Spreading the word about the REPs

As part of its commitment to maintaining high standards within the fitness industry and protecting those who exercise – as well as those who teach – the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) is due to launch its second public awareness campaign in September, in conjunction with the Fitness Industry Association (FIA).

Following last year’s Checkout Your Instructor campaign, more than 100,000 members of the public have logged onto www.exerciseregister.org to verify their fitness instructor’s registration status and qualifications.

The 2006 campaign will work along similar lines, with increased emphasis on employers making sure their employees – both full-time, part-time, freelance and voluntary – are REPs registered.

Registrar Cliff Collins said: “People wouldn’t dream of booking a holiday with a travel agent that wasn’t ABTA registered – nor would they think twice about checking out someone’s professional status with a trade body like the Law Society or the British Medical Council.

“If we are to grow as an industry and gain the respect we deserve as professionals we have to set ourselves the same high standards. Our message to the public is simple – before you exercise, ensure your instructor is a REPs member.”