Inside the Smart Sanitizing Playbook for Fitness & Community Facilities

Soapbox Readers,

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to hygiene — and there shouldn’t be.

Today’s Fitness Centers, JCCs, YMCAs, Colleges, Universities, and Recreation Facilities face a unique challenge: delivering visible, effective sanitizing that members trust, staff can execute correctly, and leadership can stand behind with confidence. The solution isn’t choosing one method over another — it’s understanding what works best, where, and deploying each tool intentionally.

At the same time, the decisions facilities make around hygiene have a broader impact — on member safety, staff workload, sustainability, and the communities they serve. Smarter sanitizing isn’t just about compliance; it’s about giving back by creating healthier environments, reducing waste, minimizing risk, and reinvesting savings into programs that matter most to members.

Pre-saturated sanitizing wipes have emerged as the clear winner in front-of-house, member-facing areas, where speed, simplicity, and perception matter most. They deliver consistent chemistry, reduce cross-contamination risk, protect equipment, and create a clean, professional experience members can see and trust.

Traditional spray-and-cloth systems continue to play an important role behind the scenes, supporting heavy soil removal, deep cleaning, and staff-only applications where longer dwell times and targeted disinfection are required.

This side-by-side comparison outlines a smarter, hybrid approach — one that balances effectiveness, compliance, cost control, and sustainability — helping facilities reduce liability, elevate the member experience, and give back by doing more with less.

“The need is great and so are the opportunities to make a difference.” – Paul Newman

– John & Shannel

Testimony, A Longstanding Partnership Built on Trust, Service, and Results

The “magic” behind Sunset Athletic Club really comes down to longevity. The property was originally purchased in 1975 as a racquetball club, and the facility was built and opened in early 1977 at just 22,500 square feet. Nearly fifty years later, some of us who were here in the early days are still here today. That continuity speaks volumes about the culture we’ve built.

Over the years, we’ve grown right alongside our community. Sunset has completed six expansions, the most recent in 2023, and today the club encompasses approximately 175,000 square feet. Each phase of growth was driven by member needs and community demand, not by chasing trends.

Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Many members of our staff—from management on down—have been with the club for 20 to 40 years or more. They are a talented, dedicated group who genuinely care about our members and take pride in delivering a consistent, high-quality experience.

We’re a high-touch, people-first organization. As a single-club operation, we’re able to connect person-to-person on most matters rather than relying on corporate-style responses. While we absolutely have our rules and policies, we lead with approachability, relationships, and trust.

Junior programming is another cornerstone of Sunset Athletic Club. We offer extensive opportunities including summer camps, climbing camps, summer swim teams and meets, junior and high school racquetball and tennis programs, and more. We also host tournaments across multiple disciplines, including handball. Supporting youth and families has always been central to our mission.

Our commitment to the community runs deep. We’re actively involved up and down the street—working with schools, sponsoring fun runs and the Saturday market, supporting churches, the library, and the local business association. When possible, we also make our event space available to community groups, sometimes rent-free, because giving back is simply part of who we are.

That same philosophy extends to our relationship with A1/Petra-1 and with you personally. Like Sunset, it’s been a long-term relationship that has been terrific for both the club and our members. With A1/Petra-1, you’re not a number on a spreadsheet—you’re treated as a valued client and a friend. While issues are rare because A1/Petra-1 is extremely reliable, when something does come up, the response is immediate, knowledgeable, and solution-oriented. You’re truly “Johnny on the spot” with service and answers.

Best regards,

Chuck Richards, Owner
Sunset Athletic Club



Innovative Solutions for Fitness and Recreation Organizations

As we kick off the first newsletter of the year, it feels like the perfect time to talk about productivity and how we set ourselves up for success. If you work in fitness or any fast-paced, people-driven industry, you know the feeling. You wear a lot of hats. Coach. Leader. Problem solver. Email responder. Occasionally, the person who fixes the printer. Productivity is not optional. It is survival.

Over the years, I have read countless books and listened to endless podcasts on productivity. Everyone has a system. Time blocking. Inbox zero. Early mornings that feel a little aggressive. What I have learned is this. The best system is the one that works for you.

Here are a few habits that have made the most significant difference for me and might be worth experimenting with this year.

First, have a simple email system. Decide how often you check it, respond quickly when you can, and either schedule tasks or delete emails instead of letting them linger.

Second, write clearer to do items. Instead of vague notes, be specific about what needs to be done and by when. Future you will thank you.

Third, calendar what matters. Meetings, workouts, learning time, and even rest. If it is important and not scheduled, it usually gets skipped.

Finally, block weekly admin time. One dedicated hour to clean up email, review your to-do list, plan the week, and clear digital clutter can change how the entire week feels.

For me, tools matter. I use a Clever Fox Planner, the Any.Do app for tasks, and Trello to organize projects and ideas. They are simple, but they work for how I think.

I would love to hear from you.

What tools or systems have been game changers for your productivity? Click here for more info and to contact us.




Newsletter edited and produced by Megan Shellman-Rickard, Simple Synergy Consulting. Discover what our company can do for your organization: https://www.simplesynergyconsulting.com/

Revolutionize Your Facility’s Vanity and Shower Program with the Wizard Liquid Soap Dilution System Save Up to 75% on Premium, Eco-Friendly Soaps

Soapbox Readers,

Did you know one of my inventions helped revolutionize the dilutable liquid soap category? The Wizard Liquid Soap Dilution System not only cuts your costs by up to 75% compared to ready-to-use (RTU) products, but also significantly reduces packaging waste — a win for both your budget and the environment.

Thousands of organizations — including fitness facilities, universities, school districts, and state institutions — are already enjoying the savings and sustainability benefits the Wizard provides. If you haven’t yet explored this system, now is the perfect time to take a closer look.

Why Choose the Wizard System?

  • Cost Savings: One 5-gallon Enviropak creates up to 30 gallons of RTU product — delivering substantial savings over traditional soaps products.
  • Eco-Friendly: Our packaging is made from 85% recycled material, and all components are 100% recyclable. We help reduce/eliminate landfill and ocean waste by eliminating single-use containers.
  • Premium Quality: All Wizard soaps are made with FDA GRAS cosmetic-grade, plant-based ingredients. They’re hypoallergenic, pH-balanced for skin and hair, and free from parabens, sodium chloride, and phosphates.
  • Space-Saving: The concentrated format reduces storage and floor space needs.
  • No Mixing Required: The system ensures effortless dilution — no manual mixing necessary.
  • Clinically Tested: Suitable for all skin types, including very dry or oily skin.
  • FDA “GRAS” Approved: Safe, gentle, and effective for daily use.

We take pride in being good stewards of the environment and trusted partners in helping the fitness industry thrive with high-performing, sustainable solutions (locker room amenities, towels and equipment wipes)

“The need is great and so are the opportunities to make a difference.” – Paul Newman

– John & Shannel


Are you Lucky?

Luck? Hard Work? Or Both?

By Bill McBride

Over the years, I’ve found myself fascinated by social/economic books—those of the Outliers, Tipping Point, and Super Freakonomics genre—which involve a conversation about talent, timing, and luck. My question: Is success the result of luck or hard work?

While it’s true that much of life involves chance events—things that are out of our control—I think the importance people place on luck, or the lack of it, speaks volumes about their general outlook.

Several years ago, my friend, industry veteran Mitch Wald, suggested using the “luck” question in job interviews, so I began to ask candidates, “Are you lucky?”

The range of answers I’ve received has been very interesting. Some say, “I make my own luck.” Others flat-out remark, “Yes, I’m lucky!” And still others say, “No, I’m not lucky at all.”

What’s surprising is that all these responses have come from very competent individuals.

Many years ago, another friend, Chuck Runyon, the co-founder of Anytime Fitness, posed a variant to the question:

“How much of one’s life is luck vs. hard work … as a percentage?”

I believe that luck is real; good and bad things happen, regardless of what we do. However, I also believe in “mastery.” Spending 10,000 hours of preparation in your area of expertise often yields a winning performance.

Relying solely on luck diminishes your ability to be ready when something fortunate occurs, since you won’t be able to maximize the opportunity involved; you won’t be prepared to give it your best. And believing that you make 100% of your own luck is simply an illusion of control and very dangerous.

So, what’s the best answer?

Richard Wiseman, who holds Britain’s only professorship in the field of public understanding of psychology at the University of Hertfordshire, in Hatfield, where he researches luck, self-help, illusion, and persuasion, says that lucky people are just much more open to possibilities. “Unlucky people are stuck in routines and are afraid to take chances when opportunities present themselves,” he explains.

Sometimes, luck consists of just looking for and expecting the good.

And we’ve all heard the famous quote that’s been attributed to Seneca, the ancient Roman philosopher and dramatist: “Luck happens when preparation meets opportunity.”

It sounds like a 50/50 proposition to me.

By Bill McBride

BMC3, LLC

President & CEO

linkedin.com/in/billmcbride

www.BMC3.com


A Must-Read for Ted Lasso Fans

Are you ready for another book review? Here is my take on my latest read, “Lead It Like Lasso,” by Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio. This book is an ingenious blend of the captivating world of television with the realms of leadership, offering readers a refreshing perspective inspired by the popular show “Lasso.” With the perfect blend of humor and wisdom, the authors navigate through the intricate dynamics of effective leadership, drawing parallels from the endearing characters and compelling narratives of the series. As fans of the show themselves, Stockman and Coniglio infuse their exploration with genuine passion and enthusiasm, making it an engaging journey for readers, whether they’re familiar with “Lasso” or not. Through their unique lens, they invite readers to glean insights from the show’s memorable moments and apply them to real-world leadership scenarios, creating a compelling narrative that is both entertaining and enlightening.

Here are a few of the most impactful “Lasso Lessons” I took away.

Embrace Positivity: The book underscores the importance of maintaining a positive outlook in leadership, drawing parallels from the upbeat demeanor of the characters in “Lasso.” Positivity not only fosters a conducive work environment but also enhances team morale and productivity.

Lead with Empathy: Stockman and Coniglio emphasize the significance of empathy in leadership, mirroring the empathetic approach depicted by the protagonist in the show. Understanding and acknowledging the perspectives of team members cultivate trust and camaraderie within the organization.

Foster Collaboration: Through anecdotes and examples, the authors highlight the value of collaboration in achieving collective goals. Just as the characters in “Lasso” work together harmoniously despite their differences, effective leaders encourage collaboration and teamwork among their teams.

Prioritize Communication: Clear and open communication serves as a cornerstone of effective leadership, a principle underscored throughout the book. Drawing inspiration from the characters’ candid conversations in “Lasso,” Stockman and Coniglio advocate for transparent communication to mitigate misunderstandings and foster transparency.

Embrace Adaptability: The dynamic nature of leadership requires adaptability, a lesson echoed in both the book and the show. Leaders must be prepared to pivot and innovate in response to changing circumstances, mirroring the characters’ resilience and flexibility in “Lasso.”

While “Lead It Like Lasso” may not introduce entirely novel concepts, it offers valuable reminders packaged in a delightful and accessible format. Fans of the show will appreciate the fun references and relatable anecdotes woven throughout the book. However, even for those unfamiliar with “Lasso,” the book serves as an engaging primer on essential leadership principles. If you haven’t watched the show yet, consider this book an invitation to immerse yourself in its charm and wisdom.

The Empower Group

March 2015

Water DropsThe California and Nevada drought has caused many business owners and residents to practice water-use reduction.

Athletic club fitness leaders are doing the same. EcoLab’s Aquanomic Laundry Program is reducing water usage in the wash cycle by 40 percent. Watch this two minute video to learn more: http://video.ecolab.com/videos/lodging

9 Steps to Cleaner, Whiter, Softer Towels

We all know there is more to the wash cycle than water reduction, which is why we’re bringing you ‘Nine Steps to Cleaner, Whiter, Softer Towels’ courtesy of our contributing authors Mike Mcilhargey and Adam Elkin.

Step 1: Par levels

Facilities should have a 1.5 par supply of towels to allow 24 hours rest time between use and washes.

  • Down time extends linen life and allows for proper wash/contact time in the washing machines
Step 2: Extra Soils

Encourage members to not use provided towels to clean shoes, training equipment, or spills.

  • Additional soils can cause permanent staining and result in increased reject rates however there are programs to prevent these issues
Step 3: Water Quality

Water hardness should be softened above 5 grains; iron levels above .3PPM should be neutralized in the laundry wheel.

  • Industry trained vendor partners can provide an onsite evaluation and make recommendations
Step 4: Time

An 8 minute wash bath is recommended to allow detergents to emulsify soils and bleach out stains during the contact time.

Woman Getting a Massage

Step 5: Temp

90 degree with low temp soaps or 130 degree with traditional soaps is recommended to:

  • Active chemistry and emulsify body and spa oils, tanning lotions, and sun screens
Step 6: Mechanical Action

Proper load levels in the laundry machine is necessary to drive soils out of the towels

  • Over loading reduces soap and temp efficiencies in the laundering process

Under loading can cause machine damage and increases utility costs

Step 7: Chemical Action

Balanced chemistry is a key factor in protecting your towel investment and maximizing clean, white and soft results.

Step 8: Procedures

Proper handling in the “linen flow” process from dryer to member and back to the laundry machine is part of a successful towel service and should be evaluated by industry trained vendor partners.

Step 9: Dry Times

Over drying of towels can dramatically reduce linen life and overall softness:

  • 160-180 degree for 20-25 min
  • 5 min cool down

John is donating $500 to the nonprofits you vote for each quarter this year!

We’re accepting submissions for your nonprofit nominations. Selections are based on your story: Tell us why you think your nonprofit nominee deserves to win, how they improve their community, and the impact they have made on your life.

We’ll select the most compelling stories for you to vote on next month! Remember, this is the first of four donations John will be giving this year, we encourage you to submit a nomination each quarter!

Send Us Your Submission Here

February 2015

Club Cleanliness a timely subject. This year more than ever.

Colds and flus are wrecking havoc on everyone–even more with our seniors, which John recently experienced firsthand. Proper disinfection has always been a crucial piece of the cleaning puzzle, particularly in health club facilities. In fact, John recently contributed to CBI Magazine’s “Cleanliness is key to Healthiness” feature (You can see a digital version of CBI Magazine in it’s entirety by clicking here, the Cleanliness article is on page 64, you can enter the page number to go directly to the article) which he touches on in this month’s edition of the SoapBox.

A message from John…

I recently learned firsthand how quickly super bugs and pathogens can get out of control. My mom resides in an independent living facility where they try to keep up on cleaning and disinfecting. But once several residents came down with a cold and flu bug, there was no way to prevent the number of illnesses that occurred.

My mom ended up in the hospital and at 85 years of age, there was a day or two where we didn’t know if she would recover.

There is good news though. I work with a number of regional and national janitor supply companies that have the products and knowledge to help keep your club clean and sanitized. Making sure you have a strong relationship with a trusted janitor supply rep is one of the most important ways to lower your chances of being a gateway for transferring pathogens to your members. I encourage you to dialog with a trusted janitor supply rep, they typically are very knowledgeable and their advice is free. If you need help on finding a rep, let me know, I have a huge network of qualified people that I can recommend. Most important, besides keeping your club and equipment clean and sanitized, encourage everyone to wash their hands, use non-alcohol foaming hand sanitizers and if your budget allows, provide antiseptic equipment wipes.

If you want to know how clean your club is, use a portable, battery powered ultraviolet light which allows you to actually see the pathogens and other not so nice things in your facility. Seeing is believing. I have an inexpensive unit available if you are unable to source.

As to mom, she is on the mend. Each day she becomes stronger and in several weeks, we look forward to having her back to being normal. Enjoy the article from CBI Magazine (don’t forget the Cleanliness article is on page 64) and let me know how I can be of assistance to you and your facility. Be well my friends and lets make life fun and bring happiness to everyone we come in contact with. John