Egge, Maranda Shea (2019-08). The Impact of Situational Leadership Theory on Follower Development in Fitness: An Action Research Study with Camp Gladiator. Master's Thesis.
Thesis
The best teachings come from stories. People can relate to given circumstances which they have gone through themselves. This study uses Action Research to do just that; tell the story of impact on an organization and grow upon it. Leadership studies continue to build and evolve over time. Different organizations depend on this leadership to promote their success. One question remains; What is effective leadership? The answer is, there is not one. Leadership style recommendations depend on the organization itself. I have conducted a study that implements Situational Leadership Theory to a transformational fitness organization; Camp Gladiator. This study sought to answer the following research questions: What impact does Situational Leadership Theory treatment have on followers' D-level? What impact does learning and applying Situational Leadership Theory have on the trainer's ability to lead? Twelve participants, one trainer and eleven campers involved in Camp Gladiator participated in interviews and were observed throughout the treatment. Open coding via deductive lens was used to create a thematic analysis to reach the findings. I found SLT application can make a world of difference in a boot camp setting. Follower diagnosis is a crucial part of follower growth and satisfaction. This study highlights the positive impact of SLT on the trainer, her campers, and her camp in general. Recommendations from these findings were produced from myself, as well as the trainer in the study. Researching leadership in fitness is a new notion that could provide endless support and opportunities for the industry.
