“Fitness Facility Management” is quite simply the go-to resource for anyone involved in the business of running a fitness facility. From top to bottom, this book delivers on its promise — covering the full spectrum of what it takes to manage a facility successfully, whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned professional looking for fresh perspective.
Specifically, the book provides an in-depth look at the challenges and rewards of managing contemporary health and fitness facilities, including boutique and corporate facilities, campus recreation centers, community recreation and franchised fitness clubs
This isn’t a book you read once and shelve. It’s the kind of guide you’ll want to keep close by, ready to pull off the shelf anytime you need to re-center, solve a challenge or rethink your approach.
Two big takeaways stood out for me:
1. People Drive Performance.
The authors make it crystal clear that your staff experience directly drives your member experience. They outline practical strategies for hiring, developing and retaining great team members. They also show how investing in your people creates better retention, stronger revenue and a thriving culture.
2. Operational Excellence Comes From Clear Systems
The book demonstrates that great facilities don’t succeed by chance — they succeed because of repeatable, well-designed systems. From onboarding to programming to budgeting, you’ll find clear, actionable guidance for building structure so you’re not constantly putting out fires.
What sets “Fitness Facility Management” apart is how the authors take these large, complex topics and break them down into easily digestible sections. Operations, staffing, leadership, and more are all are addressed with clarity, practicality and insight. It’s comprehensive, yet approachable.
Thank you to Steven Trotter and Chris Stevenson for putting together such a thoughtful, useful and truly comprehensive guide. You’ve created a resource that will serve this industry for years to come.
