REPs second annual Welsh Convention : 

Following the success of the inaugural Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) Welsh Convention in 2006, the convention will return for its second year this November in Cardiff. Taking place at the Esporta Health & Fitness Club, Cardiff, on Friday November 23rd 2007.

The convention will have two key focuses; the first is on all the instructors working on the National Exercise Referral Scheme and the second is for all our Welsh members, who are interested in the latest developments both in education and training and the national projects, aimed at increasing exercise participation, that the Sports Council for Wales are developing. Delegates will have the first insights into the opportunities that will be available to REPs registered exercise professionals throughout Wales over the coming months. Integrated into the convention will be the special REPs blend of informative presentations and educational workshops, so look out for further information and booking details which will be available soon.

The convention has limited space and will operate on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. The cost for the conference will be £20 per member, which includes a buffet lunch. Attendees will receive 4 CPD points.

Last year’s inaugural Welsh REPs Convention was a huge success, with over 130 delegates attending the day set in the spectacular venue of the Liberty Stadium, Swansea. Some of the informative sessions included presentations from Paul Bedford on customer service against customer expectations, Mike Hill providing feedback on the Working in Fitness Survey and Dr Karl Morris from Trained Brain on the psychology of gym users & nonusers

Energie launch new franchise product :

The énergie Group has launched a new franchise product which aims to offer personal trainers and fitness instructors the opportunity to own and operate their own businesses.  The company is offering three franchise options, ranging from REPs level 3 instructors being able to establish their own client base at an énergie club to enabling PTs to set up their own énergie branded studios. Jan Spaticchia, chief executive, said: “Building a successful business is not easy, especially in a competitive market.  “Providing individuals with the commercial support they need to get themselves started and on the road to a successful future is what this new product is all about. PTs will be provided with all aspects of business management and provided with standard operating manuals outlining brand guides and how to get most of the franchise.”  The network currently has 21 énergie fitness clubs and two énergie Fitness for Women sites.

Cannons and LA Fitness to merge?: 

Cannons Health Clubs and LA Fitness are rumoured to be in talks which could lead the two health club chains to merge.  According to wide-spread media speculation, Cannons, which currently has 65 sites and was put up for sale last year by owner PPM Capital, could join forces with LA Fitness, owned by MidOcean Partners.  It is the second major merger speculation to involve the health and fitness sector this year, after London & Regional Holdings (L&R), owner of Next Generation, acquired David Lloyd Leisure in May.