Industry Press Room - Athletic Business

Friday, May 11, 2012

Total Gym® Honored as Best in Class by the Medical Wellness Association

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Total Gym

SAN DIEGO — May, 2012 — Total Gym has been deemed “Best in Class for Medical Wellness Training Equipment,” by the Medical Wellness Association (MWA).

At the 10th annual Medical Wellness Forum during the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association’s 2012 International Convention (IHRSA), the MWA presented the first ever, Best of Medical Wellness Awards, recognizing companies that provided products and services that meet the highest medical wellness standards and guidelines.

Based on product service experience and reviews by the professional Association for the Medical Wellness Industry, Total Gym’s equipment was chosen for its medical grade quality, durability and proven wellness benefits and applications.

“Based on our reviews, the Medical Wellness Association believes and recognizes that Total Gym personal training equipment offers top medical wellness quality and performance,” says Christopher Breuleux, PhD and president of MWA. “We feel that Total Gym’s training products can work effectively in hospitals, physical medical practices, sports medicine centers and physical therapy clinics.”

Total Gym is the world’s leading manufacturer of functional and bodyweight resistance training equipment. The San Diego-based company’s Total Gym equipment is used in more than 14,000 physical therapy clinics, athletic training facilities, hospitals, universities, professional sports teams and health clubs, inspiring over 24 million workouts worldwide.

“The MWA distinction signifies Total Gym’s commitment to quality,” said Randy Bergstedt, chief operating officer of Total Gym. “We take great pride in designing, building and delivering outstanding products that have been providing medical and wellness professionals with a valuable treatment tool for more than 35 years.”

Physical therapists have utilized the Total Gym incline bodyweight trainer for more than three decades to deliver proven safe, non-compressive functional rehabilitation and reconditioning. The machine uniquely allows for over 200 multi-planar, functional exercises on one machine and is safe for users of every age and fitness level. Total Gym customers have come to rely on the incline trainer for functional rehabilitation, strength, injury prevention, sport-specific training and overall conditioning. Athletic trainers with the Chicago White Sox, Super Bowl XL & XLIII champions the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Seattle Seahawks turn to Total Gym PowerTower to get their athletes game ready.

Physical therapy practitioners have also successfully implemented Total Gym and Total Gym’s GRAVITY fitness program. Designed as a cash-based wellness service that allows post-rehab patients to continue their maintenance under supervision, the cost is typically no more than an insurance co-pay per session.

About Total Gym
Total Gym® is the world’s leading privately-held manufacturer of functional and bodyweight training equipment. Founded in 1974, the San Diego-based company’s Total Gym products are used in 14,000 physical therapy clinics, athletic training facilities, hospitals, universities, professional sports teams and health clubs, inspiring over 24 million workouts per year worldwide. Total Gym has a 15-year relationship with American Telecast Products, which launched the Total Gym bodyweight trainer into the consumer market with the longest running television infomercial in history, selling over four million units. Now with operations in 23 countries, Total Gym continues to lead the industry with innovative functional training equipment and the award-winning GRAVITYSystem® commercial fitness program. For more information, visit http://www.totalgym.com or call (800) 541-4900.

Posted At 10:30 AM • Comments (0)

Power Systems and Les Mills International Announce Exclusive U.S. Distributor Agreement

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Source: Power Systems

Knoxville, Tenn (May 11, 2012) – Power Systems, a Knoxville-based fitness and sports accessory equipment industry leader, has been selected by New Zealand-based Les Mills as the exclusive United States distributor of the company’s sports and fitness accessory products. Les Mills is the creator of the world’s leading group exercise programs.

Under the distributor agreement, Power Systems will exclusively market and distribute Les Mills products to fitness clubs and chains, college, university and high school athletic departments, professional personal trainers and fitness and sports training enthusiasts throughout the United States.

“Power Systems is extremely proud that a world leader like Les Mills has selected our company as its partner in the United States,” said Julie Pauletto, President of Power Systems. “This new distributor agreement is one of several growth initiatives currently underway at Power Systems.”

Commenting on the distributor agreement was Vaughan Schwass, CEO of Enterprises at Les Mills. “We selected Power Systems as our exclusive U.S. distributor because it has an outstanding reputation, high-quality products and great customer service. The U.S. is a key focus area for us, so we are pleased to have the expertise of industry-leading Power Systems managing the distribution of our equipment in this key region.”

About Power Systems
Power Systems is the fitness and sports accessory equipment industry leader committed to making a real difference in the health, fitness and performance needs of people at every level of experience. Since its founding in 1986, Power Systems has been recognized for its standards in customer service, product selection and on-time delivery. The company is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee. For additional information about Power Systems, visit their website at www.power-systems.com.

About Les Mills International
Les Mills International is the creator of 10 global group fitness programs. Millions of participants every week build their fitness in a LES MILLS™ class, with 90,000 certified instructors teaching LES MILLS™ programs in 14,000 clubs around the world. From its base in Auckland, New Zealand, Les Mills International renews each exercise-to-music program every three months. For more information on Les Mills, visit www.lesmills.com.

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Tuesday, May 08, 2012

Hartru.com Named Official Honoree in the "Oscars of the Internet"

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Source: Har-Tru Sports

CHARLOTTESVILLA, Va. —Har-Tru Sports, a global sports company with its roots in the tennis industry, is pleased to announce that its website, www.hartru.com, has been recognized as an Official Honoree in the 16th Annual Webby Awards. Presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, the Webbys honor excellence in design and content on the internet. Out of the 10,000 sites submitted this year, less than 15 percent were given nominations or honoree awards in their particular categories.

Designed and developed by Baltimore-based advertising agency Planit, the Har-tru website was honored in the Professional Services category. Websites are selected for recognition based on excellence in criteria that include, but are not limited to: content, structure and navigation, visual design, functionality, interactivity and overall experience.

Har-Tru enlisted Planit’s expertise to establish a new web presence that appealed to the athlete consumer and delivered the message that training on clay tennis courts helps develop players into champions. The website was also intended to help promote Har-Tru as a major public sports brand. By appealing to the athlete, the goal was to create more demand for Har-Tru courts as junior tennis players realize the advantages and benefits of training on clay courts to help develop key skills.

“Har-Tru’s selection as an Official Honoree is testament to the skill, wit and pioneering vision of our website’s creators at Planit,” said Pat Hansenn, director of marketing and sales for Har-Tru Sports. “We loved the energy, reverence and confidence that Planit was able to inject into the site, which has given it a definite personality. Planit was an ideal partner because they understood the essence of the Har-Tru brand and challenged us on how we could bring it to life digitally. We’re thrilled to see their efforts recognized by a group who truly understands this type of work and who are well-respected experts in the digital world.”

The Webby nod isn’t the first industry praise the Har-Tru website has received from the online community. The American Advertising Federation of Baltimore awarded Planit with a Gold ADDY® Award in the Interactive Media category for its work on Hartru.com. Gold award winners will move on to the regional District Two competition, competing with agencies from Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, Virginia and Washington, D.C. A win at the District level guarantees moving on to the National ADDY Competition.

Har-Tru Sports
Based in Charlottesville, Va.. Har-Tru Sports is the leading provider of clay courts, lighting and court accessories. The company has been developing innovative tennis products and making clay court ownership a reality for avid and competitive tennis players for more than 40 years. The company has a passion for tennis and is taking a leadership role in advancing the game while enhancing the playing experience through innovative products. Har-Tru Sports is best known for its Har-Tru brand of clay courts and uses its products and product knowledge to further the development of tennis champions around the world. The company’s global expansion now includes courts in Australia and China, and about the innovative materials used to create the clay surface, such as billion-year-old metal basalt green stone.

Posted At 1:21 PM • Comments (0)

Aquatic Risk Management Online Training Course Now Available in Spanish

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Source: National Swimming Pool Foundation

Colorado Springs, Colorado, May 3, 2012 — The Aquatic Risk Management (ARM) online training course developed by the National Swimming Pool Foundation® (NSPF®) is now available in Spanish and can be accessed on the NSPF website, www.nspf.org/online training, or by clicking on this link. The course features video, images, narration and exercises, and includes the Aquatic Risk Management Handbook in Spanish. The Aquatic Risk Management course is the first of its kind for native Spanish speakers around the globe. Designed to help managers and operators protect customers and staff and to reduce risk and liability, the course takes about 2-hours, costs $50.00 U.S. per student, and includes a record of completion once the exam is successfully passed.

“The guidance provided in the Aquatic Risk Management course is applicable globally and will suit most aquatic installations around the world,” explained Silvia Uribe, NSPF International Coordinator. “Aquatic facility managers and risk management personnel will be able to identify, develop, implement, employ rules, and establish practices that will help them achieve the important task of ensuring the health and safety of their patrons, staff, and the facility.”

“Attaining financial success at aquatic facilities can be a balancing act. Management must have excellent programming and marketing to attract customers. And, it is critical that personnel manage risk since drowning, disease, chemical exposure, and injuries jeopardize customer loyalty and can bankrupt the facility and destroy careers,” stressed Thomas M. Lachocki, Ph.D., CEO of the National Swimming Pool Foundation.

The interactive course enhances learning, and allows students to work through a series of topics, along with case studies that are fully illustrated, with photos and examples throughout. Participants will find a discussion of the aquatic risk management process and content on the following topics:

The Law and the Aquatic Professional – In any legal case involving personal injury, several factors are considered to determine whether a case has merit and whether damages are awarded. These factors are explained in the course: Negligence Law; Standard of Care; Duty of Care, Breach of Duty; Proximate Cause.
Case Studies – Five case studies illustrate how judgments are reached in a variety of incidences: Diving injury, motel pool drowning, chemical exposure, motel diving injury, waterpark slide injury.
Aquatic Risk Management - Best practices are discussed, including maintaining a high quality of work; staff hiring and training; maintaining equipment and record keeping. This section also includes a suggested daily operator record checklist and an opening and closing checklist.
Implementing a Risk Management Plan – Factors in identifying risks, how to evaluate and manage the risk, including recommendations on informational signage. Costs, liability issues and legal mandates (codes and regulations) are also covered.
Emergency Response Plans –This includes an explanation of staff member roles and responsibilities for the Emergency Response Team and examples of incidents that would require an emergency response plan.

Register for the Aquatic Risk Management online training course by calling 719-540-9119. Spanish speakers may also contact Silvia Uribe, NSPF International Coordinator at silvia.uribe@nspf.org or by SKYPE Silvia.Uribe1.

About NSPF®
The National Swimming Pool Foundation® (NSPF®) is a non-profit organization founded in 1965, giving back over $4 million in the past eight years to fund grants to prevent illness, injury, and drowning, and to demonstrate the health benefits of aquatic activity. The Foundation works towards its mission to enhance healthy living by increasing aquatic activity through aquatic education and research and with its collection of multilingual educational products and training. NSPF is the leading educator for professionals who service and operate public and private pools and spas and for public health officials who are responsible for pool safety. To learn more, go to www.nspf.org.

Posted At 1:17 PM • Comments (0)

Noritsu Technical Services Partners with Green Fitness Equipment Co.

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Source: Green Fitness Equipment Co.

DEL MAR, CA—MAY 2, 2012– Green Fitness Equipment Co., developer of innovative preventative maintenance solutions for fitness equipment, is pleased to announce a partnership with Noritsu Technical Services, which is a division of Noritsu America Corporation. As the only nationwide service company for fitness equipment, Noritsu offers maintenance solutions for all types of gym environments. The treadmill saver product will be added to Noritsu’s service offering to their customers, enabling proactive monitoring of equipment, maximizing their investment, energy efficiency and warranty while increasing the safety of gym members.

Support and repairs are the most costly occurrence after the initial purchase of equipment, in addition to the issue of downtime. Like a traffic light, the treadmill saver glows green, yellow and red to alert when maintenance is needed on the treadmill, prior to breakdowns resulting in reputation damaging ‘out of order’ signs. “One of our mottos at Noritsu is, ‘let us take care of your equipment, so you can take care of your business.’ The treadmill saver is a unique tool that comes along every so often that will enable Noritsu field technicians to do their jobs more precisely and will ultimately save our customers time and money,” said Patrik Norrby, Vice President of Business Development at Noritsu.

Noritsu service technicians will utilize the treadmill saver to monitor customer’s equipment for routine maintenance scheduling to reduce overall costs of operation. “The treadmill saver is a natural fit for Noritsu to add to their to service model to keep treadmills running efficiently while reducing power costs for the gym environment,” said Justin Hai, CEO of Green Fitness Equipment Co. “Pairing a proactive product with a first rate national service team makes sense and the overall fitness industry will benefit from this partnership.”

About Noritsu Technical Services
Noritsu Technical Services began as the service arm of Noritsu America Corporation, the inventor of one-hour photo processing. Over the last 35 years, we have built a service and support staff spanning across North America. Our diverse service knowledge and unique skill set has allowed us to branch out to other verticals, including the fitness industry. Today, NTS has over 200 field technicians in North America, offering a service support hotline, internet service portal, service agreement packages, and parts ordering to ensure that our customers’ equipment is operational around the clock. Please visit us at www.ntsservice.com.

About Green Fitness Equipment Co.
Green Fit Co. is an innovative health and fitness company focused on preventative maintenance. Our product line supports the efficiency and lifespan of gym equipment to help lower the operating expenses associated with managing and operating fitness facilities. Visit us at www.greenfitco.com and look for Gymbo’s Gymflix for handy maintenance tips.

Posted At 1:13 PM • Comments (0)

Tuesday, May 01, 2012

24th Annual Project ACES Day May 2

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Source: Project ACES

INDIANAPOLIS - In conjunction with May as Exercise is Medicine® Month, "The World's Largest Exercise Class" is coming to children and schools around the world May 2nd. Millions of children across the globe will be celebrating the 24th annual Project ACES Day beginning at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 2. In addition to Exercise is Medicine Month, Project ACES (All Children Exercise Simultaneously) coincides with National Physical Fitness and Sports Month and National Physical Education Week.

Project ACES engages millions of children, parents, and teachers each year to participate in physical activity at their schools and at home. Through Project ACES, children learn the value and importance of good nutrition, adequate physical fitness and healthy decision-making – lessons they can carry well into adulthood.

Schools can choose their activity, from walking to jogging, from martial arts to dancing. Students typically exercise for 15 to 45 minutes following an educational component. In the past, schools have incorporated celebrity guest speakers or used music in their Project ACES activities. The program has been recognized by multiple presidents, including Bill Clinton and Ronald Reagan, and has inspired events in 50 different countries. As the time zones change, this chain of local events creates a global wave of exercise.

"Project ACES is a great way to teach children how to live a healthy lifestyle through adequate physical activity,” said physical education teacher Len Saunders, who created the program to motivate children to exercise in 1989. “Childhood obesity is an issue plaguing many young people today, and Project ACES is designed to make physical activity fun.”

Schools and students will celebrate Project ACES Day by making physical activity a priority. Federal physical activity guidelines recommend children and adolescents do 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Project ACES helps children reach this goal with activities ranging from jogging to sports and games. Teachers can also make physical activity a priority throughout the year by creating a Project ACES Club at their school.

“We're all in this together,” said Shihan H. J. Saunders, the president of the Youth Fitness Coalition and an exercise physiologist. "Something magical happens when we synchronize our collective consciousness in the spirit of FUN on Project ACES Day.”

Parents are invited to participate by joining their kids at school or by celebrating on May 5th for the fifth annual PACES Day: Parents and Children Exercise Simultaneously. PACES Day kicks off a 52-week exercise program with various fun activities parents can enjoy with their children. The PACES website offers resources including a list of family activity ideas for every week of the year.

“If we feel good about ourselves, we can lead by example, and inspire our kids to be their fit best, not just with Project ACES and PACES Day, but every day and toward each other,” said Shihan Saunders.

PACES Day and Project ACES are signature programs of the Youth Fitness Coalition, a New Jersey-based non-profit organization committed to combating childhood obesity by making exercise programs fun, medically safe and age-appropriate by educating and inspiring children, parents and teachers about the importance of lifelong fitness and making healthy lifestyle choices daily.

Information on Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans and other resources is available online.

Posted At 2:16 PM • Comments (1)

Monday, April 30, 2012

Action Floor Earns Negative Carbon Footprint Certification

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Source: Action Floor Systems

(MERCER, WI) Action Floor Systems, manufacturer of premium hardwood maple and supplier of synthetic sports floors, has been certified as a Negative Carbon Footprint provider following a Life Cycle Assessment conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the University of Wisconsin. Action Floor’s mill is the only one accredited by the Maple Flooring Manufacturers Association (MFMA) to receive this credential.

Action’s Negative Carbon Footprint certification reflects a sustainability-based manufacturing model, with verified adherence to ISO 14000 series standards (ISO 2006). The company’s own third party-verifiable SCORES program (Sustainable Construction Of Renewable Engineered Surfaces) has driven the push for minimizing environmental impact from all aspects of the manufacturing process.

“This is a game-changer,” says Tom Abendroth, Action Floor president. “Our ongoing efforts to assess and address our environmental impacts and establish groundbreaking best practices have landed us in a position that’s all our own in the industry.”

“Carbon footprint” refers to the net sum of carbon waste in the form of carbon dioxide (CO2) released into the atmosphere through all of an entity’s activities. These include raw material acquisition, transportation, manufacturing processes, energy usage, waste and emission management and other factors. An overall negative carbon footprint can be achieved by critically assessing and reversing all carbon waste associated, either directly or indirectly, with all activities, and taking steps to offset carbon emissions through forestry replenishment and new growth.

Abendroth adds, “Achieving a carbon neutral footprint has been the Holy Grail for many manufacturers, but through our recycling, re-use, conservation and reforestation efforts, we have actually attained a carbon negative standing. It is an extraordinary achievement.”

Action Floor’s SCORES sustainability model has led to the company being registered on the Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) product database, and Action products contribute toward LEED® EQ 4.3 Low-Emitting Materials certification (LEED Green Building Rating Systems).

Action Floor Systems manufactures high-performance hardwood sports floor systems, constructed of hard maple grown exclusively in northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The company also offers Herculan® polyurethane synthetic systems, RexCourt® vinyl sheet, ReFlex® recycled rubber flooring products, and AirRide floor cover systems. For more information, contact Action Floor Systems, 4781 North U.S. Highway 51 Mercer, WI 54547-9708 Phone 1-800-746-3512 Fax 715.476.3585 E-mail info@actionfloors.com or visit www.actionfloors.com.

Posted At 10:39 AM • Comments (0)

Friday, April 27, 2012

ACE Kick Starts National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

Posted by AB Editors

Source: American Council on Exercise

SAN DIEGO, Calif. (April 26, 2012) — American Council on Exercise (ACE), in support of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month in May, is launching the ACE PALA+ Challenge to help individuals kick start a program to achieve the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award (PALA+). The ACE PALA+ Challenge consists of weekly cardiovascular and resistance workout plans for May and beyond that allow participants to fulfill the requirements for PALA+, reinvigorate a habit of daily physical activity, or begin a new plan to live their most fit life.

“At ACE, our job is to arm individuals with the tools for engaging in safe and effective exercise regardless of their current fitness level,” said ACE CEO Scott Goudeseune. “National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is the perfect opportunity for Americans to kick start a healthier and more active lifestyle. ACE has a vision of the world devoid of the obesity epidemic that is threatening our quality of life. This challenge is just one more way we empower all Americans to life their most fit lives.”

The ACE PALA+ Challenge is designed to build total body strength, enhance cardiovascular endurance, gain muscular definition, lose weight, improve health and increase energy. Created for exercise beginners, the plan can also be used as a dynamic warm-up for more advanced individuals, and can be completed at home or in a gym under the guidance of a certified personal trainer.

The ACE PALA+ Challenge is available at www.ACEFitness.org/PALAChallenge and includes weekly guides with instructional videos demonstrating proper form for each exercise. Additionally, ACE will share expert advice and inspiration on its Twitter channel every day in May in support of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.

“We are excited that ACE has launched the ACE PALA+ Challenge as a way to engage even more Americans to start a healthy lifestyle by completing PALA+,” said PCFSN Co-chair Dominique Dawes. “The President’s Council is constantly looking for opportunities to promote our mission and this collaboration will bring our messaging to millions of Americans.

Since 1983, May has been observed as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, with individuals and organizations across the country joining together to promote awareness of the value of physical activity in the pursuit of happier, healthier, more productive lives. The mission of National Physical Fitness and Sports Month coincides with the goal of PALA+ to encourage all Americans to make being active a part of their everyday lives.

Adult participants in PALA+ are required to complete 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week for six out of eight weeks. PALA+ also includes a nutritional component, where participants must add a weekly healthy eating goal per week, and build upon those goals throughout the six week period. Goals include increasing intake of fruits and vegetables, managing portion sizes and drinking water rather than sugary drinks.

About ACE
The American Council on Exercise (ACE), America’s premier fitness and personal trainer certification, continuing education, and training organization, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the benefits of physical activity and protecting Americans against unsafe and ineffective fitness products and instruction. ACE sponsors university-based fitness and exercise science research studies and is the world’s largest nonprofit fitness certifying organization. For more information on ACE and its programs, call (800) 825-3636 or visit the ACE website at www.acefitness.org.

About PCFSN
The President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition (PCFSN) educates, engages and empowers all Americans to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and good nutrition. PCFSN is a committee of volunteer citizens who advise the President through the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Through its partnerships with the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, PCFSN promotes programs and initiatives that motivate people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to lead active, healthy lifestyles. PCFSN is co-chaired by NFL Quarterback Drew Brees and Olympic gymnast Dominique Dawes. For more information, visit www.fitness.gov.

Posted At 4:00 PM • Comments (0)

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Cybex Wins 2012 FIBO Innovation Award

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Cybex International Inc.

MEDWAY, MA, (APRIL 24, 2012) – Cybex International, Inc. (NASDAQ: CYBI), a leading manufacturer of premium exercise equipment, recently received the prestigious FIBO Innovation Award 2012 for the patented Progressive Stabilization system featured on its Bravo Press and Bravo Pull strength machines. The award was presented at the annual FIBO trade show on Friday, April 20, in Essen, Germany.

“We set out to combine the advantages of isolative strength training equipment with the advantages of cable press and pull equipment, and Progressive Stabilization was born,” said Ray Giannelli, senior vice president of research and development for Cybex International. “We’re thrilled that the FIBO Innovation Award jury saw fit to recognize this advancement in exercise technology. It inspires us to continue creating better ways to work out.”

Multi-function cable systems traditionally provide a variety of movement options in one machine with limited stability and strength gains. Single-function fixed-path equipment traditionally provides stability and increased loading with limited movement variety. Utilizing Progressive Stabilization, Cybex’s Bravo Press and Bravo Pull are the first multi-function cable training stations to offer the stability and strength potential found in single-function, fixed-path equipment along with the expanded movement variety typical with multi-function cable training systems. The Bravo Press and Bravo Pull also offer no-stability or partial-stability settings, allowing trainers to create workouts that build strength and skills in a progressive, highly effective manner.

“With the growth of functional training products and programming, be it in one-on-one or group fitness sessions, the Bravo series is the ‘must have’ equipment for any size facility. Alone, combined with the Arc Trainer or bundled with other functional training tools, it’s a proven performer when it comes to results,” said Lisa Juris, vice president of marketing for Cybex International.

“Progressive Stabilization combines the best of multi-function cable systems with the best of fixed-path single-function systems, and the result is a better strength workout,” said Dr. Paul Juris, executive director of the Cybex Research Institute. Bravo Press and Bravo Pull with Progressive Stabilization provide a 212-percent increase in load capacity and a 184-percent increase in core activation compared to other free-standing machines, according to a study conducted by the University of Massachusetts Amherst Department of Kinesiology. “What this means is Progressive Stabilization gives users a greater variety of training options and delivers what users want: faster, safer results,” said Dr. Juris.

About Cybex
Cybex International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of premium exercise equipment primarily for commercial use. The Cybex product line, including a full range of strength and cardio training machines, is designed using exercise science to reflect the natural movement of the human body. Led by the Cybex Research Institute, Cybex fitness equipment is engineered to produce optimal results for users from the first-time exerciser to the professional athlete. Cybex designs and builds its products in the USA for a wide range of facilities, from commercial health clubs to home gyms, in more than 85 countries worldwide. For more information on Cybex and its products, visit the company’s website at www.cybexintl.com.

Posted At 1:24 PM • Comments (0)

Thursday, April 19, 2012

DINOFLEX® Achieves ClimateSmart Seal

Posted by AB Editors

Source: DINOFLEX

We are extremely pleased to validate DINOFLEX® Group LP’s participation in & completion of the ClimateSmart program. “As DINOFLEX, (a recycled rubber surfaces manufacturer) was established in 1989 on the basis of environmental stewardship, participating in this program just made sense,” says CEO Terry MacLeod.

ClimateSmart has long been recognized for their work in the arena of ‘energy,’ helping businesses calculate emissions, then measure & reduce their carbon footprint while cutting costs.

In order to successfully complete the ClimateSmart program, DINOFLEX® was required to complete a greenhouse gas emissions inventory & submit a list of reductions strategies.

“We participated in the educational program, delivered by ClimateSmart, and successfully completed the greenhouse gas emissions inventory, which was reviewed by an expert third party,” says Kevin Manke, DINOFLEX Production Manager. “Taking leadership in climate change is not only important for our company and our staff, we believe that change begins with choice and here at DINOFLEX®, we are constantly looking for innovative ways to foster the transition to a prosperous, low-carbon future with environmental protection and social equity. This commitment in turns looks after people, profits and our planet.”

For more Information on DINOFLEX® visit www.dinoflex.com.

Posted At 4:14 PM • Comments (0)

Iron Grip and RetroFitness Announce Partnership

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Iron Grip Barbell Company

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. – April 18, 2012 – Iron Grip Barbell Company, the industry leading manufacturer of durable, innovative, American-made free weight equipment, and RetroFitness, America’s rapidly growing fitness chain offering the industry’s most innovative equipment and motivating workout environment, announced today that RetroFitness has selected Iron Grip to be the preferred supplier of dumbbells, barbells, and Olympic plates to RetroFitness franchise locations nationwide.

“After much research and comparison, we determined Iron Grip free weights to be the best fit for our franchisees,” said Matthew Schultz, vice president of operations for RetroFitness. “As we’ve continued our aggressive national expansion, we realized that choosing the right equipment partner was critical in every category, and with Iron Grip’s long-standing reputation for quality, reliability, and outstanding customer service, they were the logical choice.”

RetroFitness features a full collection of top-of-of-the line strength equipment and cardio machines complete with individualized LCD television monitors. Each RetroFitness location houses a RetroTheatre where members can work out in a darkened room on cardio machines while watching movies. In addition, members can enjoy personal training, tanning, full-service locker rooms, a RetroBlends juice bar and onsite chiropractic and massage therapy services.

“From the member perspective, Iron Grip equipment offers several user-friendly features that are sure to enhance our members’ fitness experience,” added Schultz. “For our franchisees, Iron Grip provides an excellent value to the gym operator because it’s extremely durable and requires little-to-no maintenance, which helps our franchisees reap the benefits of lower operating costs down the line.”

RetroFitness has chosen to install Iron Grip’s premium line of American-made free weight equipment, which includes their patented Urethane Olympic plates with opposing handgrips, maintenance-free Urethane dumbbells, and heavy-duty Olympic bars. In addition, the plates and dumbbells will be custom-engraved with the RetroFitness logo to reinforce the brand within the clubs.

“We’re very excited to be working with the RetroFitness team,” said Michael Rojas, president of Iron Grip Barbell Company. “Having high-end equipment in the gym sends the message to members that the club cares about their experience. This attention to detail will help RetroFitness’ rapidly growing franchisee base attract and retain members.”

For more information or to find the nearest RetroFitness location, please visit www.retrofitness.net or call (800) RETRO-04. To learn more about Iron Grip Barbell Company, please visit www.irongrip.com or call (800) 664-4766.

About Iron Grip
Iron Grip Barbell Company, based in Santa Ana, Calif., is the largest provider of commercial free weight equipment worldwide and the only manufacturer with a complete line of exclusively American-made free weight equipment. Iron Grip equipment can be found in premier fitness facilities in over 60 countries, including major health club chains, independent gyms, YMCAs, professional and university strength-training facilities, corporate wellness centers, hospital and physical therapy facilities, and police, firefighter and military fitness facilities worldwide. For more information, contact the company at 800-664-4766 or visit www.irongrip.com.

About RetroFitness
Founded in 2004 by entrepreneur Eric Casaburi, RetroFitness has evolved from a regional Mid-Atlantic gym concept into a national fitness system with more than 120 gyms in its development pipeline. Under Casaburi's leadership, RetroFitness has grown to nearly 80 gyms in 10 states. Expansion plans call for 300 gyms in the next three years and growth into new major markets such as Chicago, Dallas and Washington, D.C. Each RetroFitness location is equipped with a full-service fitness center including 60-100 pieces of equipment supplied by leading manufacturers. RetroFitness was ranked in the top of the 2012 Entrepreneur “Franchise 500” annual ranking, marking the brand’s second-consecutive appearance on the prestigious list. The company was also recognized as one of the “Top Fastest-Growing Franchises," and "Top New Franchise" In the publication’s 32nd annual ranking. For more information, please visit www.retrofitness.net, and to learn more about franchise opportunities visit www.retrofranchising.com.

Posted At 9:06 AM • Comments (0)

Brock International Launches New Website

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Brock International

Boulder, CO (April 19, 2012) – Brock International, whose Cradle to Cradle Certified combination drainage and shock pad product is used under synthetic turf fields to reduce the likelihood of concussions by up to 50%, has launched its new website, www.brock-international.com. In addition to sharing Brock’s mission of safety and sustainability, the site will feature a community of leading designers and builders experienced with synthetic turf to educate end-users about improving the quality of their sports field projects.

“We want to be a resource for those interested in technology and building a state-of-the-art sports surface,” explained Dan Sawyer, CEO of Brock International. “Besides sharing our mission, the new website was built to allow end-users to access the knowledge of proven experts specializing in the design and construction of a proper sports field.”

Education is a top priority for Brock. The site’s new Designers and Builders section features the most experienced providers to help people who are interested in bringing a synthetic turf field to their community avoid costly mistakes and make informed decisions. The enhanced website also includes relevant news, articles and information on the latest trends and developments in preventing concussions, sustainability practices and innovations within the synthetic turf industry overall. In addition, Brock tweets news @brock_intl and posts updates at Facebook.

“Synthetic turf is not just carpet,” added Sawyer. “It is one of the key pieces of ‘equipment’ that a sports program will offer their teams playing soccer, football, rugby, lacrosse or any activity, impacting speed, accuracy and even injury rates of the players. We all benefit when people share their knowledge and experience.”

About Brock International
Brock International is the leader in performance base systems for synthetic turf. With over 20 million square feet of Brock Performance Base in play underneath athletic fields worldwide, the company engineers the best, safest and most sustainable playing surfaces in the world for athletes at all levels. Brock has handled hundreds of successful installations for clients ranging from NFL teams and major universities to community parks. In October 2011, Brock became the first company in the industry to have a Cradle to Cradle Certification CM for its combined drainage and shock pad product. Brock also plays a key role in preventing concussions. Scientific testing proves the product reduces the likelihood of traumatic brain injury by up to 50%, provides the same G-Max and playability as a pristine natural grass field and mitigates field hardening over time. Visit www.brock-international.com to learn more.

Posted At 8:49 AM • Comments (0)

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Playworld Systems Launches Custom Themed Playgrounds

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Playworld Systems

LEWISBURG, PA (April 16, 2012) – Playworld Systems, a leading manufacturer of imaginative playground and fitness equipment, today announced the launch of custom themed playgrounds, a new line of equipment that fundamentally changes traditional playgrounds with vibrant designs and exciting sculptural elements.

“Playgrounds have come a long way from simple post-and-platform arrangements to creative structures that rival some of the amazing, imaginative play areas found in popular theme parks,” said Matthew Miller, chief executive officer of Playworld Systems. “More of our customers are looking for playgrounds that incorporate ideas and designs relevant to their community. Custom themed playgrounds grant that wish and more.”

The new line allows customers to create playgrounds on any theme they desire or choose from the existing collection. The options include:

Garden Grove, where flowers bloom 14 feet into the sky, and stalks conceal a secret stairwell
Space Camp, where children can channel their inner astronaut inside a rocket-shaped playground
Tree Fort, a rustic getaway that branches out above the ground and encourages creativity to soar

Customers are encouraged to share their ideas with Playworld Systems’ which will then create a one-of-a-kind custom playground specifically for them.

The new product line uses intricate, hand-carved elements that make each custom themed playground unique. Skilled artisans provide a level of craftsmanship that bring the playgrounds to life. “The sculpted features bring whimsy and magic to the playground to entice and engage in an unprecedented way,” added Miller.

Playworld Systems’ custom themed playgrounds help develop kids’ cognitive, social and language skills as they role play, make up stories and adventures, and explore endless possibilities for fun.

About Playworld Systems Inc.
For over 40 years, Playworld Systems has been a leader in creating imaginative, customized commercial playground and fitness equipment that positively impacts the health and well-being of communities around the globe. Based on the belief that The World Needs Play®, Playworld Systems brings the joy and benefits of healthful outdoor play and exercise to people of every age and ability through such innovative product lines as PlayDesigns®, PlaySimple®, Playworld®, Origins™, NEOS®, ENERGI®, and LifeTrail® .

Playworld Systems' products are made in the U.S.A. in its Lewisburg, Pa. manufacturing facility using domestic and foreign content, with a small number of parts purchased from trusted international suppliers. This multi-generational, family-owned company continues to invest significant resources to measurably reduce its impact on the environment. Its aggressive action to eliminate polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has helped Playworld Systems become the first and only playground manufacturer to have its products Cradle to Cradle CertifiedCM Basic. The company offers an optimal customer experience unique in the industry – from value-added services using Microsoft Tag to personalized attention through its vast network of local distributors.

Playworld Systems has received numerous awards throughout its history, including two International Industrial Design Excellence Awards, a gold medal from International Design magazine, two News Directors’ Choice Awards on Early Childhood, and the Pennsylvania Governors’ Award for Safety Excellence. In 2012, Playworld Systems received an Evergreen Award in the Sports Recreation category from the GSA Integrated Workplace. For more information about Playworld Systems, visit PlayworldSystems.com.

Posted At 11:30 AM • Comments (1)

Monday, March 19, 2012

U.S. Olympic Committee Launches Safe Sport Program

Posted by AB Editors

Source: U.S. Olympic Committee

The U.S. Olympic Committee today announced the launch of Safe Sport, a welfare training program aimed at improving the safety of athletes. The program is the latest step taken by the USOC to implement the recommendations of its Working Group for Safe Training Environments. "Sport offers children immeasurable benefits, whether it's learning the value of teamwork and fair play, or simply gaining from a healthy and active lifestyle," said USOC CEO Scott Blackmun. "As sport administrators, it's our job to provide opportunities for young athletes to compete and to ensure that they can do so in a safe and secure environment. That requires constant vigilance and the U.S. Olympic Committee is committed to provide leadership, energy and resources in the effort to safeguard children." In 2010, the USOC convened the Working Group for Safe Training Environments and charged it with the task of developing a set of recommendations concerning misconduct in sport. The diverse group, which included individuals from the Olympic family as well as external experts, focused on four primary objectives:

~Address sexual and physical misconduct in sport
~Review the guidelines across sport and sport-related organizations for responding to these issues
~Assess the needs of athletes, coaches, staff, National Governing Bodies, clubs and other sport organizations
~Develop a set of recommendations to promote athlete well-being

Based on the group's report, the USOC hired a director of safe sport in 2011 charged with developing a robust program to address misconduct in sport by providing information, training and resources. The immediate Safe Sport resource being made available is an 80-page handbook titled "Recognizing, Reducing and Responding to Misconduct in Sport: Creating Your Strategy," which aims to guide the development, implementation and internal review of effective athlete welfare and misconduct prevention strategies for local, regional and national sport organizations. The handbook, developed in consultation with the NGB Council and its Safe Sport Taskforce, has been distributed to each of the NGBs in the U.S. Olympic family and is endorsed by the full NGB Council.

"This handbook will serve as a helpful guide to all NGBs as they create policies and procedures to ensure that young athletes have every opportunity to participate in sport while ensuring that the training environment is safe and secure," said Ron Van Pool, chairman of the NGB Council's Safe Sport Task Force. "Every sport and every sport organization is different. This handbook recognizes that fact and provides for the appropriate application of different strategies for different organizations, all of which serve the goal of protecting athletes."

In addition to the handbook, a new website is in the final stages of development and will be launched later this month. It will offer downloadable material, including the handbook, best policies and procedure practices, a professionally produced video certification training program and other resources to identify the potential signs of abuse, the environments in which abuse can occur, and direction on how to raise a red flag before any inappropriate behavior occurs. Finally, recognizing that legal guidance and assistance will be required in some instances, a Safe Sport Legal Referral Network has been formed thanks to a group of generous firms and legal professionals committed to providing legal support to NGBs, free of charge, to aid them in appropriately investigating claims of athlete maltreatment.

Posted At 10:55 AM • Comments (0)

Connor Sport Court and UPS Take Men's 2012 Final Four Court on Seven-City Tour

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Connor Sport Court

Connor Sport Court International, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-performance sports flooring, and UPS (NYSE: UPS), an official NCAA corporate partner, today announced that Louisville will be part of a seven-city tour of the hardwood basketball court that will serve as the centerpiece of the 2012 NCAA® Men’s Final Four®.

The Connor Sport Court Final Four Floor Tour transported by UPS will bring the hardwood court to Witherspoon Street between 1st and 2nd in Louisville from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 17.

To see the court assembled in quick time go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGqymbK3p5g.

A documentary team from CBS Television is filming the tour, from construction of the court in Amasa, Michigan, to Final Four play in New Orleans.

There will be free fun for everyone:

The first 100 individuals showing up will receive an official NCAA 3”X 6” piece of the floor emblazoned with the Final Four logo.

Have your photo taken on the 8’ X 8’ Center Court replica piece

Play basketball on a genuine Sport Court® backyard court

Play the NCAA Trivia Game

Sign the Final Four Floor Tour banner.

The Final Four will take place March 31 and April 2 at the Superdome in New Orleans. The championship court, which will be transported by UPS Freight, will begin its road trip on March 16 at UPS’s hub in Columbus, Ohio. From there it will travel on March 17 to Louisville, Ky., one of the host sites for the second and third rounds of the men’s tournament.

On March 19, the court will make a stop at the UPS Freight facility in Atlanta followed by Auburn University in Auburn, Ala., on March 20; the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg on March 21, and LSU in Baton Rouge on March 22 before arriving at its final destination in New Orleans on March 23.

The court, A QuickLock™ portable system, was crafted by Connor especially for the 2012 Men’s Final Four. It was constructed of northern hardwood maple in strict accordance with NCAA specifications. Connor Sport Court is a member of the Maple Flooring Manufacturers Association (MFMA) and adheres to the stringent grading and quality standards of that organization.

“It’s a pleasure to partner with the eminent UPS brand on our tour,” said Ron Cerny, President and CEO of Connor Sport Court. “It’s a great pairing. We are the foremost expert in building sports surfaces and UPS is the foremost expert in logistics.”

Connor Sport Court also is supplying the court for the 2012 NCAA Women’s Final Four, which will take place April 1 and 3 at the Pepsi Center in Denver. The hardwood maple for the NCAA Final Four courts is sourced by Connor as rough lumber from about 60 different sawmills, most of which are located in Michigan and Wisconsin.

About Connor Sport Court International
More athletic events are played on Connor Sport Court surfaces than on any other sports flooring in the world. Founded in 1872, Connor Sport Court has established itself as the standard for professional and collegiate sports. Hardwood used in the courts is from a renewable resource with the U.S. growing six times more hardwood than is harvested each year. Sport Court® is a registered trade mark of Connor Sport Court International. Since 1974, it has identified the original and authentic modular sport surface, continuously improved and patented to provide the highest levels of quality and performance. Connor Sport Court is proud to be the only sports surfacing company in the world that is independently audited and certified as “Zero Waste” and fully ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004 certified.

About UPS
UPS (NYSE:UPS) is a global leader in logistics, offering a broad range of solutions including the transportation of packages and freight; the facilitation of international trade, and the deployment of advanced technology to more efficiently manage the world of business. Headquartered in Atlanta, UPS serves more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. The company can be found on the Web at UPS.com and its corporate blog can be found at blog.ups.com. To get UPS news direct, visit pressroom.ups.com/RSS.

Posted At 8:54 AM • Comments (0)

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Synthetic Turf Council’s Spring Membership Meeting Breaks Attendance Records

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Synthetic Turf Council

(Atlanta, Ga.) – Held from March 5 – 7, the Synthetic Turf Council ’s Spring Membership Meeting in Las Vegas attracted a record attendance of 226 individuals representing companies located throughout the world and of all types in the synthetic turf industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, installers, landscape architects and engineers, testing labs, and maintenance equipment and service companies. The theme of the conference was “Quality: Live it, Breathe it, Achieve it.”

Enhancing the performance of synthetic turf sports fields was a major focus of the educational program. A session called “STC Guidelines for Synthetic Turf Performance” detailed the STC’s new performance guidelines and applicable test protocols for multi-purpose sports fields. Moderated by John Baize of ACT Global Sports, the panel included Erle Miles of Testing Services, Inc., Rusty Abell of ISA-Sport and Eric O’Donnell of Sports Labs. Grove Teates of Alpine Services discussed “Specifying and Constructing Stable and Lasting Bases Under Synthetic Turf Sports Fields,” and Rich Dunn of Hunter Industries presented on the “Benefits of Irrigation for Synthetic Turf Sports Fields.”

Officials from FIFA, the international governing body for soccer, delivered several updates on the FIFA Quality Concept for Football Turf (synthetic turf). Johannes Holzmüller and Nicolas Evans applauded the STC for creating performance guidelines and test protocols for multi-purpose sports fields, and described the importance of these guidelines and regular maintenance to assure consistent performance throughout a sports field’s useful life. Dr. Eric Harrison highlighted the exhaustive research that FIFA has conducted that has validated the safety of synthetic turf. FIFA has designated synthetic turf as the best alternative to natural grass in areas where grass cannot grow, withstand heavy usage or be easily maintained.

Environmental responsibility was another key focus of the meeting. David Nardone of Stantec Sport addressed the topic of “Sustainable Athletic Fields – A Case Study,” highlighting its design of the most sustainable playing fields in the country at Battery Park City in New York. Dr. Davis Lee of the InnovaNet Group moderated the “End-of-Life Disposal, Recycling and Repurposing Options for Synthetic Turf and Its Components and Applicable EPA Regulations” panel, whose participants included Mark Heinlein of Turf Reclamation Services, LLC, Mark Mitchell of FieldAway USA and Russ Neuman of Textile Rubber and Chemical. Other highlights of the meeting included an Exhibitor Showcase, and a special report on the STC’s growth and significant impact from STC Board Chairman, John B. Giraud of Target Technologies International, Inc. The STC’s Annual Membership Meeting will be held in Dallas, Texas from October 1 – 3, 2012.

About the Synthetic Turf Council
Based in Atlanta, the Synthetic Turf Council was founded in 2003 to promote the industry and to assist buyers and end users with the selection, use and maintenance of synthetic turf systems in sports field, golf, municipal parks, airports, landscape and residential applications. The organization is also a resource for current, credible, and independent research on the safety and environmental impact of synthetic turf. Membership includes builders, landscape architects, testing labs, maintenance providers, manufacturers, suppliers, installation contractors, infill material suppliers and other specialty service companies. For more information, visit www.syntheticturfcouncil.org.

Posted At 10:22 AM • Comments (1)

Thursday, March 08, 2012

NATA Announces Support of Advocates for Injured Athletes

Posted by AB Editors

Source: National Athletic Trainers' Association

DALLAS and SAN DIEGO, March 7, 2012—The National Athletic Trainers’ Association announced today its official support of Advocates for Injured Athletes (A4IA) and its “Athletes Saving Athletes™” program that provides high school students with training and skills to recognize signs and symptoms of life-threatening injuries. The goal of the program is to reduce the risk and incidence of injury and death among student athletes.

March is National Athletic Training Month with the theme “Athletic Trainers Save Lives.”

Advocates for Injured Athletes also announced today two new San Diego-area schools that will adopt the ASA program. Its next two schedule dates are Thursday, March 8 at Torrey Pines High School and Thursday, March 22 at Point Loma High School. Santa Fe Christian was the inaugural site of the program launch in January and additional schools in San Diego County have already committed. To see the ASA program in action please view: http://youtu.be/rX0GgOK1erQ.

“Every year, high school athletes suffer 2 million injuries, 500,000 doctor visits and 30,000 hospitalizations,” said Beth Mallon, executive director of Advocates for Injured Athletes. “While an estimated 42 percent of U.S. high schools have access to an athletic trainer, these health care professionals cannot be present at all practices and competitions of every school sport, often leaving student athletes vulnerable in the event of a serious injury. We have designed this program as a new line of defense on high school playing fields, equipping student athletes with basic knowledge and skills that empower them to play a role in reducing the risk of life-threatening situations among their teammates and friends.”

“The National Athletic Trainers’ Association is delighted to partner with Athletes Saving Athletes to promote the important message of youth sports safety at the high school level,” says NATA President Marjorie J. Albohm, MS, ATC. “With the extra eyes and ears of students, the athletic training profession thinks this program has potential to be offered in schools around the country. With about 50 percent of high school students participating in sports activities, training student athletes to recognize an emergency and call for help may help save lives and reduce the potential of catastrophic injuries. Our goal is to ensure that youth athletes have access to athletic training services, which is the standard of medical care in almost half the public secondary schools in the U.S.”

A4IA’s team of certified athletic trainers will instruct 50 selected student athlete leaders from each high school using a curriculum developed by A4IA’s panel of medical experts. A4IA’s ultimate goal is to take the program to high schools across the nation, leveraging student empowerment to help improve the culture of safety in youth sports. A4IA-trained student athletes like athletic training student aides, are trained first to call the athletic trainer on site or 911 if the school does not employ an athletic trainer. Athletic training student aides typically are enrolled in the school’s sports medicine classes. They are not allowed to act independently or make return to play decisions.

The daylong training program includes:

§ Training in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and the use of an AED (automated external defibrillator)

§ How and who to call for help

§ Preparation in what may be required of first responders in an emergency

§ Educational videos about three student athletes who survived near-death experiences involving head/neck injury, sudden cardiac arrest and heat stroke and provided the inspiration for the ASA program

§ Instruction on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of life-threatening injuries and medical conditions, including concussion, head and neck injuries, heat illness, sudden cardiac arrest, diabetes, and asthma

Students who complete the program are certified by the American Red Cross in CPR and AED and pledge to share their new knowledge and skills with current and future teammates.

In addition to NATA’s national support, A41A has also partnered with the San Diego chapter of the American Red Cross, which is providing grant funds for the CPR/AED training portion of the program for the current 10-school program.

Mallon and her son Tommy created A4IA after Tommy suffered a catastrophic injury in the final lacrosse game of his senior year at Santa Fe Christian High School in 2009. He suffered a concussion, his neck was fractured (C1) and one of his vertebral arteries had been dissected. An athletic trainer on his school’s medical staff helped to save his life. After nine grueling months of rehabilitation he was able to return to a good quality of life though cannot play sports again. The experience inspired Beth and Tommy, who is now a sophomore at the University of San Diego, to establish the program with a mission of promoting sports safety through education.

About Advocates for Injured Athletes
Advocates for Injured Athletes (A4IA) is a nonprofit, nationwide advocacy organization dedicated to promoting sports safety and to providing essential support, education, and resources to help keep student athletes safe. A4IA works with a team of athletic trainers and medical professionals to provide advocacy, education and resources to promote sports safety. In addition A4IA hope to provide financial assistance to support the need for certified athletic trainers at every high school in the country. For more information, please visit www.injuredathletes.org.

About NATA
National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) – Health Care for Life & Sport
Athletic trainers are health care professionals who specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries and sport-related illnesses. They prevent and treat chronic musculoskeletal injuries from sports, physical and occupational activity, and provide immediate care for acute injuries. Athletic trainers offer a continuum of care that is unparalleled in health care. The National Athletic Trainers' Association represents and supports 35,000 members of the athletic training profession. Visit www.nata.org.

Posted At 3:28 PM • Comments (0)

Allstate Becomes Official Corporate Partner of the NCAA

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Allstate

NORTHBROOK, Ill. – March 5, 2012 – Allstate Insurance Company today announced it has become an official Corporate Partner of the NCAA. Through a deal with CBS Sports and Turner Sports, the partnership will expand Allstate’s extensive presence in collegiate athletics, providing opportunities for the company to activate around the NCAA’s 89 men’s and women’s championship events and support important educational and community initiatives.

The timing of the announcement will allow the company to leverage its partnership surrounding this year’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, which tips off March 13 in Dayton, Ohio with the First Four and concludes with the NCAA Men’s Final Four® in New Orleans March 31-April 2. To launch its NCAA partnership, Allstate will air new television commercials during coverage of the tournament on TBS, CBS, TNT, and truTV.

“Allstate is thrilled to expand its commitment of supporting collegiate athletics and student athletes by becoming an official corporate partner of the NCAA,” said Lisa Cochrane, Allstate’s senior vice president of marketing. “The excitement of the NCAA tournament has shown us that anything can and will happen – it’s March and it can be mayhem.”

“Putting a spotlight on the outstanding achievements of student-athletes in the classroom and in competition is a common goal of the NCAA and our new corporate partner Allstate,” said Greg Shaheen, NCAA interim executive vice president for championships and alliances. “Allstate has shown its dedication to intercollegiate athletics over the years. We’re pleased to welcome Allstate to the NCAA corporate family and provide the company with championship platforms that will broaden its support of student-athletes and place additional emphasis on the value of higher education.”

“Through this multi-year partnership with CBS and Turner, Allstate will have the opportunity to showcase its unique brand of creative messaging and strategic activation at NCAA Championship events throughout the year,” said Chris Simko, senior vice president, CBS Sports Sales and Marketing and director CBS Sports Properties Group. “The NCAA’s corporate marketing program is the perfect fit for a client who has displayed such a thorough corporate commitment to intercollegiate athletics and believes so strongly in the ideal of today’s student-athlete.”

“We’re excited to add another great brand to our Corporate Champion and Corporate Partner family,” said Will Funk, senior vice president of NCAA Partnerships and Branded Programming, Turner Sports. “Allstate’s creative and innovative marketing will bring a unique voice to the NCAA. We look forward to Allstate’s activation across television, digital, mobile and events at various NCAA Championships in the winter, spring and fall.”

Allstate will have presence on-site in New Orleans at the NCAA Men’s Final Four at Bracket Town™ refreshed by Coca-Cola Zero™, providing fans the chance to experience basketball mayhem first hand. Allstate will offer fans the chance to participate in basketball-themed activities and for the chance to win the ultimate college sports fan prize - a trip for two to the 2013 BCS National Championship game and the 2013 NCAA Men’s Final Four in Atlanta.

In addition to its NCAA partnership, Allstate is the title sponsor of the Allstate Sugar Bowl® and the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team®. The company has also contributed more than $2.4 million in general scholarship donations for successful field goal and extra point kicks as part of its Good Hands® Nets program at 71 partner colleges and universities.

As part of the 14-year multi-media agreement with the NCAA, CBS Sports and Turner Sports are licensed and collaborate on the NCAA’s corporate marketing program. For information about NCAA Corporate Champions and Corporate Partners, please visit http://bit.ly/NCAA_CCCP.

About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer. Widely known through the “You’re In Good Hands With Allstate®” slogan, Allstate is reinventing protection and retirement to help nearly 16 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow. Consumers access Allstate insurance products (auto, home, life and retirement) and services through Allstate agencies, independent agencies, and Allstate exclusive financial representatives in the U.S. and Canada, as well as via www.allstate.com and 1-800 Allstate®. As part of Allstate’s commitment to strengthen local communities, The Allstate Foundation, Allstate employees, agency owners and the corporation provided $28 million in 2011 to thousands of nonprofit organizations and important causes across the United States.

About Turner Sports
Turner Sports, a division of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., is an industry leader in televised and online sports programming, airing championship level sporting events on TBS, TNT and truTV, and managing some of the most popular sports sites on the Internet. Turner Sports’ television line-up includes the NBA, Major League Baseball, the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, NASCAR and professional golf. The company’s digital portfolio includes SI.com, NASCAR.COM, NCAA.com, PGATOUR.COM, GOLF.com and PGA.com, as well as an accompanying collection of mobile websites and connected device apps. Turner Sports and the NBA also jointly manage NBA Digital, which includes NBA TV, NBA.com, NBA LEAGUE PASS, NBA Mobile, the NBA Game Time App, NBADLEAGUE.com and WNBA.com.

About CBS Sports
CBS Sports, a year-round leader in television sports, broadcasts a portfolio of events on the CBS Television Network, including the NFL's American Football Conference; THE NFL TODAY; college basketball, including the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship; golf, including The Masters(r) and PGA Championship; college football, including the SEC ON CBS; the U.S. Open Tennis Championships; CBS SPORTS SPECTACULAR, including track & field, auto racing and gymnastics. In addition, the division directs CBS Sports Network, a 24-hour national cable network; produces INSIDE THE NFL for SHOWTIME; and partners with CBSSports.com in creating a recognized leader among sports Internet destinations.

About the NCAA
The NCAA is a membership-led nonprofit association of colleges and universities committed to supporting academic and athletic opportunities for more than 400,000 student-athletes at more than 1,000 member colleges and universities. Each year, more than 54,000 student-athletes compete in NCAA championships in Divisions I, II and III sports. Visit www.ncaa.org and www.ncaa.com for more details about the Association, its goals and members and corporate partnerships that help support programs for student-athletes. The NCAA is proud to have the following elite companies as official Corporate Champions—AT&T, Capital One and Coca-Cola—and the following elite companies as official Corporate Partners—Buick, Enterprise, Infiniti, LG, Lowe’s, Northwestern Mutual, Reese’s (Hershey’s), Unilever, UPS and Wheat Thins (Kraft).

Posted At 3:23 PM • Comments (1)

Technogym® and Advantage Fitness Products® Announce Strategic Partnership

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Technogym

SEATTLE—February 1, 2012—Technogym®, the global designer and manufacturer of equipment and solutions designed to help people achieve wellness in their lives through physical activity and Advantage Fitness Products (AFP), a full-service consultancy providing amenity focused fitness facility planning, design, supply, have announced a strategic partnership servicing select markets. The agreement establishes AFP’s representation of Technogym’s proprietary lineup of highly appointed, Italian designed and technology driven products, and will harness AFP’s expertise in key industry verticals including Universities, Residential Property Development, Country Clubs, and selected Hospitality venues.

“We are very pleased to formalize our relationship with Advantage Fitness Products”, said Ivo Grossi, Director of Sales for Technogym USA. “AFP’s expertise and discerning client base coupled with our highly differentiated product offering and global strength represents a special fit for us in the North American Market”. AFP will work to extend the rapid growth and exposure of Technogym in the United States and its specialized line of equipment, software, and industry leading design.

“We feel most fortunate to Partner with such an amazing global business leader. Technogym in many ways has and continues to define our industry. Their equipment designs are timeless, and the company’s commitments to quality, innovation, and attention to detail are second to none. We will insure that our clients learn about what can be done when Fitness transcends into the broader idea of Wellness”.

For a demonstration of Technogym products now available from AFP in the United States, please contact 888.895.0547 or via email at info@afproducts.com or visit www.AFProducts.com.

About Technogym
Technogym, The Wellness Company, creates, designs, and manufactures innovative solutions to cultivate a person's physical and psychological wellbeing by enhancing one's quality of life through physical activity. Technogym USA, is headquartered in Seattle, WA. Founded in Italy more than 25 years ago, the company has grown to employ over 1,600 people at 13 branches worldwide. Technogym was the Official Supplier for the 2000 Sydney, 2004 Athens, 2006 Torino, the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the World Cup 2010 and will be the official fitness equipment supplier for the London 2012 Olympic Games. Additional information may be found by visiting the company’s website at www.technogym.com.

About Advantage Fitness Products
Advantage Fitness Products® is a leading provider of innovative fitness and wellness based solutions for amenity based facilities and private clubs. AFP offers expertise across multiple facets of the health & fitness industry, including facility design, supply and ongoing operational support. AFP’s proprietary FitnessFacility.com provides a specialized fitness facility management tool that generates efficient and cost effective support for the needs of a wellness based amenity. The company’s ADVANTAGE Line of commercial fitness accessories provide safe, stylish, and hygienic enhancement to any fitness environment. For more information visit AFProducts.com or call 888-895-0547.

Posted At 9:07 AM • Comments (1)

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Bona Announces NBA Partnership

Posted by AB Editors

Source: Bona US

Aurora, Colo., Feb. 27, 2011 – Bona US, the world leader in hardwood floor care and maintenance since 1919, announced today that it will be an Official Hardwood Floor Care Partner of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

Many NBA teams are already playing on floors finished with Bona including the New Orleans Hornets, San Antonio Spurs, Toronto Raptors and Denver Nuggets. An industry leader for more than 90 years, Bona Hardwood Floor Finish and Paint are durable, long-lasting and won’t disseminate harmful fumes.

“We are happy with the Bona products on our new practice court and our game court at Air Canada Centre the home of the Toronto Raptors,” said Bob Hunter, executive vice president of venues and entertainment, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment. “We have to know that our floors can stand up to the wear and tear of our busy facility and still provide a great surface for our players and Bona was a good choice. The fact that Bona is not only durable but also environmentally friendly is a big bonus. The Bona team has also been very responsive to our needs -- we consider them one of our valued Partners.”

Bona provides the most complete system of sport products that the industry has to offer including waterborne and oil modified finishes, machines, abrasives adhesives and a fast, effective maintenance system.

“Bona products have been used in NBA and top collegiate gyms for years”, said John Rauvola, managing director, Bona US. “We are very excited to now be formally recognized as an Official Hardwood Floor Care Partner of the NBA.”

The technology used in the products for NBA floors is also used in Bona’s residential finishes. Proven to be the most durable and beautiful finishes in the industry, Bona waterborne finishes are GREENGUARD certified for indoor air quality by the third party, GREENGUARD Environmental Institute. GREENGUARD is a non-profit, third party organization that tests indoor products for their environmental impact in an effort to improve the air quality consumers breathe. Bona is the first in its industry to carry a full system of hardwood floor finishing and floor care products certified for indoor air quality.

About the NBA
The NBA, founded in 1946, is a professional sports league and global business that features 30 teams in the United States and Canada. During the 2011-12 season, NBA games reached 215 countries and territories in 47 languages. Current NBA rosters featured 77 players from 36 countries and territories. NBA merchandise is sold in more than 125,000 stores in 100 countries on six continents. NBA.com averages more than 35 million page views per day, with more than 50 percent of the site’s visitors coming from outside of North America. The NBA is the No. 1 U.S. sports league on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, with the most fans, followers, and videos viewed on each, respectively. Through NBA Cares, the league, its teams and players have donated more than $175 million to charity, completed more than 1.8 million hours of hands-on community service, and created more than 675 places where kids and families can live, learn, or play.

About Bona US
Bona US is the North American subsidiary of BonaAB in Malmö, Sweden. Bona US manufactures and distributes floor and home care products. Bona’s hardwood floor care systems have been successful in the professional market for 90 years. Consumer products are available in most major retail outlets throughout the U.S. and North America. With certifications like GREEN GUARD, the company has also been recognized for formula innovations that are pH-neutral, biodegradable and non-toxic. For more information, please contact Bona US at (800) 872-5515 or www.MyBonaHome.com.

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