Do you allow members to use your fitness and spin studios for personal use when you’re not having classes? Why or why not?
I have a small studio at my house (converted garage not attached). I have thought about letting certain people use it when it is not being used but I’m not there when it isn’t being used. I’m really uncomfortable with anyone being there without me. What if there is an accident? What if some equipment breaks? I’m not a control freak but I want to be there when my equipment is being used.
Susan and I are in very similar positions. I have a detatched garage modified studio as well and always encourage my clients to obtain extra cardio time. We are like a giant family so noone usually complains about others using the cardio equipment during their session. I face all these machines toward the wall so everybody feels appropriately focused on their own task at hand. I just request that they schedule the time to correspond with a time I am already commited to being there. When all parties agree, its a go.
I know I am a little late in this discussion but I thought I would still add to it. I manage a small government facility, we have 300+ members, and they often inquire about using the indoor cycle bikes outside of class settings, and we do not permit it. 1. Most people naturally prefer to cycle at a high cadence with no resistance, to set up there seat where they have more than a 30 degree bend in there knee, and to ride in a hunched over position…which are all indications for bad injuries. 2. Indoor cycle bikes are not as durable as a treadmill or upright bike. Ongoing repairs to maintain them from improper use alone will dig into your maintenance budget. I usually explain that the indoor cycling bikes were not designed to be use outside of a class setting. An instructor needs to be present to make sure that you are properly set up on the bike, and spinning at acceptable cadence and resistance to ensure that there is no risk for injury.
