6 Best Software for Small Gyms in 2024
Compare the best software for small gyms from Exercise.com, Zen Planner, PushPress, and more.
See why Exercise.com is the best small gym software and the best big gym software alike, helping gyms increase revenue and profitability with the best all-in-one gym management software. Finding the best software for small gyms is crucial for owners looking to streamline operations, enhance member engagement, and grow their business efficiently. The ideal small gym software should offer comprehensive features such as booking, membership management, workout programming, and client communication, all tailored to the unique needs of smaller fitness facilities.
In the competitive fitness industry, leveraging the top small gym software like the best small gym membership software can be the key to differentiating your gym and providing exceptional value to your members. You don’t have to be a large gym to run a successful gym business and make money as a gym owner. Using the best small gym software can give you the professional solution that large gyms have, and at a price point that works within your budget.
Best Small Gym Management Software Comparison
| Software | Booking | Mobile Apps | Custom Branded | Payments | Waivers | Invoicing | Assessments | Workouts | Messaging | Marketing | Automations | Reports |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise.com | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā |
| Zen Planner | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā |
| PushPress | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā |
| WellnessLiving | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā |
| Mindbody | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā |
| Vagaro | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā | ā |
When it comes to managing your gym with the utmost efficiency and delivering unparalleled service to your members, turning to the best gym software is essential. For those gyms that also offer personal training services, incorporating the best personal training software into your arsenal can further elevate the training experience you provide. Exercise.com stands out as the premier software solution for small gyms, offering a robust platform that combines ease of use with powerful features to cover every aspect of gym management and personal training services.
#1 Exercise.com
Exercise.com is recognized as the leading fitness software for small gyms and big gyms alike, providing a robust and user-friendly platform that addresses all aspects of gym management and member engagement. Its ability to offer custom-branded mobile apps sets it apart, allowing gyms to maintain their unique identity while offering a professional and cohesive digital experience to their members. The software’s integrated functionalities for booking, payments, waivers, and invoicing streamline administrative tasks, enabling gym owners to focus more on member service and less on paperwork.
Pros
- Comprehensive feature set tailored to small gym needs
- Offers custom-branded mobile apps to enhance member experience
- Integrated payment processing, invoicing, and member management functionalities
- Advanced workout creation and tracking tools for member engagement
Cons
- The wide array of features might require a learning curve for some users
- Custom features and branding options may come at a premium
With Exercise.com, small gyms can leverage top-rated small gym scheduling software alongside comprehensive workout programming and tracking capabilities. This ensures that members receive personalized fitness plans and regular assessments, fostering a sense of progress and accountability. The platform’s communication tools facilitate direct engagement with members, enhancing the sense of community within the gym. Moreover, Exercise.com’s marketing and automation features assist in attracting new members and retaining existing ones, making it the best software for small gym operations aiming for growth and high member satisfaction.
Here’s just some of what you can do on the Exercise.com platform:
Payments
Process payments for open gym, classes, and personal training.
Landing Pages
Create gym landing pages easily.
Fitness Challenges
Manage fitness challenges (Read More: 100+ Fitness Challenge Ideas)
On-Demand Fitness Content
Offer on-demand fitness content.
Fitness Classes and Groups
Create classes and fitness groups.
Fitness Livestreaming
Conduct gym livestreaming easily.
Automations
Engage with clients via automations.
CRM
Manage leads with a gym CRM.
Fitness Assessments
Create and send fitness assessments with ease.
Habit Tracking
Use fitness habit tracking to inspire and motivate gym members and clients.
Progress Photos
Use fitness progress photos to engage with members.
Leaderboards
Use fitness leaderboards to track event performance and inspire healthy competition.
Supersets
Create exercise supersets in a snap.
Rep Max Progressions
Program exercise rep max progressions with ease.
Exercise Library
Use the exercise demonstration video library or create your own custom exercise demonstration videos.
Workout Plan Creator
Create workout plans for parents and dependents, teams and more.
TV Workouts
Cast gym TV workouts to in-gym TV screens quickly and efficiently.
Group and Location Management
Manage multiple groups and locations with ease.
Client Management
Manage clients and gym members with ease. An online training software comparison for personal trainers makes it easy to see why Exercise.com offers the best athlete management software and the best client management functionality for in-person and online personal training. The best personal fitness trainer software should work for you on the go, just like in the gym.
Appointment Booking
Book appointments for parents and dependents with ease. (Read More: Best Gym Booking Software)
Gym Check-In
Gym check-in software that makes your life easy. (Read More: Best Gym Check-In Software)
Messaging
Communicate with gym members, athletes, team members, personal training clients, class members, parents, and dependents via SMS, email, and in-app push notification.
Performance Tracking
View performance over time, track personal records, and other fitness stats with performance reporting dashboards. The best training gym software offers exercise tracking, habit tracking, workout tracking, and more.
Business Dashboards
And of course, view all of your gym business reports easily too.
Custom Branded Fitness Apps
All from your custom-branded fitness apps (Read More: Best Gym Mobile Fitness Apps Software)
#2 Zen Planner
Zen Planner emerges as a top software for managing small gyms, offering a suite of features designed to simplify day-to-day operations and enhance member experience. Its user-friendly interface allows gym owners and staff to easily manage class schedules, bookings, and member accounts, ensuring smooth operations even during peak hours. The software’s integrated payment system reduces administrative burden by automating billing processes and membership renewals.
Pros
- Intuitive booking and scheduling system for classes and personal training sessions
- Integrated payment processing and member management to streamline operations
- Workout tracking functionality to monitor member progress
Cons
- Limited customization options for branding and user interface
- Lacks in-depth fitness assessment tools for comprehensive member evaluations
While Zen Planner provides a solid foundation for small gym management, its relatively basic workout tracking and lack of custom branding options might not meet the needs of gyms looking to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Nonetheless, for small gyms focused on operational efficiency and straightforward member management, Zen Planner stands as a reliable choice.
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#3 PushPress
PushPress is recognized for its high-quality small gym software systems, focusing on simplicity and efficiency. The platform’s strength lies in its streamlined approach to gym management, with features like automated billing and member check-ins that reduce the administrative load on staff. The option for a custom-branded mobile app allows gyms to maintain their unique identity and improve member communication.
Pros
- User-friendly interface designed specifically for fitness businesses
- Custom-branded mobile app option to enhance member engagement
- Automated billing and payment processing for financial ease
Cons
- Workout programming and tracking features may not be as comprehensive as competitors
- Limited marketing and client communication tools compared to more advanced platforms
However, gyms with a strong emphasis on personalized training programs and detailed fitness assessments might find PushPress’s capabilities in these areas slightly limited. Despite this, PushPress’s core functionalities make it a valuable tool for small gyms prioritizing ease of use and essential management features.
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#4 WellnessLiving
WellnessLiving offers a leading small gym management software solution, boasting a wide array of features aimed at enhancing both the member experience and operational efficiency. Its all-in-one approach covers everything from schedule management to automated marketing campaigns, making it a versatile tool for gym owners. The software’s focus on client engagement, through features like loyalty programs and targeted communications, helps gyms build strong relationships with their members.
Pros
- Comprehensive platform with booking, payments, and member management integrated into one system
- Advanced client engagement tools, including loyalty programs and automated marketing
- Robust reporting and analytics for data-driven decision making
Cons
- The platform’s extensive features might present a steep learning curve for some users
- Customization options may be limited in comparison to more specialized software solutions
Despite its comprehensive offerings, small gyms looking for highly customized software tailored to their specific brand might find WellnessLiving’s customization capabilities somewhat restricted. Nonetheless, its strong foundation in booking, payments, and member management secures its position as a top contender for small gyms seeking a robust management platform.
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#5 Mindbody
Mindbody is renowned as one of the best-rated small gym management platforms, offering a comprehensive suite of features designed to support every aspect of gym operation. Its extensive marketplace not only provides gyms with the tools they need to manage their business but also connects them with a larger community of potential clients. The platform’s mobile app and online portal ensure that members can easily book classes, manage their memberships, and stay engaged with their fitness journey.
Pros
- Wide-ranging functionality including scheduling, marketing, and online booking
- Extensive marketplace for increased visibility and potential client acquisition
- Mobile app and online portal enhance member access and convenience
Cons
- Pricing structure may be challenging for smaller gyms with limited budgets
- Some users report a complex interface that can be challenging to navigate
However, the extensive capabilities and services offered by Mindbody come at a cost, which may be prohibitive for smaller gyms with tighter budgets. Additionally, the platform’s sophisticated interface might require a more significant investment of time and resources to master, potentially posing a hurdle for gym owners and staff seeking simplicity.
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#6 Vagaro
Vagaro stands out as a premier software solution for small gyms, offering flexibility and a broad feature set that caters to the diverse needs of fitness businesses. Its emphasis on user experience is evident in its intuitive design, which simplifies tasks such as scheduling, client management, and marketing. The platform’s customization options allow small gyms to tailor the software to their specific branding, enhancing their market presence and member engagement.
Pros
- Versatile platform suitable for a range of fitness businesses, including small gyms and studios
- Features include online booking, customer relationship management, and automated marketing tools
- User-friendly design and customizable options to match the gym’s brand identity
Cons
- May offer more features than necessary for very small or specialized fitness studios
- Some advanced features require higher subscription tiers
While Vagaro’s comprehensive feature set makes it an attractive option for small gyms looking to manage multiple aspects of their business in one place, the breadth of its offerings might be more than some very small or niche fitness studios require. This can lead to a scenario where gym owners are paying for functionalities they seldom use. Additionally, accessing some of Vagaro’s more advanced features, such as detailed analytics or enhanced marketing tools, may necessitate upgrading to more expensive subscription tiers, which could be a consideration for gyms with limited budgets.
Despite these considerations, Vagaro’s adaptability makes it a top choice for small gyms that anticipate growth and diversification of their services. Its ability to scale with the business, combined with strong support for booking, customer relationship management, and marketing, positions Vagaro as a leading fitness software for small gyms. The platform’s commitment to providing a seamless and engaging user experience for both gym owners and members alike underscores its value in a competitive fitness market.
Read More: Vagaro
While there are several excellent software options available for small gyms, choosing the right one depends on the specific needs, goals, and budget of your gym. From comprehensive, all-in-one platforms like Exercise.com that offer custom branding and extensive management features, to more streamlined solutions like Vagaro that provide essential functionalities with a focus on user experience, there’s a software solution to fit every small gym’s requirements. Assessing the pros and cons of each, along with considering the long-term scalability and support offered by the software provider, will help you make the best choice for your gym’s success.
What is the best software for managing a small gym?
The best software for managing a small gym is one that offers comprehensive features tailored to the needs of gym owners, trainers, and clients. Exercise.com stands out as a top choice, providing a robust platform that includes membership management, scheduling, workout creation and delivery, billing and invoicing, and customizable gym websites. Its user-friendly interface and customizable options make it ideal for small gyms looking to streamline operations, enhance client engagement, and grow their business efficiently.
Read More: Best Gym Management Software
How do you manage a small gym?
Managing a small gym involves various tasks including membership management, scheduling classes and personal training sessions, equipment maintenance, and financial management. Whether you manage a small gym or one of the largest, most expensive gyms, successful gym management requires a focus on creating a welcoming community atmosphere, maintaining high levels of cleanliness, offering diverse and engaging fitness programs, and employing qualified and friendly staff. Utilizing management software like Exercise.com can significantly ease these responsibilities by automating many administrative tasks.
How do I make my small gym successful?
To make a small gym successful, focus on delivering exceptional customer service, maintaining a clean and inviting facility, and offering a variety of engaging fitness programs tailored to your members’ needs. Building a strong community through events, challenges, and social media can also enhance member retention. Implementing a reliable gym management software like Exercise.com can streamline operations, allowing more time to focus on growth strategies and member satisfaction.
Read More: How to Have a Successful Gym
How do I start a small fitness gym?
Starting a small fitness gym involves conducting market research, creating a solid business plan, securing financing, finding the right location, purchasing equipment, and obtaining necessary permits and licenses. It’s also crucial to develop a strong branding and marketing strategy to attract your target audience. Implementing efficient gym management software from the start can set a solid foundation for operational success.
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How profitable is a small gym?
The profitability of a small gym depends on various factors such as location, membership fees, operational costs, and the services offered. By optimizing membership retention, offering personal training and group classes, and managing expenses effectively, a small gym can be quite profitable. Utilizing management software can also contribute to profitability by improving efficiency and member engagement.
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What is the minimum size for a small gym?
The minimum size for a small gym typically ranges from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, depending on the types of activities offered and the equipment needed. Efficient layout planning and the use of space-saving equipment can maximize the functionality of a small gym space, allowing for a variety of workout options for members.
Read More: What is the minimum size for a small gym?
How many members does a gym need to be successful?
The number of members a gym needs to be successful varies based on factors like membership fees, operational costs, and the size of the facility. A small gym can be successful with a few hundred members if it maintains high retention rates and offers additional revenue-generating services like personal training and group classes.
Read More: How many members does a gym need to be successful?
Is it hard to open a small gym?
Opening a small gym can be challenging due to initial financial investment, market competition, and the need for effective marketing strategies. However, with thorough planning, a clear vision, and the use of efficient tools like gym management software, it is possible to overcome these challenges and establish a successful gym.
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What is the best small gym check-in software?
The best small gym check-in software is user-friendly, efficient, and integrates seamlessly with other management functions. Exercise.com offers an excellent check-in system as part of its all-inclusive platform, making it easy for members to check in and for gym owners to track attendance and member engagement.
Read More: Best Gym Check-In Software
What is the best small gym scheduling software?
The best small gym scheduling software offers flexible scheduling options for classes and personal training sessions, easy booking and cancellation processes, and integration with other management tools. Exercise.com’s scheduling feature is designed to meet these needs, providing a streamlined experience for both gym staff and members.
Read More: Best Gym Scheduling Software
What is the best small gym payments software?
The best small gym payments software ensures secure and reliable processing of membership fees, personal training payments, and other transactions. It should offer automated billing, various payment methods, and financial reporting. Exercise.com includes a comprehensive payment system that simplifies financial management for gym owners.
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How can Exercise.com help me run a successful small gym?
Exercise.com can help run a successful small gym by providing a comprehensive suite of management tools tailored to the fitness industry. Its platform includes membership management, scheduling, billing, workout creation, and a customizable website, all designed to streamline operations, enhance member engagement, and drive growth. With Exercise.com, gym owners can focus on what they do bestāhelping their members achieve their fitness goals.
Read More: How to Run a Successful Gym Business
