The distinctive capabilities system in the organizational performance of Portuguese fitness centers and gyms

Abstract

The aim of this article is from the concept of distinctive capacity, to highlight the importance of the system of distinctive capabilities in the overall, non-financial and financial performance of Portuguese fitness academies and gyms. As a secondary objective, the influence of the "adaptation" dimension on the system of distinctive capabilities. We develop and test hypotheses as to how adaptation impacts the distinctive capabilities system, and how this system impacts global performance, non-financial performance and financial performance. This study adopted a cross-sectional survey method to collect primary data. An online questionnaire was distributed to around 978 fitness gyms professionals, out of which 68 completed questionnaires were obtained. The hypotheses are tested by using partial least squares-path modelling. The analytical results indicate that adaption has a positive impact on distinctive capability system, while the system has a positive impact on the three dimensions of organizational performance. Thus, this study provides a better understanding of the impact of distinctive capabilities system in performance. The results of this study have the potential to call the attention of fitness gyms decision-makers to develop a distinctive capability system, in turn, fitness gyms will be able to achieve superior organizational performance.