How Helix is a Differentiator for the Rome Family YMCA

Home of the world’s first lateral trainer, Helix has put a new spin on workouts, putting users through rigorous lateral movements that move different sets of muscles than traditional cardio machines.

Here, Bruce Hairston, the branch director of the Rome Family YMCA, shares why he partnered with Helix and how its state-of-the-art equipment has enhanced his Y’s fitness offerings:

How were you introduced to Helix and why did you decide to partner with them?

BH: I was shopping around for some new pieces of equipment and saw the Helix online. I called around to see who carried the equipment and found out that these were specific to Helix. I made contact with Scott Logan from Helix, we spoke on a few occasions, and he let us use the recumbent and Helix Touch for a 30-day trial period for our members. The members were immediately hooked and after agreeing to purchase the two machines, I ended up ordering another Touch.

How has Helix helped improve your fitness offerings?

BH: No one else in our area carries these pieces of equipment and I’m always looking for diversity in our equipment, to separate us from other fitness facilities. Many have said it reminds them of equipment they’ve used in physical therapy. When I give tours, I always demo the Helix machines so people will see and understand the difference. 90 percent say they’ve never seen these before.

What do your members like about Helix?

BH: They enjoy the different parts of the body it works on and the workout you receive in 15 to 20 minutes, compared to being on a treadmill 45 minutes or so. They also like the way the machine modifies your workout, and gets you to change direction and do various exercises during the workout.

How would you describe Helix’s customer support?

BH: We haven’t had to call about any equipment issues thus far, but while I was working through the process of considering these machines for our facility, Scott was absolutely amazing to work with and always got back to me within a 24-hour period. We have stayed in touch since, and I am trying to get these pieces to our sister branch in Oneida, once they get the funds to purchase. They helped me promote the new pieces with shirts, signage and banners we placed throughout the facility, which really helped a lot.

Why should other community rec professionals consider working with Helix?

BH: Rec centers should consider working with Helix because it offers something new, something different and great customer service. The fitness industry is always changing and people are looking for something different to incorporate with their current workouts. People can get bored with the same old thing. I tell my members and potential members to have variety in their workout if they want to see real progress.

For more information, check out the Helix line of lateral trainers.