The upcoming IHRSA Annual Convention & Trade Show in San Diego represents a unique opportunity for learning that is tailored specifically to the health club industry. Having attended this spectacular event for over twenty years, I can honestly say that I have always returned to my club(s) with new ideas that have made us better and more successful. As the saying goes, “if you’re not learning, you’re not growing”, and the annual pilgrimage to be part of our industries grandest gathering offers an uncommon wealth of educational resources.

I encourage everyone to join the party this year and make the most of it. Even the most seasoned industry veterans I know embrace the chance to discover new, relevant, cutting edge operating practices and see the very latest in exercise equipment and amenities. This said, as with many things in life, you only get out of it, what you put into it. Arrive with the mentality that “you know more than most of the presenters”, or that you are “ready for a little rest and relaxation away from work”, and your take-a-ways will be minimal.  Alternatively, be determined to get something useful out of every session, walk the entire trade show floor, network with your peers, and you are likely to leave with more ideas than you can execute effectively.

Following are a few tips that may be helpful to maximize the experience.

• Plan ahead and pre-select the sessions you believe would be most beneficial.
• Attend a session during virtually every time slot that is offered.
• Take notes and jot down ideas that come to mind throughout the conference.
• Tour the entire trade show floor once, and then return to visit specific areas of interest.
• Don’t miss the general sessions featuring some of the best speakers in the world.
• Participate in at least some of the networking events and parties.
• On the way home, review and organize your notes, identifying in priority order the best ideas that can be implemented in your club setting.
• During the first week back at your club, develop an action plan to implement your top five to ten ideas.
• Have fun!

In short, participate with a purpose at the convention. Attending the conference and trade show involves an investment of time and money by club operators and manufacturers – in their businesses and in their people. So, be thankful that you are part of it, enjoy the opportunity, contribute when appropriate, learn, and leave with a sense of excitement about your growth as an individual and the ideas spawned during your sojourn.