Training leisure centre instructors: client motivational profiles examined

Abstract

PurposeTo investigate the motivations of clients attending leisure centres/clubs. It is noted that training programmes for instructors tend to neglect this, particularly in relation to the gender and age of clients.Design/methodology/approachIn this study 460 recreational athletes including equal numbers of males and females in the two age groups, 17‐27 years and 37‐84, were interviewed and given a short questionnaire concerning their motives for taking part in activities in leisure centres/clubs.FindingsIt was found that both gender and age influenced motivations to participate and reasons for leaving.Research limitations/implicationsThe need for instructors to be made aware of the very different motives driving recreational athletes to attend clubs was stressed, if client wastage is to be reduced.Originality/valueThis study shows that gender and age variables influence motivations for participation, with marked differences in motivations between males and females. This article pin‐points areas that instructors need to take into account when training and will be of interest to instructors in the leisure business.