I was registered for an OrangeTheory Fitness class this morning, but I didn’t want to go – I was so tired. However, I was too late to cancel without a penalty… And I’m so glad I didn’t – class was rejuvenating!
OrangeTheory Fitness (OTF) is a group fitness interval class incorporating rowers, treadmills, and weights. Since its launch in 2010, it has amassed a cult-like following.
Why? Because OTF uses 5 influencing strategies that we can exploit to make our own gatherings more irresistible and successful:
1. Commitment
At OTF each class is limited in size, and classes fill up quickly. So we register far in advance to reserve a spot. This forces us to plan and prioritize.
Commitments elevate the importance of events, and the added influence of scarcity drives people to take action.
2. Consequences
At OTF canceling within 8 hours of class results in a monetary charge.
With consequences, people tend to rise to their commitments instead of fall to their feelings (“I’m tired.” “I’m stressed.” “I’m busy.”)
3. Clarity
At OTF there are no surprises. The rules are clear, the room setup is consistent, and coaches demonstrate exercises, vigilantly track our time, and manage the flow between intervals.
People crave clear expectations in experiences and relationships.
4. Control
At OTF we wear heart-rate monitors to measure our effort throughout class. And flat screens around the room continuously display our heart rate zone, provoking us to work harder.
People just want to win, and they’ll exert the effort when success is in their control and measurable.
5. Congratulations
When we arrive at OTF, coaches applaud us. And at the end of class, we each get a woo-hoo! email with our specific results.
People are emboldened by recognition.
Ensure participants in your meetings and programs…
- Make commitments
- Face consequences
- Receive clear expectations
- Control and measure their success
- Hear cheers for participating and congratulations for results!
