Future-Proof Your Studio: 5 Strategies for Growth in 2025

From Empty Classes to Full Rosters: Making Growth Predictable, Not Painful

Running a studio in 2025 isn’t just about great programming—it’s about smart strategy. In a recent Zen Planner webinar, Senior Sales Specialist Grace Gallo (ClassPass) and Zen Planner’s Head of Marketing Mike Wuest unpacked what sustainable, tech-driven growth looks like today.

From plugging leaks in your retention funnel to harnessing ClassPass and AI-powered engagement tools, these five strategies can help you future-proof your fitness business without burning out.

Partner Smart: Leverage ClassPass to Fill Empty Spots

Not every new lead needs to come from your own marketing spend. In the webinar, Grace Gallo emphasized how ClassPass drives high-value traffic into your studio by connecting you to members who love trying different class styles. But it’s not just drop-ins — many become regulars.

This strategy helps you:

• Fill off-peak classes without discounting memberships
• Gain exposure through ClassPass ratings and features
• Access new leads via ClassPass referral incentives
• Enjoy seamless Zen Planner integration to reduce admin work

Think of ClassPass as your silent sales partner, helping fill seats you’re already paying to offer.

Automate Connection: Use AI to Keep Leads and Members Engaged

People expect quick, personalized communication. That’s where AI steps in.

In the webinar, Mike Wuest shared how Zen Planner Engage uses AI to automate lead nurturing and member follow-ups. From text campaigns to behavior-triggered emails, the system removes the guesswork.

Here’s how it helps:

• AI-written texts and emails that sound human, not robotic
• Smart workflows based on member behavior (like missed classes)
• Fast follow-ups that improve conversion rates

In a world of short attention spans, automated but authentic communication keeps your studio top-of-mind.

Offset Costs Without Losing Members: Flex Fees 101

No one wants to raise prices, but transaction fees eat into profits. In the webinar, Mike introduced Flex Fees, which allow you to pass processing fees to clients transparently while keeping your pricing competitive. It’s a small change with a potentially big financial upside.

What you need to know:

• Flex Fees shift credit card processing costs to the member
• Saves gyms money without raising base prices
• Be sure to check local/state laws before implementation

With rising operational costs, these small wins help you stay profitable and scalable.

Turn Reviews Into Revenue: The $250 Power Play

Google reviews don’t just build trust but also boost visibility and revenue. In the webinar, both Mike and Grace hammered this home. According to them, a well-executed review strategy pays off.

Here’s how you can make it part of your customer journey:

• Ask for reviews during milestone moments (e.g., 30 days in)
• Use QR codes or direct links to make it frictionless
• Respond to every review (even the bad ones)

Mike’s tip: One positive Google review could be worth $250 in new revenue based on visibility and conversions. Don’t leave that money on the table.

Win or Lose in the First 100 Days

The biggest growth lever? Keeping the people you’ve already converted. In the webinar, Mike shared lessons from his own studio, where high churn led him to build a 100-day onboarding journey inspired by the book Never Lose a Customer Again.

Here’s what it looks like:

• Consistent, personalized outreach
• Member milestones (like first class, first referral)
• Success story sharing to build community
• Tools like Zen Planner Engage to track and automate it all

Your retention rate depends heavily on how you treat new members. The first 100 days aren’t a grace period—they’re the make-or-break moment.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Grow – Grow Smarter

Every gym owner wants growth. But sustainable growth in 2025 will depend not just on harder hustle, but on automation, smart partnerships, and better onboarding. By using tools like ClassPass, AI workflows, Flex Fees, and intentional review strategies, you future-proof your studio against churn and competition.

And with Zen Planner’s full suite of engagement tools, you’ll have the tech backbone to make all five strategies work together seamlessly.

📽️ Want to hear directly from the experts?

Watch the full webinar replay
to catch all the tips shared by Grace and Mike.

Need help activating any of these strategies in Zen Planner? Reach out! We’re here to help your studio thrive—this year and beyond.