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    FITNESS AND HEALTH CLUBS

    Fitness

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    FITNESS AND HEALTH CLUBS

    SIES (NERUL), COLLEGE OF ARTS,

    SCIENCE AND COMMERCE

    Gurunath S Bhor

    THIRD YEAR B.M.S.

    (SEMESTER V) 2006-2007

    SUBJECT: PROJECT WORK

    PROJECT TITLE:FITNESS AND HEALTH CLUBS

    GUIDED BY: PROF. SWATI SARANGI

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    DECLARATION

    I, Gurunath S Bhor ofSIES (Nerul), College Of Arts, Science and Commerce hereby

    declare that I have completed the project entitled FITNESS AND HEALTH CLUBS

    in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the Third Year of the Bachelor of

    Management Studies course for the Academic Year 2006 2007.

    I further declare that the information submitted by me is true and original to the best of

    my knowledge.

    GURUNATH S BHOR

    TYBMSA

    ROLL NO: - 04

    SIES, NERUL

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    CERTIFICATE

    I, Prof. Swati Sarangi, hereby certify that Gurunath S Bhor, studying in TYBMS at

    SIES COLLEGE OF ARTS, SCIENCE & COMMERCE, NERUL has completed a

    project on FITNESS AND HEALTH CLUBS in the Academic Year 2006-2007

    under my guidance.

    I further certify that the information submitted is true and original to the best of my

    knowledge.

    DATE

    Prof. SWATI SARANGI DR.U.B. JANGAM

    (Project Guide) (Principal)

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    ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

    I, Mr. Gurunath Bhor would like to acknowledge the following persons for their

    never ending support and criticism, which has helped me in not only improving my work

    but also in tremendous other fields.

    I wish to express my gratitude towards Prof. Swati sarangi for giving me an

    opportunity to explore myself to the hilt.

    I further take this opportunity to convey my deepest sense of gratitude towards

    Prof. E.V.Girish,service sector management professor for guiding me in more than

    one-way or the other for completing the project and helping me during difficulties.

    Also, I would like to thankMrs. Shilpee and Mr. Prasanna, manager ofthe

    Talwalkars prime fitness and Mr. Amit Agarwal, the founder of the Body zone gym

    who gave me all the desired information, without which the project would not have seen

    the light of day.

    A Special thanks to Nikhil sir and my friends, Bhushan, Nilesh and Anup for

    their invaluable moral support & help.

    Above all, I humbly thank the Almighty for showering his blessings on me and

    helping me meet my challenges and enabling me in presenting this report and also my

    parents because of their cooperation, support and understanding nature.

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    Project Resources

    This part of the project work is the overview of my project and what my project is all

    about? In this segment I am going to explain about my ideas and the way I am going to

    conduct this project.

    In todays world where life has become so hectic and unhealthy, we are paying less or

    ignoring our personal health. We are almost forgetting that for healthy mind you need ahealthy body. Around the world, scores of people participate in some sort of exercise,

    sports, or physical activity. They are overcoming excuses and realizing numerous

    benefits that one can achieve from undertaking physical activity on a regular basis.

    Exercise is importantto keep both your body and mind "in shape". And for that these

    health centers play an important role to keep one-self fit. Where in my project I am going

    to concentrate on the health centers in vashi area.

    In vashi there are basically three leading gymnasiums Talwalkars, The body zone and

    Gracilite. Gracilite being opened shortly there is not enough information about the

    gym, so I am going to concentrate on Talwalkars and The Body zone, and try to find

    out the reasons for difference between the two gyms. I am going to conduct this

    difference on following basis:-

    Location

    Atmosphere

    Rates

    Quality

    Internal management

    Extra facilities

    And most important there feeling about value for money

    Suggestions if any,

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    INDEX

    INTRODUCTION 7-10

    The Importance of Physical Fitness 7

    The Importance of Exercise 9

    HISTORY OF FITNESS 11-12

    YOGA 13-16Yoga Methods 13

    The Benefits of Yoga 14

    MARKETING FITNESS CENTER 17

    STRESS AND FITNESS 18-19

    TALWALKARS 20-22

    History about Talwalkars 20Service & facilities 21

    BODY ZONE 23-24

    History about Body zone 23

    Services & facilities 24

    EVOLUTION IN THE HEALTH & FITNESSS CENTER 25-30

    Interview with Mr. Rahul Talwalkar

    7 PS OF MARKETING 31-36QUESTIONNAIRE ON HEALTH & FITNESS CENTERS 37-38

    INTERPRETATION OF QUESTIONNAIRE 39-48

    IDEAL HEALTH MANAGEMENT 49-55

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    The Importance of Physical Fitness

    With the new understanding of the importance of physical fitness throughout the life

    cycle and the aging of the general population, working out has become a notable part of

    daily life. These days, exercising is not just good sense; some people use it as a status

    symbol. You often hear people discussing their workouts; cycling, exercise classes,

    working on the weight machines or treadmills.

    They work out before work, at lunchtime, after work and on the weekends. They

    eat special foods to maximize endurance and increase fat loss. Yet, the obesity rate in this

    country is soaring: more people are overweight than ever in our history, and serious

    diseases related to weight (heat disease and diabetes, among others) are taking their toll.

    People of all ages are asking, what is happening to us, and how can we stop it?

    A wealthy country, an abundance and variety of food, work spent in front of a computer

    and time off in front of the television (broken sporadically by dinner out) have created a

    culture wherein it is extremely difficult not to gain weight. Adding the impact of high-fat,

    high-sugar and high-caloric foods, fast foods, snacks, and prepared canned and frozen

    foods, the weight gain and poor health afflicting thirty per cent of the population starts to

    look much less a mystery. It may be a miracle that even more people arent suffering.

    So, what can we do about it? The latest craze is low-carb dieting, which controls the

    production of insulin in the body, and consequently the increase of body fat. But even

    diet books say that diets work in concert with consistent exercise, which burns off excess

    calories, replaces fat with muscle and conditions the cardiovascular system. Its what

    weve known all along, but recent studies confirm that the single healthiest thing you can

    do for yourself is to get regular exercise. It sounds so simple, doesnt it?

    If youre new to exercising, and have been trying to find the smartest way to work

    out, the amount of information available, the contradictions and variety of choices may

    seem overwhelming. In fact, there are basically two kinds of exercise, both of which are

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    good for you, and one which is necessary if you are seeking health benefits such as

    increased cardiovascular health and fat loss. Exercise can be broken into two types, based

    on how they impact the body; anaerobic (or without air) and aerobic (with air). Many

    exercises have both anaerobic and aerobic qualities: anaerobic exercises tend to focusmore on muscle-building; aerobic exercises are known to be especially good for fat loss.

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    The Importance of Exercise

    Around the world, scores of people participate in some sort of exercise, sports, or

    physical activity. They are overcoming excuses and realizing numerous benefits that one

    can achieve from undertaking physical activity on a regular basis. Exercise is important

    to keep both your body and mind "in shape". Here are some of the basic benefits that

    people can look forward to, when embarking upon a lifetime fitness outlook that includes

    some form of exercise:

    Increased EnergyBy working out on a regular basis, your body becomes more efficient at burning calories.

    This gives you more energy throughout the day.

    Increased Metabolism

    Increased physical activity through working out leads to more muscle mass, which in

    itself leads to a higher metabolism. As per some studies, every extra pound of muscle

    allows you to burn anywhere from 50-100 calories when at rest.

    Improved Muscle Tone

    Physical activity, especially weight training allows you to change the shape of your body.

    Since muscle is denser than fat, one can get bigger or smaller by gaining more muscle

    mass.

    Better Health

    Increased exercising leads to a strengthening of the immune system; which means that

    one is less likely to get sick when exercising the right amount. On the other hand, over

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    exercising can weaken your immune system and make you sick.

    Stress ReductionStress levels are reduced extensively by regular work outs. They allow the individual totake their mind off the daily grind and use pent up energies for productive purposes.

    Improved Self-Esteem

    When following an exercise regimen for a regular basis, you bring about greater self

    esteem through the results and accomplishment achieved

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    History of fitness

    Introduction

    As we enter the 21st century, one of the greatest accomplishments to be celebrated is the

    continuous pursuit of fitness since the beginning of mans existence. Throughout

    prehistoric time, man's quest for fitness has been driven by a desire to survive through

    hunting and gathering. Today, though no longer driven by subsistence requirements,

    fitness remains paramount to health and well being. This article will highlight historical

    events and influential individuals who have shaped the history of fitness beginning with

    primitive man up to the foundation of the modern fitness movement.

    Primitive man and fitness (pre-10, 000 B.C)Primitive nomadic lifestyles required the continual task of hunting and gathering food for

    survival (1). Tribes commonly went on one- or two- day hunting journeys for food and

    water. Regular physical activity apart from that necessary for hunting and gathering was

    also a principal component of life. Following successful hunting and gathering

    excursions, celebration events included trips of six to 20 miles to neighboring tribes to

    visit friends and family, where dancing and cultural games could often last several hours.

    This Paleolithic pattern of subsistence pursuit and celebration, demanding a high level of

    fitness and consisting of various forms of physical activity, defined human life (2).

    IndiaIn India, individual pursuit of fitness was discouraged as the religious beliefs of

    Buddhism and Hinduism emphasized spirituality and tended to neglect development of

    the body. Consequently, the importance of fitness within society in general was relatively

    low. However, an exercise program similar to Chinese Cong Fu gymnastics developed,

    while still conforming to religious beliefs, known as Yoga. Though its exact origin has

    yet to be identified, Yoga has existed for at least the past 5000 years. Translated, Yoga

    means union, and refers to one of the classic systems of Hindu philosophy that strives to

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    bring together and personally develop the body, mind, and spirit. Hindu priests who lived

    frugal lifestyles characterized by discipline and meditation originally developed yoga.

    Through observing and mimicking the movement and patterns of animals, priests hoped

    to achieve the same balance with nature that animals seemed to possess. This aspect ofYoga, known as Hatha Yoga, is the form with which Westerners are most familiar and is

    defined by a series of exercises in physical posture and breathing patterns (5). Bedsides

    balance with nature; ancient Indian philosophers recognized health benefits of Yoga

    including proper organ functioning and whole well-being. These health benefits have also

    been acknowledged in the modern-day United States, with an estimated 12 million

    individuals regularly participating in Yoga.

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    YOGA

    WHAT IS YOGA?The system of yoga is based on an integrated holistic philosophy that covers every aspect

    of our lives. The red hyperlinks at the top of this page will take you to other pages whereyou can read articles on the different aspects of yoga philosophy and thought.

    YOGA METHODS:Yoga is comprised of five distinct sciences that are designed to be interactive with eachother. Each science has a selection of techniques to assist those who practice yoga tobecome effective in experiencing their own essential nature. The sciences are listed with

    a selection of techniques relevant to each one.

    Karma Yoga: Work with a meditative awareness (practices include observingsilence, breath awareness and mantra

    Bhakti Yoga: Devotion and Worship (practices include chanting of mantra, ritual,reading the scriptures, meditation and karma yoga)

    Raja Yoga: Meditation and Mind Control (practices include Mantra, Kriya,Kundalini, Pranayama)

    Hatha Yoga: Physical Health and exercise (practices include postures, breathingand cleansings techniques for the internal organs)

    Gyana Yoga: Wisdom and Intuition (practices include control of pranic energy,meditation and concentration exercises)

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    The Benefits of YogaBy Della Menechella

    The benefit of yoga practice goes far beyond the actual time you spend in the poses. One

    of the most common reasons why people begin practicing yoga is to improve their health

    and well-being. Yoga means union. It is a union of the mind, body and breath, so all

    aspects of your life are impacted by your practice.

    A major benefit of yoga is physical.

    Yoga improves your flexibility.

    The stretching that you engage in during every practice helps lengthen and stretch

    muscles, which helps reduce the risk of injuries.

    It helps to improve your balance.

    The majority of yoga practices include some type of balancing in the poses. A significant

    number of people, especially as they began to get older, start to have problems with

    balance, which can lead to major injuries due to falls. By having a greater sense of

    balance, you are able to move more easily and safely.

    Yoga can help reduce pain.

    Tense muscles often contribute to pain. Relaxing muscles helps to minimize muscle

    tension and the pain that is associated with it. Also, breathing deeply into muscles helps

    lessen pain by altering your perception of it.

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    It tones your muscles.

    Yoga works all the muscles in your body. It helps strengthen and tone them and also

    builds endurance and stamina.

    It helps to increase your level of energy.

    Carrying tension in your body takes an enormous toll on your energy reserves. By

    learning how to relax through your yoga practice, you benefit by enjoying higher levels

    of energy so you can more thoroughly enjoy your daily activities.

    Yoga helps promote a sense of relaxation.

    Most people breathe high in their chests. This not only does not allow them to get

    sufficient oxygen, it also triggers the stress response, which contributes to feelings of

    anxiety. Breathing deeply as practiced in yoga, helps relax your muscles and also brings

    much needed oxygen to your cells. The deep sense of relaxation also leads to better

    quality sleep.

    Each yoga practice ends with some type of relaxation. Since your body and mind are one,

    by relaxing your body you also relax your mind. Many yoga experts believe that a

    relaxation pose is the most beneficial pose in any yoga practice.

    Another benefit of yoga is mental.

    Yoga clears your mind and helps you focus your

    attention.

    During your practice, you are focusing your attention on your breath and turning inward.

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    This concentration allows you to withdraw from the distractions in your environment. A

    significant benefit of yoga practice is that you can take this ability to focus your attention

    into every aspect of your life.

    You can be fully present with whatever you are doing instead of worrying abouttomorrow or regretting yesterday. Not only will your actions be more productive, you can

    also enjoy them in a greater way.

    Yoga helps reduces stress.

    Deep breathing helps reduce the hormones that are released when you are feeling

    overwhelmed, overloaded, and frazzled. The internal focus that accompanies the poses

    helps create a relaxation response in your body.

    Yoga can help release stuck emotions.

    Often stuck emotions find their way into our bodies. Remember, your mind and body are

    one, and if you are suppressing any painful emotions, you will often experience that as

    pain in some part of your body. A benefit of yoga is that by breathing deeply into places

    in your body that hold tension, you can help release the emotions that may be buried

    there. You can then examine these emotions and let go of those that do not serve you.

    Also, as you take your body past the limits of where it has been, you start to feel that you

    can move past other limitations in your life as well.

    You gain a sense of peace and tranquility.

    Most yoga practices include some time for meditation. Regular meditation helps your

    mind reach a state of inner calm. It helps you gain control over your thinking instead of

    being at the mercy of wayward thoughts.

    As you can see, the benefit of yoga has far reaching effects in every area of your life.

    Maintain a regular yoga practice, and you will see for yourself, how yoga can benefit you

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    too.

    Marketing Fitness Centers

    Case study-1

    By Amy Hall

    Marketing fitness centers well is crucial to the success of any gym, as well as the

    employees who work in these centers. The fact is, the fitness business is booming, but the

    competition that goes along with this big business is also booming. There are fitness

    centers right on top of other fitness centers, so the need for smart fitness marketing isgrowing.

    If you have ever been in any big metropolitan area, such as Los Angeles or New York

    City, you may have noticed two or three gyms on the same street, only blocks away from

    each other. This competition can be tough on gym owners who have little experience in

    marketing fitness centers. It takes a good strategic plan to make your facility stand out

    from the rest, especially if you don't want to lower your membership fees.

    Marketing Fitness Centers IntelligentlyHow do you gain an edge over your competitors in such a demanding business? Well, if

    you learn how marketing fitness centers works, you may be able to stand out from the

    pack. Some gyms offer specials to lure in their customers, such as no money down to

    join, with a month-to-month membership. People like these month-to-month

    memberships because they aren't locked in to a year term or longer.

    Other gyms will charge less monthly if customers sign up for a year contract. This can

    also be beneficial for clientele who are regular gym-goers and who have no plans to

    move away from the area. If you offer more membership plans and are flexible in your

    marketing strategies, you may find that more people are coming to your fitness center to

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    get in shape than the fitness center of the guy down the street.

    Stress & fitness

    Stress Reduction Techniques - 3 Reasons Why Weight Training Reduces Stress and

    Negative Thoughts

    Author: John Purfield

    Are you stressed out and tired of not being happy? Perhaps you are not paying enough

    attention to yourself. While many stress reduction techniques are available, I would like

    to discuss weight training as a stress reduction technique.

    The payoff for a regularweight lifting routine is enormous benefits to your body and

    mind. This includes increased muscle tone and optimal body functioning.

    Here are three reasons why lifting weights reduces stress and negative thoughts.

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    First, the act of lifting weights helps you shift focus off of others and on to yourself.

    You'll have a mental and physical break from rising energy prices, taking care of your

    children and working marathon hours wondering if you're

    getting downsized. You will find it very tough to think of other things while movingweight.

    Try to find a secluded space at home or limit socializing at the gym. Your outlook will

    change on many things. As weight lifting becomes your hobby, allow extra time to focus

    on yourself by planning your workouts ahead of time in a journal. A journal helps your

    set goals for your workout while you forget about your daily grind.

    Next, exercise makes you feel good. Meaning, you can have an overall feeling of

    happiness that you may have been missing lately.

    During weight training (and almost any exercise), endorphins are released into your body.

    Endorphins provide an effect similar to pain relievers and anti-depressants. Also, working

    out can increase antidepressant chemicals in your brain. In other words, if you feel

    depressed from a discouraging day, weight training can make you feel better.

    Finally, weight training builds self confidence. Confidence is the key to achieving your

    goals. After completing your work out you'll have a sense of achievement. Achieving

    goals helps you build confidence in yourself.

    If you don't have confidence in yourself, you'll make it impossible to achieve your

    dreams. The more workouts you complete the more you start believing in yourself. You

    will set the tone for your life.

    Starting a weight training program will help you with stress overload. It is very easy to

    start your own program. However, talk to a doctor on how exercise can help you ease

    your mind and body of stress and make sure you are physically able to start weight

    lifting.

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    All you need is a standard weight set and maybe a weight bench to get started. If you can

    afford a gym membership and/or a personal trainer, that will benefit you greatly. You

    may be surprised that you can reduce your stress levels.

    History about Talwalkars

    Established in 1932, Talwalkars Better Value Pvt Ltd (TBVF) better known as

    Talwalkars, is India's largest chain of health centers. It has 50,000 members and 33

    ultramodern branches across majorcities in the country.

    Our phenomenal growth can be attributed to the trust our customers have in us. They

    benefitfrom our expert advice, personalized supervision, continuous facility upgrades,

    result-oriented approach and most of all from the immense experience we have gathered

    in this field over 70 years of existence.

    Apart from the experience gathered from being in the fitness and health business for the

    past many decades, Talwalkars has established a Research and Development (R&D)

    department, which improves health programmes designed to cater to individual

    requirements.

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    Service & facilities

    A gym is a specialized area where people of various ages come to spend time on their

    health and body. It needs to be spacious and designed to ensure safety and comfort in

    movement. A gym typically has the following features:

    It is spread over a carpet area of 3,500 to 5,000 sq ft

    It has aesthetically designed interiors and is fully

    air-conditioned

    Usually divided into sections which include:

    Cardio facility

    Strength training

    Free weights

    MassageSteam / sauna

    Nutrition counseling

    Changing area with lockers

    Juice bar and garden

    It specializes in programs such as Personal Exercise Programme (PEP), body sculpting

    and body shaping. Our team of experts analyzes and formulates programs for members

    abiding by health standards.

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    PEPPersonal trainers are assigned to members who have enrolled for this programme.

    The trainer motivates and encourages without being forceful. The one-to-one attention

    creates a good rapport between the member and the trainer and our trainers try and

    understand each one's limits and potential.

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    Bod ZoneThe complete family gym

    History about Body zone

    Established in year 2000, The Body zone was founded by Mr.amit agarwal & Mr. sanjay

    kapoor. It has a branches spread all over the city namely vashi, nerul, mulund, ghatkopar,

    vile-parle & pune in the prime locations.

    We were the first and the most complete Fitness Club to be established in New Mumbai!!

    Since the last 5 years were have dedicated ourselves to the service of New Mumbai and

    Vashi residents by providing comprehensive health services and fitness programs. The

    thousands of members who enjoy better health and confidence, thanks to our programs

    are our biggest testimonials!

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    Services & facilities

    Our Features Include:

    State-of-the-art Weight Training Equipment State-of-the-art Cardiovascular Equipment Passive Slimming Nutrition Counseling Steam Bath Therapeutic Aroma Massages Personalized Exercise Programs (PEP) Weight gain/loss program

    A combination of passive slimming (muscle exercises, vaccum therapy & musclestimulator) sessions & active exercises along with therapeutic body massages &regular nutrition counseling by certifies dieticians to achieve significant instantresults.

    The overall programme will be supervised by our certified doctors, generalphysician, and dieticians.

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    Evolution in the Health

    &Fitness centers

    As we enter the 21st century, one of the greatest accomplishments to be

    celebrated is the continuous pursuit of fitness since the beginning of mans existence.

    Throughout prehistoric time, man's quest for fitness has been driven by a desire to

    survive through hunting and gathering. Today, though no longer driven by subsistence

    requirements, fitness remains paramount to health and well being. This article will

    highlight historical events and influential individuals who have shaped the history of

    fitness beginning with primitive man up to the foundation of the modern fitness

    movement.

    This interview with the Rahul Talwalkar, highlight the recent change in the health

    & fitness centers.

    Rahul Talwalkar, the director of Talwalkar Fitness Solutions Pvt. Ltd., which,

    with 40 sites, is India's largest club chain, is the grandson of the company's founder,

    Vishnu Ramakrishna Talwalkar. Rahul, who attempts to emulate his grandfather's

    consistent, disciplined approach to daily life and business, earned a bachelor's degree in

    chemistry from Mithibai College in Mumbai. He is married, and his wife, Sonali, is

    involved in the management of the Talwalkar's facility in Borivili, Mumbai. The couple

    have two sons, Aahan and Anuj. The family owned and operated enterprise, based in

    Mumbai, has annual revenues of Rs 60-70 crore ($12-$14 million), and plans to have

    some 100 locations nationwide by 2010.

    QUESTION: The Talwalkars family is virtually synonymous with fitness in India. How

    did it happen to get involved in the health club industry?

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    Rahul Talwalkar: My grandfather, Vishnu Ramakrishna Talwalkar, was an

    accomplished wrestler and bodybuilder in our hometown of Ashata. But, at that time,

    because he was a Brahmin, athletics wasn't considered a proper profession. He workedfirst as an instructor, essentially a personal trainer, with businessmen, and founded India's

    first physical-training institute, Ramakrishna Physical Culture Institution, in 1932. Today,

    we have some 40 centers throughout the country.

    QUESTION: Tell us something, if you would, about the industry's development in India.

    RT: Ten years ago, there were practically no health clubs in India. Today, it seems,

    there's one on every corner. The main reasons for the growth are ongoing exposure to the

    West via cell phones, the Internet, and the general media boom; greater awareness about

    the benefits of exercise; and changing lifestyles. The increased stress and reduced

    physical activity of contemporary life have created dramatic problemspeople are

    coming down with diseases, at 25, that normally begin to appear at 40which has driven

    the demand for clubs.

    QUESTION: What's the general attitude, on the part of the public, about the value of

    regular exercise?

    RT: Everyone knows that fitness is essential to good health, longevity, etc., but, as in the

    U.S., most people don't want to admit or accept it. Tomorrow always seems like the right

    time to embark on an exercise regimen. You know that it's good for you, but how do you

    utilize your time. Health club . . . or nightclub? Thats the general attitude.

    QUESTION: Has the Indian industry looked to the West for inspiration and information

    or devised its own style, approaches, business models, etc.

    RT: We've visited the U.S. and attended IHRSA's convention every year for the past 5-6

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    years, and we attempt to incorporate things we learn about that seem appropriate for our

    market. The American gym industry is very well organized. They're very savvy, do a

    wonderful job of communicating with one another, and package their product offerings

    extremely well. Americans give their weight-loss programs catchy titles, and make all oftheir programs attractive and appealing, imbuing the club experience with glitz and

    glamour. We're also impressed by their marketing and advertising.

    QUESTION: In what ways do Western and Indian clubs differ?

    RT: They differ, primarily, in terms of sheer size and financial structurewe can't match

    them in those two areas. Otherwise, the facilities, equipment, and management are pretty

    much the same. One of the big advantages that U.S. clubs enjoy is easy access to

    relatively inexpensive equipment. Most of the equipment companies are based in the

    U.S., so clubs can incorporate changes quickly. They can also lease equipment, which our

    economy doesn't allow. Another critical issue is exchange rates and duties; equipment

    from abroad may cost Rs 4-5 million ($80,000-$100,000), but, with a 56%-58% duty

    added, the total cost might reach Rs 10 million ($200,000). It will be great when the duty

    on equipment is reduced. Fortunately, things have been simplified a lot. There are no

    more licensing hasslesthere's a simple one-page form, and you can get all the necessary

    clearances in just two days.

    Other differences? Our marketing skills need polishing. We need to package our brand

    better. We need more of the vibrancy that typifies U.S. clubs. Their trainers are so much

    more engagingtheir language is exciting, and their step so energetic. We need more of

    that!

    QUESTION: If we were to visit a typical Talwalkars club, what sort of equipment,

    programs, and amenities would we find?

    RT: Our older centers were 2,000-4,000 square feet in size, but now, with our newer

    centers, we aim for 6,000-7,000 square feet. While all of our centers are different,

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    because of the specific requirements of each location, they're normally divided into three

    areas: the cardiovascular, weight/strength-training, and wet areas. Generally, in the cardio

    area, we have 6-10 treadmills and other kinds of cardio equipment, such as cycles, stair

    climbers, and elliptical. The strength-training componenta core part of our businessprovides free weights, benches, and a variety of other machines. The wet area includes a

    sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, chill showers, etc.not every center has these; it depends on

    the city, local weather conditions, etc. Some sites have group-exercise floors, but trends

    change; five years ago, aerobics was big, but today, group cycling is catching up. The

    newer centers also have cafes that offer juices and healthy snacks. Because property is so

    expensive in India, it's difficult to provide childcare, but we plan to do so in the future.

    QUESTION: Mind/body disciplines, such as yoga, which originated in India, have

    exploded in popularity in the U.S. in recent years. What's Talwalkars doing along those

    lines?

    RT: We've never offered yoga. Yoga is a specific discipline and requires a certain

    ambienceit's not something that you can do anywhere. Our core business is developing

    health clubs; we're not interested in experimenting with fusion concepts.

    QUESTION: Talwalkars is India's largest club operator. Who are its principal

    competitors?

    RT: There's no national competitor, but each of our centers competes with local facilities.

    A couple of American brandsGold's Gym and Power Gymhave a presence in the

    market, which shows that the U.S. is taking our country seriously. In May, the U.K.'s

    Fitness First, the world's largest club chain, announced plans to open 20 clubs in India.

    Those companies come with a foreign tag and their predesigned programs, but we've

    created our programs with only our clients in mind. We know what India needs.

    QUESTION: What are your criteria for opening a new club?

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    RT: Since the basic annual membership fee is about Rs 20,000 ($400), our clientele is

    restricted to the upper class and upper middle class. Every city with a stable infrastructure

    is a potential market, but what's more important is location; the area has to be

    predominantly residential, with adequate parking and dependable water and electricityservice. Frequently, instinct also plays a pivotal role in deciding on a particular location.

    QUESTION: Many observers believe that the 21st century is going to be defined by the

    economic emergence of India and China. How do you see this development affecting the

    club industry, in general, and Talwalkars, specifically?

    RT: With respect to business, the changes seem very positive. As I mentioned before, a

    number of factorsmodernization, increased communication, growing affluence, rising

    expectations, sedentary lifestyles, extended longevity, etc.are providing us with both

    new opportunities and greater responsibilities. It's much easier for us to open branches

    now, and, with the economy expanding and spending power increasing, our profitability

    will improve. India is still a nascent market. While, in the U.S., approximately 14% of the

    population belong to clubs, in India, only about 2% do. Here, our brand name is linked to

    fitness in the same way that Coke, for instance, is linked to soft drinks in people's minds.

    Our public persona is a conservative onewe're perceived as the place to go for serious

    workouts, which is exactly the image we want. We don't organize art exhibitions or do

    wine-and-cheese get-togethers. But when it comes to fitnesswe're the first choice, the

    safe choice.

    QUESTION: Bottom-line: how do you see all of this activity playing out for

    Talwalkars?

    RT: We'll continue to drive and feed the industry's growth by opening more centers. We

    expect to have a total of 100 within four years, which, I hope, will help IHRSA hit its

    target of 120 million members worldwide by 2010. Another of our major goals is to

    develop and open about 15 centers that will cater to price-sensitive clients, charging

    about Rs 10,000-15,000 ($200-$300) per year. We're also about to introduce a cobranded

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    line of organic foods, and may eventually do something similar with apparel. Looking

    ahead, we see tremendous opportunities.

    QUESTION: On an operational levelwhat are the greatest challenges that Talwalkarsfacilities have to deal with?

    RT: The same, I suspect, as at any other club in the worldmeeting clients' needs and

    keeping up with their expectations. Today, our members are telling us that they want

    larger spaces and more amenities. They also want us to introduce new equipment,

    programs, and methods as soon as they appear in the West. Because no fitness

    certification courses are offered in India, and because obtaining credentials abroad can

    cost as much as $30,000, we obviously have a problem when it comes to recruiting

    qualified employees. We tend to pick young local men and women who have had some

    experience with clubs. We've also set up two training facilitiesthe Talwalkars Fitness

    Academiesin Pune and Mumbai. In most cases, our general managers have had 10-12

    years experience in the field.

    On a personal note, one of my pet peeves is all of the useless fitness products and gadgets

    that are advertised on TVthey seem legitimate because they're on TV, so people buy

    them. They're more competition than Gold's Gym!

    QUESTION: Do you feel that Talwalkars has something valuable to teach club owners

    elsewhere in the world?

    RT: We're one of the few large family owned health club chains, and we think of our

    clients as an extension of our family. During the marriage season here in India, we attend

    at least three weddings a daythat's how close we are to our members. Our parents have

    worked very hard to create a successful brand, and the third generation of our family is

    working equally hard to deal with increased competition. Occasionally, we have

    differences of opinion, but we iron them out just as we would any other family problem.

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    We're very good at adapting to changethat's why we're here today. Perhaps the West,

    with its strict corporate orientation, could learn something from that.

    7 Ps of marketing on Health

    &

    Fitness centers

    In order for your business to sell its products and services as successfully as possible, you

    need to look at what products your selling in detail to ensure they will be attractive and

    needed; the price to ensure it not too cheap or too expensive; where you are best

    distributing your product; and finally, how you can create interest and awareness for your

    products. All these elements need to be targeted to the right people at the right time. In

    order for your business to tackle this correctly, you need to get the right type of mix

    (marketing mix), the mix should include four main elements: Product, Price, Place and

    Promotion, by examining each carefully and adapting them to your customers needs.

    Taking into consideration the health clubs and fitness centers the following 7Ps of

    service marketing can be applied:-

    PRODUCT: - A product is a set of attributes assembled in an identifiable form. The

    product is the central component of any marketing mix. The product component of

    marketing mix deals with variety of issues related to development, presentation and

    management of the product, which is to be offered to the market place.

    Managers must select the features of both the core product and the bundle

    of supplementary services surrounding it, with reference to the benefit desired by the

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    customers and offerings of competing products. In short, they must be attentive to all

    aspects of service performance that have the potential to create value for customers.

    The main product in health & fitness centers maybe any of the following:-

    Fitness services

    Fitness training

    Fitness equipments

    Knowledge of trainers

    SUPPORTIVE SERVICES:-

    To enrich the health & fitness services certain supportive services are found to be

    important. E.g. supply & maintenance of equipments, material & garments, catering

    department, maintenance department, music etc, have been also found significantly

    important in improving services. The knowledge of the trainers also play an important

    role in improving the services of health & fitness centers.

    AUXILIARY SERVICES:-

    Auxiliary services consists of registration and indoors case of records, stores

    management, dietary services. Its important that these services are maintained properly

    which would govern the successful operation of a particular department. The security

    arrangements, music etc also cannot be ignored.

    PRICE: - Price is one of the most prominent elements in the marketing mix. Price

    charged must be acceptable to the target customer and it should co-ordinate with other

    elements of the marketing mix. Though health & fitness center is a luxurious as well as

    need based product, it means those who can afford it as well as find the need to buy the

    product for their physical fitness only opt for the product. Price charged by health &

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    fitness centers usually depends upon quality of equipments and training provided by the

    respective trainer and facilities offered to the member.

    This component addresses management of the expenditure and other outlays

    incurred by customers in obtaining benefits from the service product. It is not only relatedto traditional pricing tasks of establishing selling price to customers , setting trade

    margins and getting credit terms but also , how to minimize other burden on customer

    while purchasing such as time , mental and physical efforts and unpleasant sensory

    experiences such as noises and smells.

    DIFFERENT PRICING IN THE HEALTH & FITNESS INDUSTRY

    Externally

    Internally

    Externally: - Between two gymnasiums even to provide the same service, the prices

    differs. Even though the services might be the same pricing differs due to kind of services

    provided, pre/post services and the gymnasiums prestige.

    For example: - Talwalkars and Body zone.

    Internally: - There is a price differentiation between the services provided by the same

    gym. There is a difference between general trainer and special trainer where he will be

    there throughout your course of workout. Trainers knowledge and his experience in this

    field plays important role.

    PLACE: - Place refers to the contact point between the service provider and the

    member; who gets the benefits of the services. This element in the marketing mix leads to

    the identification of a suitable location.

    Two main issues considered regarding the decision of a place are accessibility

    and availability of the service to members. Delivering product elements to customer

    involves decisions on the place and time of delivery as well as on the methods and

    channels employed. Delivery may involve physical or electronic distribution channels or

    both depending on the nature of the service being provided.

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    FACTORS INFLUENCING PLACE DECISION:-

    Market size & structure by geographical region

    Number & types of problems in the region

    Local infrastructure

    Location of potentially attractive consumer segment

    Good road access facility

    Public & private transportation network

    PROMOTION: - No marketing program can succeed without effective

    communication.

    This component plays three vital roles:-

    providing needed information and advice (awareness)

    convincing target customer on the merits of a specific product (concentrating on a

    particular segment of the market)

    encouraging to take action at a specific time (purchase)

    Communication is educational in nature for few customers. Communication can be

    delivered by individual such as sales people and trainer, media such as TV, radio,Newspaper, magazines, etc this promotions is usually used as incentive to catch customer

    attention and to motivate them to act.

    The following components could be utilized to make health & fitness center promotion

    effective:-

    Advertising

    Publicity

    Personal selling

    Sales promotions

    Word-of-mouth promotion

    Telemarketing

    Hoardings

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    PEOPLE: - Many services depend on the direct, personal interaction between

    customers and a firms employee. This interaction strongly influences the customer

    perception of service quality. So, successful service firm devote significant effort torecruitment, training and motivating their personnel.

    It is necessary that the staff of health & fitness center is trained to provide quality

    treatment to members with human touch using state of the art technology. In this industry

    the staff has to cater to needs of health conscious, overweighed, light-weighed and

    agitated lot. Therefore it is very important that the staff of health & fitness center is

    friendly and comforting, always wearing a smile.

    This objective of providing quality service can be achieved by:-

    Motivating employee

    Providing regular on-job training

    Use of latest technology

    Advice from professional in this field

    PROCESS: - It is the method sequence pf actions in which the service operating system

    works. This is important as in case of service the production and delivery has to take

    place simultaneously. Badly designed process annoyed customers which lead to

    likelihood of service failures.

    The steps involved in the delivery of health & fitness product as follows:-

    Enquiry & search regarding fitness needs

    Deciding the gym

    Inspection or trail

    Registration & payment

    Use of floor space for training & work-out purpose

    Information from trainers & other members

    Feedback

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    PHYSICAL EVIDENCE: - As the service offering itself is intangible it is necessary

    to provide tangible cues to sell a service offering. The appearance of building,landscaping, vehicle, interior furnishing, equipment, staff member, signs, printed

    materials, and other visible cues all provide tangible evidence of the firms service

    quality. The service firms need to manage physical evidence carefully because it can have

    a profound impact on customers impression as the service itself is intangible. A tangible

    element is often employed to create meaningful symbols in advertising. The following

    elements play an important role in health & fitness centers:-

    Dress code to show professionalism & maintain discipline

    The staff should be trained to be understanding, warm and comforting

    Air-conditioned with good lighting

    Ventilation

    Special care should be taken to maintain hygiene

    Certificates of quality if any,

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    1. In your daily life how much importance do you give to fitness and exercise?

    A] rarely B] sometimes

    C] very often D] regularly

    2. Are your gym timings suitable to your work schedule or are you happy with

    the timings?

    A] yes B] no C] cant comment

    3. What is the number of trainers that your gym owns?

    A] 1-3 B] 3-9

    C] more than 10 D] does not have

    4. How is the ambiance of your gym?

    A] poor B] good

    C] pleasant D] excellent

    5. How is the grievance system of your gym?

    A] excellent B] good

    C] poor D] does not have

    6. What is the quality of equipments in your gym?

    A] poor B] good

    C] very good D] excellent

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    7. How often does your gym management approach towards cleanliness and

    other miscellaneous activities?

    A] rarely B] sometimes

    C] very often D] regularly8. How is the Location of your gym?

    A]prime area B] comfortable

    C] congested D] poor

    9. How would you rate the following services provided by the Gym?

    A] Car Parking: -

    A] excellent B] good

    C] poor D] does not have

    B] Wash room /Changing facility: -

    A] excellent B] good

    C] poor D] does not have

    C] Music: -

    A] Provided B] not provided

    D] Juice /Health drinks: -

    A] Available B] not available

    10. Would you like to give any suggestions for improvements in the services of

    the Gym?

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    Interpretation

    Of

    Questionnaire

    In order to get relevant information about the comparison between Talwalkars & body

    zone I distributed 100 questionnaires out of which I distributed 50 to Talwalkars

    members & remaining to body zone members. Response was very good & these are theinterpretations of findings on the basis of questionnaire.

    1. this was a general question ask to the members of both the gyms (Talwalkars &

    body zone) to find out how much importance do they give to fitness & exercise in

    their daily life. With the new understanding of the importance of physical fitness

    throughout the life cycle and the aging of the general population, working out has

    become a notable part of daily life. These days, exercising is not just good sense;

    some people use it as a status symbol. You often hear people discussing their

    workouts; cycling, exercise classes, working on the weight machines or

    treadmills.

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    importance of fitness

    With this question I found out that 71% of member opted for C & D options,

    which shows that people in the city are very much aware of importance of health

    & fitness in their daily life, in short they are very health conscious. The remaining

    29% members though are not comparatively health conscious, but yet they come

    for their various reasons.

    2. Time plays a very important role in life, for some people time is money and

    taking this into consideration timings at any workplace, organization or even

    fitness centers plays an important role. There are various people who come to

    gym which includes student, working people, house-wives etc.

    In this case where the timings of body zone are 6-11.30 in morning

    and 4.30-10 in the evening, considering the 11.30-4.30 as ladies hours.

    But in Talwalkars earlier they had separate timings for

    ladies, but now they have unisex timings whole day i.e. 6.00 am to 10.00 pm.

    The survey ended up in saying that out of 50

    members 32% were happy with timings and 68% members were unhappy with the

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    timings in Body zone. In case of Talwalkars 78% of members are happy with the

    timings, whereas remaining 22% consists of members with conservative and shy

    nature, among this most of them are female members who seemed to be unhappy

    with the timings.

    3. Personal trainers are assigned to members who have enrolled for this programme.

    The personal trainers are professional in their approach which makes a big

    difference in the exercise regime. The trainer motivates and encourages without

    being forceful. The one-to-one attention creates a good rapport between the

    member and the trainer and trainers try and understand one's limits and potential

    and accordingly assign a proper fitness regime.

    In this case I found out that body zone employs 2 male trainers & 1 female trainer, so

    technically it is not possible to handle large number of members at a same time and

    thus providing PEP to large number of members is not possible.

    Whereas in Talwalkars there are more than 10 trainers. The

    ratio of male to female trainers being 1:1. This makes it easy to provide better

    attention to members.

    4. Ambiance of any gym is an important factor to attract its members towards gym,

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    they feel pleasant and fresh after stepping into the gym. Ambiance is a one factor

    which leads its members to form opinion about the gym management.

    The result of this question showed very unhappy responses from

    Body zone members.45% members said its poor, 35% said its good & 20% saidits pleasant. Showing unhappy response from majority of members. The

    following picture might give you an idea about members low response.

    The Talwalkar members were extremely happy with ambiance of the gym.73%members said its pleasant, 19% said its excellent, 7% said good and only 2%

    members said poor. The following picture will give idea about the ambiance in

    Talwalkars.

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    5. Handling the queries is an important task of the management of the gym, its

    shows the effectiveness of the staff towards the members complaints and

    suggestions. If the management shows less response toward grievance systemmembers are likely to leave the gym or tell others about their negative experience.

    Where as research shows that those who complain and have their problems

    resolved are much more likely to come again. Those who never complain are the

    members who seldom visit the gym for exercising.

    0

    10

    20

    30

    40

    50

    60

    70

    A B C D

    Talwalk

    Body zo

    From the above chart it can be clearly seen that how members of body

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    zone are dissatisfied with the grievance system. Whereas there is a positive

    approach from Talwalkar members.

    6. Quality speaks for itself. Quality refers to the degree to which a service satisfies

    customers by meeting their needs, wants, expectation. Service quality helps in

    product differentiation and building customer loyalty. One has to invest in quality

    profitably. The following pictures will give definite idea about the quality of

    equipments in respective gyms.

    Talwalkars:-

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    The body zone: -

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    The survey ended up in saying the following results:-

    0

    5

    10

    15

    20

    25

    30

    35

    40

    45

    50

    A B C D

    Talwalk

    Body zo

    7. Here are the results of the question ask about the cleanliness and other

    miscellaneous activities to the members: -

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    BODY ZONE

    TALWALKARS

    This pie diagram clearly shows the difference in service between the respective

    gyms.

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    8. Location of a gym is relevant factor to attract its members, which focuses

    attention on the offering of services by the providers to the ultimate users and theplace of location for the service generating organizations. In some of the cases we

    find that providers have no option but to locate the branches as per the

    instructions of the apex body. Some of the essential features are taken into

    consideration such as easy and convenient accessibility, safety or protection,

    availability of the infrastructural facilities, attractive and healthy surroundings etc.

    In this case where both the gyms are located in the same locality

    (sector 17),Talwalkars enjoys the prime location of the 17 sector, whereas the

    Body zone is bit in a congested area. But still many people are happy with the

    location of their gym there is no much more difference in the opinion of their

    members.

    9. To enrich the health club services certain supportive services are found important

    these services can also influence the members to take admission in the gym. We

    analyze members preference on following services provided by respective gyms.

    A] Car parking:-

    Car parking facility is a one of the important element of customer service.

    Here where both the gyms share the same area for parking facility i.e. sector

    17, but the parking area for Body zone members is bit congested, whereas

    Talwalkar members enjoy a hustle free parking area.

    B] Wash room /Changing facility: -

    Wash room/Changing facility is an integral part of any fitness center; here the

    members of both the gyms were happy with the facility provided. The response

    did not show much of a difference.

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    C] Music: - .

    Music has to be good; a better music can change the mindset of person & can

    bring him back to normal level from him frustration of any sort. Music is an

    important criterion to change the mood of a person.In case of Body zone the members are especially annoyed with the type of

    music played, which they have to keep on requesting to the staff.

    In Talwalkars the music played is different in different areas i.e. cardio

    section, work-out section and changing room. So the members have a variety

    in their choice of music.

    D] Juice /Health drinks: -

    After a healthy work-out a fresh fruit juice and health drinks are essential for

    human body. Where in case of Talwalkars juice and health drinks are

    provided, where as Body zone does not provide any sort of fruit or health

    drinks to its members.

    10. No service is 100% perfect, so there is always a scope for improvement. By

    taking into consideration members suggestions & ideas they can make enormous

    profit and provide customer satisfaction.

    When asked about the suggestions on both the gyms members always

    insists on better quality, service, innovations, supportive services, etc. the survey

    showed more number of Body zone members

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    Ideal Health Management Services

    Health management services leads to an ideal health management system, which is useful

    for efficient & effective services. Your company culture is unique, incorporating your

    history and geography and reflecting the personal qualities of your leadership, workforce

    and client base. It offers a totally integrated approach to health management. All

    processeshealth status analysis, lifestyle and chronic condition coaching programs,

    incentive program administration, tracking and reportingare provided and managed on

    one integrated software platform.

    These techniques are taken up from the well known Gordian health solution. An idealhealth management service could be achieved through following steps.

    Program Design and Management

    Health Coaching Center

    Program Communication

    Incentive Management

    Program Evaluation and Measurement

    Program Design and Management

    Gordians proprietary systems, as well as all its products, are designed to be highly

    flexible, allowing customization to fit your needs. We begin with a Personal Health

    Analysis that can be either customized via our standard online analysis engine, or we can

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    deliver totally custom-developed questionnaires, and reports based on specific client

    criteria.

    Gordians flexibility ranges from simple private labeling, to newly created content and

    design, to foreign translation options. We can customize communications pieces to

    incorporate your logo or a unique program name and custom branding, as well as content

    that describes your program and how it will be implemented. Management reports can be

    customized to include statistics on any question item in the extensive Gordian database,

    or for any identified sub group within your company.

    Gordians Client Service team of human resource executives, health promotion experts

    and health care professionals works closely with each of our clients to help them design aprogram that fits with their organization and meets their health management goals. A

    Client Service Team consisting of a Client Services Manager, IT Systems Representative,

    Processing Team member, Communications specialist, and Health Coach Representative

    is assigned to each client to monitor delivery and provide seamless program

    implementation, management support, troubleshooting and issue resolution.

    Although each client is unique, Gordians comprehensive program includes assessment

    and evaluation of many of the following areas:

    Program goals and objectives

    Company and workforce profile

    Medical claims analysis and other cost issues

    Existing health management initiatives

    Benefit plan characteristics

    Participant profile

    Program name

    Program customization

    Incentive program(s)

    Personal Health Analyses (standard/customized)

    Biometric screenings

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    Lifestyle management programs

    Chronic Condition programs

    Health education (including self-care)

    Management reporting Communications campaign(s)

    Coordination with existing vendors and internal programs

    Training and development of client staff (as needed)

    Billing/budget

    Outcomes measurements

    Data management

    Health Coaching Center

    Our Client Service Team works closely with each of our clients through the design and

    implementation of your program, and beyond. Gordian ensures your program will have

    the support it needs on an ongoing basis through our Health Coaching Center, which

    operates Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4

    p.m., Central Standard Time.

    Every aspect of your customized Gordian program is reviewed with our Operations Staff

    and our Health Coaches through pre-implementation training by the Client Services

    Account Manager. Training includes details about your companys program rollout,

    services, vendor coordination, communications materials, and incentive program. Whats

    more, our Operations Staff is also provided an overview of your company, your industry,

    and your corporate culture.

    Your employees will be given a Gordian Hotline telephone number to call so our

    experienced Health Coaching Center Staff can directly address questions about

    incentives, the Personal Health Analysis, eligibility, screening dates and signups,

    program features and requirements, and more.

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    For Personal Health Analysis website questions relating to account creation, keycode,

    updating your account, retrieving your password, privacy, security, and other technical

    aspects, Gordian provides telephonic support Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5

    p.m., Central Standard Time.

    Program Communication

    Good communication demands great preparation. Accurate timing, positive messaging,

    and targeted intelligence about the audience are ingredients to the successful launch of

    even the most generous employee benefit program.

    With more than 100 program implementations behind us, the experts at Gordian Health

    Solutions make it their business to know which employee hot buttons to push and how to

    push them to get the best results. Positive, carefully planned employee communicationcampaigns are the beginning of great population health management programs. At

    Gordian, we have the experience and know-how to put it all togetherOur six

    components of a good employee communications campaign form the backbone for

    continued program success.

    A Client Services Manager and Gordians in-house Creative Services department works

    with each client to design a communications campaign customized to attract and maintain

    participation in your program. The Gordian enrollment package includes an initial

    program announcement overview brochure containing enrollment, screening and

    incentive details.

    A variety of optional communication pieces can be custom designed to augment program

    communication efforts to meet your branding requirements.

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    Incentive Management

    Gordians proven incentive management paves the way.

    The success of your population health management programand your return on

    program investmentwill depend on participation. Thats why Gordians expertise in

    incentive plan development is a valuable component of our programs.

    We begin with a thorough understanding of the clients company and years of experience

    in knowing what motivates employees. Gordian incentive programs are designed to

    maximize enrollmentboth at kickoff and on an ongoing basisand to keep participants

    engaged throughout the duration of the program. Industry research and Gordian's own

    client experiences have proven that the greater the level of incentive, the greater the

    program participation. And high participation increases the chances of success in

    modifying risky health behaviors and reducing health care costs.

    Gordians incentive programs range from achievement awards to aggressive financial

    incentives. Estimated program participation levels range from 15% to 90% depending on

    the level and type of incentive.

    Medical Benefits-Integrated Incentives, offered only by Gordian, have proved to be the

    most effective means of achieving high levels of participation and improvement in

    health status and healthcare costs. These are financial incentives that are typically

    incorporated into the insurance premium structure (payroll deduction amount) for all

    employees and, in some cases, for spouse premiums (if included in the program). These

    incentives are most commonly designed as a discount to each pay periods premium rate

    (payroll deduction) based on voluntary participation in the health improvement program.

    Medical benefits-integrated incentives work because employees can draw a direct

    connection between their participation in the program and their paycheck. They know

    that the steps they are taking to improve their health reap financial benefits every pay

    period. Medical benefits-integrated incentives also return the highest level of

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    participation, and thus investment, for our clients. Learn more by reading the six things

    an employer needs to know about health status analysis and use of incentives.

    Other incentive programs used by Gordian clients include:

    Achievement Awards: Offeringcook books, self-care books, pedometers, etc.

    Financial Awards: These include cash awards, co-pay waivers, and gift cards.

    Program Evaluation and Measurement

    Gordian's extensive tracking and reporting capabilities are based in science and

    technologic expertise, which set us apart from our competitors. We evaluate our

    performance through employee satisfaction surveys, analyses of health status and

    economic outcomes such as return on investment, participation reports, physician referral

    reports and more.

    We begin with a comprehensive Group Report that identifies health risks unique to your

    company. Using aggregate data from your populations Personal Health Analysis (PHA)

    results, youll see graphic representation and narrative analysis of your groups health

    risk status, demographics, health risk factors and preventable deaths by disease

    categories. Over time you will also receive a Group Progress Report incorporating

    follow-up PHA data.

    To monitor your intervention programs progress, Gordian provides a Member Activity

    Summary, so you can identify the total number of employees that completed the PHA as

    well as the number eligible for lifestyle and chronic condition management programs and

    the respective enrollment rates.

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    The Stratified Members (Stratified Members by Package Detail) report illustrates an

    aggregate look at members qualifying for Gordian Health Coaching subcategorized by

    Lifestyle Coaching Programs, Chronic Condition Coaching Programs or both.

    A Program Activity (Activity Summary by Program and Package) report identifies

    the number and percentage of stratifications and enrollments for participants who

    stratified for and were enrolled in a coaching program at the time of the report. The

    analysis will also reflect the enrollment percent of those stratified by program and

    package.

    Gordian also helps you keep up with our activity through a Contact Summary of calls

    and mailings.

    The Goal Achievement Analysis lets you know how many participants have

    successfully met their goals or made progress to reduce their risk factors through our

    coaching programs.

    The Physician Referral Analysis shows the numbers, percentages and types of

    conditions contributing to physician referrals within your employee group. This

    information is used to implement programs to manage the most frequently occurringrisks. Early detection or significant findings by attending physicians will also be tracked

    and reported.

    Personalized coaching is monitored on an ongoing basis through telephonic or electronic

    contact with a Health Coach, allowing for immediate feedback and adjustments to meet

    each individuals needs. At six months and at the end of each individual coaching cycle

    an anonymous Program Evaluation Survey is conducted to determine the effectiveness

    of the program. This data is compiled into a group report to give you an overall program

    satisfaction evaluation.

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    BIBLIOGRAPHY

    Books:

    Service sector management by Prof.R.Subramaian Gordian health solution

    Magazine & Newspaper articles: Times of India

    Cosmopolitan

    India today

    Mens health

    Websites: www.Google.com

    www.Articleinsider.com