Of all the events I’ve helped plan and organize in the past, I must say that the one that gets the most positive reviews are community fitness-centered events.  From friendly basketball exhibition games and short 2k and 4k runs to martial arts and self-defense demonstrations and family games in the park, people always seem more than game to participate in these types of activities.

One of my favorite memories was a fitness event that provided Zumba and CrossFit classes for an entire day to people who were beginners at Zumba and CrossFit.  Even participants who were out-of-shape, who you’d expect not to complete entire routines were egged on by their neighbors and friends to finish with them.  

Planning for sporting events in a community isn’t as difficult as it sounds, although it is time-consuming.  Getting all the required permits for the facilities such as a gymnasium or a park is easy compared to convincing an entire community to participate in something they’ll need to put a lot of physical effort into.  The trick here is to appeal to the younger people such as children and teens.  Once you get them all amped up, it’ll be easy for them to convince their parents to tag along.

For suppliers though, you can take a different approach and negotiate payment terms.  You can mention exposure as well.  Approach fitness gyms, trainers, and sports companies with an offer that they can market themselves any way they want.  Most of the time, suppliers will jump at the opportunity to be part of the gig.

Hi there. I’m David Gordon Fried, an event planner based in New York.  For more articles on how to plan events, visit this blog.