Posted by on Aug 23, 2013 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

Curriculum Update

Curriculum for Next Week We would like you to incorporate one of our sponsors, Chuggington, into your curriculum for next week.  Here are some fun ways to do it. During Big Deal: The Big Deal is the train.  Please click here for the fun Chuggington song for you to download and play during the train time or any Explore Time.  You can sing along while the kids are riding the train to this theme song. During Parent Share:  Soft Frisbees During Manipulative Skill:  Poly Spots Hold your Soft Frisbees/Poly Spots and pretend you are driving a train like new adventures in Chuggington. o   In control and ready to roll! o   Three Honks for New Adventures! o   Get your wheels to the rails! When the kids put the Soft Frisbees/Poly Spots away, perhaps they can “speed” along the tracks of the speedway, flashing their new headlights and honking their horns.  (You can play the theme song at this time too.) Other Areas: Tone words that are affiliated with Chuggington are listed...

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Posted by on Aug 21, 2013 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

September Operational Reminders

  Operations Update August 30th, 2013 All Gyms   September Operational Reminders Marketing: Post Open House marketing work: Database Calls – If this was not completed in August, continue to make calls.  Pull a list of anyone who canceled from January – June and call them to invite them to your enrollment event/tell them about the current specials. Market to those people who didn’t enroll at Open House/Enrollment Night.  Offer another special or incentive (smaller) and email, call, and/or post on Facebook. Consider running an Offer on Facebook to target those people who didn’t enroll.  Contact “Back at You” for help/ideas. Plan Parents’ Night Out.  See Marketing & Advertising Annual Sample Plan for PNO marketing Send monthly email newsletter with events, promotions, etc. Send Birthday Mailer and/or email to upcoming birthdays (October & November). Call and/or email all birthday guests each week. Contact PTAs and offer your services.  Check out the sample letter to send to schools located in the Marketing folder. Research, attend, and participate in popular fall...

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Posted by on Aug 21, 2013 in Technology | 0 comments

Online Registration

Online Registration Update Yesterday we launched the User Interface (Online Registration System) for My Gym Pasadena.  The system is built and has been tested vigorously, but it needs to be tested for a period of time in a real environment before we launch to all franchisees. We are very excited about this system and believe it will be a very useful tool for all franchisees. We will keep you updated on the test as we progress and hope to have it in your hands soon. If you have any questions, please let me know. Sincerely, Tom...

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Posted by on Aug 15, 2013 in Products | 0 comments

Celebrate Party Plates on Sale

  Save up to 20% on Celebrate Party Plates!  ShopMyGym will soon have party plates with a new design.  To make room for our new inventory, we’re closing out the current style.  Buy 2 or 3 packs (250 plates per pack) and save 10% or buy 4+ packs and save 20%.  Get them while you can.  Click here to order...

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Posted by on Aug 13, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

NEW In-Gym Sponsor Marketing Programs

In-Gym Sponsor Marketing/Sponsor Programs- Disney Doc McStuffin and Saban Julius Jr. Please note that there are two easy reference documents that relate to national marketing and sponsorships available to you at all times on the Operations Disc. 1)     In-Gym Marketing Sponsorship Materials 2)     Current National Marketing Offers and Coupons They can be accessed via the extranet here: My Gym Operations Disc / My Gym Operations / National Marketing and Sponsorships / National Marketing.  There are two additional sponsor/marketing programs coming to our gyms in August and September.  MGE is very aware that there are several of these programs occurring at the same time and which overlap. While this is encouraging in many ways and may well lead to more partnerships and cross-marketing opportunities, we have taken steps with PLAY Network and the FAB to assure that, in the future, these programs will be even more carefully analyzed and scheduled so as not to be rolled out so close together. The following are the details for these two new programs. My Gym has partnered with...

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Posted by on Aug 9, 2013 in Products | 0 comments

ShopMyGym is carrying three new additional adhesive decal signs!

  ShopMyGym is carrying three new additional adhesive decal signs! Back to school enrollment is right around the corner and now is a great time to freshen up your gyms! Order your new in-gym signs, which match the look and feel of all of our other marketing materials, today! In addition to the core signs, there are new ones now available including…… Information Center Adhesive Decal (37”x 14”) This sign is made of PhotoTex Repositionable Vinyl and is used to highlight all your class, party, and program information your gym would like to share with parents and prospective clients. Click here to order this sign today! Sibling Rules Adhesive Decal (30” x 26”) This sign is made of PhotoTex Repositionable Vinyl and shares the following rules with parents: Parents must supervise their children at play. Children need to share toys. Parents, please make sure the area is clean after use. Children, please play with toys quietly, and use inside voices. Everyone, HAVE FUN! Click here to order this sign...

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Posted by on Aug 8, 2013 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

My Gym Core Vocabulary

My Gym Core Vocabulary A key attribute of a great My Gym teacher capable of leading high quality classes is “teaching with expertise.”  In order to master this and the skill-based teaching technique, you need to understand the terms included in My Gym’s programming and the Building Blocks system.  Many of the words listed below have multiple definitions; here you will find the meanings that best pair with My Gym’s programming. Agility: The power to move quickly and easily; nimbleness Attention Span: The length of time that someone can concentrate effectively on a task or activity Balance: A state in which a body or object remains reasonably steady in a particular position; The ability to maintain bodily equilibrium with both sides of one’s body equal and not tipping over –  Gymnasts must have good balance. Cardiovascular: “Cardio” Relating to the heart and blood vessels – A cardio workout is high energy to get your heart rate up. Cognitive: Of or pertaining to the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment,...

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Posted by on Aug 8, 2013 in Marketing, Products | 0 comments

Building Blocks Programming Developmental Index Now Available on ShopMyGym.com

  The Building Blocks Programming Developmental Index is one of the newest tools available to gyms in the ongoing quest to enhance learning among students and parents.  Each colorful page breaks down the ‘what’ and ‘why’ of what we do every day at My Gym far beyond simple ‘working-on’ explanations. The booklet is meant to complement the Building Blocks program and can be used internally as a supplemental training tool.  Externally, we recommend that the Index be used in the following ways: Laid out on the front counter for parental perusal (walk-ins, new members, etc.) Brought to marketing events (booths, expos, etc.), and used to explain how the My Gym curriculum coincides with child development Referred to in enrollment conversations; have it nearby for quick reference when selling the program This durable booklet makes an impressive presentation; it’s professionally printed on thick paper, laminated and coil bound.  Since the booklets are meant to be used both in and out of the gym and at different times, we recommend that...

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Posted by on Aug 7, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

In-Gym TVs

Please be advised that Play Network, at their own expense, will be dispatching technicians to gyms throughout the country in the coming days to fix any issues that may arise.  If you are contacted, please respond as soon as possible.  We appreciate your doing your part in helping us fix these...

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Posted by on Aug 7, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

30th Anniversary Campaign Report

As we head into the last major phase of our 30th Anniversary Campaign this month – the 30th Birthday Party/events at gyms, we are happy to provide you with a recap of the campaign including the overall impressions generated, specifics related to our Facebook contest, and results to key questions in the survey recently taken by franchisees. Part 1 – Impressions The impressions below are based on the national corporate marketing efforts and channels of communication employed for the 30 Year Anniversary marketing campaign during the months of April-June, 2013.  These include PR, digital and print ads, social media, blogs, and emails sent by MGE and our partners, including Little Tikes, BabyGanics, Chuggington, and the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition. * These impressions do not factor in impressions achieved by local gym ads, fliers, email, website traffic, walk-by traffic, or social media posts/tweets. Advertising Impressions Facebook Ads 450,000 Nat’l Magazine (Parenting) 11,000,000 US Family Guide Banner Ads and Tiles 420,495 Yowza Mobile Coupons 1,042 Media/Online Impressions PR/Media (SSA) TV 67,825,633...

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Posted by on Aug 6, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

In Gym Sponsor Marketing Program – Stride-Rite Shoes

As mentioned in last week’s update regarding the Chuggington partnership, here is the information on the new program with Stride Rite Shoes. My Gym has partnered with Stride Rite to promote Disney Princess shoes to moms and young girls. The program features a poster, which is to be displayed either in the front window/door of the gym or hung in the lobby from the ceiling.  Additionally, a 30-second commercial will be played on My Gym TV screens during the term. The dates for the program are 8/15/13 – 9/15/13. Beginning later this week, each U.S. gym will receive a package containing the following materials needed to execute this program: One 24”x36” Poster to be affixed to your front window or lobby wall Poster Hangers, in case you prefer to hang the posters There will be no programming elements related to this promotion. Upon commencement of the program, please send a picture of the TV commercial and posters via email to fsundara@playnetwork.com or text picture to 562.665.7128. If you have...

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Posted by on Aug 6, 2013 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

Separation Time Protocol

Separation time in younger classes provides a fantastic opportunity for parents to stand back and watch as their children grow confidence and cultivate their social skills with their peers.  When done correctly, this portion of class should nurture the child’s ability to separate and overcome anxiety in a safe environment among trusted adults (i.e. the teachers).  Here are a few tips to ensure that each separation time is a smooth one: Have the parents back away as far as possible.  Though there’s a learning curve for both parents and children when it comes to separation time, over time we want to make sure that the two are actually properly separating.  It’s okay to ask the grownups to back away as far as the lobby.  The kids will certainly let them know if/when they’re needed. Never put up a barrier (i.e., the red and black mats) around the children.  If you are currently doing this in your gym, please stop.  Having mats up can be scary for kids who need...

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Posted by on Aug 5, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

My Gym on National TV- The Talk on CBS, Tuesday, August 6

We are excited to inform you that this coming Tuesday, August 6th, My Gym will be featured on the nationally aired show, The Talk, on CBS, starring Sharon Osbourne, Sara Gilbert, Julie Chen, Aisha Tyler, and Sheryl Underwood. During the segment, the topic of childhood fitness and activity will be discussed.  As part of the segment, they will discuss My Gym, (hopefully) show our logo and Website URL, show some video and/or pics, and provide the studio audience (approx. 250) with gift certificates to My Gym (good for a class and Free Lifetime Membership) and complimentary copies of our “Mymo’s Adventures” DVD.  There is no My Gym representative on the show. The Talk airs Weekdays at 2pm ET, 1pm PT/CT.  PLEASE check your local listings to find the exact time in your market. The Talk reaches approximately 3 million viewers per...

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Posted by on Aug 1, 2013 in General | 0 comments

Protected: My Gym Conference 2016: Presentations & Videos

CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL MEETINGS All presentations are in PowerPoint format. Individual Thursday Meetings: VIDEO: Conference Opening VIDEO: Rules of Conference Support Meeting – Angie Foote You and Your Team – Edwin Chavez Marketing Presentation – Matt Hendison & Lorna Brown VIDEO: Cute Kids Healthy Habits 1 VIDEO: Cute Kids Healthy Habits 2 VIDEO: Cute Kids Healthy Habits 3 Targeted Hiring – Angie Foote & Krissy Winters Technology Overview – Mae Perez Merchandise Presentation – Scott Greenfield & Alex Herrera VIDEO: MGCA Presentation Individual Friday Meetings: Training Presentation – Angie Foote & Jackie Purcell Online Marketing – Plush Digital Curriculum & Programs – Angie Foote My Gym’s Exciting Future – Cory Bertisch Enrollment Conversations & Sales Techniques – Edwin Chavez & Tom Saito Owners Meeting – FAB Fun Financial Facts – Jamie...

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Posted by on Jul 31, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

In Gym Marketing and Sponsors – Chuggington

Sponsor and Marketing Partnerships Chuggington, August 12-September 19, 2013 With August now upon us, we want to advise all of our US gyms of upcoming sponsor and marketing programs that will soon be starting, specifically Chuggington, which is FAB approved and set to begin in mid-August. During the term of My Gym’s 30th Anniversary campaign, Chuggington has been a great marketing partner for us, offering up both contest prizing and a multitude of cross marketing messages on our behalf aimed directly at our target consumer. Their efforts, which included Facebook posts, Twitter messages, PR, Blogs, and email, have accounted for several hundred thousand targeted My Gym impressions. In August, My Gym will be tagged on their print ad in Kiwi Magazine (reaching 1 million moms) and included in their national blogging campaign with a coupon/voucher. Finally, in September, upon the release of Chuggington’s newest DVD, My Gym will be featured with a full page coupon/insert in 400,000 units. In return for the marketing Chuggington has provided for My Gym,...

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Posted by on Jul 30, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

Exact Target: Recommended Usage

Dear Franchisee, As you gear up for fall enrollment, we at MGE want to take a moment to remind you that Exact Target – while a very useful component of marketing – should not be used as the sole or primary vehicle by which you market your gym.  Rather than overly relying on email to reach your audience, gyms should include email as PART of the overall media mix and actively pursue other avenues of marketing as well: business to business, social media, consumer review sites, raffles, fliering, participating in community events, etc. The current average “click-thru” rate for email is only around 15%.  As such, we need to be judicious in choosing where and when to email so as to maximize its impact and not run the risk of being ignored.  Email should be used primarily when you have something really valuable and important to say and, on a secondary less frequent schedule, as a means to update your consumers and keep connected to them. Attached are 3...

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Posted by on Jul 25, 2013 in Products | 0 comments

New Party Invitations and Thank You Cards!

Wow!  Wait till you see the new My Gym invitations and thank you cards.  They feature fun, colorful designs that tie in with the My Gym website and birthday party favor bag.  Party hosts and guests are bound to be excited when they receive these.  The convenient format is carried over from the prior design.  The invitations and cards are 4” x 6,” have a convenient fold-over design, and close with the included sealing labels (no envelopes). The outside of the invitation greets guests with a dancing Mymo saying “It’s a Party,” and the inside of the invitation has space for writing all the party details and includes a waiver for guests to complete and bring to the party.  The front of the thank you card features Mymo and “Thanks for coming!,” and the inside features Mymo doing a handstand on “Thanks!” plus space to write a special thank you message. These invitations and cards are in stock and available immediately.  Click here to order...

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Posted by on Jul 24, 2013 in Products | 0 comments

Save 20% on Theme Party Accessories Kit

    The new My Gym theme party program is a huge hit.  We’re getting great feedback on the theme party kits and programming.  As you know, ShopMyGym has an accessories kit with high quality props and other products that tie in with the birthday party theme programming.  Examples include scene setters, plush horse stick ponies, handmade felt hand puppets, princess shoes, army men, and much more.  Gyms are using these high quality, reusable products during each themed party to enhance the party and provide the children with the ultimate themed birthday experience.  Make sure you get this kit now.  It makes a huge impact and adds loads of fun for the kids, and all of the contents are reusable.  The regular price of the accessories kit is $162.99; but, for one week only (until July 31st), you can buy it for just $130.39, which is a savings of 20%.  Click here for more details and to order...

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Posted by on Jul 23, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

Back At You is retained by the MGE Marketing Fund to work for YOU! Use them!

Every day BAY is working with more and more gyms to maximize their Google AdWords campaigns, build traffic and likes on Facebook, and consult on anything else related to online marketing. Additionally, once they are made administrators of gyms’ pages, they can post great MGE-created-and-approved content to complement your posts and enhance the experience for your followers. Email Michael Glazer today at...

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Posted by on Jul 17, 2013 in My Gym Foundation | 0 comments

Helping families like ours

In July, a mother in need asked for help: Describe your disability: (name withheld) was diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis last August at the age of 11months. It effected her c spine from C1-C7. She was paralyzed from the neck down within just hours of onset. She has come far; just began walking again 2 weeks ago. With her TM we are learning she is unable to control her body tempature… We have had 2 cases so far where her temp reached 108. She cannot go outside even to swim without spiking a fever. What is your request? We are wanting to purchase a cooling vest but are unable to afford it. What impact will a gift from MGCA have on your life? If MGCA could purchase her a cooling vest she could have her childhood back and be that much closer to having a normal life. We are a very outdoorsy family and it kills me to have to exclude Allie due to her illness. My Gym Challenged America...

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Posted by on Jul 15, 2013 in Marketing | 0 comments

30 Year Anniversary Campaign Post Campaign Wrap-Up #1- Campaign Recap and Franchisee Survey

With the promotional discount and contest entry period of the 30 Year Anniversary Campaign behind us, we are now in the process of collecting data in order to formulate a post campaign report. Part of this process includes getting feedback from our gyms. Accordingly, we ask that you please take just a moment to fill out and submit the attached survey at your earliest convenience. Your answers will help us measure and shape future campaigns. A brief recap of our 2013 campaign: 2013 In the 2013 campaign, we applied strategies and tactics including: Use the coincidence of our 30th Anniversary to cement the concept of My Gym as long-term experts in children’s fitness and development – the foremost authority Once the number (30) is in the consumer’s head: Reinforce it with a 30% discount (tactic), solidifying our 30 years of experience and expertise Create and distribute a 30th Anniversary logo (tactic) featuring the number “30” prominently displayed to support the campaign theme – This logo is used on all...

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Posted by on Jul 12, 2013 in My Gym Foundation | 0 comments

I helped that one.

Remember the story about the young man throwing starfish back into the ocean? (Click here if you don’t) It’s a story about ordinary people changing the world- the way you do every day at My Gym. My Gym Challenged America continues building a brighter tomorrow, one child at a time… But it’s tough each month seeing the wishes we cannot afford to grant. How do you say “no” to a child facing such bitter challenges? We welcome your suggestions about fundraisers for this rewarding and heartwrenching cause. The more donations we raise, the more children’s wishes we grant. We may not help them all, but we’ll do what we...

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Posted by on Jul 12, 2013 in Support & Programming | 0 comments

Operational Reminders

Operational Reminders Marketing: Fall Open House and/or Enrollment Night planning Choose dates (Last weekend in August or September is recommended.) Research and select themes, hours, and promotions Order artwork Review Open House Marketing Directives with entire staff Fall Open House Marketing Create a homepage article on website Plan your email blast Exact Target timeline Post event on Facebook once per week Prepare list of business contacts to connect with next month Post event on all community calendars, blogs, magazines, and newspapers, both print and web-based Update parenting magazines to reflect Open House next month Call and/or email all birthday guests each week Send Birthday mailer to children with birthdays in upcoming months (August & September) Send monthly newsletter through Exact Target Attend community events to spread community awareness Continue to market Summer Appreciation Months and Summer Camp Swimming pools are a great place to find children this summer.  Here are a few options: Consider a business-to-business partnership with a company that runs swim lessons Offer to run free pool...

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