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GROUP FITNESS MANAGEMENT
INSTRUCTOR ASSESSMENT
GFMs may not relish the process, but with the right approach, instructor assessments
can ensure the consistent delivery of high quality group fitness experiences that meet
members, needs, says GFM Kirsty Nield.
ne of the most important – and
difficult – tasks of the GFM is
instructor
assessment.
Assessment ensures the group
fitness team is teaching classes to a consistent
standard and addressing the most recent
industry trends and research. This will be
reflected in class numbers and member
satisfaction.
Instructor assessments should be
scheduled into the GFM’s yearly planner,
and may also be done if a problem
has been identified with a particular
instructor. Lots of great things can come
out of the assessment process, which
can benefit the instructors, the GFM, the
members and the club as a whole.
This article will look at the benefits
associated with the assessment process
and help GFM’s develop an approach
the undertaking assessment that can be
implemented immediately.
O
Identifying gaps in skillset
One of the outcomes of the assessment process is to identify gaps
in the skillset of the team of instructors, and also the individual.
Assessments may also result in the discovery of skills possessed by
instructors that the GFM wasn’t previously aware of. This could be
used to enhance the group fitness timetable, or allocate instructors
additional classes, after some specific training.
When conducting an instructor skills assessment, the GFM should
consider the skills across the timetable, rather than just look at individual
instructors. Future requirements for the timetable should be considered,
with particular attention being paid to the skills which are the most
important to meet the needs of the gym members. For example, if the
gym has a healthy senior’s population, the GFM should use assessments
to identify instructors who may be well suited to teach classes for the
over 50s. The assessment process can be used to encourage the
development of the skills needed to fill gaps in the timetable, and to make
the most of the existing skillset of the team.
When undertaking an assessment, a form should be used to ensure
consistency with each assessment. The instructor should see the form
prior to the assessment so they know exactly what they are being
assessed on.
NETWORK WINTER 2019 | 19