Regardless of where we live, the running season is in full swing.
For runners this is the time when all the past year’s hard work and discipline pays off.
They hit the roads in record numbers.
They spend lots of money on entry fees to local races.
Their families join them at races to cheer them on.
They spend money on running gear, lots of money.
In terms of running gear alone, a quick internet search shows that the market for running gear is $12.3 billion.
Runners also represent a huge opportunity for the fitness professional. If approached right, runners are great prospects.
The key to getting their attention is to carefully create a marketing message about how your services can help them become better runners.
I have seen many well-intended fitness professionals try to sell runners on how bad running is for you (it really is), and end up wasting their time.
Instead, show runners how your programs can help them increase their fitness so they can enjoy the sport more, with fewer injuries.
The best way to do this is to become a welcome guest at local runs. Providing manpower for an aid station, helping organize the event as part of the planning committee, or taking on a sponsorship role. These are great ways to become familiar to the runners.
These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg. A little brainstorming and creativity will go a long way in figuring out what works best for your community.
If you’re not a runner yourself, go watch a couple of races and get an idea of how things work.
Then figure out how you can help.
You’ll be amazed at the possibilities you will think of.
Remember, you only get results when you take action on your ideas!
