Making Money in the Fitness Business [Paperback]

Thomas Plummer (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 1999

A brutally honest, real-world look at how to become successful in the fitness industry, told by one of the most renowned veterans of the business. Thomas Plummer explains the ins and outs of the business in detail, using real-life examples, providing illustrations, and adding just a touch of humor. Plummer lets you learn from his successes and failures as he provides you with the tools that will allow you to compete and succeed in fiercely competitive markets against any competition, while still maintaining your integrity. Covers conceptualizing the business, the financial foundation, member service, profit centers, staffing, marketing, sales, and so much more. A massive 336 page 8 ½ by 11 format.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Where was Thom Plummer 25 years ago when I was struggling to make it in the gym business? The information found in Making Money in the Fitness Business could have saved me hundreds of hours of frustration and caused me to be even more successful. I knew Thom was a pro but, until reading Making Money in the Business Business, I didn't realize how much of a professional he really is. My hat goes off to him for wanting to share this valuable information with others. -- Bill Pearl, Mr. California, Mr. America, four times Mr. Universe and lifelong gym creator and gym owner --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

About the Author

Thomas Plummer has over 20 years experience in the fitness industry. He is the founder of the Thomas Plummer Company, which currently has eight full-time employees and does approximately 22 major seminars per year. Thomas Plummer presents to over 4,000 people a year, including acting as MC for special events such as the national Powerhouse convention, writes numerous articles, and does independent consulting around the country. He has recently been featured on the cover of the IHRSA magazine and Club Insider.

In 1980, Thomas became the Vice President of Operations for ATA Fitness Centers located in San Francisco. This chain had 90 commercial fitness centers and 150 commercial martial arts schools. He was also a club manager and martial arts instructor in San Diego from 1980 to 1998. From 1985 to 1989, he became the Vice President of Marketing for American Service Finance, the largest third-party financial-service provider in the industry. He was the Executive Director of the National Health Club Association from 1989 to 1990.

He created Thomas Plummer and Associates in 1991 and started a limited tour with industry sponsorship. In 1999, he reformed the company as the Thomas Plummer Company and added Lloyd Collins as president and partner.

Thomas attended Western Illinois University and then attended graduate school at the University of Arkansas. He is a 3rd-degree black belt and has been involved in martial arts since 1976.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: Coaches Choice Books; DVD Video edition (August 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1585187097
• ISBN-13: 978-1585187096
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 8.6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #415,946 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

10 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Struggling gym owners can learn how to make money, for real!, July 22, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Making Money in the Fitness Business (Paperback)

I have been in the fitness business for 2 years and I 've been just breaking even, until I received this book from a friend that has a Gold's Gym. I was doing what was wrong with most gyms and trying to make it work. This book has given me a new perspective and by implementing just a few of the suggestions in this book, things are already turning around. My next 6 months should be very interesting. I would highly suggest this book for any owner even the ones that are making money, because you could always make more.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The best book I've ever read about the fitness business, June 1, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Making Money in the Fitness Business (Paperback)

From member service to financial foundation, this book gives you the most useful information on operating a gym. I recommend every gym owner read it and have their staff read it as well.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars All a gym owner needs to know about being in business., May 7, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Making Money in the Fitness Business (Paperback)

I wish I had this book 15 years ago when I first started my fitness business. It's easy to read and down to the point and full of tips about making money that I can apply right now in my business. Everyone who is in business or who is thinking about starting a business should read this book.