What do customers want from a gym?
Gym customers want convenience, cleanliness, modern equipment, expert support, digital tools, and most importantlyāresults. They want a space where they feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to reach their fitness goals, whether through group classes, personal training, or self-guided workouts.
For gym owners, delivering on all these gym customer expectations can be overwhelming without the right systems in place. From juggling class schedules and membership billing to managing trainer communication and tracking client progress, itās easy for important details to slip through the cracks. Thatās why thousands of fitness businesses trust Exercise.comāthe all-in-one gym management software that helps streamline operations, engage gym members, and scale your offerings with ease. Whether you’re offering in-person training, online coaching, or hybrid programs, Exercise.com gives you the tools to meet your gym membersā expectations and grow your gym with confidence.
Understanding what customers want from a gym is important for every gym owner. The things people want from a gym may differ, but there are some commonalities. Here’s what every gym owner needs to know.
| Factor | Percentage/Insight | How Exercise.com Can Help |
|---|---|---|
| Location and Convenience | 35.96% of gym-goers rank location as the most important factor when choosing a gym. | Exercise.com offers custom-branded apps, enabling members to access schedules, workouts, and bookings remotely. |
| Sanitation and Cleanliness | 49% of consumers value cleanliness highly; 22.50% consider it the top factor in gym selection. | Automated check-ins, digital waivers, and contactless payments reduce physical touchpoints for enhanced hygiene. |
| Price and Value | 57% of US consumers prioritize cost; men are more price-conscious (61%) than women (53%). | Flexible pricing options, dynamic package creation, and automated billing help gyms offer competitive membership plans. |
| Group Fitness Classes | 22.66% rank group classes as the most desired amenity; women value this more than men (20% vs. 5%). | The platform supports group class scheduling, livestreaming, and on-demand recordings to enhance accessibility. |
| Childcare Services | 25.2% of respondents prefer gyms offering childcare facilities. | Exercise.com allows booking for dependents and families, making it easier for parents to manage their schedules. |
| Sauna, Steam Room, Pool | 13.67% of consumers prioritize these amenities when selecting a gym. | The software integrates facility management tools to track usage and schedule maintenance for these amenities. |
| Security Features | Millennials value security more than the general public (33% vs. 24%). | Secure member portals, e-signature capabilities, and encrypted payment processing ensure data protection and safety. |
| Digital Fitness Options | High demand for virtual classes and fitness apps for flexibility and personalization. | Exercise.com excels in on-demand fitness content delivery through custom-branded apps, livestreaming, and workout tracking tools. |
| Wellness Services | Rising interest in holistic health services like weight-loss programs and hormone therapy. | The platform supports personalized workout plans, fitness assessments, nutrition tracking, and habit tracking tools. |
| Social Media Influence | Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram drive gym engagement and membership growth significantly. | Built-in marketing tools enable gyms to share branded content on social media to attract new members effectively. |
Understanding fitness customer preferences is key to delivering exceptional gym experiences. Location remains a top priority for gym-goers, with convenience driving membership decisions. Exercise.com addresses this by offering custom-branded apps that allow members to engage with their gym remotely through class bookings, workout tracking, and more. By addressing these diverse customer needs comprehensively through its all-in-one platform, Exercise.com empowers gym owners to stay competitive while delivering exceptional value to their members.
When it comes to fitness, everyone’s needs and preferences can vary significantly. However, some common factors influence why people choose and stick with a particular gym. Understanding what customers want from a gym can help fitness center owners and managers tailor their offerings to meet those needs, leading to higher membership numbers and greater customer satisfaction. Read on to learn what most gym-goers look for in their ideal fitness environment, and then see why Exercise.com is the best gym management software solution for gym owners and gym members.
What Gym Members Want
What do customers really want from a gym? Itās not just rows of treadmills and a rack of dumbbellsātodayās gym members are looking for a complete experience that aligns with their goals, schedules, and lifestyles. Whether you’re starting a gym or improving your current offerings, understanding what customers expect is key to growth and retention.
Clean, Safe, and Well-Maintained Facilities
First impressions matter. Members expect clean locker rooms, sanitized equipment, and a well-organized layout. A visibly enforced cleaning schedule and attention to safety protocols build trust and show professionalism.
Convenient Location and Hours
Gyms that are close to home or workāand open early, late, or 24/7āget the edge. Flexibility is a must for customers juggling busy schedules.
Modern Equipment and Workout Variety
Members want access to quality cardio machines, resistance training gear, functional fitness tools, and enough equipment to avoid wait times. A mix of traditional and functional equipment keeps workouts fresh and results-driven.
Group Fitness and Small Group Training
High-energy group classes (like HIIT, spin, or yoga) build community and drive engagement. Small group training offers the benefits of personal attention with the motivation of a group, all at a more affordable rate.
Support and Expertise
Certified trainers, helpful staff, and clear guidance help members feel confident and supported. Whether itās an initial assessment or ongoing coaching, professional support sets successful gyms apart.
Progress Tracking and Accountability
Members want to know theyāre making progress. From workout tracking tools and fitness assessments to progress photos and challenges, having a clear view of their results boosts motivation and retention.
Community and Culture
The environment matters just as much as the workout. A welcoming, inclusive cultureāwhether itās social media groups, community events, or in-gym challengesāhelps members feel like they belong.
Flexible Membership Options
Consumers today value choice and flexibility. Month-to-month memberships, drop-in rates, and trial offers help reduce friction and increase sign-ups.
Digital Tools and Convenience
A branded mobile app for booking classes, tracking workouts, and accessing on-demand content is now expected. Members also want easy access to online payments, waivers, and account settings.
Variety of Equipment and Classes
A well-equipped gym is a top priority for many fitness enthusiasts. Customers expect a diverse range of up-to-date, well-maintained equipment that can cater to various fitness goals, from weight loss to strength training. This includes cardio machines, free weights, resistance machines, and functional training equipment.
In addition to equipment, members also value a variety of group fitness classes. These can range from yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and spin classes. Offering a wide variety of classes can cater to members with different interests and fitness levels, making your gym appealing to a broader audience.
Professional and Qualified Staff
The quality of your gym’s staff can make a significant difference in a customer’s experience. Members look for professional, friendly, and knowledgeable staff who can provide guidance, answer questions, and ensure a safe and comfortable environment. This includes reception staff, personal trainers, and group fitness instructors. Use a top rated gym CRM software solution to make looking up and engaging with customers a smooth process.
Having qualified personal trainers on staff can be a significant draw for many gym-goers. Personal trainers offer expert guidance and personalized workout plans, helping members achieve their fitness goals more effectively.
Read More:
- How to Hire Gym Staff and Build an A+ Team
- Best Gym Staff Management Software
- Best CRM Software for Gyms
Cleanliness and Maintenance
Maintaining a clean and well-maintained gym environment is crucial. Members expect clean equipment, locker rooms, and common areas. Regular maintenance of gym equipment is also important to prevent breakdowns and ensure safety. A clean, well-kept gym not only makes members feel comfortable but also shows that you value their health and well-being.
Flexibility and Convenience
In today’s fast-paced world, flexibility and convenience are highly valued. Members appreciate flexible gym hours that accommodate their busy schedules. 24/7 access can be a significant advantage for many gym-goers. (Read More: Best Gym Software with Card Reader 24-7 Access Control System)
Moreover, the gym’s location plays a crucial role. Most people prefer a gym that’s close to their home or workplace, making it easier to fit workouts into their daily routine.
Community Atmosphere
Many people view the gym as more than just a place to work outāit’s also a community. A welcoming, inclusive atmosphere can make members feel more motivated and committed to their fitness journey. Events, social activities, and community outreach can foster a strong sense of community, making your gym a place where people want to spend their time.
Read More: Gym Event Ideas
Value for Money
Finally, customers want to feel they’re getting value for their money. This doesn’t necessarily mean being the cheapest option, but rather offering high-quality services and facilities at a reasonable price. Providing additional perks like free Wi-Fi, towel service, or member discounts can enhance the perceived value of your gym membership.
Understanding what customers want from a gym is the first step towards creating a fitness center that meets their needs and expectations. By focusing on these areas, you can provide a superior experience that attracts and retains members, ultimately leading to the success of your gym.
Results
At the end of the day, customers want to see real changeāwhether thatās weight loss, strength, mobility, or stress relief. Offering structured programs, expert coaching, and measurable progress tools helps deliver the outcomes your members signed up for.
Want to streamline your operations and exceed member expectations? Exercise.com is the all-in-one platform built for gyms that want to deliver a modern, engaging fitness experience while saving time and growing revenue. Book a free demo today.
Leveraging Exercise.com for a Better Gym Experience
Exercise.com is a leading gym management software that helps gym owners streamline their operations and provide a superior experience for their members. By integrating various aspects of gym management into one platform, Exercise.com can help create a more efficient, user-friendly environment for both staff and members.
Sanitation has become increasingly important post-pandemic, with nearly half of consumers prioritizing cleanliness in their gym selection process. Exercise.com helps gyms maintain high hygiene standards by enabling contactless check-ins, digital waivers, and automated payments.
Cost is another critical factor for many customers; Exercise.comās dynamic pricing tools allow gyms to create flexible membership packages tailored to different budgets while automating billing processes for efficiency.
Group fitness classes continue to attract members seeking social interaction during workouts. Exercise.com supports both in-person group classes with scheduling tools and virtual options like livestreaming or on-demand recordings for added convenience.
For families, childcare services are a key amenity that influences membership decisions. Exercise.com simplifies family memberships by allowing dependent bookings within the same platform.
Luxury amenities like saunas or pools are valued by some members but require careful management; Exercise.comās facility management tools ensure efficient scheduling and usage tracking for these features.
With millennials prioritizing security features in their gym experience, Exercise.com provides robust data encryption, secure portals, and e-signature functionality to enhance safety.
The growing demand for digital fitness options is met by Exercise.comās comprehensive suite of features for virtual training sessions, on-demand workouts, wearable integrations, and personalized fitness plansāall accessible through custom-branded apps.
Holistic wellness services are also gaining traction as members look beyond traditional fitness goals toward overall health improvement. Exercise.com supports this trend with tools for nutrition tracking, habit building, fitness assessments, and goal setting.
Finally, social media plays a significant role in driving engagement and memberships today. Exercise.com equips gyms with marketing tools that make it easy to share branded content on platforms like Instagram or TikTok to attract new members while retaining existing ones.
Convenient Online Gym Booking
One of the key features of Exercise.com is its online gym booking software system. This allows members to conveniently book classes, personal training sessions, or other services directly from their device at any time. Not only does this save time for your staff, but it also provides a seamless experience for your members, who can plan and manage their fitness schedule with ease.
Read More: Best Gym Booking Software
Fast Gym Check-Ins
Exercise.com also facilitates fast and easy gym check-in software, which can enhance the overall experience for your members. With a quick scan of a barcode or a simple tap on their mobile device, members can check in without having to wait in line or involve front desk staff. This not only streamlines the process for your members but also frees up your staff to focus on other tasks.
Read More: Best Gym Check-In Software
Efficient Gym Point of Sale System
Running a smooth gym point of sale system is crucial in a gym setting. With Exercise.com, you can easily manage sales of products or services, track inventory, and handle transactions, all in one place. The platform also integrates with other systems, such as your accounting software, for even greater efficiency.
Read More: Best Gym Point of Sale (POS) System Software
Custom-Branded Gym Mobile Apps
In today’s digital age, having a mobile presence is more important than ever. With Exercise.com, you can have a custom-branded gym mobile app that not only boosts your gym’s brand visibility but also offers a range of features to enhance your members’ experience. This includes workout tracking, goal setting, social interaction, and access to your gym’s resources and services, all from the convenience of their mobile device.
Read More: Best Gym Mobile Apps Software
By integrating these features and more, Exercise.com can help you create a gym environment that meets the needs and expectations of modern gym-goers, ultimately leading to higher member satisfaction and retention.
Take Your Gym to the Next Level with Exercise.com
As a gym owner, understanding what your customers want and delivering on those expectations is key to success. With Exercise.com, you can elevate your gym management to new heights, offering a seamless, modern, and enjoyable experience for your members while making your operations more efficient and effective.
From convenient online booking and quick check-ins to an efficient point of sale system and a custom-branded mobile app, Exercise.com provides the tools you need to meet and exceed your members’ expectations. But don’t just take our word for itāexperience it for yourself.
Book a demo today to see how Exercise.com can revolutionize your gym management and help you create the gym environment your customers want. Discover firsthand the difference that a comprehensive, integrated gym management software can make for both your business and your members. It’s time to give your gym the upgrade it deserves with Exercise.com.
What kind of equipment do customers usually want in a gym?
Customers typically look for a wide variety of equipment in a gym. This includes cardio machines like treadmills and ellipticals, strength training equipment like free weights and resistance machines, and functional training equipment like kettlebells and medicine balls. Additionally, some members may appreciate specialized equipment, such as rowing machines, stair climbers, or suspension training systems.
How important is staff qualification in a gym?
The qualification of staff is highly important in a gym setting. Members often rely on staff for guidance, advice, and safety, so they look for professionals who are knowledgeable, certified, and experienced. This includes reception staff, personal trainers, and group fitness instructors. Personal trainers, in particular, should have recognized certifications and a good understanding of fitness, health, and exercise techniques.
How can a gym maintain cleanliness effectively?
Maintaining cleanliness in a gym involves regular cleaning and sanitization of all equipment and areas. This includes wiping down machines after use, cleaning floors and surfaces regularly, and ensuring restrooms and locker rooms are kept clean and well-stocked. Providing sanitation stations with disinfectant wipes or spray for members to clean equipment before and after use can also help maintain cleanliness.
What aspects contribute to a gym’s community atmosphere?
A gym’s community atmosphere can be influenced by several factors, including the behavior and attitude of staff and members, the layout and design of the gym, and the events or activities offered. Regular social events, group classes, member appreciation days, and community outreach can help foster a sense of community. Staff can also contribute by being friendly, approachable, and supportive.
How can a gym offer value for money to its members?
Gyms can offer value for money by providing high-quality services and facilities at a reasonable price. This includes a variety of well-maintained equipment, a range of fitness classes, qualified and professional staff, and a clean and comfortable environment. Additional perks like free Wi-Fi, towel service, or member discounts can also enhance the perceived value of a gym membership.
What attracts customers to a gym?
Customers are attracted to a gym for a variety of reasons. These include the quality and variety of equipment, the range of classes offered, the expertise and friendliness of the staff, cleanliness, and the overall atmosphere of the gym. Location and pricing also play a significant role. Additionally, unique features or offerings, such as wellness programs, spa facilities, or specialized training, can be attractive to certain demographics.
What makes a gym appealing?
An appealing gym is one that caters to the needs and preferences of its members. This includes having a wide range of modern, well-maintained equipment, offering diverse fitness classes, and employing professional and friendly staff. The gym should also be clean and well-kept. A welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, convenient location, and competitive pricing can also add to a gym’s appeal.
What motivates people to join a gym?
Motivations for joining a gym can vary greatly among individuals. Some common motivations include the desire to improve physical fitness, lose weight, build strength, or improve athletic performance. Others may join a gym for the social aspect, the structure and routine it provides, or access to professional guidance and support from trained staff.
What makes a gym luxury?
A luxury gym typically offers a higher-end experience compared to standard gyms. This could include state-of-the-art equipment, a wider range of classes, highly qualified staff, and exceptional customer service. Luxury gyms might also offer additional amenities such as spas, saunas, steam rooms, massage services, high-end locker rooms, gourmet cafes, and personalized fitness programs. The overall environment of a luxury gym is typically more upscale, with a focus on comfort and aesthetic appeal.
What are the unique selling points for a gym?
The unique selling points for a gym can vary depending on its focus and target market. This could include specialized fitness programs or classes, cutting-edge equipment, highly trained staff, exceptional customer service, or unique amenities like a climbing wall, pool, or wellness services. Offering a strong sense of community or unique fitness events and challenges can also serve as unique selling points. Ultimately, a gym’s unique selling points should align with the needs and desires of its target customer base.
