The fitness industry faces a turnover rate of 30% to 50% annually for fitness staff, which is notably higher than the national average across all sectors, estimated at about 22% (Future of Fitness). This high turnover can disrupt the continuity and quality of service, which is crucial for member retention. On top of this, the fitness industry is more competitive than ever, and operators face the ongoing challenge of providing a consistently exceptional experience with less.
The good news is, by focusing on strategic, high-impact initiatives that leverage technology, automation, and community, gym operators can continue to deliver a consistently good gym member experience in spite of these challenges. Here’s how:
1. Leverage Automation and Technology
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- Self-Service Kiosks: Install self-check-in kiosks or apps to allow members to check in without needing staff assistance. This reduces bottlenecks and improves the member experience.
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- On-Demand Content: Offer members access to workout programs that they can follow at their convenience. This provides value when there aren’t enough staff to run live classes regularly.
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- Automated Member Communication: Use automated email and text notifications for class reminders, promotions, and updates on new equipment or services. Tools like Mailchimp or other CRM platforms can handle this efficiently.
2. Create a Community-Driven Culture
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- Small Group Training: Small group training creates a close-knit environment where members can really connect. People feel a sense of belonging when they engage in regular, shared workouts, which can increase commitment to their fitness journey. This collective experience boosts morale and keeps members engaged in the long term (Exadel).
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- Peer Accountability: Promote buddy systems where members can work out together and hold each other accountable. This builds camaraderie and lessens the need for staff-driven engagement.
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- Host Community Events: Even with limited staff, organising small community-building events like member meet-ups, nutrition talks, or casual group runs can enhance the gym’s sense of community.
3. Introduce Digitally-led, Automated Fitness Solutions
Digital, automated fitness solutions have emerged as powerful tools for gyms looking to enhance member experiences while optimising operational efficiency, especially in environments with limited staff.
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- Cost Savings: Reducing your dependency on a large staff helps cut down on operational expenses while maintaining high-quality member experience.
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- Increased Engagement: Members feel empowered by having control over their fitness journey through ‘drop in’ workouts and automated programming.
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- Experience Consistency: Automated solutions ensure that service remains consistent, even when staffing is limited.
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- Scalability: With fewer staff requirements, you can focus on expanding your gym’s offerings and growing your business while ensuring the member experience remains top-notch.
Here are some great examples of digitally-led, automated fitness solutions to consider;
BOX12 In-Club
Take the BOX12 In-Club solution, for example. This innovative setup allows gym operators to add an automated, boxing and functional fitness experience into their existing space – be it an underutilised squash court, or an area of your gym that isn’t getting much footfall. With virtual coaching screens that guide members through 36-minute rolling circuits, participants can engage in an immersive workout without needing an on-site trainer, and with a new circuit starting every 3 minutes, members can jump in when it suits them, without being restricted to class timetables.
This not only gives your members more variety and flexibility, but also elevates their overall experience, all while keeping staffing needs to a minimum.
“We were looking to create something special, something unique in the community that would inspire people to get active and stay active. When the BOX12 In-club was first tabled as an idea we were a little sceptical. We were struggling to understand how it might work as a ‘box within a box’ at Oak Park Active Living Centre. Our concerns were soon put to rest when Alliance hosted visits to an existing BOX12 facility located at Newcastle Under Lyme. We fell in love with the energy, fun and uniqueness of the experience and were convinced it would ignite a spark in the community and people would want to get involved.”
Stuart Webb, Group Manager, Alliance Leisure
BOX12 POD
Another great option for enhancing the gym member experience without requiring additional staff is the BOX12 Pod. This compact, freestanding pod delivers a unique boxing and functional fitness workout.
With its digital touchscreen, members can follow pre-set programs, guiding them through structured, effective workouts without the need for trainer supervision. The BOX12 Pod adds versatility to your gym’s offerings, and its small footprint ensures it takes up minimal floor space.
By smartly leveraging technology and building community, operators can more easily deliver a consistent member experience that not only keeps their current members engaged, but attracts new members too.
To find out more about how BOX12 can help you deliver an exceptional member experience, even with limited staff, book a chat with our sales team here.
