To support my research project, I plan to build connections with local gyms, gym staff, trainers, and beginner users in Kunming, Yunnan province. Since my project focuses on reducing psychological barriers for first-time gym users, creating a strong network within fitness spaces is important for both research access and intervention testing.
I have already connected with two local gyms, Body&Soul Fitness and Hercules Fitness, where I previously trained for around three years. This experience has given me a good understanding of their environments, target audiences, and membership systems, allowing me to engage with these spaces more naturally and understand differences in gym culture and customer behavior.
I interviewed a sales representative from Hercules Fitness, Yang Fang, whose role is introducing new members to the gym environment and membership services. Through this interview, I learned more about how gyms attract beginners, the concerns potential members often have, and why many hesitate before joining.
I also contacted Zhu Zhenghao, the manager and certified personal trainer at Body&Soul Fitness. He introduced me to the current situation of the gym, and I shared my research goals with him. The gym owner showed strong interest in my project and expressed enthusiasm about possible collaboration. I also plan to work there temporarily during the summer to gain deeper insight into gym operations and member experiences.
To compare fitness cultures in different countries, I interviewed the owner of Anytime Fitness (Woodberry Down) in the UK. He emphasized the importance of creating a comfortable and welcoming environment through small details and friendly interactions, helping members feel relaxed and supported from the moment they enter the gym.
In addition, I plan to join gym group chats and online fitness communities to interview beginner users directly about their first experiences, anxieties, and motivations. I also want to speak with people outside the fitness industry, including friends who have never been to a gym or stopped going after a short time.
Through these networks, I hope to create opportunities for observation, interviews, co-design, and intervention testing, helping me develop more user-centered solutions for improving first-time gym experiences and encouraging long-term participation in fitness culture.
