Date of Graduation

5-2015

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Kinesiology (MS)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Health, Human Performance and Recreation

Advisor/Mentor

Dean Gorman

Committee Member

Robert Elbin

Second Committee Member

Steve Dittmore

Third Committee Member

Katie Helms

Keywords

Social sciences, Health and environmental sciences, Campus recreation, Collegiate recreation, Fitness, Recreation, Small group training, Wellness

Abstract

This descriptive study was obtain program components and administrative perceptions of collegiate recreation small group training programs. Through an extensive review of literature and valued input from key campus recreation professionals, a preliminary survey with 30 items was created. The preliminary survey, Administrative Effectiveness of Small Group Training Programs Survey (AESGTPS), was administered electronically to collegiate recreation small group training program directors. Research questions investigated were identifying ways in which various program components may vary from institution to institution, identifying program components that were perceived to be contributing to perceived program effectiveness, and defining ways in which program administrators perceived program effectiveness. Participants included thirteen small and 24 large NIRSA member institutions in the United States. Data collected included institutional, program, and staff components. Program, facility space, and marketing outcomes were also investigated. Small Group Training programs could potentially be more popular in certain areas of the country. More funding, students, larger diverse populations, and resources could be a great factor as to why larger schools tend to have specialized programs such as small group training. Most popular class types were Boot Camp and TRX classes. Six-to-eight week long classes were the most frequently reported registration style. Class management techniques were reported as the most important component of staff training. Larger schools were more likely than smaller schools to have studios dedicated to small group training. Profitability was not perceived to be an outcome of administering small group training. Social Media was the most frequently reported form of marketing within collegiate recreation. Mind/body is a growing trend in the fitness and wellness industry and could fit well into the small group training program. The results have implications in providing program administrators with a resource for designing, planning, and implementing small group training programs.

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