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Employers of fitness centre managers include health authorities, private fitness clubs, hotel and leisure groups, educational institutions and corporate fitness centres. Fitness centre managers undertake similar duties to managers of recreation and leisure centres, with responsibilities including:

• recruiting, training and supervising staff

• managing budgets

• enhancing profitability by organising and delivering an appropriate range of fitness activities and programmes

• keeping statistical and financial records

• maintaining fitness equipment

• ensuring compliance with health and safety legislation

• maintaining customer service standards

• undertaking administrative tasks

• promoting and marketing the business

• dealing with enquiries, complaints and emergencies.

The amount of contact with customers and staff varies according to the size of employer: managers in larger organisations may be mostly office based, whereas those employed by smaller establishments often have frequent contact with customers, suppliers and employees. The work can require regular long hours, evening, weekend and public holiday work.

Qualifications and training required

There are routes into this profession for both university graduates and school leavers.

Employers may prefer graduates with qualifications in sports science, recreation or leisure studies, health management, physiology, life sciences, business or management. A relevant postgraduate qualification (for example an MSc in sports science) can be useful, particularly for graduates without appropriate first degrees.

Related work experience is normally necessary. This can be gained via part-time or seasonal work as a coach, fitness instructor, recreation assistant or leisure/fitness centre attendant.

Key skills for fitness centre managers

Candidates must be physically fit and should possess sound customer service, business, management, sales and marketing skills. Good problem solving, interpersonal, organisational and communication skills are also essential. First aid qualifications are beneficial for most positions.