That’s Exertainment

by Jamie L. Scheppers (editor@clubandresortbusiness.com)
August 2007
 

Ever since the fitness craze began many years ago, workout entertainment has evolved from the walkman to the Discman to the mp3 player to video mp3 player. But today’s fitness equipment has taken this “extertainment” trend even further, by providing full entertainment centers on each machine.

Today, individual televisions mounted on cardio equipment are more common than not, allowing people to choose whatever program they want to watch as they exercise. Clubs that do not want to shell out the extra cash for personalized monitors still find success by mounting a number of flat- screen televisions on the wall for members to watch.

Some newer machines today also have mp3 integration capabilities, allowing users to plug their mp3 player into the machine and get an option of music, television or fitness and nutrition programs to keep them occupied as they work out.