Whether you should charge for group cycle classes is really up to the individual club. If you do not charge, know that there are costs for the program such as instructor fees, maintenance fees, replacement parts, sound systems, headsets and/or batteries (if applicable). Maybe these extra costs are worth it to you because you may feel that it increases the value of your membership and may attract new clients.
If you charge, how much is the standard? This depends upon many factors, such as what the members already pay for membership and the demographics of the club’s location. Prices at various clubs range from $3.50 a class when you purchase 10 at a time, to $12 a class for a nonmember.
Safety and emergency procedures
When using a fixed-cam exercise bike, a brake system is required to stop quickly; there’s no coasting on these types of bikes. This can be a safety issue if someone’s foot slips out of the pedal and they aren’t able to get their leg out of the way. The pedal may come around and strike their leg. Therefore, proper braking technique is absolutely crucial and should be instructed at the beginning of every class. When purchasing the bikes, make sure there is a braking system that is convenient and user-friendly.
Dehydration is an important issue. Make sure students have cold water in a water bottle that is easily accessible.
As in any activity program, it’s important to have an emergency response system in place to deal with injury or medical problems. Ice should be readily available. If something should happen to someone, encourage the class to slowly cool down before getting off the bikes, or have someone else take over the class while you aid the injured.