\nWhile traditional loyalty rewards have always included discounts or free products, a new and compelling trend has emerged \u2013 using fitness-as-a-benefit.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
This trend is in keeping with a wider macro shift towards a more health-conscious consumer base but has been enabled by the growth of third-party marketplace businesses in overcoming the geographic limitations that come with legacy partnerships involving individual fitness brands.<\/p>\n
The Desirability of Fitness-as-a-Benefit<\/h2>\n
Fitness has always been a desirable benefit for individuals. Whether it’s the pursuit of physical health, mental well-being, or simply maintaining an active lifestyle, people value the opportunity to exercise and stay fit.<\/p>\n
As we navigate an era where well-being is increasingly a top priority, the appeal of fitness-as-a-benefit is more potent than ever.<\/p>\n
Whilst healthcare providers such as AXA Health and Vitality have long included Fitness Benefits in their programs, now companies across a wide range of sectors, from banking to breakdown cover, recognise that aligning their loyalty programs with the prevailing health-consciousness of consumers is a strategic move.<\/p>\n
Historically, many companies offered traditional rewards like cashback, gift cards, or exclusive products. While these incentives were effective, they often lacked a significant emotional connection.<\/p>\n
Fitness, on the other hand, offers a personalised and deeply engaging experience for customers. It allows companies to show that they care about the wellbeing of their customers, which fosters stronger brand loyalty.<\/p>\n
Overcoming Geographic Limitations<\/h2>\n
However, one significant challenge in incorporating fitness into loyalty schemes was the geographic coverage of individual gym chains.<\/p>\n
Companies that wanted to offer fitness benefits in the past found it challenging to partner with multiple gyms in different locations, limiting their ability to support national loyalty and reward schemes.<\/p>\n
This is where third-party marketplace businesses stepped in to bridge the gap. Third-party fitness marketplace businesses (such as Hussle<\/a>) act as intermediaries between companies and fitness venues.<\/p>\n
They offer a wide network of gym partnerships that span across the country. This enables companies to provide fitness benefits to their customers no matter where they are located, thus solving the geographical limitations and making it possible for national loyalty and reward schemes to include fitness-as-a-benefit.<\/p>\n
\nThis is a true win-win-win as there is inherent value for the company running the loyalty program that benefits from a desirable, innovative reward. The health-conscious customer gets access to a service they truly value. And the fitness brands that participate gain exposure to large closed-user group audiences that they would not be able to reach alone.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Macro Trends<\/h2>\n
Several macro trends have converged to make fitness-as-a-benefit an essential provision for any reward program. These trends include:<\/p>\n
1. Health and Wellness Movement<\/h3>\n
The global health and wellness movement has brought fitness to the forefront of people’s minds. Consumers are more health-conscious than ever, seeking ways to stay active and maintain their wellbeing. Businesses that align with this trend by offering fitness benefits stand out as wellness advocates.<\/p>\n
2. Distributed Workforces<\/h3>\n
The rise of remote work has transformed the way people live and work. With greater flexibility in their schedules, employees and customers have more time to invest in their health and fitness. Fitness-as-a-benefit fits seamlessly into this new work paradigm.<\/p>\n
3. Stress and Mental Health<\/h3>\n
The modern lifestyle is rife with stressors. Fitness not only contributes to physical health but also serves as an effective stress-reliever. It’s a powerful tool for addressing the growing mental health<\/a> concerns in society.<\/p>\n
4. Sustainability<\/h3>\n
Sustainability is not just about the environment; it extends to personal wellbeing. People are looking for sustainable lifestyles, which include making choices that contribute positively to their health. Fitness benefits align with this sustainable approach to life.<\/p>\n
5. Technological Advancements<\/h3>\n
Technology has made fitness more accessible than ever. From fitness apps to wearable<\/a> devices, customers can track their progress and stay motivated. This tech-savvy approach to fitness enhances the appeal of fitness benefits in loyalty programs.<\/p>\n
The Essential Provision<\/h2>\n
As these macro trends continue to shape consumer behaviour, the inclusion of fitness-as-a-benefit in loyalty schemes has transitioned from a novelty to an essential provision.<\/p>\n
Customers expect companies to not only provide quality products and services but also care about their overall wellbeing. Fitness benefits have become a symbol of a company’s commitment to its customers’ health and happiness.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, companies that integrate fitness-as-a-benefit into their loyalty programs can benefit in several ways:<\/a><\/p>\n
1. Enhanced Customer Loyalty<\/h3>\n
By offering fitness benefits, companies build a deeper emotional connection with their customers. This heightened loyalty can lead to increased customer retention and advocacy.<\/p>\n
2. Competitive Advantage<\/h3>\n
Fitness-as-a-benefit differentiates a company’s loyalty program from competitors. It attracts new customers and keeps existing ones engaged.<\/p>\n
3. Employee Productivity<\/h3>\n
Some loyalty programs extend to employees, offering fitness benefits as part of workplace<\/a> wellness initiatives. Healthy, active employees are often more productive and motivated, and less likely to take sick leave.<\/p>\n
4. Positive Brand Image<\/h3>\n
A company that promotes fitness and wellbeing reflects positively on its brand image. Customers are more likely to trust and respect such a company.<\/p>\n
The rise of fitness-as-a-benefit in loyalty schemes reflects the changing consumer landscape, characterised by a heightened focus on health and wellness. The historic limitations of geographic coverage have been effectively addressed by third-party marketplace businesses, enabling companies to offer fitness benefits on a national scale.<\/p>\n
\nIn the coming years, fitness-as-a-benefit is poised to become a staple in loyalty programs. Companies that recognise and embrace this trend will not only reap the rewards of enhanced customer loyalty and brand image but also contribute positively to the well-being of their customers and employees.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Fitness-as-a-benefit is not just a reward; it’s a commitment to a healthier, happier, and more loyal customer base.<\/p>\n
To find out how to incorporate Fitness-as-a-benefit into your loyalty program, get in touch with Hussle today.<\/a><\/p>\n
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Attracting and retaining customers is paramount for any company and loyalty programs are once again proving their resilience and perceived customer value in regardless of the economy. While traditional loyalty rewards have always included discounts or free products, a new and compelling trend has emerged \u2013 using fitness-as-a-benefit. This trend is in keeping with a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":30,"featured_media":7986,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n
When you're looking to increase fitness<\/b><\/a>, stamina, or perhaps lose a bit of weight, we've all been told the top tip of taking the stairs rather than the lift. Increasing your heart rate and working the muscle in your legs, workouts with a step have been popular since the 1980s. Since the days of step classes and neon Lycra.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
But the step machine in the gym can get overlooked. It gets branded as boring. Truth is, the stair climber can deliver an efficient and well rounded workout, whether used as part of a wider gym routine or on its own for a whole workout<\/a> session.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
So let's delve into the stair climber benefits. You might soon find yourself swapping that treadmill workout for a stair climber workout. Or combining the two.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
What is the stair climber?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
The stair climber does what it says on the tin and simulates walking up stairs. Unlike some of the other scary looking gym equipment<\/a>, it's very easy to use. It rotates steps to simulate climbing a flight of stairs and you can vary the resistance and speed.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
There are two types of gym stepper machines, the pedal type steppers and the step mill.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The pedal steppers require you to push down on pedals and keep your body mostly still as you do so meaning it gets your core more involved. Whack up the resistance or take smaller or larger steps as you prefer, to vary the difficulty level.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The step mill is more like a traditional flight of stairs, that moves like an escalator. Up the speed or take the steps two at a time for a more challenging workout variation.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
What is the difference between a StairMaster and a stepmill?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
StairMaster is actually a brand. Hence the use of capital letters. Call it a step machine, stepper, stair stepper, StairMaster, stepmill, Power Climb mill, stairclimber or stepping machine \u2013 they are all the same thing.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
How do you use the stair climber?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
The golden rule is: don\u2019t slouch. Step machine benefits are maximised when you hold the handrail as little as possible and keep your core strong. Keep your feet flat and avoid coming up onto your tiptoes. Don\u2019t let your knees stick forward of your toes. If your knee comes forward too much it stresses your knee joint and quadriceps tendon.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
What does the stair climber do for your body?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
Stair climber benefits are huge. A step machine workout is a good bit of cardiovascular exercise, burning calories as it increases your heart rate and gets your blood pumping. If weight loss<\/b><\/a> is your goal, you can help create that calorie deficit here. It's also low impact compared with other cardio machine workouts, like the treadmill. A plus for those with joint issues.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
But it can also double as strength training<\/b><\/a>. The repetitive motion of using your legs to push yourself up is a great way to test that endurance and activate the muscles in your lower body<\/a>. Stair climber workouts are great if you're looking to tone your lower body.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Additionally, this exercise gives your core muscles a decent workout too. Having to readjust your balance as you climb helps you to develop a stronger core<\/b><\/a>. Make sure you keep an eye on your posture to make this efficient and ease lower back pain. <\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
Is the stair climber in the gym better than real stairs?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
It definitely lets you be more efficient with your stair climbing workout. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Real stairs don't provide you with differing levels of resistance like the stepper in the gym. The harder your step, the harder your muscles are working, and the more likely you are to start to tone your lower body.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
An interesting point is that if you\u2019re climbing real stairs, you're going to be coming down them again. Going downstairs can place a strain on your joints, especially the knees. Anyone who's experienced knee problems like runner's knee will know the pain of walking down stairs. As you are always on the upward climb on the stair stepper, there is no strain on your joints.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
How long should you stay on the stair climber?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
If you're new to it, start with 15 minutes. That way you can test out your resistance and speed. Gradually build up so you can stay on the stair climber for 30 minutes. For the average person, a 30 minute stair climber session can burn around 200-300 calories.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Aim for a speed of about 60-80 steps a minute. But it's also great to mix it up. Try periods of faster speed or increased resistance followed by rest. That way you can build up both your stamina, endurance, and give every muscle in your lower body a good workout.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
Which is better, the treadmill or stair climber?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
The benefits of gym treadmills are that you run less risk of injury than pounding the pavements. Gym treadmills are easier on your joints than a hard concrete pavement and there\u2019s no injury-causing uneven ground to worry about. As a general rule, running is an extremely efficient cardio and therefore calorie burning activity.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Gym stair steppers share the same benefits of the reduced impact, but aren't as calorie busting as running. However, it can be seen as a form of strength training too, which running can't really. Stair climbers can work every muscle in your legs if you're using them correctly.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
And if you're the clumsy type, it\u2019s hard to fall off a stair stepper. So if you like to zone out and watch TV in the gym while you exercise, this one is for you.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
Does the stair climber burn belly fat?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
The burn belly fat question is one that comes up every time.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Whilst you can\u2019t spot reduce and target fat loss to particular areas of your body, you can burn belly fat by reducing the overall amount of calories that you take on board and burning fat with aerobic exercise. Therefore the stair stepper will burn belly fat as part of a calorie burning workout, as it is a good aerobic exercise.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Stair climber workouts also works your stomach muscles and strengthens your core, engaging those muscles underneath the belly fat and helping to keep your tummy toned.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
Where can I use a Stair Master?<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
There are plenty of gyms with StairMasters. <\/p>\r\n\r\n
Most gyms will have a StairMaster or similar machine. If you\u2019re not sure if your favourite gym has a stair climber, ask one of the gym instructors. Just as you would expect to find a treadmill in most gyms, you can expect to find a stepping machine too, especially in the larger gyms.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
Stair climber workouts<\/h4>\r\n\u00a0\r\n
The beauty of the stair climber is there are actually lots of variations you can do on the machine in addition to just walking up stairs.<\/p> \r\n\r\n
Incorporating additional movements such as a lunge, a squat, an overhead press, or even adding a resistance band is a great way to making your workout<\/a> even more efficient at working the muscles in your body.<\/p>\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=ZfjoRT8Zl48\r\n\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\n\r\n
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