Thought & opinions on signing a non compete form as a group fitness instructor?
I am a “freestyle” instructor at a Les Mills gym with no interest in teaching Les Mills. I teach one of the only two free form classes on the schedule. A gym is being built 10 miles away that will not be Les Mills. I’d like to take a class there but my current gym is requiring me to sign a non compete. I will never be able to increase the # of classes I teach because they will not add any more free form to the schedule. They say signing a non compete creates a real team feeling and will help us feel loyal to the gym. Signing a paper doesn’t create loyalty, it is how I am treated and paid! What are your thoughts?
I’m in agreement with the others and try to negotiate a contract that works for both of you. Right now, as you’ve described it, the non-compete only serves to benefit them. Tell them your thoughts and start with a more attractive negotiation. You’ll sign it if they agree to put 2 additional “freestyle” classes on the schedule that you will teach or that you will not teach any Les Mills classes for another gym. See what their reaction or come back is. But don’t settle for a contract that does not also benefit you. And be sure that there is a timeframe for the contract. As in, the contract is in effect only while you work for that gym or for a certain period of time.
Good Luck,
Jocelyn