Men and women doing sports

FITcert: independent European quality label for fitness clubs

In Europe, no fewer than sixty million people are members of a health or fitness club. To ensure that all these people can work out safely and healthily, independent assessment of accommodations, instructors, etc. is an absolute must. To that end, EuropeActive developed FITcert, managed by NEN and independently tested by Kiwa.

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Fitness is one of the fastest growing sports in Europe. Not surprising, because it basically can be practiced individually and therefore fits well into any busy agenda. In addition, athletes can vary almost unlimitedly within the different types and exercise schedules and are not limited by weather conditions. But how do you find a fitness club that delivers quality? Who works with qualified instructors, the right equipment and has good facilities? Online reviews are not always objective, but the independent European quality certificate FITcert is.

EN 17229

In 2019, the European quality guideline EN 17229 'Fitness centers - Requirements for facilities and operation', set standards for the day-to-day operation of a fitness facility, from health and safety to membership contracts and anti-doping. On the basis of the EN 17229 European trade organisation EuropeActive developed FITcert, the independent European quality label for fitness clubs. FITcert enables fitness centers to demonstrate that an independent, ISO 17020-certified, third party has established that it works in accordance with the quality requirements of EN 17229. Certification is not mandatory, but of course it is a strong signal to customers and other stakeholders that fitness clubs can use to effectively differentiate themselves from their competitors.

Four Level Certification

Certification against the FITcert quality mark consists of four levels, so that fitness facilities can gradually work towards the maximum attainable or desired level. The step-by-step certification also contributes to the principle of continuous improvement that EuropeActive wants to promote with FITcert. Below is a brief summary of the four FITcert certification levels:

Level 1: Preparation
  • The club will receive full schedule requirements and a step-by-step program and guide;
  • The club receives a statement acknowledging that the FITcert scheme has been introduced;
  • The club is listed in the public register of participating European clubs;
  • The club can inform members about participation in FITcert.
Level 2: Self-assessment (can be done simultaneously with level 1)
  • The club answers questionnaire on its services (based on EN 17229) and substantiate this with relevant documentation;
  • The club is confirmed as an EuropeActive Recognized Club and can proceed to level 3 of the NEN certification scheme;
  • Listing in public register is being updated.
Level 3: Conformity assessment
  • Conformity assessment (questionnaire plus 'evidence') within one year after level 2 (based on core criteria EN 17229);
  • Certification body checks conformity online (remote auditing);
  • The club receives EN 17229-compliant certificate, issued by NEN, Kiwa and EuropeActive;
  • Status changed on NEN scheme website;
  • Conformity assessment lasts 3 years with recertification after 2 years.
Level 4: Full Club Certification
  • European certification is obtained in this level;
  • This level must be completed within one year of level 2 or 3;
  • Independent assessment against EN 17229 (onsite and remote audits);
  • The club may carry EN 17229 certificate;
  • Certification lasts for three years (recertification after two years).
Recertification after three years
  • Maintenance conformity assessment/certification (only applicable to level 3 and 4);
  • The clubs receive an annual update on standard changes and any additions;
  • Recertification for FITcert level 3 or level 4;
  • The clubs may not continue to promote their status unless recertification;
  • NEN register is updated with status.

Why Kiwa?

  • Extensive experience with quality measurements of (indoor) sports facilities;
  • Strong quality focus;
  • Clear procedures and project management;
  • International network of inspectors;
  • Member of FITcert Committee of Experts;
  • Global leader in TIC services.

More information

Would you like to know more about the added value of the FITcert quality certificate or about what Kiwa can do for you? Fill in the contact form! We will then contact you as soon as possible and will be happy to tell you more.

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