I was recently notified by our corporate office that numbers for every group fitness class had to be faxed to them every week. I know all about numbers. Remember though, I'm still trying to get everyone signed in so they can get PAID, so out goes the e-mail about numbers....

Here comes the e-mails back: is my class in trouble? is my class in jeopardy? it thundered last Wednesday, that's why I had only 3.  did you know that mother's morning out competes with my step class? etc.

I also HATE numbers!!! They can stress instructors out.

Look at numbers the way you watch the HGTV show "Mission Organization": put like things with like things. Don't compare a 9:00 am class with a 5:30 pm class. Don't compare a 10:00 am cycle class with a 10:00 am yoga class. Aqua and land are not equally comparable either. Use the numbers to set personal goals for yourself. We're not just teaching an hour long "aerobics class", we're selling fitness! A way of life! We have the potential to improve and change people's lives. What a privilege!

So, love numbers or hate them,...but USE them. Each one represents a person who came to YOU for something that they needed. Feel blessed. Share your passion! Numbers matter because each one presents a person.