Who would want to work out in a cluttered unorganized health club? This happens more then you think.
There is more to working out than just the utilization of fitness equipment. People go to health club for the environment and overall setting. There are many ways to improve your business, but a widely overlooked technique is to Feng Shui your facility. Feng Shui (pronounced "Fung Schway") has been practiced by the Chinese culture throughout the ages. In a literal translation feng shui means "wind-water." The practice of Feng Shui combines ancient Chinese wisdom with traditions of the Chinese culture and provides guidelines to be used for different situations or aspirations. Feng Shui is not a religious practice - but a mystical art. I like to think of it as an "applied science" as well. When studying Feng Shui, one learns the importance of how positioning objects in the health club can create a harmonious atmosphere.
Depending upon each individual's goals, one may focus on certain areas of their life - such as family harmony, prosperity, marital bliss, good health, etc. In Feng Shui, these are called the Eight Life Aspirations. They really all go hand in hand with each other and one should not be excluded in favor of others. Feng Shui is not a primary RFCY principal of design but we are heavily educated and have developed several health clubs utilizing this method; and although this system of design is not for every health club owner, this just may apply to you.
A common misconception in regards to fitness is that people go to health clubs solely for their fitness equipment. While some patrons' motive is just specifically that, many are looking for more. A facility flourishes not only with their equipment but also for their warming and welcoming environment, friendly staff members, and an overwhelming amount of energy pulsing through the facility to motivate them to their full potential. Feng Shui is technically more than just moving certain pieces of furniture around; it goes as deep as the staff members and how they interact with your patrons.
Design tips when applying the Feng Shui technique
With your entrance, studies have proven that you have four to six seconds to make a long lasting impression. By providing a warming and welcoming mood, you will make any patron feel comfortable and stress free even prior to their work out.
Key components when using Feng Shui throughout your facility is to make sure you have uplifting colors and images that reflect your branding, but in a more eye pleasing manner, than being big and bold.
Utilize the color tones red and softer more natural colors throughout your facility. With this said, the color red should be on either the south, southwest, or northeast wall for optimal use. This will create a high energy environment that will stimulate your patrons to their full potential.
Another interesting way of utilizing the Feng Shui technique is to use several different levels of lighting avoiding fluorescent ceiling lights.
Lastly, one of the easiest ways to show patrons your facility's true potential while utilizing the Feng Shui technique is to simply provide excellent service. Without excellent services all other efforts in regards to Feng Shui will not matter. By simply adding something extra to your facility by using the Feng Shui technique you will see that a couple of easy tips and suggestions can go a long way. Not only will your facility be more fluid but at the same time your customers will be more satisfied.