Do’s and Don’ts for Fitness Business Owners

Like clockwork, news of early year joins with resolutions “to exercise more” drive endless tips for recruiting these health seekers as new members.  

As a business owner, you know it’s important to keep member recruitment best practices in mind all year long. To reach your goals, you need to not only sell those early year memberships, but retain those members for the long term and enable them to achieve their resolutions. 

Follow these Do’s and Don’ts to make it happen. 

DO: Ensure Your Member Management Software is Ready to Go

To streamline operations, invest in member management software for your fitness business. Purchase the software three to six weeks before you expect a rush of members and ensure everything is set up correctly to make the experience smooth for everyone.

DON’T: Give Discounts

Discounts can decrease the perceived value of your services and hurt you in the long run. When you bring members in on a discount, it becomes difficult to charge them full price in the future. You’ve earned the revenue, so don’t reduce it.

DO: Create an Onboarding Program for New Members

Make new members feel welcome by setting up an onboarding program and ensuring your staff is trained to handle the process. Create a new member welcome packet to help with their transition into your community.

DON’T: Wait Until the Last Minute to Start Marketing

People will have an idea of where they want to go well before the New Year, so start marketing early to get their attention. Utilize online advertising, social media, and your website to promote your fitness studio.

DO: Keep in Mind Your Other Priorities

Tax season is often a strain, so start early to avoid stress at the last minute. Don’t forget to prioritize your existing members who have been loyal to your business for years. 

DON’T: Forget to Track Attendance

Make sure you have a reliable way to track attendance, whether through your staff or member self-service. With all the new faces walking through the doors, you don’t want to lose money by missing this basic, yet essential step.

Want More Tips?

Your members are more valuable the longer they stay at your gym. They refer their friends and family and play an essential role in your gym’s community. Letting member turnover get out of hand is bad for business, no matter how many new members you add. 

Download a free copy of the Gym Member Retention Warning Signs Guide to learn how to spot red flags and save members. Don’t wait until it’s too late – download the guide now and start taking steps towards building a loyal community of members.