Posted by on Jun 15, 2017 in Products, Support & Programming | 0 comments

Get Ready for the BOSU Sport Balance Trainer – Budget for 2017 New Curriculum Products

The programming team has an exciting new piece of equipment coming this fall: The BOSU Sport Balance Trainer.  While the main purpose of this post is to make you aware of the expenditure in advance, we also want to give you a sneak preview of this fun addition to our curriculum. The BOSU is a balance ball trainer used in health, fitness, sports conditioning, and rehabilitation facilities to strengthen muscles while improving balance and coordination and combining physical and mental focus.  The BOSU Sport Balance Trainer is a smaller version of the original BOSU Balance Trainer (22” diameter vs. 26” diameter), making it ideal for kids. The BOSU Sport was tested in 25 gyms, and the kids and the teachers fell in love with them, so the programming team wanted to make them available to everyone.  You may find the BOSU within the curriculum in relays, games, adventures, and skill stations for all age groups. Each gym will need a minimum of three units.  The retail price is $99,...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 13, 2017 in General, Technology | 0 comments

PCI Compliancy – Global Payments Account Holders

Please be advised that Global Payments has recently partnered with ControlScan to provide the latest information and protection on PCI Compliancy standards. The fee structure for compliancy will remain a nominal part of the monthly fee. At no time will you be asked for credit card information to pay for services. As a reminder, maintaining PCI Compliancy is required by Visa/Master Card. The lack of compliancy will result in additional monthly fees. It is important to note the previous partner, Security Metrics, will likely continue to reach out in efforts to elicit business. This, unfortunately, is unavoidable....

Read More

Posted by on Jun 13, 2017 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

South Training Seminar

We just spent an awesome weekend with a wonderful group of really fun and energetic My Gymers in the South.  There were 72 people in attendance, and your passion, dedication, and ideas helped create an awesome event!  Thank you to the Boynton Beach, FL My Gym for hosting the event.  Veronica and Sebastian Giraldo, and the Boynton Beach team did an amazing job! South Award Winners We would like to recognize the award winners from the South Training Seminar.  Keep up the fantastic work! Franchisee of the Year Award The owner who best exemplifies the ideals for which My Gym stands by achieving excellence in the areas of business operations, leadership, customer service, program quality, and enrollment Kathy Karner – My Gym Kendall, FL +++ Achievement Award The owner who has achieved remarkable progress in striving for excellence in the areas of business operations, leadership, customer service, program quality, and enrollment Mindy Reeth – My Gym Virginia Beach, VA   +++ Director of the Year Award The director who...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 12, 2017 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

My Gym Ninja Training: Going Live August of 2017!

Ninja Warriors Assemble!! Do you have what it takes? Are you prepared to tackle any obstacle of both mind and body that comes your way? This may just be the perfect program for your gym! The My Gym Ninja Training is officially HERE! Programming will be set up to be launched live in gyms the week of Monday, August 7th. We strongly advise gyms to start this program on the suggested date, as each week of content aligns with the current weekly programming so as to avoid conflicts with equipment needed in other core classes. We invite any and all considering adding “Ninja Training” to their schedule this fall to review the directives, which will be available on the Operations Manual as of July 1st. Starting July 1st, you’ll find all the necessary information and resources to run the whole program in the Programs – Core > Ninja Training folder, including several months’ of pre-written curriculum. More will be added in time. Ninja Training videos for many of the obstacles...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 12, 2017 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

Changes to the My Gym Model

Hello, The Optimized My Gym (OMG) model was introduced 3 years ago.  At that time, there were over 20 test locations, all of which unanimously advised we move forward with the model.  The model was initially met with some apprehension, but we are happy to say that, after 3 years, the model is strong and over 90% of My Gyms have transitioned to this model.  None have transitioned back to their previous way of operating.  Many gyms have hit their highest numbers in their history the last year or two, and we hear often that the goals of the OMG model were met and exceeded. For the last 3 years, we have provided information on the Operations Manual and Curriculum about both models.  At this point, it only makes sense to unify and move forward with one model.  Your Franchisee Advisory Board has been consulted on the matter and has given their unanimous vote to move forward. Please be advised that, as of August 2017, we will no longer...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 10, 2017 in Strategic Partners & Sponsors | 0 comments

Beat Bugs To-Do List

The Beat Bugs are taking over My Gym! Did you receive your Beat Bugs poster yet? If so, make sure it is hanging in the gym. If not, email strategicpartners@mygym.com and let us know. Posters were shipped to all gyms in the U.S, Canada, Australia, and the U.K. and should have arrived this past week. Please snap a photo of the poster and send it to strategicpartners@mygym.com. If you have already sent it, thank you! Remember, this step is required to receive the partnership revenue share. We are sharing some of these compliance photos with the Beat Bugs team. So, for fun, you could even go a step further by having some staff and/or My Gym kids in the photo with the coloring sheets or in an animated pose. Because you’re a My Gymer and we LOVE to do fun things, you could also make a short video with Beat Bugs music in the background. Show us your creativity! Sharing that on Facebook and tagging Beat Bugs would be...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 8, 2017 in My Gym Foundation, Products | 0 comments

The MGCA T-Shirt Has Arrived!

The new MGCA shirt is in stock and ready to purchase. If you pre-ordered your shirts, you should receive them by the end of the week. If not, you can purchase your shirts from ShopMyGym.com in the Adult Apparel category and they will ship immediately. We invite everyone who has an MGCA T-Shirt to wear it this upcoming Sunday, June 11, for National Children’s Day. Be sure to share and tag MGCA in your photos on Facebook and Instagram to show the...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 6, 2017 in Marketing | 0 comments

2017 Marketing – Back to School Campaign Materials Are Ready!

Back to School marketing materials are ready!  Now that all gyms are running the Summer Marketing Campaign, it’s time to start planning for Back to School.  During August and September, all gyms should implement the Back to School Marketing Campaign. Utilize the online and print materials to plan now for a successful Back to School Open House and fall enrollment drive. Marketing Materials Package (Operations Manual > Operations > Marketing Manual > 2017 Marketing > 08-August Marketing Materials.zip) The August 2017 Marketing Materials package is available as a zip file on the Operations Manual.  Just download one file and you’ll have a completely organized package that includes digital artwork, social media promotional copy and profile pictures, article template, planning checklist, and more for all of your Back to School marketing! Web Splash Page (Admin > Website > Settings > Special Offers) Access, customize, and activate your campaign splash page to link to your campaign web article.  Exact Target Emails Campaign-themed global email options in Global Emails > Campaigns Mymo’s...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 5, 2017 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

Midwest Training Seminar

We just spent an awesome weekend with an amazing group of smart and really fun My Gymers in the Midwest.  There were 45 people in attendance, and your passion and dedication helped create an amazing event!  Thank you to the Aurora My Gym for hosting the event.  Lisa Miroballi, Melanie McDaniel, and the Aurora team did a wonderful job! Northeast Award Winners We would like to recognize the award winners from the Midwest Training Seminar.  Keep up the fantastic work! Franchisee of the Year Award The owner who best exemplifies the ideals for which My Gym stands by achieving excellence in the areas of business operations, leadership, customer service, program quality, and enrollment Lisa Miroballi – My Gyms Wheaton and Aurora, IL +++ Achievement Award The owner who has achieved remarkable progress in striving for excellence in the areas of business operations, leadership, customer service, program quality, and enrollment Michele Siler – My Gym Edmond, OK (not pictured) +++ Director of the Year Award The director who has gone...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 5, 2017 in My Gym Foundation | 0 comments

Happy Kids and a New Look

We’ve updated our website (challengedamerica.com), so now you can see the stories of countless children helped by YOUR SUPPORT over the years. Children like… Aleena Scarlett — Want to see even more stories of children you’ve helped? Like our Facebook Page for updates: www.facebook.com/mygymchallengedamerica — Gyms that have reached their 100% Goal: My Gym Kailua, My Gym Mechanicsburg Gyms that are more than halfway to their 100% Goal for 2017: * My Gym Bakersfield, My Gym Glen Rock, My Gym Huntington, My Gym Katy, My Gym Kendall, My Gym Palm Desert, My Gym Stony Brook, My Gym The Woodlands, My Gym Westfield *Our mission is to have every My Gym contribute $1,000 to our MGCA kids in 2017. My Gym Heroes 2017: My Gym Alexandria, My Gym Atwater, My Gym Bakersfield, My Gym Beverly Hills, My Gym Brentwood, My Gym Buffalo Grove, My Gym Chicago, My Gym Cohasset, My Gym Encino, My Gym Huntington, My Gym Glen Rock, My Gym Henderson, My Gym Kailua, My Gym Katy, My Gym...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 1, 2017 in Strategic Partners & Sponsors | 0 comments

Beat Bugs Promotion

Exciting news! Beat Bugs and My Gym have struck a chord to activate a musically-inspired promotion at 178 My Gym locations in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia during the months of June and July. Beat Bugs is an Emmy Award-winning animated series on Netflix that features music inspired by The Beatles. The story revolves around the lives and adventures of five best friends, charming and funny childlike bugs who explore and learn in their suburban backyard home. Each episode ties in a Beatles song in an innocent and child-friendly fashion, sung by one of the characters or guest stars that include mega-musicians P!nk, Sia, Aloe Blacc, Rod Stewart, Jennifer Hudson, and more. The Beat Bugs promotion will run from June 5 – August 6, with specific integration into the My Gym curriculum during the weeks of June 12, June 19, and July 10. Watch the curriculum for details! Additionally, music can and should be played during classes, camps, and parties throughout June and July. Suggested music for...

Read More

Posted by on Jun 1, 2017 in Products | 0 comments

Earn money and help parents by selling party favors!

More than ever before, My Gyms are earning more profit from birthday parties and helping parents at the same time by selling party favors.  To help gyms seize this opportunity, ShopMyGym has many birthday party favor options, covering a wide range of ages and budgets.  These options include: My Gym branded party favor packs – All packed and ready to go, these favors include several fun branded My Gym items so you can earn money while also promoting your gym. These favors regularly cost just $2.10/pack, and the suggested retail is $3.50 to $4.00.  These are now on sale for up to 25% off. My Gym branded products – These low cost promotional products also make great party favors: Mymo Bath Squirt: Ideal for 1+ birthdays; just $0.72 each! My Gym Vinyl Spike Ball: Great for all ages; just $1 each! Cups, water bottles, photo frames, plush dolls, hopper balls, and so much more! Get creative . . . pick a few items (e.g., a cup, squirt toy, and...

Read More

Posted by on May 29, 2017 in General | 0 comments

Credit Card Chargebacks

Few need an explanation for Chargebacks, as they are becoming more and more prevalent in our business. However, for those unsure, a Chargeback is essentially when a customer disputes a charge to his or her credit card company and the funds collected are refunded to the customer. MGE has been working extremely closely with Global’s Dispute Resolution Department. Unfortunately, the information provided has not been great news for us. Recurring charges are basically a red flag in the credit card / banking industry. Because of industry standards, these disputes are rarely won. As many are aware, even with proper documentation (a signed agreement), if a cardholder continues to dispute and refute the transaction, there is no way to continue to recover the funds through this channel. That is not to say you as the merchant can’t attempt to collect the funds through small claims court if it makes sense financially. It is important to note that Chargebacks are not a Vendor/Global Payments incident. They are initiated and handled by...

Read More

Posted by on May 24, 2017 in Marketing, Support & Programming | 0 comments

Social Media Content available for this week!

It’s that time again! We have another video this upcoming week that correlates perfectly with the curriculum. Please take the time to share Activate with Mymo/Point and Flex. Please see drop box link below and suggested copies for each social channel. Let us know if you have any additional questions at marketing@mygym.com. Facebook Post: Navigate to Facebook and share the MGE post by clicking “Share to Page”: Point and Flex: https://www.facebook.com/mygymfun/videos/10154701399278723/ Suggested Copy: “Hey Parents! Check out this video that shows you a fun way to teach your youngsters how to point and flex! @(insert my gym instructor). Looking forward to seeing it in real life in your (insert class) class next week! #parenthack #toddlerlife #mygymfun Instagram Post: Download the original video from this drop box link to your computer and transfer to your smart phone: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tkxozu0pt7o5cs9/AABUc6sMG4Px0LTuNU1xRW0pa?dl=0 If you have the Dropbox app on your phone, you can save the videos directly to the app and download them to your computer’s storage directly. Publish this post on Instagram organically Suggested...

Read More

Posted by on May 16, 2017 in Marketing | 0 comments

Social Media Content available for this week!

We are so excited to bring a Social Media opportunity to your attention! We have an updated version of Activate with Mymo – Baby Sit Ups available to share that correlates perfectly with curriculum this week. We strongly suggest you take the time to post the below before the end of the week. Facebook Post: Navigate to Facebook and share the MGE post by clicking “Share to Page”: https://www.facebook.com/mygymfun/posts/10154677876538723 Suggested Copy: “Hey Parents! Check out this video that shows you a fun way to teach your youngsters how to sit up! @(insert my gym instructor). Looking forward to seeing it in real life in your (insert class) this week! #parenthack #toddlerlife #mygymfun Instagram Post: Download the original video from this Dropbox link to your smart phone: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/tkxozu0pt7o5cs9/AABUc6sMG4Px0LTuNU1xRW0pa?dl=0 Publish this post on Instagram organically Suggested Copy: “Hey Parents! Check out this video that shows you a fun way to teach your youngsters how to sit up! @(insert my gym instructor). Looking forward to seeing it in real life in your (insert...

Read More

Posted by on May 15, 2017 in Products | 0 comments

My Gym Lakeshore Learning Discount

My Gyms have been using Lakeshore Learning products for many years.  Some of the products used by gyms include Wrist Bells, Soft & Safe Building Blocks, ABC Blocks, Giant Sight & Sound Tubes, and Baby Band.  New gyms receive these products automatically as part of their equipment packs; however, for gyms that need to replace these items or want to buy additional Lakeshore products, we have set up a discount with Lakeshore.  My Gym locations in the continental United States receive a 5% discount on Lakeshorelearning.com and at Lakeshore stores, and free shipping online for orders above $250 after the discount.  Also note that the Soft & Safe Building Blocks (item RR794) are currently on sale for $39.99 (regularly $59.99), so this is a good time to buy these if you need to replace yours or want an additional set. Click here for ordering instructions, and click here for your login. These files are also available in the Products folder of the Operations...

Read More

Posted by on May 12, 2017 in My Gym Foundation | 0 comments

My Gym Gives Back – Santa Monica

Walking into My Gym Santa Monica, you could see the joy erupt as Johannah experienced the gym for the first time. She was immediately attracted to the red mats and wanted to use the balance beam as a drum. Despite her physical limitations, five-year-old Johannah had just learned to walk on her own and was exploring the gym with wonder. This was only a small part of the joy experienced in My Gym Santa Monica that day. Her parents beamed as MGCA founder, Randy Bertisch, presented them with an iPad that would enable Johannah to work on her speech therapy and communicate at home. Although Johannah is currently nonverbal, there are special iPad apps that will allow her to communicate her needs, wants, and feelings. It will also enable the family to build a stronger bond as they find new ways to communicate despite these verbal limitations. We are incredibly grateful for My Gym Santa Monica’s participation in this moving event and for allowing us to present in person...

Read More

Posted by on May 11, 2017 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

2017 Northeast Training Seminar & Award Winners

We just spent an amazing weekend with a great group of smart, fun and talented My Gymers in the Northeast.  There were 135 people in attendance, and your passion and dedication helped create an amazing event!  Thank you to the Nanuet My Gym for hosting the event.  David Schlamme, Liz Zurla, and the Nanuet team did a wonderful job! Northeast Award Winners We would like to recognize the award winners from the Northeast region.  Keep up the fantastic work! +++ WORLDWIDE FRANCHISEE OF THE YEAR It is with the greatest of pleasure that My Gym Enterprises Presents this award to Ryan Debin In recognition of your outstanding principles, your superior accomplishments in all areas of operations, and your unique contributions to the My Gym organization You have distinguished yourself as an ideal My Gym franchisee and have built exceptional relationships with your fellow franchisees, your clients, your community, and MGE +++ Franchisee of the Year Award The owners who best exemplify the ideals for which My Gym stands by achieving excellence...

Read More

Posted by on May 5, 2017 in My Gym Foundation, Products | 0 comments

Special Order Your MGCA T-Shirt Now

Now you can show your support for children facing challenges with our “Love Children” T-shirt.  The messaging on this shirt reminds and informs people of the many different ways My Gyms nationwide improve the lives of children through My Gym Challenged America. Who should wear them?             My Gym instructors, directors, members, and any other MGCA supporters When should I wear my shirt? We will all wear these shirts on National Children’s Day, June 11, 2017 as a nationwide show of support for children in need. We encourage you to pick one day each month where everyone on your team wears this shirt to raise awareness in your gym. You can wear this shirt when fundraising for MGCA as well. When members comment on your shirt (and they will), tell them you’re wearing it to raise awareness of the millions of children who suffer physical and cognitive challenges, and that all My Gym Children’s Fitness Centers raise funds to award assistive devices and services to these kids who can’t...

Read More

Posted by on May 4, 2017 in General | 0 comments

Music Licensing Update

Dear Franchisees, We are ready to move forward with the new National Licensing Program for 2017. There are a few nuances you need to understand this year.  In years past, we have put together national deals with 2 or 3 of the music licensing companies.  For 2017, there is a small possibility we can get away with only one of the companies – not likely, but possible.  For that reason, we want to get solidified with BMI at this time.  Just know that sometime in the near future you might be asked to buy the music rights from one or two other companies as well.  To say it cleaner, we are trying to get away with using just one company this year.  If these other companies do what they have done in the past (hound franchisees, drop into our stores, etc., etc.), we will need to make a master deal with them as well. To opt in to the program, please send a check made out to My Gym...

Read More

Posted by on May 3, 2017 in Marketing | 0 comments

Social Media Cross Territory Advertisements

Organic Social Media Reach (posts that gain likes, shares, and comments without having to boost or pay) is never going to lose its important foothold on Social Media Marketing, although, over the past year, the impact of Organic Social Media alone has dropped over 52% compared to 2016.  This is due to Facebook’s algorithms that sort/select/block small business posts.  Facebook has done this to improve the experience of users and to drive business toward paid advertising.  To compete in the social media landscape and overcome the new Facebook Algorithm Challenges, social media marketers must develop a strong, relevant, organic social media strategy (not made up of a large percentage of pushy promotions) and a consistent paid social media advertising campaign. Facebook Advertising campaign options have grown and changed along with the social media landscape.  There are now many varieties of targeted campaign goals that allow us to reach our potential leads.  Because of these advanced options, it’s increasingly difficult for franchisees to target their zip codes and know for...

Read More

Posted by on May 1, 2017 in Marketing | 0 comments

New galaxy-themed digital ad available

“Help us, Mymo, you’re our only hope!” As you may know, May 4th is a popular unofficial holiday for Star Wars fans of all ages. We have created a digital ad to help you celebrate the day with your fans. Enjoy… and May the Fourth be with you! As a reminder, all digital ads created by MGE are available on the My Gym Marketing...

Read More

Posted by on Apr 27, 2017 in General | 0 comments

Protected: If you have issues with “HR” or “Employee Practices, we can help!

HUB International can help tighten up all your employment loose ends – Human Resources Assistance, Health Insurance, Benefits, and much more. We have solutions and agents to help you implement a legal and compliant work place:  Firing, Hiring, Education, HR Problem Solving, etc. We’re here to help.  Call 1-800-399-7327 ext. 550, or email me at...

Read More

Posted by on Apr 27, 2017 in My Gym Foundation | 0 comments

Fun in the Sun

Summer is almost here! Brighten up your wall with a Summer Sun fundraiser for MGCA. Participating? Share the fun on your Facebook page and be sure to tag My Gym Challenged America. Please click here for cutouts and flyer. They can also be found on the Operations Manual > My Gym Challenged America. Questions? Contact Aleah at:...

Read More

Posted by on Apr 20, 2017 in Strategic Partners & Sponsors | 0 comments

Sponsors/Strategic Partners – April Reminders

Your participation in and compliance with the programs we design with our sponsors and strategic partners is so important. As always, we strive to: Keep the programs as easy to implement as possible Find partners that fit well with My Gym Establish programs that provide valuable brand perception, free and/or discounted pricing on items for you and your customers, and samples whenever possible We have developed this new checklist to make it as easy as possible to know what needs to be done. Gazillion Bubbles __ Send a photo of the Gazillion poster hanging in your gym to strategicpartners@mygym.com.* (Deadline for compliance was April 21, 2017. That has been extended one week to April 28, 2017). __ Enter the franchisee contest by posting a photo of the Gazillion Bubble Storm on Instagram. Tag it with #GazillionBubbleStorm, #GazillionMagic, and @OfficialGazillion. You can post once weekly for additional entries into the contest. Contest ends May 31, 2017. Three winners will be randomly selected to each win a $50 gift certificate to...

Read More