Spring weather has finally arrived in Philadelphia, which means exercise season is upon us. Here are a few tips for promoting golf and running events in this lovely over 60-degree weather.
Gyms
Many gyms are changing from standard elliptical- and treadmill-housing rooms to entire methods of living life, including what gym-goers eat and, lucky for you, wear. CrossFit, SoulCycle, Insanity and The Lithe Method are just a few examples of gyms or workouts that offer full lifestyles to clients. You’ll notice each website has a “wear,” “gear,” “store” or “shop” section. You know what else you’ll notice? Logos. On everything.
All of these gyms have devout members who wear what their gym touts to not only boast about their accomplishments (rightfully–all are advanced exercises), but also support the gym that has given them six-packs and buns of steel. Some of these gyms are either just starting out or mainly for locals (like East Falls Fitness in Philadelphia), which means they probably need some promotional product advice.
Golf
Everything I know about golf I learned from The Legend of Bagger Vance and glow-in-the-dark mini golf on the Ocean City, N.J. boardwalk. My advice for a solid golf promotion: Don’t lose your swing, Will Smith knows all, and when in doubt, add more neon. If black lights and Matt Damon tearjerkers aren’t your thing, you don’t have to rely on me for promotional golf advice. I have some extra tidbits from Promo Marketing’s March story on golf apparel that can help your spring and summer game programs.
Phillip Ambros, marketing for Houston, Texas-based Sierra Pacific Apparel, offered advice on getting in with golf, even if you don’t play. “To sell golf apparel you need to know about the latest advances in the technology,” he said. “For instance what moisture wicking does and why it’s helpful along with the other treatments that have popped up in the last few years.” He added that distributors should learn the differences between fabrics. “You should know the value of the fabrics that you’re selling,” he said. “Does your client prefer polyester over comb ring-spun cotton? You need to know what the differences are and that will also explain the price differences between your choices.”
Marathons
Warm weather also means more outdoor running events, which you will learn more about in April’s outdoor products feature. For now, take a look at this cool hands-free water bottle for runners. Runners of long distances need to stay hydrated, which can be difficult if you cannot find a water fountain on mile 10 of 15. Carrying water bottles can add extra bulk and discomfort. So Belinda Goldsmith and Christine Manson invented the FitSip. The “hydration system” goes on a runner’s hand like a hand brace and holds 200 ml of water. Wouldn’t a logo look splendid on it? The FitSips are only available in the UK for now, but will likely cross over to the U.S. soon.
