ACE Kick Starts National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

Posted by AB Editors

Source: American Council on Exercise

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 26, 2012) — American Council on Exercise (ACE), in support of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month in May, is launching the ACE PALA+ Challenge to help individuals kick start a program to achieve the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award (PALA+). The ACE PALA+ Challenge consists of weekly cardiovascular and resistance workout plans for May and beyond that allow participants to fulfill the requirements for PALA+, reinvigorate a habit of daily physical activity, or begin a new plan to live their most fit life.

“At ACE, our job is to arm individuals with the tools for engaging in safe and effective exercise regardless of their current fitness level,” said ACE CEO Scott Goudeseune. “National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is the perfect opportunity for Americans to kick start a healthier and more active lifestyle. ACE has a vision of the world devoid of the obesity epidemic that is threatening our quality of life. This challenge is just one more way we empower all Americans to life their most fit lives.”

The ACE PALA+ Challenge is designed to build total body strength, enhance cardiovascular endurance, gain muscular definition, lose weight, improve health and increase energy. Created for exercise beginners, the plan can also be used as a dynamic warm-up for more advanced individuals, and can be completed at home or in a gym under the guidance of a certified personal trainer.

The ACE PALA+ Challenge is available at www.ACEFitness.org/PALAChallenge and includes weekly guides with instructional videos demonstrating proper form for each exercise. Additionally, ACE will share expert advice and inspiration on its Twitter channel every day in May in support of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.

“We are excited that ACE has launched the ACE PALA+ Challenge as a way to engage even more Americans to start a healthy lifestyle by completing PALA+,” said PCFSN Co-chair Dominique Dawes. “The President’s Council is constantly looking for opportunities to promote our mission and this collaboration will bring our messaging to millions of Americans.

Since 1983, May has been observed as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, with individuals and organizations across the country joining together to promote awareness of the value of physical activity in the pursuit of happier, healthier, more productive lives. The mission of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month coincides with the goal of PALA+ to encourage all Americans to make being active a part of their everyday lives.

Adult participants in PALA+ are required to complete 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week for six out of eight weeks. PALA+ also includes a nutritional component, where participants must add a weekly healthy eating goal per week, and build upon those goals throughout the six week period. Goals include increasing intake of fruits and vegetables, managing portion sizes and drinking water rather than sugary drinks.

About ACE
The American Council on Exercise (ACE), America’s premier fitness and personal trainer certification, continuing education, and training organization, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the benefits of physical activity and protecting Americans against unsafe and ineffective fitness products and instruction. ACE sponsors university-based fitness and exercise science research studies and is the world’s largest nonprofit fitness certifying organization. For more information on ACE and its programs, call (800) 825-3636 or visit the ACE website at www.acefitness.org.

About PCFSN
The President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition (PCFSN) educates, engages and empowers all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and good nutrition. PCFSN is a committee of volunteer citizens who advise the President through the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Through its partnerships with the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, PCFSN promotes programs and initiatives that motivate people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to lead active, healthy lifestyles. PCFSN is co-chaired by NFL Quarterback Drew Brees and Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes. For more information, visit www.fitness.gov.

Posted At 4:00 PM • Comments (0)

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Cybex Wins 2012 FIBO Innovation Award

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Cybex International Inc.

MEDWAY, MA, (APRIL 24, 2012) – Cybex International, Inc. (NASDAQ: CYBI), a leading manufacturer of premium exercise equipment, recently received the prestigious FIBO Innovation Award 2012 for the patented Progressive Stabilization system featured on its Bravo Press and Bravo Pull strength machines. The award was presented at the annual FIBO trade show on Friday, April 20, in Essen, Germany.

“We set out to combine the advantages of isolative strength training equipment with the advantages of cable press and pull equipment, and Progressive Stabilization was born,” said Ray Giannelli, senior vice president of research and development for Cybex International. “We’re thrilled that the FIBO Innovation Award jury saw fit to recognize this advancement in exercise technology. It inspires us to continue creating better ways to work out.”

Multi-function cable systems traditionally provide a variety of movement options in one machine with limited stability and strength gains. Single-function fixed-path equipment traditionally provides stability and increased loading with limited movement variety. Utilizing Progressive Stabilization, Cybex’s Bravo Press and Bravo Pull are the first multi-function cable training stations to offer the stability and strength potential found in single-function, fixed-path equipment along with the expanded movement variety typical with multi-function cable training systems. The Bravo Press and Bravo Pull also offer no-stability or partial-stability settings, allowing trainers to create workouts that build strength and skills in a progressive, highly effective manner.

“With the growth of functional training products and programming, be it in one-on-one or group fitness sessions, the Bravo series is the ‘must have’ equipment for any size facility. Alone, combined with the Arc Trainer or bundled with other functional training tools, it’s a proven performer when it comes to results,” said Lisa Juris, vice president of marketing for Cybex International.

“Progressive Stabilization combines the best of multi-function cable systems with the best of fixed-path single-function systems, and the result is a better strength workout,” said Dr. Paul Juris, executive director of the Cybex Research Institute. Bravo Press and Bravo Pull with Progressive Stabilization provide a 212-percent increase in load capacity and a 184-percent increase in core activation compared to other free-standing machines, according to a study conducted by the University of Massachusetts Amherst Department of Kinesiology. “What this means is Progressive Stabilization gives users a greater variety of training options and delivers what users want: faster, safer results,” said Dr. Juris.

About Cybex
Cybex International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of premium exercise equipment primarily for commercial use. The Cybex product line, including a full range of strength and cardio training machines, is designed using exercise science to reflect the natural movement of the human body. Led by the Cybex Research Institute, Cybex fitness equipment is engineered to produce optimal results for users from the first-time exerciser to the professional athlete. Cybex designs and builds its products in the USA for a wide range of facilities, from commercial health clubs to home gyms, in more than 85 countries worldwide. For more information on Cybex and its products, visit the company’s website at www.cybexintl.com.

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Thursday, April 19, 2012

DINOFLEX® Achieves ClimateSmart Seal

Posted by AB Editors

Source: DINOFLEX

We are extremely pleased to validate DINOFLEX® Group LP’s participation in & completion of the ClimateSmart program. “As DINOFLEX, (a recycled rubber surfaces manufacturer) was established in 1989 on the basis of environmental stewardship, participating in this program just made sense,” says CEO Terry MacLeod.

ClimateSmart has long been recognized for their work in the arena of ‘energy,’ helping businesses calculate emissions, then measure & reduce their carbon footprint while cutting costs.

In order to successfully complete the ClimateSmart program, DINOFLEX® was required to complete a greenhouse gas emissions inventory & submit a list of reductions strategies.

“We participated in the educational program, delivered by ClimateSmart, and successfully completed the greenhouse gas emissions inventory, which was reviewed by an expert third party,” says Kevin Manke, DINOFLEX Production Manager. “Taking leadership in climate change is not only important for our company and our staff, we believe that change begins with choice and here at DINOFLEX®, we are constantly looking for innovative ways to foster the transition to a prosperous, low-carbon future with environmental protection and social equity. This commitment in turns looks after people, profits and our planet.”

For more Information on DINOFLEX® visit www.dinoflex.com.

Posted At 4:14 PM • Comments (0)

Iron Grip and RetroFitness Announce Partnership

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Iron Grip Barbell Company

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. – April 18, 2012 – Iron Grip Barbell Company, the industry leading manufacturer of durable, innovative, American-made free weight equipment, and RetroFitness, America’s rapidly growing fitness chain offering the industry’s most innovative equipment and motivating workout environment, announced today that RetroFitness has selected Iron Grip to be the preferred supplier of dumbbells, barbells, and Olympic plates to RetroFitness franchise locations nationwide.

“After much research and comparison, we determined Iron Grip free weights to be the best fit for our franchisees,” said Matthew Schultz, vice president of operations for RetroFitness. “As we’ve continued our aggressive national expansion, we realized that choosing the right equipment partner was critical in every category, and with Iron Grip’s long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and outstanding customer service, they were the logical choice.”

RetroFitness features a full collection of top-of-of-the line strength equipment and cardio machines complete with individualized LCD television monitors. Each RetroFitness location houses a RetroTheatre where members can work out in a darkened room on cardio machines while watching movies. In addition, members can enjoy personal training, tanning, full-service locker rooms, a RetroBlends juice bar and onsite chiropractic and massage therapy services.

“From the member perspective, Iron Grip equipment offers several user-friendly features that are sure to enhance our members’ fitness experience,” added Schultz. “For our franchisees, Iron Grip provides an excellent value to the gym operator because it’s extremely durable and requires little-to-no maintenance, which helps our franchisees reap the benefits of lower operating costs down the line.”

RetroFitness has chosen to install Iron Grip’s premium line of American-made free weight equipment, which includes their patented Urethane Olympic plates with opposing handgrips, maintenance-free Urethane dumbbells, and heavy-duty Olympic bars. In addition, the plates and dumbbells will be custom-engraved with the RetroFitness logo to reinforce the brand within the clubs.

“We’re very excited to be working with the RetroFitness team,” said Michael Rojas, president of Iron Grip Barbell Company. “Having high-end equipment in the gym sends the message to members that the club cares about their experience. This attention to detail will help RetroFitness’ rapidly growing franchisee base attract and retain members.”

For more information or to find the nearest RetroFitness location, please visit www.retrofitness.net or call (800) RETRO-04. To learn more about Iron Grip Barbell Company, please visit www.irongrip.com or call (800) 664-4766.

About Iron Grip
Iron Grip Barbell Company, based in Santa Ana, Calif., is the largest provider of commercial free weight equipment worldwide and the only manufacturer with a complete line of exclusively American-made free weight equipment. Iron Grip equipment can be found in premier fitness facilities in over 60 countries, including major health club chains, independent gyms, YMCAs, professional and university strength-training facilities, corporate wellness centers, hospital and physical therapy facilities, and police, firefighter and military fitness facilities worldwide. For more information, contact the company at 800-664-4766 or visit www.irongrip.com.

About RetroFitness
Founded in 2004 by entrepreneur Eric Casaburi, RetroFitness has evolved from a regional Mid-Atlantic gym concept into a national fitness system with more than 120 gyms in its development pipeline. Under Casaburi's leadership, RetroFitness has grown to nearly 80 gyms in 10 states. Expansion plans call for 300 gyms in the next three years and growth into new major markets such as Chicago, Dallas and Washington, D.C. Each RetroFitness location is equipped with a full-service fitness center including 60-100 pieces of equipment supplied by leading manufacturers. RetroFitness was ranked in the top of the 2012 Entrepreneur “Franchise 500” annual ranking, marking the brand’s second-consecutive appearance on the prestigious list. The company was also recognized as one of the “Top Fastest-Growing Franchises," and "Top New Franchise" In the publication’s 32nd annual ranking. For more information, please visit www.retrofitness.net, and to learn more about franchise opportunities visit www.retrofranchising.com.

Posted At 9:06 AM • Comments (0)

Brock International Launches New Website

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Brock International

Boulder, CO (April 19, 2012) – Brock International, whose Cradle to Cradle Certified combination drainage and shock pad product is used under synthetic turf fields to reduce the likelihood of concussions by up to 50%, has launched its new website, www.brock-international.com. In addition to sharing Brock’s mission of safety and sustainability, the site will feature a community of leading designers and builders experienced with synthetic turf to educate end-users about improving the quality of their sports field projects.

“We want to be a resource for those interested in technology and building a state-of-the-art sports surface,” explained Dan Sawyer, CEO of Brock International. “Besides sharing our mission, the new website was built to allow end-users to access the knowledge of proven experts specializing in the design and construction of a proper sports field.”

Education is a top priority for Brock. The site’s new Designers and Builders section features the most experienced providers to help people who are interested in bringing a synthetic turf field to their community avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions. The enhanced website also includes relevant news, articles and information on the latest trends and developments in preventing concussions, sustainability practices and innovations within the synthetic turf industry overall. In addition, Brock tweets news @brock_intl and posts updates at Facebook.

“Synthetic turf is not just carpet,” added Sawyer. “It is one of the key pieces of ‘equipment’ that a sports program will offer their teams playing soccer, football, rugby, lacrosse or any activity, impacting speed, accuracy and even injury rates of the players. We all benefit when people share their knowledge and experience.”

About Brock International
Brock International is the leader in performance base systems for synthetic turf. With over 20 million square feet of Brock Performance Base in play underneath athletic fields worldwide, the company engineers the best, safest and most sustainable playing surfaces in the world for athletes at all levels. Brock has handled hundreds of successful installations for clients ranging from NFL teams and major universities to community parks. In October 2011, Brock became the first company in the industry to have a Cradle to Cradle Certification CM for its combined drainage and shock pad product. Brock also plays a key role in preventing concussions. Scientific testing proves the product reduces the likelihood of traumatic brain injury by up to 50%, provides the same G-Max and playability as a pristine natural grass field and mitigates field hardening over time. Visit www.brock-international.com to learn more.

Posted At 8:49 AM • Comments (1)

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Playworld Systems Launches Custom Themed Playgrounds

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Playworld Systems

LEWISBURG, PA (April 16, 2012) – Playworld Systems, a leading manufacturer of imaginative playground and fitness equipment, today announced the launch of custom themed playgrounds, a new line of equipment that fundamentally changes traditional playgrounds with vibrant designs and exciting sculptural elements.

“Playgrounds have come a long way from simple post-and-platform arrangements to creative structures that rival some of the amazing, imaginative play areas found in popular theme parks,” said Matthew Miller, chief executive officer of Playworld Systems. “More of our customers are looking for playgrounds that incorporate ideas and designs relevant to their community. Custom themed playgrounds grant that wish and more.”

The new line allows customers to create playgrounds on any theme they desire or choose from the existing collection. The options include:

Garden Grove, where flowers bloom 14 feet into the sky, and stalks conceal a secret stairwell
Space Camp, where children can channel their inner astronaut inside a rocket-shaped playground
Tree Fort, a rustic getaway that branches out above the ground and encourages creativity to soar

Customers are encouraged to share their ideas with Playworld Systems’ which will then create a one-of-a-kind custom playground specifically for them.

The new product line uses intricate, hand-carved elements that make each custom themed playground unique. Skilled artisans provide a level of craftsmanship that bring the playgrounds to life. “The sculpted features bring whimsy and magic to the playground to entice and engage in an unprecedented way,” added Miller.

Playworld Systems’ custom themed playgrounds help develop kids’ cognitive, social and language skills as they role play, make up stories and adventures, and explore endless possibilities for fun.

About Playworld Systems Inc.
For over 40 years, Playworld Systems has been a leader in creating imaginative, customized commercial playground and fitness equipment that positively impacts the health and well-being of communities around the globe. Based on the belief that The World Needs Play®, Playworld Systems brings the joy and benefits of healthful outdoor play and exercise to people of every age and ability through such innovative product lines as PlayDesigns®, PlaySimple®, Playworld®, Origins™, NEOS®, ENERGI®, and LifeTrail® .

Playworld Systems' products are made in the U.S.A. in its Lewisburg, Pa. manufacturing facility using domestic and foreign content, with a small number of parts purchased from trusted international suppliers. This multi-generational, family-owned company continues to invest significant resources to measurably reduce its impact on the environment. Its aggressive action to eliminate polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has helped Playworld Systems become the first and only playground manufacturer to have its products Cradle to Cradle CertifiedCM Basic. The company offers an optimal customer experience unique in the industry – from value-added services using Microsoft Tag to personalized attention through its vast network of local distributors.

Playworld Systems has received numerous awards throughout its history, including two International Industrial Design Excellence Awards, a gold medal from International Design magazine, two News Directors’ Choice Awards on Early Childhood, and the Pennsylvania Governors’ Award for Safety Excellence. In 2012, Playworld Systems received an Evergreen Award in the Sports Recreation category from the GSA Integrated Workplace. For more information about Playworld Systems, visit PlayworldSystems.com.

Posted At 11:30 AM • Comments (1)