Writing a book had always been on my bucket list, but the path to actually finishing one was anything but straightforward. I knew I had valuable insights to share from years of experience owning and managing fitness facilities. Yet, each time I sat down to write, I found myself asking, “What information is most needed? What knowledge would benefit people in this industry?”
I started and stopped the process multiple times, unable to overcome the hurdles of finding the proper focus and sustaining momentum. Then, in a serendipitous turn of events, a publisher reached out, indirectly giving me the push I needed to finally bring my book to life. Human Kinetics, a well-respected publisher in the fitness world, approached Steven Trotter — a good friend I had met years earlier at AB Show and someone I’d long respected in the industry.
Human Kinetics saw a niche need for a book that would serve as a guide for fitness facility management, and Steven thought I would be the perfect co-author for the project. It felt like the stars had aligned. This was an opportunity to work with a good friend, fulfill a lifelong dream and contribute something meaningful to an industry I know and love.
Filling the void
The journey of writing Fitness Facility Management was about more than just achieving a personal milestone; it was about filling a significant void in resources available for current and aspiring fitness facility managers. While many valuable articles, journals and periodicals are available, none offer a complete guide that tackles every element of fitness facility management from start to finish.
Fitness facilities today face rapidly shifting demands driven by new trends, emerging technologies and evolving member expectations. In response, we wanted to create something genuinely comprehensive — a resource that could guide readers through every aspect of facility management. Our vision was to cover the full scope of running a facility, from defining a mission and vision to navigating funding options, exploring different facility models and moving through the operational stages of hiring, marketing, programming and strategic planning. When I was new to the industry, I would have loved to have had a comprehensive roadmap, and that’s precisely what this book aims to provide.
Start-to-finish guide
Fitness Facility Management is unique in its straightforward, sequential approach. We wanted readers to feel like they were progressing through the stages of facility management in the order they would naturally encounter them, as if on a timeline. The book starts with the essentials — establishing mission, vision and values to lay the foundation for a successful, member-centered fitness facility. It explores the current state of the fitness industry, guiding readers in defining their organizational mission and target market while delving into essential business operations.
The focus then shifts to the human element, offering strategies for recruiting, hiring, onboarding and retaining top talent, as well as effective talent offboarding. Next, the book examines the design of physical spaces, the selection of fitness equipment, and the development of member services and programs to create a welcoming environment.
Finally, it addresses vital operational strategies, including member attraction, emergency preparedness, and robust business strategy and marketing. This comprehensive and structured approach equips readers with the knowledge to build and manage thriving fitness facilities.
Vision into reality
Writing a book of this scope was no small feat. Over three years, we researched, interviewed, wrote and rewrote, ensuring every section offered practical, actionable information. In shaping the book, we consulted experts from diverse fitness environments — boutique studios, corporate fitness centers, university recreation departments and community fitness clubs. This allowed us to capture a wide range of perspectives, ensuring the book would resonate with readers representing any fitness facility.
One of our main objectives was to create something that went beyond theory. While management concepts are helpful, most facility managers need hands-on guidance. To meet this need, we included a variety of examples and sample documents throughout the book, such as standard operating procedures and employee evaluations. These practical tools provide readers with concrete models to adapt to their facilities.
Additionally, we incorporated case studies, checklists and “think it through” questions at the end of each chapter. These reflective questions are designed to get readers thinking about how they would apply the concepts in real-world scenarios, allowing them to consider how each lesson might directly impact their facilities. By blending theoretical insights with practical examples and resources, we aimed to equip facility managers with everything they need to turn vision into reality.
A resource for every stage
When we envisioned this book, we knew it needed to appeal to a broad audience within the industry. The book offers current fitness facility managers advanced strategies for navigating today’s challenges — from creating exceptional member experiences to managing risk and preparing for emergencies. The book is a practical guide for professionals to maintain and grow their facilities.
But Fitness Facility Management isn’t only for seasoned managers. It’s also designed for those entering the field, particularly upper-level students studying fitness management or related business fields. For them, this book serves as a complete introduction to facility operations. It gives them a toolkit they can use to build a successful career.
And then there’s the budding entrepreneur — the individual considering opening a new gym, boutique studio or franchised club. The book can be a roadmap for them, outlining the realities, challenges and potential rewards of entering the fitness business. By covering every stage of facility management, from startup to daily operations, the book becomes a lifelong resource that readers can return to as they move through different phases of their careers.
Reflecting on my journey, I realize that writing Fitness Facility Management has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Collaborating with Steven and industry experts helped us create a meaningful resource that underscores my passion for the fitness industry and its potential to positively impact lives.
Well-managed fitness facilities are vital spaces that foster health, community and transformation. I hope this book empowers readers to confidently manage their facilities by creating welcoming environments, building strong teams and delivering exceptional member experiences. As the fitness industry evolves, adaptability and a commitment to continuing education are essential, and this guide aims to strengthen the fitness community, equipping it to inspire healthier lives.
Ultimately, this project has fulfilled a dream by providing a lasting resource for an industry I deeply cherish. I encourage fellow industry professionals to share their insights and experiences through writing. We all have valuable lessons to impart that can help elevate our field.
