Q: How were you first introduced to Club Industry?
KG: My first introduction to Club Industry was years ago when I was initially searching for conferences to attend and possibly speak at. I remember as if it were yesterday when I first applied to present and was accepted. "Wow," I thought. I was so nervous for my first presentation that I left my laptop at home, but I managed to press through, thanks to the Club staff.
Q: Since then, how has the Club Industry Show personally helped you and your business positively evolve?
KG: I took full advantage of all the things Club Industry offered, from consuming digital content to meeting peers whom I respected to creating relationships with the vendors at the show. I started out as a personal trainer during my early Club Industry years. When my first fitness studio opened, it was great having already established those relationships with vendors and Club staff—both solid resources to tap into as a business operator.
Q: Why should health and wellness professionals attend Club Industry? What sets Club apart from other trade shows and conferences?
KG: This answer is easy. Club Industry has an excellent digital platform so, for me, when I attend the conference, it is a great culmination of all that I had followed throughout the year. The size of the show is ideal. You won't feel overwhelmed by the number of vendors or the size and scope of the conference. The speakers really understand the business of fitness, meaning you never leave the same way you came in, in terms of knowledge.
Q: You are part of the inaugural class of Club Industry brand ambassadors. What makes you most excited about this opportunity?
KG: I am humbled. I have an opportunity to share successes and challenges. There are areas in which I hope to help others improve, while also listening and learning from my fellow fitness peers. I truly believe anyone sitting in on a presentation can be just as qualified to speak on a topic, but the fact that they choose to listen and learn is what makes this industry and its responsibilities so great.
Q: Can you talk about your role at this year’s show? How did you decide on your session topic, and why do you believe it is relevant to attendees?
KG: My session is: "Personal Training and Client Behavior Change" (9:30 a.m., Oct. 26, Salon A2). It will be very different from my previous lectures. The industry continually evolves and adapts to its clients. We listen, observe and analyze, then use our expertise to develop and deliver a product that generates results. The human brain is the driver behind everything we do. We must understand and master it. Then, we are tapping into more than results—we are tailoring behavior for results.
Q: Finally, summarize Club Industry in one sentence.
KG: Get all you can, then can all you get.
Don't miss Kurt Gillon's session at the 2018 Club Industry Show: "Personal Training and Client Behavior Change" (9:30 a.m., Oct. 26, Salon A2, Hilton Chicago).