The coronavirus pandemic has presented clubs with a challenge unlike any other they’ve had to undertake. Government-mandated shutdowns at the city, state, and national levels worldwide have impacted group exercise severely. With some degrees of stay-at-home orders, facility closures, and public caution, clubs have been forced to pivot their group fitness strategy.
For a unique perspective on the effects the coronavirus pandemic has had on group fitness, Ingrid Knight-Cohee, director of group fitness for Fitness World in British Columbia, Canada, hosted a live Ask Me Anything (AMA) session on the IHRSA Forum. Here are our top five takeaways from the AMA.
1. Supporting Staff & Instructors Is as Important as Ever
An open line of communication, and offering guidance and direction, have become a big part of group fitness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Consider how staff are feeling. Hold sincere conversations with each staff member, mind everyone is in a different place at the moment and you have to cater to their needs,” Knight-Cohee said. “There is lots of angst and anxiety at this time and it is very important to find out what concerns exist and the reality of what the class structure looks like moving forward. Give space if needed, have an open line of communication, meet people where they are. Above all else, abide by health guidelines to keep members and staff healthy and safe.”
Every individual staff person is dealing with and handling this time period differently. Knight-Cohee’s suggestion for an open line of communication is paramount. During these uncertain times, staff and instructors need to feel comfortable and supported.