Club Owner Selectivity

Mike Z. RobinsonBy Mike Z. Robinson

Last September, I made the point that, while I love going to industry conventions, conferences, seminars, and trade shows…as the owner of a club, with more responsibilities and demands on my time that I can possibly count, I have to be very selective about those I actually attend. I’ve just finished reviewing the program for IHRSA’s 31^st Annual International Convention and Trade Show, which will be held next month, March 14-17, in Los Angeles, and I’m pleased to report that…you’re definitely going to see me there!

IHRSA events nearly always wind up on my “have-to-be-there” list, and IHRSA 2012 clearly qualifies for inclusion. This year, the schedule, from start to finish, beginning to end, features some amazing presenters. There will be countless opportunities to learn from industry experts—people like IHRSA’s Joe Moore, Club One’s Bill McBride, ACE’s Dr. Cedric Bryant, master trainer Todd Durkin, Active Voice owner Amanda Vogel, and others.

It’s always great to hear from individuals at the top of their game because we’re all on this journey together and can help one another move to the next level.

I feel that IHRSA does an excellent job of focusing on the business side of things, bringing those issues to the forefront and keeping them there. Year after year, it provides club owners and other fitness professionals with quality information and innovative ideas. The experience never gets old—there’s always something new to learn, whether you’ve been a part of the fitness industry for three months or 30 years.

…and I haven’t even mentioned the outstanding keynote speakers, the endless networking opportunities, the rewarding social activities, or the annual BASH for Augie’s Quest…

So, when you’re mulling over the dozens of industry gatherings that take place each year, IHRSA’s convention and trade show should, I’m convinced, be at the top of your list. It inevitably winds up at the top of mine!

I hope to see you in Los Angeles!

- Mike Z. Robinson is the owner of MZR Fitness, in San Luis Obispo, California, and can be contacted at mike@mzrfitness.com.