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SCW Spotlite: Issue 77

February 9th, 2025
Enjoy the monthly buzz about all things fitness. Fitness Pros are always on the go, so we’ll leave the “Lite” on!

Setting Goals That Stick: How Fitness Professionals Can Inspire Success This Year

By: Peter & Kathie Davis – inspire360

Nearly 91% of New Year’s resolutions fail — a statistic you’re likely to recognize, if not from the data itself, then with your own eyes as a fitness professional.

Year after year, billions of people around the world practice the millennia-old tradition of setting a goal for themselves: a resolution for the coming year. We resolve to eat well, lose weight, get in shape, quit a bad habit, achieve a career benchmark, try a new hobby…

Billions of people, thousands of years… but so much failure. Why?

There’s the old adage (often attributed to Albert Einstein): insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. So, is it insane to set a New Year’s resolution?

We’d argue that it’s not… in fact, goal setting is incredibly important — both in and out of the gym — when it comes to confidence, psychological health, physical longevity, and overall well-being. And there’s better news yet: there are specific, tangible ways we can play a role in the success of individuals in our communities, the world over.

Why Goal Setting Matters

Don’t let the failure rate discourage you from personally resolving in 2025, nor from helping your clients and communities do so.

Here’s a more encouraging stat: Setting resolutions increases your odds of success tenfold compared to merely wanting a change.

Research indicates that individuals who make New Year’s resolutions are ten times more likely to achieve their goals than those who don’t explicitly set resolutions. A study by Norcross et al. found that after six months, 46% of resolvers were successful in sustaining their goals, compared to only 4% of non-resolvers.

Goals represent a commitment to improving life and cultivating personal growth — and when set the right way (we’ll get to that!), they can significantly impact an individual’s well-being for the better.

According to many studies, achieving personal goals contributes positively to one’s overall happiness and life satisfaction. Even something as simple as maintaining a gratitude journal — a form of goal-oriented activity — improves psychological and physical functioning, including increased optimism and fewer symptoms of physical illness.

Let’s also acknowledge collective impact; an individual’s personal improvement, joy, and confidence can have a positive effect on the rest of their community, and the people around them.

If the data is accurate, and only 9% of the 41% of resolution-setting Americans actually achieve their goal, that still means over 12 million people successfully achieve their New Year’s resolutions each year in the U.S. alone.

Let’s expand that scope. If there are eight billion people in the world, half of them are making resolutions, and roughly 10% of them are succeeding, that’s 400 million people who’ve made a small, incremental but positive improvement to their lives.

So, while the overall success rate might seem low, it’s a powerful reminder that resolutions can lead to meaningful accomplishments for millions — and fitness professionals can help boost those numbers even higher.

Why Resolutions Often Fail

There are many reasons why these goals tend to backfire, but here are some common themes:

Ambition Overload: Setting overly ambitious or multiple goals at once is incredibly common, and also overwhelming… This approach leads to near-immediate backfire. This is especially true if there aren’t smaller “sub-goals” to measure incremental change.

Lack of Specificity: Vague goals like “improve my character” and “take better care of my health” lead to unclear paths. There’s no benchmark for success and no way to measure progress.

No Plan: Author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said, “A goal without a plan is just a wish.” Setting a resolution with no structured plan means the resolution is unlikely to succeed, and the individual is likely to be very discouraged.

Lack of Support: Goals need resources! Things like time, tools, and accountability (all of which can be supported by a health club, coach, etc.) make the biggest difference in terms of a resolution’s success or failure.

Misaligned Motivation: Setting goals you don’t genuinely want to achieve often leads to failure as well. Do you really want to quit smoking, or are you doing it because you think you should? You all know better than most: intention and motivation make an unbelievable difference. Intrinsic desire is tantamount to success.

How to Help Clients Set Goals They’ll Actually Achieve

So what now? This is actually where you come in — coaching and support could be the make-or-break factor for individuals in your community.

Here’s a toolkit with suggestions on how to set, keep, and achieve your New Year’s resolutions.

Be Specific: Set measurable, actionable goals to track progress. Have you heard of Locke & Latham’s Goal-Setting Theory? Developed in the 1960s, Locke and Latham’s research demonstrated that setting specific and challenging goals significantly enhances performance compared to vague or easy goals.

Be Realistic: Choose goals aligned with your capacity and life circumstances. Competing in an IronMan is an incredible resolution… for the right individual at the right stage in their athletic journey. In the same vein, resolutions with too rigid of parameters (meditate every day in 2025, go to the gym three times a week in 2025) leave a LOT of room for failure. Striking the balance between discipline and wiggle room is essential for crafting a realistic and achievable resolution.

Break It Down & Create a Plan: Start small, build momentum, and add goals incrementally. If there is a big goal (even one that seems a bit lofty), try breaking it down into smaller goals for each season. A great resource for yourself and your clients is the book Atomic Habits by James Clear, which emphasizes the importance of sustainable, incremental change, with tools on how to get there.

Then, develop a roadmap, including steps, deadlines, and resources… as coaches and trainers, you’ll have excellent insight into how to do this.

Identify Resources: How much time does this person have to achieve their goal? Do they have the means to get to a health club, or purchase the types of foods necessary? Do they have a support system or accountability partner? Identify and gather the necessary tools, support, and time. Think of it like the ingredient list for a resolution, and the plan/sub-goals are the step-by-step instructions.

Clarify the “Why” and Check Desire: Ultimately, with any goal or project, you have to love the process as much as you love the end result. The realization that “this isn’t fun” or “I don’t like this” is often the nail in the coffin for a resolution. And identifying the inherent desire can come down to identifying why a person is setting a particular goal. The Precision Nutrition “5 Whys” approach can be a useful tool, getting to the root of what the client actually wants.

Do they really want to run a 5K, or do they simply want to feel more confident? Are there other ways of achieving that confidence without running if they end up not enjoying the sport itself?

Ensuring the process aligns with what someone genuinely enjoys also contributes largely to the success of the resolution.

Your 2025 Call to Action

Helping your communities and clients craft better resolutions has a positive effect from an altruistic perspective (improving their lives, happiness, well-being), but also from a business strategy POV. Failed resolutions by February mean a drop in memberships, absenteeism in classes, and a frustrated client base.

By helping them effectively set goals, you’re creating a better 2025 business plan, increasing retention, and giving yourself the opportunity to build deeper client relationships with a happier community.

You can start now with goal-setting workshops, one-on-one consultations, or community challenges as part of your offerings. Starting in January you can start conversations with clients about their New Year’s resolutions, offering guidance early in the year to kick things off on a positive, deliberate, strategic note. This year, you have the power to turn your clients’ aspirations into achievements. Let’s make 2025 the year of goals that stick… and the year of happier, healthier communities in our clubs.

See Full Article!

How to Make the Most of Your MANIA® Experience: Your Guide to an Event That Last a Lifetime

by Sara Kooperman, JD

Attending a MANIA® convention isn’t just about completing a list of fitness sessions — it’s about immersing yourself in a world of knowledge, growth, and connection. With over 160 sessions to choose from, including everything from hands-on choreography workshops to cutting-edge lectures on exercise science, nutrition, and business strategies, MANIA® offers a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as a fitness professional. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, here are some top strategies to ensure you leave with more than just a list of notes — but an experience that lasts a lifetime.

  1. Plan Your Sessions Around Your Goals

One of the first challenges at any large conference is deciding which sessions to attend, especially with so many options available. At MANIA®, the variety is vast — physical sessions with choreography, in-depth movement techniques, as well as business-focused lectures. To get the most out of the event, start by aligning your session choices with your immediate goals.

If you’re looking to expand your skill set, focus on sessions that teach new moves or programming techniques. If your focus is business growth, prioritize the sessions that cover marketing, revenue generation, and member engagement strategies. To get the best of both worlds, blend sessions that align with your current needs while leaving room for discovery. Sometimes, the best sessions are the ones you didn’t plan for, so be flexible enough to explore new topics that might spark your curiosity once you’re at the event.

  1. Prepare for Each Session Like It’s a Master Class

To get the most out of each session, preparation is key. It’s not just about showing up — it’s about engaging with the content at a deeper level. Almost every MANIA® session offers downloadable outlines available a few weeks before the event, from session handouts to speaker slides. Familiarizing yourself with these resources before the event can help you better engage with the material during the session.

Another way to prepare is to enter each session with a specific goal in mind. Ask yourself: How can this session help me in my practice? What’s the one key takeaway I want from this lecture or workshop? Setting a purpose for each session ensures that you leave with actionable insights. Also, don’t forget to sit near the front! This encourages engagement and allows you to ask questions, making the session more interactive and impactful.

  1. Maximize Engagement During Sessions

Being present physically is one thing, but to truly benefit from a MANIA® session, you need to engage mentally and emotionally. As both a presenter and your fellow attendees, I can tell within minutes who is actively involved in the session and who is just going through the motions. Your body language, eye contact, and attentiveness will not only help you absorb the material but also signal to the presenter that you’re engaged and interested.

Focus on capturing key takeaways rather than trying to write down every word. Selectively take a short video of particularly inventive moves or note down ideas that resonate with you as something you can bring back to your clients. And don’t be afraid to ask thoughtful questions during Q&A — this interaction deepens your understanding and makes the session more enriching for everyone involved. Asking questions also opens doors for future conversations with the presenter and fellow attendees, expanding your learning beyond the session itself.

  1. Reflect, Revisit, and Discuss What You’ve Learned

Once a session ends, don’t let the insights slip away. A few minutes of reflection immediately after the session can reinforce key concepts and help you identify action steps. Review your notes and highlight the most important points. Recheck your videos or photos. If you’re attending with friends, take a moment to debrief and share what you’ve learned. Often, I have seen teachers in the hallways videoing particular moves.  Sometimes written notes just don’t do it!  

And …. take home the videos SCW records during almost every session. Hotels and convention centers do not have the bandwidth to stream quality live videos.  This is why no other event provides videos or sessions – it is expensive, time-consuming, and difficult to manage.  But SCW Fitness makes this happen. SCW uses state-of-the-art, high-end cameras, takes the time (and expense) to render the videos, and uploads to an easy-to-use platform.  Take advantage of these recordings.  Watch them with a friend! (But shhh, don’t tell our SCW video team that this is allowed or that I recommended this!) Share and plan with another instructor to figure out what would work in your home personal training sessions and GX classes and use it!  These take-aways are what MANIA is all about!  Leaving with value.

Even if you’re flying solo, try to connect with other attendees onsite and share insights. Networking with like-minded professionals allows you to discuss ideas in real time and can lead to collaborative projects down the line. Plus, the more you talk about what you’ve learned, the more likely you are to turn those insights into actionable changes in your classes and sessions.

  1. Turn Knowledge into Action: Create Your Follow-Up Plan

The true value of MANIA® doesn’t end when the event is over. To ensure you apply the knowledge you’ve gained, create a post-event follow-up plan. Review your notes and prioritize the changes you want to implement at your fitness facility or within personal practice. Whether it’s a new program idea or a business strategy, set specific goals for how you’ll bring these insights to life.

For example, if you learned new choreography, plan out when you’ll introduce it into your classes. If a business lecture sparked ideas for increasing member retention, make a strategy to apply those ideas within the next month. The key is to take concrete steps that ensure your learning has a lasting impact.

  1. Stay Connected After the Event

Learning doesn’t stop when the event ends. Many presenters at MANIA® offer supplementary resources such as webinars, videos, and continued access to their materials. Take advantage of these opportunities to keep learning long after you’ve left the conference. Remember that event discounts are real!  Take advantage of these.

Reach out to presenters with follow-up questions or for further clarification — many are more than happy to engage post-event, especially if you’re looking to implement their strategies. Connecting on LinkedIn or other social media platforms is another great way to stay updated on the latest trends and resources in your area of interest.

Additionally, networking with fellow attendees can lead to ongoing conversations and new professional relationships. You never know where a simple Instagram friend, follow-up email, or LinkedIn connection might lead. Building these relationships allows you to keep the learning going and opens doors for future collaborations or opportunities.

  1. Make the Most of Networking and Social Events

While the sessions are certainly the highlight of any conference, some of the most valuable moments often happen outside the classrooms and lecture halls. Don’t underestimate the power of networking in casual settings, like exhibitor halls, hotel restaurants, and elevators. Find out what presenters are “the best” and change your schedule.  It is easy at a MANIA, just check your schedule and change.  These informal moments allow you to connect with others in the fitness community and build relationships that can last for years.

Take the time to visit exhibitors, and chat with other attendees during breaks. These conversations often lead to new ideas, insights, and business opportunities. Plus, you never know when you might meet someone who shares your passion or goals — and they could become your next collaborator, mentor, or business partner.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your MANIA® experience, ensuring that you not only leave with new knowledge but also with a network of like-minded professionals, new skills, and actionable strategies that will continue to benefit you long after the event ends.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive in, engage fully, and leave with an experience that will last a lifetime!

About the Author: Sara Kooperman, JD

Sara Kooperman, JD, CEO of SCW Fitness Education, WATERinMOTION®, and S.E.A.T. Fitness, Founder of the MANIA® Convention, sits on the canfitpro Advisory Panel and the Gold’s Gym Think Tank and was a founding board member for the Women In Fitness Association (WIFA). Recently nominated for the IDEA Fitness Leader of the Year Award, Kooperman won the Most Innovating Fitness Pro by FIT-C (Fitness Industry Technology Council). Sara is the best-selling author of FIT FOR BUSINESS, an inductee into the National Fitness Hall of Fame, an Illinois State Businesswoman of the Year, an esteemed panelist for multiple Webinars & Podcasts, and sits on the ACSM Communication & Public Information Committee.

A New Era in Fitness Industry Events

by Health & Fitness Association

The Health & Fitness Association (HFA) has announced an exciting rebrand of its flagship convention and trade show. Formerly known as IHRSA, the event will now be called The HFA Show, signaling a new chapter in the evolution of the global fitness industry.

Registration is officially open for the 2025 HFA Show, which will be held March 12-14, 2025, at the Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year’s theme, “Navigating a New Era of Global Wellness,” underscores the industry’s shift toward embracing mental and physical wellness and the vital role fitness facilities play in improving global health.

A Vision for the Future

“The new name underscores our commitment to empowering health and fitness professionals worldwide,” said HFA President & CEO Liz Clark. “Our event delivers world-class education, networking, and professional development, creating value for members, their employees, and the millions of individuals they serve.”

Sara Kooperman, JD, CEO of SCW Fitness Education and an industry leader, echoed this sentiment:
“The HFA Show reflects how our industry is evolving—not only to meet the physical fitness needs of members but to create spaces where mental wellness and community thrive. This event is an essential resource for those who want to stay ahead in this ever-changing field.”

What to Expect at The HFA Show 2025

The HFA Show offers something for everyone, from health club and studio owners to personal trainers, group exercise instructors, and managers. Key highlights include:

  • Education Tracks: Eight specialized tracks focusing on staff management, sales and marketing, research and advocacy, technology and operations, programming, retention and experience, leadership and career growth, and industry partnerships.
  • 400+ Exhibitors: Attendees can explore the latest tools, equipment, and services shaping the fitness world.
  • Keynote Speakers: Industry visionaries will provide insight into the trends driving the future of fitness. The full agenda and speaker lineup will be released on October 25, 2024.
  • Continuing Education Credits (CECs): Attendees can earn valuable CECs while expanding their knowledge and skills.

Discounted registration is available for Health & Fitness Association members, making it easier than ever to participate in this must-attend event.

Regional Business Summits: Expanding Local Impact

The HFA Show isn’t the only opportunity to drive growth and innovation in the fitness industry. SCW Fitness Education also offers Regional Business Summits, providing targeted education and networking opportunities for club owners, managers, and fitness professionals in local markets.

“These summits are designed to address the specific challenges and opportunities faced by regional fitness businesses,” said Kooperman. “They offer practical solutions, strategic insights, and a chance to connect with peers in your area.”

The SCW Business Summits complement the national focus of The HFA Show by delivering actionable takeaways that attendees can implement immediately. These summits are held in Washington, D.C.; San Francisco; Orlando; Atlanta; Dallas; Chicago; and Boston.

Join the Movement

To learn more about The HFA Show, register, or take advantage of early bird discounts, visit healthandfitness.org/show.
To explore the SCW Business Summits, visit www.scwfit.com/business.

About the Health & Fitness Association

The Health & Fitness Association, a global community of industry leaders, is the only worldwide trade association providing a unified voice for the community of leaders who operate health and fitness facilities, offer professional guidance on physical activity, and provide the tools and equipment to do so for the millions of fitness facility members who understand that exercise improves their physical and mental health.

Through advocacy, education, and research, the association speaks to opportunities, challenges, and changes that are moving the industry into a new era.

Founded in 1981, the association publishes a monthly magazine, Club Business International, and operates The HFA Show. Follow the Health & Fitness Association on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

About the SCW Regional Business Summits

SCW Fitness Education’s Regional Business Summits provide a focused platform for fitness professionals, club operators, and managers to address challenges and opportunities unique to their local markets. These one-day events deliver actionable insights on business strategies, staffing, marketing, technology, and more—all tailored to the needs of regional audiences. With networking opportunities and expert-led sessions, these summits are designed to equip fitness leaders with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-evolving industry.

From Class to Community: Building a Sense of Belonging

By Renette Schmidtke

Community –  a feeling of fellowship with others as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals.

Everyone wants to belong. To be a part of something. A place to fit in. Is your class “that” place? 

We’re talking about going beyond the workout.  Creating a sense of belonging, accountability, and connection among members.  Achieving fitness goals through consistently. 

Are you building community?  

8 Fresh Ideas for Building Community in your Class

  1. Get together outside of class – It is an easy way for members to build relationships and connections with each other. Social events outside of the gym create stronger relationships that go beyond the workout. When people see each other as more than just workout partners, they feel more comfortable and invested in each other’s success.

Suggestions:

  • Meet up for a meal, coffee, or cooking class
  • A group walk and talk,
  • Charity walks or run
  1. Collaborate on a fun project – Members not only engage with each other, but they come together to work on a shared project and/or cause. It’s a win for everyone! This is great for fostering teamwork while also contributing to the community. Working on a charity or a class project brings out a sense of shared purpose that deepens the bond between participants.

Suggestions:

  • Create a class cookbook
  • Volunteer at an animal shelter
  • Volunteer at a food bank
  1. Partner or Team workouts – Working as a team is an opportunity for communication, collaboration, and strategy to complete a workout together. Before the workout begins, have members introduce themselves so they know who they’re working with. Encourage team members to give high fives during the workout, which motivates each other to finish strong. Partner workouts, especially those that mix skill levels, create a supportive environment. The idea of teammates encouraging each other with high-fives or sharing strategies to complete a workout can elevate the class atmosphere and create a sense of camaraderie.

Suggestions:

  • Partner Valentine’s HIIT (i.e., High Fives, Squats, Plank Clap)
  • Team-based Chipper where each member contributes to the workout
  • Team up members with different skill and fitness levels
  1. Host a Potluck – If your facility allows it, break bread and fellowship together after class. Food brings people together for their shared love of food on any occasion.  It is a universal connector. After a good workout, sharing a healthy meal can make the experience even more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to discover new recipes and cooking tips!

Suggestions:

  • Holiday-themed (i.e., Christmas Cookie Exchange, Thanksgiving, etc.)
  • Healthy recipe swap
  • Monthly or Quarterly Member birthdays
  1. Recognize member birthdays – Everyone loves to be recognized and feel special on their birthday! Birthdays are personal milestones celebrated by all. It’s a simple gesture that can go a long way in making a member feel valued and special within the group.

Suggestions:

  • Sing “Happy Birthday”
  • Take a pic of the birthday group and post it on social media
  • In class, play their favorite song or do their favorite move
  1. Ask fun non-fitness questions – Questions can spark laughter and meaningful conversation between members. They may also discover shared interests, which could develop into a new friendship. Breaking the ice with non-fitness questions can foster more personal connections. It allows members to see beyond the workout and discover common interests, which can help form lasting friendships.

Suggestions:

  • What hobby would you pursue if you had unlimited time?
  • What’s your favorite way to travel?
  • What’s your favorite line from any movie?
  1. Create a fun class name – A fun, catchy name brings an identity to your class. It makes everyone feel they belong and have a sense of purpose. What a way to turn your class into something special.   It makes everyone feel like they’re part of something with a specific vibe and culture. A hashtag can also help build a sense of online community and pride. 

Suggestions:

  • Host a class vote to decide the name
  • Base the name on your class format (i.e., HIIT Crew)
  • Add a hashtag (i.e., #HIITCrew)
  1. Introduce new members to regulars – new members often feel intimidated coming to their first fitness class. Introducing newbies to class regulars creates an instant connection. Regulars feel a sense of ownership by helping newcomers, reinforcing their sense of belonging.  

From the list, is there a particular idea that stands out to you, or one you’re ready to try with your class?

In 2025, beyond physical transformations, the emotional and social connections people build in your class can help them stick with their fitness journey longer and with more joy. This holistic approach—fostering community and belonging—will certainly lead to greater success for everyone involved.

Don’t wait, act and get started today.

About the Author: Renette Schmidtke 

Renette Schmidtke, Group Fitness Manager in Dallas, holds a BS in Food Science Technology (Texas A&M) and an MEd in Health Education (UT Austin). She is an AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor, NCSF Personal Trainer, and Yoga Fit Level 1 certified, with additional certifications in Pilates, Kettlebell, and FMS Level 1. Passionate about empowering women in strength training, she leads Women on Weights to debunk weightlifting myths. A WBFF pro, she has competed in figure and physique competitions, triathlons, duathlons, cycling races, and adult track meets, earning medals in 100m, 200m, and relay events.

What Does “Advanced” Yoga Actually Mean?   

by Lisa Greenbaum

First and foremost, advanced asana practice is NOT advanced Yoga but rather a more complex physical practice to challenge our strength, stamina, and ability to be still in mind and body.

With Yoga, the goal is Yoga itself. Hearing this might hurt our brain a little. Everything we do, from increasing our weight in strength training, pushing ourselves further and faster in our cardio, or excelling in competition in sport, is based on advancing our training. There is a clear destination or goal, and that’s what we strive for.

However, Yoga is a state of being. It is the moment that our mind is clear, that the continued cluttered thoughts (citta vritti) have dissolved, and we feel most connected to ourselves. That is the definition of Yoga provided to us by Patanjali, the ancient scholar and author of the Sutras of Patanjali, a revered book on Yoga philosophy. Ultimately, to become advanced in Yoga is the ability to hold the state of Yoga, citta vritti nirodaha, for longer durations.

We get there through continued practice of all 8 Limbs of Yoga:

Yamas – social ethics, how we interact with each other

Niyamas – personal ethics, how we treat ourselves

Asana – postures

Pranayama – breath work

Pratyahara – withdrawal of the senses

Dharana – concentration

Dyana – meditative mind (can’t be taught)

Samadhi – bliss, or unity consciousness

When we first start to practice Yoga, what one finds “advanced” or challenging is often quite different from someone else. I think of ex-dancers like me, where the flexibility of the postures came easily for me when I first started. I could do more of the extreme postures in my 20s than I can now, but unfortunately, I was also losing all of the powerful benefits that come from the mindfulness aspects of Yoga. Certainly, I felt good mentally, as we always do after moving our bodies, but that usually ended within a few hours of rolling up my mat. Today, after studying Yoga and meditation for over 20+ years, my practice is more advanced than it was then, and I still feel like I have so far to go. As we step past what most consider Yoga, aka the poses, and more into the meditation aspects, this is where the real experience begins.

Yoga is not limited to the hour we spend working on our mat, but all the small moments of pause throughout the day. This is the real power of Yoga, when the mind is clear and we find the gap. When we can take in what is going on around us without an automatic reaction. When we can just be. Yoga is for everybody, and everybody should be practicing some element of Yoga every day. Taking time every day to be fully present and in tune with ourselves – that is all that Yoga is asking from us. It doesn’t have to be this big setup; we don’t need fancy clothes or props, and we most definitely don’t need to be able to touch our toes.

Especially for those of us who get stuck in the same hamster wheel of thought, or experience anxiety, we need to practice stillness within. If you have ever tried meditation and thought it was too difficult, that is the first step to understanding the great benefits a regular practice would bring. That being said, just like pushing ourselves a little extra during our weight training sessions, we should practice postures that challenge us. When we go through the same postures and sequences all the time, we start to get complacent in our practice. Where certain postures previously held our full attention, sometimes we find our mind drifting off to other things outside the room. The challenge of these postures helps us stay present and focused. Remember, we call this Yoga practice because asana and the meditative mind require practice. The more worried we are about achieving the poses, the further away they become. We should always be approaching asana with curiosity and perhaps even a sense of playfulness.

We need to consider what the purpose of bringing these poses into our practice are for. For those who are quite athletic or perhaps have been practicing for a long time, the challenge of these poses is needed – and NOT just from a physical standpoint. We need to remember what it feels like to be “new” again, to experience frustration or disappointment while struggling with a posture. To go through the process required to get past this, to quiet the mental modifications, the negative voice in our head to come back to what the experience of Yoga is. If this isn’t for joy, then simply what is the point?

Every time you practice asana, please keep the following in mind:

Our breath should always be our number one indicator of how we are doing in each and every pose. If our breath is labored or short, we are in too deep. Likewise, if we are in an active pose and our breath is too easy, we can probably go deeper. Always refer to your breath inside the pose and through your transitions.

When the bandhas (locks) are engaged, the rest of the body will find its way. The primary bandhas refer to moolabandha, or pelvic floor muscles, uddiyana bandha, or core connection, and jalandhara bandha, or throat lock and lengthening through the back of our neck.

From the Sutras of Patanjali (one of the main Yoga philosophy texts) 2:46 “Sthira Sukham Asanam” or “Asana is a steady, comfortable posture.” (Swami Satchidananda). Within every pose and through every transition this should always be considered.

Remember, the goal of Yoga is Yoga itself. A state of being. If you are pursuing the dream of becoming an “Advanced Yogi” through postures only, you will be like a dog chasing its own tail, simply going around and around until you are tired and dizzy (or injured). Rather, think about advancing your studies and committing to a regular daily practice. This isn’t something to master and then move on, but a lifelong journey of ebbs and flows. What you achieve is peace and the ability to come back more easily to that peaceful state. What a powerful gift this practice is.

Want to learn more? Join me at DC MANIA®, Feb. 27-March 2, at the Hyatt Regency Dulles.  My hands-on workshops throughout the 3-day event cover several aspects of yoga, including restoration and energy. 

Register today and save: www.scwfit.com/dc.  Can’t make it in person, my sessions will be recorded along with over 150 others.  Be sure to purchase the videos so you don’t miss a single breath. 

Lastly, visit my website at Sangha Yoga Collective. Find out how sangha=community, explore our memberships, and how you can become 200 or 300 hr YTT certified. Namaste.

 

About the Author: Lisa Greenbaum

Lisa is the founder of Sangha Yoga Collective, a certified Trauma-Informed Yoga Therapist, E-RYT 500 Yoga Teacher, international presenter, and author. With over 20 years in the Fitness and Wellness industry, she has been recognized for her contributions, including multiple awards like Presenter of the Year. As a Global Ambassador for the Women in Fitness Association (WIFA) and a Top 100 Health and Fitness Influencer in Canada (2017-2021), Lisa is dedicated to fostering authentic, inspirational experiences.

The Biggest Fitness Opportunity in Decades: Why You Need the GLP-1 Exercise Specialist Certificate

By Eric Durak, MSc

The fitness and wellness industry are undergoing a seismic shift. The introduction and widespread adoption of GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic and Wegovy, are reshaping the landscape for trainers, coaches, and gym owners. These medications are transforming weight management, with millions of clients worldwide turning to them for support. But for fitness professionals, this presents an unprecedented opportunity—and a challenge. How can trainers and health clubs effectively serve this growing client base?

That’s where the GLP-1 Exercise Specialist Certificate, developed by Eric Durak, MSc, and Medical Health and Fitness, comes in. This groundbreaking program is the first of its kind and is designed to equip fitness professionals with the tools, knowledge, and strategies to safely and effectively work with clients using GLP-1 medications.

Why Is the GLP-1 Market a Big Deal?

GLP-1 medications are here to stay. Studies show that the market for these medications could grow by 50% in the next 4-5 years, representing an entirely new revenue stream for health clubs and trainers. Many health clubs already have members using GLP-1 medications—they just might not know it yet. These clients face unique challenges, including muscle mass preservation, hydration management, and sustainable fitness routines. Without proper guidance, they often “work out on their own,” missing the opportunity to integrate into the supportive health club community.

These medications also come with specific physiological impacts, such as reduced appetite, dehydration, and potential muscle mass loss. Trainers must be prepared to address these challenges with evidence-based strategies, including hydration protocols, body composition assessments, and carefully tailored exercise plans. This certificate ensures that trainers are not only prepared to address these clients’ unique needs but also to create an inclusive environment that promotes long-term success.

What Does the Certificate Cover?

The GLP-1 Exercise Specialist Certificate is the ultimate resource for trainers, gym owners, and coaches who want to:

  • Design Safe, Effective Programs: Learn how to create tailored exercise plans that support clients in maintaining muscle mass and improving overall health. This includes strategies to combat dehydration and mitigate the risk of sarcopenia (muscle loss).
  • Build Healthcare Referrals: Position yourself as a trusted expert and gain referrals from doctors who want their patients to stay active and prevent muscle atrophy.
  • Expand Your Client Base: Attract new members from the 80% of the population who traditionally avoid gyms. GLP-1 clients often represent a demographic that has previously felt unwelcome in traditional fitness spaces.
  • Establish Credibility: Leverage Eric Durak and Medical Health and Fitness’s 30+ years of leadership in the medical fitness space. With tools like body composition testing and nutritional monitoring, you’ll set a new standard for client care.

Five Key Takeaways for Trainers

  1. Legal Preparedness: Trainers must understand the legalities of working with medical populations. This certificate emphasizes liability-free programming, ensuring safe practices for both trainers and clients.
  1. Hydration Strategies: GLP-1 clients often struggle with dehydration. The course teaches hydration protocols tailored to exercise intensity and client needs.
  1. Body Composition Monitoring: Advanced tools like bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)provide crucial data on muscle mass, body fat, and hydration levels, helping clients track meaningful progress.
  1. Behavioral Support: Emotional intelligence and empathy are essential for working with this demographic. Trainers will learn how to create a welcoming and supportive environment.
  1. Nutrition Integration: While trainers don’t replace dietitians, understanding clients’ dietary habits help in designing effective fitness programs that align with their medication’s effects.

Why Choose This Certificate?

Eric Durak, MSc, created a “best-in-class” manual and program, designed to be accessible for both novice trainers and seasoned professionals. With a strong foundation in medical fitness and partnerships with organizations like NESTA, the program delivers evidence-based, actionable knowledge. It’s the first step in helping health clubs create inclusive programs for this new demographic of members.

Additionally, the certificate provides long-term value by helping trainers:

  • Stay ahead of the curve as the GLP-1 market continues to grow
  • Gain confidence in working with a medical population
  • Drive revenue by becoming the go-to expert in this niche

Exclusive SCW Opportunity

As part of the SCW DC MANIA® Fitness Pro Convention, we’re offering an exclusive $50 discount on the GLP-1 Exercise Specialist Certificate. This is your chance to elevate your career and take the first step in transforming your approach to fitness training.

Use code GLP-50 to save on registration. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn directly from Eric Durak, who will also be speaking at the event.

A Revolutionary Opportunity for Health Clubs

Health clubs stand at the forefront of integrating GLP-1 clients into fitness programs. With the right training, clubs can:

  • Develop inclusive environments that attract and retain members who’ve never felt welcomed in traditional gym settings.
  • Partner with healthcare providers for client referrals, solidifying their role as community health leaders.
  • Leverage advanced tools like body composition assessments to monitor progress and deliver exceptional results.

Why the GLP-1 Exercise Specialist Certificate?

At Medical Health and Fitness, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities that GLP-1 clients bring to the fitness industry. That’s why we created this program: to empower trainers, gym owners, and coaches to lead the way in integrating this growing population into fitness spaces. This certificate equips you with the skills to provide safe, effective, and inclusive training that transforms lives.

This isn’t just another program—it’s a chance to build credibility, expand your client base, and become a trusted expert in one of the fastest-growing niches in fitness. If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and make a real impact, the GLP-1 Exercise Specialist Certificate is your opportunity to lead.

Visit medhealthfit.com/mania today to learn more and secure your spot. Join me at DC MANIA® at the Hyatt Regency Dulles, Feb. 27-March 2, for in-depth education regarding working with clients, GLP-1, fitness, & nutrition.

About the Author: Eric Durak

Eric Durak, MSc, is a visionary leader in medical fitness with over 30 years of expertise transforming diabetes management, metabolic health, cancer wellness, and GLP-1 medication programs. As the creator of the GLP-1 Exercise Specialist program, Eric equips fitness professionals with cutting-edge tools for this growing client population. An accomplished author and innovator, he has developed industry-leading manuals and pioneered health club solutions that bridge fitness and healthcare, driving impactful change in wellness and clinical outcomes globally.

From New Year to Year-Round:  Strategies to Retain New Group Fitness Attendees

By FIT PRO PROGRAMMING

The New Year often brings an influx of new participants to group fitness classes, eager to kickstart their fitness goals. As a fitness instructor, creating a welcoming and supportive environment is key to ensuring these newcomers feel successful and inspired to return. Whether you’re teaching Barre Above, Pumped Up Strength, Balletone, Human Reformer, Swerve Cycling, or Ever Flexed, these strategies can help:

  1. Simplify Choreography

While seasoned participants may love a challenge, keeping your choreography simple and easy to follow (that doesn’t mean it can’t be challenging physically) during this time can make a huge difference for new attendees. Use basic movements and clear cues to build their confidence. Once they feel more comfortable, you can gradually increase the complexity of your choreography in future classes.

  1. Provide Multiple Options for Success

Not all participants come in with the same fitness level or experience. Offer a variety of options for each movement instead of labeling them as modifications or levels. Present these options as equally effective choices to help participants feel successful no matter which one they select. Encourage everyone to pick the version that works best for them, and celebrate their effort and progress, emphasizing that all choices are valid and valuable.

  1. Arrive Early to Greet Participants

Arriving at least 15 minutes before class gives you time to welcome participants personally, especially those who are new. A friendly smile and quick introduction can ease nerves and help new attendees feel more connected to you and the class.

  1. Set Newcomers Up for Success

Guide newcomers to a spot where they can easily see you and have access to all the necessary equipment. This small act prevents confusion and ensures they feel prepared. Avoid placing them at the very front or back if possible—a middle spot often provides the best visibility without feeling too exposed. For example, in Human Reformer, ensure they have the correct length of Flex Kords and know how to set them up correctly.

  1. Encourage Social Connections

Program moments during class for participants to engage with each other, such as pairing up for partner exercises or sharing a quick high-five during a break. Building a sense of community can make new attendees feel more included and excited to return. Additionally, take a moment to introduce newcomers to some of your friendly and talkative regulars. This simple gesture can help them feel like a part of the group and avoid the discomfort of being left out of class conversations.

  1. Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise participants for their effort and progress, especially new attendees who might be feeling self-conscious. A simple one-on-one “Great job” or “You’re doing awesome” can go a long way in boosting their confidence.

  1. Create a Welcoming Environment

Start the class with a warm introduction that includes a quick overview of what to expect. Let everyone know it’s okay to take breaks or modify as needed. This sets a non-intimidating tone and reassures participants.

  1. Check In After Class

Take a few minutes after class to thank participants for coming and ask how they felt about the workout. This one-on-one interaction can make newcomers feel valued and gives you insight into how to better support them. This is also a great time to answer any individual questions they might have and invite them to join you for another class.

  1. Celebrate Small Wins

Take time to recognize individual achievements, whether it’s completing the entire class, trying a new movement, or making progress on a skill. Highlighting these small wins reinforces a positive experience and motivates participants to keep coming back. Congratulating them personally also helps them feel seen and valued as part of the class community, building a stronger connection with your group.

  1. Create a Follow-Up Plan

Encourage new participants to return by sharing your class schedule or inviting them to join a fitness challenge or membership program. A personalized touch, like a quick email or social media message thanking them for attending, can strengthen the connection and increase the likelihood of them becoming regulars.

By implementing these strategies in your Barre Above, Pumped Up Strength, Balletone, Human Reformer, Swerve Cycling, or Ever Flexed classes, you’ll create an environment where new participants feel welcome, supported, and excited to embark on their fitness journey. As their confidence grows, so will their commitment—turning them into loyal members of your fitness community!

Shaping the Future of Fitness

This past January 2025, SCW Fitness Education demonstrated its unwavering commitment to the fitness industry by certifying over 100 instructors during the highly successful Certification Smash event. Held virtually via Zoom, this transformative initiative equipped fitness professionals with the tools, knowledge, and credentials to make a meaningful impact in their clients’ lives and communities.

SCW Fitness Education continues to lead professional development in the fitness industry by offering high-quality, nationally recognized certifications across a wide range of disciplines. From group exercise and personal training to yoga, aquatic fitness, and functional movement, Certification Smash empowered instructors to elevate their careers and meet the demands of a dynamic industry.

Led by SCW’s world-class faculty, including industry icons like Abbie AppelMelissa Layne, MEdRuston Webb, MS, Ann Gilbert, and Gail Bannister-Munn, participants gained actionable skills and strategies to deliver top-tier programming and achieve professional success.

The SCW Stream Team Difference

The success of Certification Smash would not have been possible without the incredible SCW Stream Team. This dedicated group of professionals—including bookkeepers and IT technicians, even including those who speak English as a second language—worked tirelessly to provide seamless technical support and exceptional customer service. Their kindness, expertise, and commitment to excellence created a supportive and inclusive environment, ensuring every participant had an outstanding experience.

Supporting Fitness Professionals and Businesses

SCW Fitness Education not only certifies instructors but also supports their career growth. Certified professionals can post their resumes on the SCW Job Board at www.scwfit.com/JOBS, connecting them with fitness facilities seeking skilled professionals. This initiative strengthens the fitness industry by bridging the gap between certified instructors and organizations in need.

What’s Next for SCW?

SCW Fitness Education has an exciting calendar of live and virtual events planned for 2025, offering unparalleled opportunities for education, networking, and career advancement:

Join Us in Shaping the Industry

SCW Fitness Education remains dedicated to empowering fitness professionals through world-class education, certifications, and career opportunities. Thank you to everyone who participated in Certification Smash, and we look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

For more information, visit www.scwfit.com.

What’s Eating You? The Science of “Comfort Food” & Stress-Eating?

By Tad Taggart, RDN

“I am enjoying a relationship with two men simultaneously. The first is called Ben, the other, Jerry. Number of current boyfriends: zero.”

— Bridget JonesBridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004 movie)

In the Friends episode “The One with the Thumb”, Monica dates a man named Alan. As the rest of the gang comes to know Alan, they become even more enamored with Alan than Monica. When Monica breaks up with him, the whole crew takes it pretty hard. At one point, she walks in to find them collectively drowning their sorrows in tubs of ice cream.

Why is it that this common trope in television and movies seems to persist? We often see the heartbroken individual turn to a dessert-like food for solace. Many people will see this and at least understand what’s being conveyed, if not have a level of empathy for having a similar experience. We seem tied to this recurring imagery because it resonates with us. It feels familiar. Many people are familiar with and understand the concept of “comfort food”, but did you know that there’s ancient biological wisdom hidden beneath this comedic messaging? For generations, fables and mythical tales have been often told to convey moral lessons or wisdom. In our current age, television, and film are our most common vehicle of storytelling, and it’s possible that television could be passing along innate, ancient wisdom.

For most, the common reaction to stressful events is either a noticeable increase or decrease in appetite. But why is that? Why would appetite change at all in response to stress, and why is it different in different people? And with that, why is it we would rather reach for something like ice cream than celery?

Like many of the baffling phenomena related to food and eating, we have to start by looking at the brain. Specifically, we are concerned with the motivational circuit, where dopamine is released after positive experiences to serve as the ‘rewards system’. This motivational circuit overlaps with the limbic system, which is the part of our brain responsible for emotions, reactions to stressors, and responses that are critical to maintaining homeostasis (keeping us safe and functioning). You could refer to the limbic system as our “caveman brain” or “survival brain” because it only knows how to respond to emotions and try to keep us alive.

In addition to the limbic system, we need to be familiar with the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The PFC is responsible for what you might call “higher-level thinking”. This is the region of the brain that is typically responsible for executive functioning, planning, and control of impulses, desires, and cravings. You might call this part of our brain, the “mature adult” brain. During times of high stress, our “mature adult” brain (PFC) is overtaken by the “survival brain” (limbic system). With the limbic system in the driver’s seat, we are more prone to “automatic” behaviors done for survival. In other words, our brain only knows that it is stressed and needs to survive. Back in the “caveman days” where food was scarce, seeking out food in response to stress meant avoiding starvation. This reaction of seeking higher fat and/or carb foods in response to stress is actually a brilliant survival mechanism. In times of high stress, our ancestors didn’t have time to sit back and contemplate their five-year plan. High stress meant danger. Danger meant a need for immediate action. Eat to avoid starvation or run to avoid predators.

To support this survival instinct, our body has established metabolic and hormonal reactions to further help endure stressors. In a normal stress-response, cortisol is acutely elevated, causing metabolic changes (like increased blood glucose mobilization, blood flow redirected to the muscles/heart/muscles, and increased heart rate) designed to prepare us for “fight or flight”. As these changes occur, our body decreases the priority of digestion and appetite. Historically, sitting down to eat never seemed like a top priority when running away from a hungry tiger.

These responses are all what we expect and actually want in response to normal, short-term stress. This is what helps us perform better on the test, in the big meeting, or during our athletic competitions. Where we run into problems is when that stress doesn’t come back down.

Chronic stress can contribute to a host of unsavory health issues. In the context of stress eating, we are concerned with chronic stress causing dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This dysregulation can have consequences for our appetite regulation. In general, people already under chronic stress are more prone to experience greater appetite and cravings in response to additional, acute stressors. In these scenarios, research has also shown that people show a greater preference for foods higher in carbohydrates and/or fats.

But what happens when, or if, you choose to follow these cravings? What happens, physiologically, when you reach for that pint of ice cream your body beckons for after a brutal day? Interestingly, choosing to abide by these cravings may help dampen the stress response. It’s been shown that insulin action helps to reduce cortisol. Insulin is released in response to eating foods, particularly those with carbohydrates. The greater the carb intake, the greater the insulin response. The greater the insulin increase, the greater the suppression in cortisol. In other words, that sweet treat could actually be just the medicine your body needs to take the edge off your stress. If anything, this speaks to the innate wisdom your body holds related to food and health.

What happens if you resist the ice cream? What if you are committed to a particular diet style and have decided that whatever your body is craving doesn’t fit in the plan? This is called “restrained eating,” and research has shown that this perspective only serves to further raise cortisol levels during a stress response and, ultimately, contributes to more frequent and/or intense cravings in response to future stressors.

By fighting these cravings, you are fighting your biology. You’re opposing your survival instincts. The body doesn’t understand the difference between a rough day at work and being chased by a tiger. In the same way, the body doesn’t understand the difference between choosing not to eat something and simply starving from a lack of available food. To the body, stress is stress. Hunger is hunger. Following a stressful event, your limbic system (“survival brain”) takes over, causing you to be more ‘reactive’ to your stress and emotions. By resisting the drive and urges of “survival brain,” cortisol stays high, the limbic system stays in the driver seat longer, and you feel stressed out longer.

So, what do I suggest? Stop fighting your biology. Eat the ice cream. Help your cortisol return to baseline more quickly, which will let the limbic system take the back seat and put the prefrontal cortex back in control. Once you’re not in ‘max stress’ mode anymore, you can address the thing that stressed you out in the first place and try to keep the stress from becoming a chronic issue.

Remember, stress isn’t a problem. Chronic stress is. In the same way, stress-eating isn’t a problem. Chronic stress-eating is. Food can’t fix your problems. Don’t allow it to be the sole way you handle stress. That being said, removing the stress from stress-eating will allow you to critically appraise your stress. Using the “mature adult” brain (PFC), you’ll be able to problem-solve solutions to your stressor and explore alternative ways to cope with stress that don’t always depend on food.

Sources:

Yau, Y. H., & Potenza, M. N. (2013). Stress and eating behaviors. Minerva endocrinologica, 38(3), 255–267.

About the Author: Taggart, RDN

Tad is the lead registered dietitian at Western Racquet & Fitness Club in Green Bay, WI. There, he founded the Nutrition Services Department as well as GameChangers at Western, an outpatient nutrition counseling program for active individuals and athletes struggling with eating disorders. In addition, Tad is one of the master-level trainers on staff, certified through the ACSM, and he leads a variety of group fitness modalities, including strength, HIIT, and boxing. When training and teaching group fitness, Tad encourages clients to focus on the joy rooted in movement. His passions lie in teaching people how to pursue holistic, sustainable nutrition & fitness goals through an intuitive eating and HAES lens.

Looking for a New Job? SCW Can Help!

Facilities need you! Whether it’s Teachers, Trainers, Directors, or Managers, SCW’s new FREE JOB BOARD is supporting the industry’s need for qualified fitness pros.

We post openings in all three of our monthly e-newsletters: Spotlite, Health & Fitness Business News, and Tidal Waves which are emailed out to tens of thousands of fitness professionals teaching and training in all formats along with managers and directors at all fitness facilities: big box, gyms, boutique, studios, not for profits and independent centers. 

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