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Owning A Gym: A Comprehensive Guide To Success

February 9, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

When starting any business, it is essential to create and execute a business plan. Starting a gym can be quite a challenge given today’s circumstances, but it is still a very lucrative and highly attractive industry to enter. Whether you are looking to start a full-service fitness center or operate a local club, you will need to create a proper structure for success.

The Key to Success in Owning a Gym

Before focusing on the specifics of the gym industry, multiple business steps should be adhered to before launch. Only 18% of revenue is made by the top four players in America, with the rest being local and independent gyms. This is a good starting point, as there is always a huge need for these kinds of services, which is a good starting point for success. Here are the top three things to consider when starting your own gym business:

Develop a business plan

The first step to building a successful business is developing an effective business plan, and then taking action and implementing it. The United States Small Bureau Association outlines why it is critical to have a functioning business plan. This includes your sales and marketing, your brand, your projections, funding, and many other associated things. Many small businesses begin without a business plan, and these organizations are much more likely to fail at start-ups. You do not need to have a specific structure, but knowing your goals and how to get there is essential.

Build your dream team… Slowly

No one person can be an island, but expanding too quickly can be the death of many businesses. Choosing and delegating a trustworthy, professional, and cohesive team will ensure that the business runs well. The price of not having a great team is costly, as it can go to one extreme or the other. For example, poor team management causes frustration, turnover, and loss, and being too strict and not delegating causes competition, burnout, and envy. Listen to your team, lead by example and build from the ground up.

Organize a proper launch

Many small businesses have great services and products on offer, yet they struggle to find clients, significantly enough to keep the going concern principle within the first few months of opening. A proper launch not only announces your presence but makes a statement in your local area and overall niche that you are here to disrupt the industry. Your early adopters will be your most stalwart clients, and they will champion your services and upsells for possibly the entire length of your business.

Tools and Skills Needed for Successfully Owning a Gym

Now that we’ve talked about the top 3 secrets to running a successful business, we will go over industry-specific areas that will set apart a good gym owner with a great gym owner. Once you have your team in place and a few clients, it is time to learn out your business, automate, and scale.

Get Lean

Lean methodology is the leading business discipline and philosophy with a proven track record of maximizing results while minimizing effort. The key take-aways are

Do more with less.
Aim for great, not perfect, and
Follow the 80/20 rule.

To summarize, we achieve marginal returns past a certain point, so once something is good enough to be launched, take it and improve upon it later. Look for the 20% of your business that is scalable, and it will also most likely create 80% of your income. Once this is identified and implemented, your business will run smoother and grow easier.

Form Partnerships

This is one of the few things that many business owners forget to do, and often, for a good reason. It is easy to categorize employees, contractors, and business relationships when talking to the owner. Forming meaningful partnerships with those you may deem “competitors.” Your competitors may be your best friends, as they can have potential clients that come to them for specific services that can be referred out to you. It never hurts to ask, but be prepared for a win-win situation. In the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Covey writes, “We must first seek to understand, and then to be understood.”

Have the Right Tools

Running a gym can be extremely daunting, especially if you are trying to analyze what is working and what isn’t. A business can not stay stagnant, and owners are extremely busy running their business, so looking for ways to improve can be difficult. Staff management, membership renewals, tracking your sales and marketing, analyzing meaningful data of profits, and accessing payment schedules and systems have a great learning curve associated with them. Spark Membership is the number 1 gym management software on the market. Try it out for just $1

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An Effective 10-Step Guide To Creating A Gym Business Plan

February 7, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

Whether you’re just starting in this field of business, or have been a longer-term owner in the industry, you may be struggling to decide where your business should head towards. A business plan is a requirement of any successful business, as it creates a guideline for operation and growth that you can look forward to on a going-concern basis. According to the US small business association, a business plan is the number one priority for effective management of your business, as it provides a structure for things going forward. Below, we will talk about the ten most important steps to include when developing your business plan, but first, let’s take a look at why you need one in the first place.

Why Create a Gym Business Plan

Traditional methods of business planning were to plan for everything, including all contingencies, before starting a business. This was necessary, as we did not have the resources that are available to us today. This changed with the introduction of the lean method. The lean method places importance on failing fast and discovering along the way, as well as launching as soon as possible. The common interpretation is that you should completely go into business unprepared, which cannot be farther from the truth. A business plan is extremely important due to:

Goal setting– One of the most important steps in a business plan is to create SMART goals. This word has become synonymous with success, as choosing goals that are smart, measurable, attainable, reasonable, and timely will help to steer your business towards success.

Business plans can pivot– Keep it simple and you can’t go wrong. Most owners don’t want to invest time in starting a business plan due to its complexity. As we will see below, a business plan is not complex and should be updated and improved once your business changes and grows.

Keep track of progress– Achievements are important on any journey, and so is the celebration of these milestones. Choosing effective metrics is an important part of your success and the development of a business plan.

It is necessary for funding– Investors and creditors want to know that you have a plan. A customer may not be interested in your entire business plan, but a potential investor or creditor will want to know the path to success, and how soon they can see a return on investment.

The Ten Steps to Creating a Gym Business Plan

Now that we’ve talked about the importance of a gym business plan, here are the top ten tips to consider when writing one. Remember to keep it simple, and update as you progress on your journey.

Executive Summary

A popular way to approach this is the Napkin Rule; your pitch should be able to be written in a short form to summarize your executive summary. Including your ultimate goal, your mission, the method of success, and the change it will enact. For example, ” I want to help hard-working corporate gym enthusiasts sustainably achieve their fitness goals through our ground-breaking workouts, meals, and fitness app.” Take this explanation and expand on it.

Overview

This section of the business plan is more about passion than detail. Talk about your purpose, your ideal client, and what success will look like for your business.

Your Team

No one person is an island, and one of the important parts of a gym business plan is, You will need a team to accomplish your goals, even if they are not directly employed at the beginning. Think about essential services at first, such as workout equipment vendors, sales, and personal trainers. Once you have revenue staff implemented, you can expand into more support and contract roles.

“Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” -Helen Keller

Brainstorm Marketing Tools and Market Research

Market research includes competitors, potential members, possible revenue streams, the share of the market, and the share of the customer wallet. It also includes marketing strategies, such as advertising, sponsors, trials, referral systems, emailing, contact information, and loyalty. This section can be rendered extremely simple with member management software. Spark Membership is the best gym management software on the market, with proven testimonials. Start now for just $1.

Products and Services on Offer

This section includes both what should be offered to the client and what products you need to effectively manage your business. For example, gym equipment must be procured before launch, and services should be listed. You can determine if you will be offering classes, membership, personal training, and other amenities in your gym.

Costs

Take a look at what initial investment you would need for a minimum viable product (MVP) before launch. This includes equipment costs, labor, location costs, and a pool of money for seed capital to last you a few months before revenue starts rolling in. This also should include CRM, billing, payments, and member management. This is another area where Spark Membership takes some burden off your shoulders.

Projections

Every business needs growth. For the business to remain sustainable, proper projects must be made so that the business is feasible to run. Consider monthly sales, growth, and any data learned from market research. Investors will also want to know if you have prior experience in this space as it will more accurately fit into their ROI projections.

Get Legal

Some businesses fail to launch due to improperly setting up their business. Unless you have thorough experience in this space, it is important to consult a legal professional about the proper structure and registration of your business.

Funding

If you are creating a high-cost business that will require investment, you will need to build a funding plan. Investors and banks will be looking attentively at this section. It should answer such questions as: what return can I expect? How much do you need? Are there multiple rounds?

💡 Sources of funding include credit, venture capital, donations, grants, savings, subsidies, and taxes. Fundings such as donations, subsidies, and grants that have no direct requirement for return of investment are described as “soft funding” or “crowdfunding”.

Launch

The final step to a business plan is putting it into action. You can expand on the ideas above, but ultimately, action beats planning in terms of business success. Invest in your business and yourself and have faith that your gym studio will prosper.

💡 Start with a simple business plan and grow it as needed

You might also want to read 17 Gym Essentials To Have Before Starting Your Own Gym

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Guide To Martial Arts Billing: Top Tips For The Gym Owner

February 5, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

The Best Features That Every Martial Arts Billing System Should Have

One of the biggest challenges when starting your business is figuring out the logistics of payment. After setting up the business and getting ready to receive members and clients through your efforts, billing becomes an important factor. After all, the basic definition of a business is a service provided, a paying customer, and a place to transact. Your clients will want to pay in several different ways, and you must be ready to accept this payment if you’d like to run a successful business. In this article, we will explore the most common mistakes and issues that can occur during the setup of your billing process, and ultimately, the solution.

Martial Arts Billing: Common Obstacles

Although most businesses will have to put in the effort to find a great payment solution, some are unique just to the martial arts space. Below are some common challenges the gym owner faces with transacting and setup:

Building a payment infrastructure that doesn’t scale with the business

Martial arts schools are subscription-based services, with few people electing to pay lump sum yearly payments. This means that the payment solution needs to scale with your member base, be fast to receive payment, and must ensure the proper information is inputted to remain compliant for both you and the client. As you grow, a certain tiered solution should be available to the client, and great billing solution software can make this process easier.

Loss of revenue from overdue invoices

It is one thing entirely when an irate customer refuses to pay, but more commonly, unpaid invoices are unintended by the client. Common issues include credit card declines, incorrect information, or forgetful clients. The best solution is a system that sends out reminder notices, incorporates backup payments, and a process called dunning, which re-tries the payment system and sends further notice to the client if payment is unsuccessful.

Lack of scrutinizing data to maximize revenues

Especially in the beginning stages, the importance of having a regular cadence of the invoice metrics is often overlooked. Some chief metrics, such as growth efficiency, churn, profit margins, and retention rates are great insights into developing your business. It helps to answer questions such as: am I profitable? Which service brings in the most money? How is my growth this quarter? Are the free trials and promotions effective? Answering these questions can be extremely difficult with an in-house solution.

Changes in complexity and error

When onboarding your first few clients on a basic package, it can be difficult to ascertain why a complete solution is needed. The issues come with the continued growth in your business, and more importantly, the tiered plans and unique customer situations that can arise. There is no blanket solution to this. A payment system must not only be flexible but also provide opportunities for further business. Key features, such as consolidation, transparent charge information, and invoice branding are overlooked, but provide a great opportunity to both get paid and advertise your business.

No automation or integration

A traditional or in-house billing solution usually only focuses on the finances. While this may seem like a very simple and straightforward thing, an invoice is rarely just about money. Gym owners wear different hats, and require different, even specialized teams, to run their school(s). For example, sales teams must have access to invoices to review upsells, discounts, and referral packages. Customer services need this information as well to adjust for errors. Automation also upgrades your professional image, as customers are more likely to transact in a place of authority where they feel safe.

The Best Features That Every Martial Arts Billing System Should Have

Now that the obstacles have been discussed, let’s take a look at what a great Martial arts billing system should include. This list is not exhaustive.

Compatibility and growth with your business

Secure transaction spaces

Enhanced Visibility

Tracks revenue and expenses, and provides an effective data management screen

Provide feedback on trials and promotions

provides metrics and on-demand reports to help with filing and review

Market your business with brand invoicing

automation, integration, and analytics

With the above in mind, the billing system should also not be separate from your business. A proper member management software has these billing features included, but also keeps track of your sales, contact, scheduling, staff, and overall management of your school. Spark Membership provides full-service member and school management software that includes all these features and is the best on the market for being a one-stop solution. You can give it a try today for just 1$.

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What is Gym Lead Generation, And How Does It Work

February 3, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

One of the most difficult things to do when starting a new business, and also the most important, is finding new clients for your gym. Before garnering an authoritative section of the market, your brand will be unrecognizable to potential members. The best-proven method for getting your first few clients is having something to offer in return.

Forbes lists this as the number one way to do so, as consumer psychology recognizes deals and offers when there is a lack of brand association. Lead magnets are the best way to do this, and this goes as far back as the days of our ancestors. A lead magnet, put simply, is offering something of value to attract potential customers, and then subsequently using this attention to close the deal.

What qualities make a great lead magnet

Lead magnets work best when they meet certain criteria. According to David Rinsley, CEO of the blog marketing academy, an effective lead magnet incorporates all of the following as a checklist:

Provides a specific solution for a very well-described and targeted niche.

Only promises one big solution, not many small ones.

It will immediately gratify the person, and its perceived value is much more than the payment (if any).

The lead magnet gives a small taste of what is to come, and your final product or service is the solution.

It is provided and consumed in a very short amount of time.

Lead magnets are the first step to building a successful sales funnel. Taking payment, keeping regular contact, scheduling, and offering trials require you to build an entire funnel from scratch. Rather than doing this, having member management software provides a full-service solution. Spark Membership is the best one on the market, and you can start at just $1. Using the above criteria. Below are ten very effective lead generation magnets that will help you attract new clients, whether you are new to the industry, or looking to dominate the space.

10 Gym Lead Generation Magnets That Will Increase Your Membership Acquisition

Beginner class registration

You see it everywhere. Every business that advertises via commercial, billboard, digital, or any other media is advertising their services. No one wants to watch a commercial but everyone wants a deal, especially something that will solve their problem. Banks offer sign-on bonuses, restaurants offer free meals, gyms can offer discounted membership or even free gym visits.

Events

These provide a light and fun atmosphere for new, potential and existing clients to have a look at your gym and the culture. When this is combined with food and knowledgeable staff, it creates an atmosphere which not only are people attracted but can be closed much more effectively.

Coupons and referral programs

If deals are only offered to new members, the rest of your loyal client base may feel underappreciated or may start looking for other gym options. Incorporating coupons and discounts on premium services can be a great upswell to get that member to upgrade to a personal training package. Additionally, creating a referral program can incentivize new members to leave positive reviews and bring new members. Popular rewards are merchandise, gift cards, or even other lead magnets for premium services.

Read the related blog: Innovative Gym Referral Program Ideas to Boost Membership and Revenue

Recipes

A gym isn’t just a location, it’s a lifestyle. Those who are looking to improve their fitness will also be looking to eat more healthily. Offer a diet cookbook, recipe plan, or social media posts to get more leads in the door.

E-book download

One of the most popular lead magnets in any industry is a downloadable e-book. Not only is there an unlimited supply, but the content can also be tailored to lead the client down a happy path of getting informed about their fitness, with your gym as the solution. Free e-books have become notorious around the web, so offering a low-cost book converts better, with $7 being the ideal price for the consumer. Not only can this extra revenue cover some small costs, but it also gets the customers associated with investing in your business, and are more likely to purchase in the future.

Download Master Ron Sell’s EBook Now!

Webinar

Free pre-recorded webinars and on-demand webinars can be included in your sales funnel as both lead magnets, and also to close clients with your services. It should be structured like an e-book, but with a much friendlier atmosphere.

Health & nutrition guides

This can be paired with recipes and cookbooks. Health and nutrition guides show potential clients what foods and exercises they should lean towards for their macronutrient and psycho-somatic needs.

Workouts

Generalized workout plans based on body type are effective lead magnets, especially when it collaborates with an app, downloadable content, or a popular fitness advocate.

Free consultations

This lead magnet favors quality over quantity. Free one-on-one consultations will not seem appealing for those that are just browsing but the ones that come through the door generally are looking for a customized solution to their fitness needs and it will be easier to close and upsell.

Meal plans

Like the above, meal plans can be general or customized. The combination of the two works best. A generalized weight-loss meal plan may bring a large quantity of interested “gym-goers”, and personalized meal plans may bring personal training and group sessions.

Read one of our blogs Increase Your Brand Awareness With Gym SEO.

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Hiring Yoga Teachers – Best Practices

February 1, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

Proven Ways to Hire Effective Yoga Teachers for Your Studio

Congratulations are in order, you took a huge leap and started your yoga studio. If you’ve come to this point, you have already started laying the groundwork for your new business. With your location picked, equipment purchased, and a registered institution, you want to finally take it to the next level – hiring a yoga instructor for your potential clients.

As a studio owner, there are many things to consider when running your business, and you want trustworthy staff that will effectively communicate and teach the client base without much issue. In this post, we will talk about best practices, qualifications, and interview questions to qualify your new yoga teacher.

How to Hire a Yoga Teacher & What to Look For

According to top yogini Brett Larkin, yoga students are looking for an instructor that:

How to hire a yoga teacher & what to look for

Effectively demonstrates the posture they are teaching

Is friendly and approachable

Gives clear instructions

Is overall helpful

Finding a yoga instructor will not be an issue, as a 2016 study showed that there are up to 650,000 certified yoga teachers in the US. With the rise in online classes due to the pandemic, more people are following their passion for yoga and becoming instructors, as this is a workout that can be done with minimal equipment, making it the perfect remote exercise. Popular places include job boards, the yoga alliance posting on social network groups.

When Hiring Yoga Teachers, There Are 4 Main Criteria That You Must Determine:

Qualifications

Not all yoga teachers are officially qualified to teach yoga. When this philosophy-based exercise was first introduced to the US, it was not uncommon for an unlicensed teacher to instruct yoga. This does not mean the person doesn’t know their stuff, a veteran yogi will know a variety of poses. The secret lies between knowing and teaching, so certifications are necessary to determine teaching experience and entrepreneurial spirit.

Certifications

Successful yoga studios require their instructors for a common certificate, which is to have their 200-hour yoga teaching certificate. This certificate is offered as an intensive retreat; a boot camp that turns yogis into instructors, which includes anatomy, alignment, teaching methods, and philosophy. A true master of their craft will have their RYT (Registered Yoga Teacher) certificate.

Style of yoga

This does not mean finding a yoga instructor for every form of yoga that exists, there are much too many styles for that. Instead, it is important to conduct market research in your member base to determine the styles they are looking for. For example, Hot Yoga is extremely popular, while Bikram Yoga remains the most popular Hatha-style Yoga.

Experience

Yoga is just like any other industry, you must balance out the education, experience, and certifications. It is important to strike a balance between all three, and it is no secret that this is why interviews exist. If someone has their certifications, has been trained, but may not have practiced yoga as a student for many years, they may not be able to properly handle difficult situations. We will talk more about this in the interview section below.

Interview Questions to Ask When Hiring Yoga Teachers

Taking into account the post by Brett Larkin above, practitioners are looking for certain skills in their yoga teacher, chief of which are: approachability, helpfulness, certified, friendly, and giving clear instruction. Ultimately, hiring a yoga teacher will need to be a self-starter with an intrapreneurial spirit – that is – will run their classes as their own, but will recognize that the studio belongs to the owner, giving you the time to run your business.

Investing in member management software here is paramount, as it will help with hiring, scheduling, classes, subscriptions, payment, and staff management. Spark Membership has the best-proven software on the market. starting at just $1. Below, let’s take a look at the top interview questions to ask your potential yoga teachers:

1. Why do you want to work as a Yoga Instructor in my studio?

2. What passion drove you to make the switch between practitioner to a teacher?

3. Which style of Yoga do you teach, and what elements of that style are attractive to you?

4. Tell me about your certifications and experience in yoga instruction.

5. How do you stay current with yoga trends, and incorporate this into your daily life?

6. If I were to ask the student that was struggling the most in your last class, what would they say? How about the top student?

7. Give me an example of a time you experienced a conflict in the classroom, and what was the result?

8. What do your students ask for you specifically? What would they say are your best qualities?

9. Tell me about a time you started a project and it didn’t go as expected? What did the final version look like?

10. Do you have any questions for me and my studio?

This question is of utmost importance in the end. If the teacher has no questions, it may be an indicator that they are disinterested in the position. If they ask specific questions, such as what your member base is looking for, what professional relationships they can expect, and questions about developing a plan, they are strongly considering leaving your yoga classes.

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14 Proven Ways to Multiply Your Boxing Gym Membership Sales

January 30, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

It is no secret that to have a thriving business, you need to increase your top-line revenue. Depending on the services you have on offer, it is important to diversify the awareness of your boxing gym across multiple channels. The current situation has changed the way to do business forever, and both the services and advertising methods must adapt to remain relevant. Below, we will outline the 8 best ways to attract and increase boxing gym membership sales, and further, the 6 best ways to approach digital marketing and grow your online presence.

8 Ways to Increase Boxing Gym Membership Sales

Focus on your niche

You are not a full-service gym. You’re not a yoga studio. You are a boxing gym. Studies have proven time and time again that adopting a lean business model and laser-focusing on a specific niche. The gym is general. Boxing gym is a niche. Boxing a gym for busy business executives is an example of a winning-focused niche strategy.

Streamline your onboarding process

Onboarding new clients need to be seamless. This point is critical, as you could lose the sale before the journey even begins. Gym management software is essential, as it provides an encompassing solution to payment, intake, communication, training, and bookings. The best available is Spark Membership, which you can try for just $1

Everyone loves a good deal

When a new restaurant opens next door, what’s the first thing they do? they send you a flyer with their menu and promotion. This is true for salons, realtors, and hardware stores. Your Boxing gym isn’t any different, and new members will be attracted by the deal, but stay for the welcoming service and vibrant culture.

Host and participate in events

Your business launch is the most important event to the success of your business. Don’t just open for business, create anticipation and buzz before launch with a successful marketing campaign. Entrepreneur.com explains the importance here.

Never underestimate a good review

When word of mouth isn’t available, potential clients will look for testimonials and proof that your boxing gym can fit their needs. Encourage your current satisfied members to create posts and tag your gym, as social proof remains the #1 way to show leadership in a niche.

Invest in your staff

Not only does your staff need to be knowledgeable, but no one on your team can believe that customer service is beneath them. Train your staff in conflict resolution and client management, but don’t forget to invest in their happiness and work culture as well. Happy employees bring satisfied clients.

Referrals

It is common knowledge that referrals are the best source of advertising. Not only is it free, but it also targets your ideal customer, and makes them extremely easy to close – all without you having to say a word. Encourage referrals, but you can multiply this with a program. Offer incentives, such as discounts, gift cards, and merchandise to members that successfully refer a new paying member.

Diversify your equipment

No one likes coming to a small gym with just a few bags and a couple of trainers. Invest in your gym aesthetic, and install a variety of useful equipment, such as kettlebells, wraps, and ropes.

6 Platforms to Explode Your Online Brand Awareness

Firstly, let’s talk about socials. Social media isn’t to post now and then just to say you have a presence. It must be treated professionally and may even require a team. Again, Spark Membership can help you achieve this, while also running your gym. Let’s go over tips for the top 4 social media platforms:

Facebook

Set your business page up properly beforehand, and include all relevant location and contact information. Going live on Facebook and posting on other community pages are a great way to build awareness and a following.

Instagram

More visual than Facebook, keep your content light but effective, and leave the more information stuff to the above. Instagram focuses on aesthetics, promotions, and trends. Post informational boxing videos, search trending boxing hashtags and keep your page visually striking with the use of proper editing.

Twitter

If Instagram was the artsy creative, Twitter is the debate team. Twitter is about posting announcements and industry trends. Make this go viral by participating in other threads and retweeting engaging posts.

TikTok

TikTok is the most rapidly growing of the 4. It is similar to Instagram, but less about pictures and aesthetics, and more about viral trends and videos. Wordless demonstrations of exercises, hopping on popular music trends, duetting other videos, and reacting are proven ways to grow your page.

Finally, Let’s Talk About Your Online Presence on Search Engines and Websites:

Website

An effective website lists services that have an about page and provide questions for the most important questions your potential and current clients have. Integrate Spark Membership with your page to effectively manage it.

Google

Ever wondered how businesses popped up when you search for them? All successful local businesses have to google my business (GMB) accounts. Setting up GMB as soon as your business is launched is extremely vital to automate your boxing gym membership sales. Check this page often and encourage positive reviews. In the event of a negative one, respond right away and provide a solution for their complaint or indifference

Incorporating Spark Membership into your boxing gym’s operations is a strategic move towards efficiency, growth, and enhanced member satisfaction. With its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface, it’s an investment that pays off by elevating your gym’s performance and reputation. Try Spark Membership today for just $1 and experience the transformation it can bring to your boxing gym.

Take action now and elevate your boxing gym with Spark Membership – your all-in-one solution for success!

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What Are People Looking For in Online Fitness Classes?

January 28, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

It is no secret that the world has shifted entirely. Online classes have existed, but due to the pandemic, they have surged in popularity. Not only has demand increased for these types of classes, but they are also essential for service-based businesses to remain viable due to uncertain business closures and stringent regulations. Regardless of the reason, one thing is for certain, online classes are here to stay and will need to be optimized and adapted for your fitness club to thrive. Below we will talk about the benefits, and ultimately, What are people looking for in online fitness classes.

Benefits of Hosting Online Fitness Classes

To answer the question of what are people looking for in online fitness classes? Let’s first take a look at some of the great things this model has to offer.

Accessibility – This refers to both instructor and client alike. Being location-agnostic means that instructors can work from anywhere and set up their schedules much more easily since they aren’t in transit between classes. It also keeps their energy going from workout to workout. Clients will also love this as they can book during their lunch hour, or even throughout the workday, rather than the traditional approach of weekends or before and after work.

Flexibility – with great accessibility comes great flexibility of schedule – the ability to be location agnostic for both the client and the instructor means that more time slots can be opened up and there will be more clarity in scheduling.

Personalized support – Personal trainers are a staple of fitness clubs. Clients will always be looking for private one-on-one coaching to improve their health, nutrition, strength, or training. For some, this comes into contention when the problem becomes luxury vs necessity, as it may be more expensive. Through online classes, personal trainers can reduce their overhead and schedule convenient hours to accommodate more private classes.

Ease of communication – This refers to communication with the client, communication with your staff, and the contact you have with members and potential candidates. Spark Membership has the best member management software on the market, where you can book your time schedules, market/remarket to your clients, and manage your staff. This is the clarity in your messages and increases follow-up potential.

Affordability – Online fitness classes are a model that can be monetized in different ways, from pay-per-class to a subscription-based method for several classes, and also online videos and training. Adopting this digital model brings affordability, as clients have more options to choose from that suit their budget. It is also more affordable for the staff and owner, as there is very little overhead in an online class compared to a full-service gym.

Reach – Online classes bring an extended reach, as you may accommodate any number of clients throughout the day and will have a full schedule. Of course, there are no physical capacity limits that restrict you, but there may be a bandwidth limit to your internet. We will go over this point more in the digital equipment section below.

Stability – Adopting an online fitness model provides a stable and long-term solution for reliable profits. According to Forbes, Digital training is here to stay, and will likely continue to do so after the pandemic has been phased out entirely, as the world will remain more remote than before.

Content – When hosting your fitness classes online, what you do once you can monetize several times. Record your sessions to create marketing tools, training videos, social media content, personal training packages, and a formulated routine.

Setting up Online Fitness Classes

Marketing – Get the word out and give people an offer they can’t refuse. Post engaging content on social media platforms, host physical and online events, offer trials and exclusive deals and set up a referral system. Secret life hack: Spark Membership does all this for you, and provides member management, staff management, billing, and point of sale, starting at just $1

Class preparation- Schedule the blocks in your calendar properly and send reminders ahead of time. Before your meeting, make sure your client is aware of the curriculum, and prepare a routine that is diverse and can be followed until the plateau. Change as required.

Equipment Checklist – This refers to both the trainer and the client, ensuring that the proper equipment for the workout is on hand. For example, If this is a stretching or yoga session, check that a mat is available. Remember to have a plan B in case the client does not have any equipment, suggest or recommend items for the next workout and explain the benefits.

Digital Checklist – Video stuttering and not being able to accommodate capacity limits is both unprofessional and profit restrictive. Invest in the best digital packages that include: unlimited bandwidth, high-speed internet, a high-quality microphone/camera, and proper lighting. Due to the switch to work from home, check with your local guidelines if there are any internet-based credits you can receive for you and your staff to upgrade your hardware and software.

For a successful online fitness business, leverage the benefits of accessibility, flexibility, personalized support, and more with online classes. Use Spark Membership Software for efficient scheduling, member management, and marketing. Don’t forget to check out our blog, “How To Make An Online Fitness Program,” for practical insights and strategies. Make the most of digital opportunities to enhance your fitness club’s offerings and thrive in the online space.

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Increase Your Brand Awareness With Gym SEO

January 26, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

If you’ve ever wondered how certain articles and businesses come up when you search for their keywords on a search engine, this is due to SEO. Search Engine Optimization or SEO for short is a method of identifying algorithmic patterns for how businesses are ranked. Originally, this was figured out by a few marketers, but search engines caught on and continue to change their algorithm every 6 months. Now, SEO is more about how to properly build authority and authenticity for your site so that you may get more hits on your business website and ultimately increase your sales. Let’s take a look at how proper SEO can help your gym.

What Is Gym SEO, and How Does It Help My Gym

Read one of our blogs: Owning A Gym: A Comprehensive Guide To Success

It is common for a certain niche to adopt certain keywords to remain competitive in the digital space. Originally, short keywords were available for ranking because of very low internet traffic. In the past few years, long-term keywords have increased popularity as they are much easier to rank. Simply speaking, trying to get search engines to link your site with the word “gym” or “fitness” is next to impossible as a small or medium-sized business. Be careful, as “keyword stuffing” is extremely harmful to the authenticity of your posts, and the algorithm will penalize you.

SEO doesn’t just contain keywords but also has to do with the credibility and popularity of your site. Because search engines can’t differentiate between good and bad information, they adopt the model that humans use: social proof. How does an engine determine social proof? Having many reputable sites link to your content, and vice-versa is a popular and common way to build authority, and this is one aspect of the algorithm that doesn’t seem to change.

Steps for Successful SEO

Determine Your List of Keywords – This is where you need to think outside the box. Certain services can provide these features, but it is important to start by yourself to gain an understanding of what this means. Google Trends, for example, demonstrates the popularity of every keyword you input. Take a look at the front page for your chosen keyword and determine if you can compete for it. The general rule of thumb is to think of very good long-tailed keywords that fit your niche. Ranking for “gym” is near impossible and expensive, but “Online Kick-Boxing Classes For Postpartum Women” will generally have much less competition.

Setup GMB (Google My Business) – It may be common sense that Google is the number one search engine. It even has its own noun and verb. If you aren’t convinced Google accounts for over 92% of the search engine market share, Type in Google my business on Google to be redirected to your local Google business directory and set up a free account. This is paramount for ranking on Google search but also lets you populate your contact information and services, and most importantly, lets people leave reviews.

Post-Engaging Content – Have you noticed how nearly every successful website has a blog? Blogs remain the number one way to post informative and engaging content. Combine this with your social media, and your SEO will skyrocket. Remember to write with a natural flow and keep the content engaging, informative, and helpful, as trying to over-optimize for on-page SEO may destroy your authority and make for a very poor read.

Build Or Revise Your Website – For your SEO to flourish, you will need a website. A website acts as a piece of real estate on the internet that is your own and is used to showcase your business and its authority. Post helpful blogs, build links, optimize your keywords, and post engaging content. Websites also let you add meta tags, which are those gray descriptions that appear below a link on Google. You may not have noticed them, but they help a lot with the search intent of your ideal client.

It’s All About Links – Earlier we talked about social proof. Linking is a great equalizer, as it helps competitors and complementary products help each other. When you are a new market entrant, you can only link between your posts and link out to other articles. As you gain popularity, contact other blogs, influencers, and guests to have them add a link to your site, and vice versa. This will help to build authority and collaboration, bringing both businesses revenue symbiotically.

SEO is a great tool in addition to your marketing efforts to help with your visibility on search engines. The difficulty lies in getting this right, as anyone can start a website and start ranking for keywords. Some professionals offer these services. However, the good ones are expensive and hard to differentiate from the rest that will use auto generators to build unprofessional, fake, or spam links.

Having a great social media presence, creating referral programs, offering trials, sending exclusive offers, remarketing, and staying in constant contact with new and current members are still the most consistent and cost-effective methods. Spark Membership is the #1 full-service gym management software and can help you do all this and more, starting at just $1.

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16 Gym Essentials To Have Before Starting Your Own Gym

January 24, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

Congratulations on the decision to launch your own business. It was a difficult process to overcome, but owning a gym business can flourish over time with proper equipment and management. It can be difficult to guess exactly which equipment you may need for your site before opening, as you may not know the interests and fitness level of your potential members. The key is to have a diversified workout atmosphere and to combine it with a healthy and organized culture. To get you started, we will list the 16 most important equipment and 1 critical item below.

Free Weight, Machines, and Cardio Equipment

Training Bench

The most versatile of equipment, a training bench can be used for many exercises and can be paired with dumbbells, barbells, resistance bands, etc.

Dumbbell set

When thinking of a gym, the most iconic image that can come to mind in advertising is patrons facing a mirror and performing dumbbell exercises. Your members will be looking for this.

Treadmill

Treadmills are widely marketed in the media as the most common cardio equipment for a reason. An article on Healthline explains the flexibility and popularity of treadmills.

Stationary bicycle

Bikes are one of the most important gym essentials, as they can be monetized in many different ways, including high-intensity group cycling classes.

Barbell sets

Complimentary to your dumbbell sets, barbells are a great addition to your gym equipment repertoire as they can be used with a variety of other equipment and workouts. Free weights add professionalism and also add options to your trainers for their clients.

Rowing machine

Although this is seen as a more niche workout, having one or two of these machines will add variety to your members’ workout routine.

Low-impact treadmills

Plantar fasciitis, knee pain, and other joint pain affect over 25% of Americans, Low-impact treadmills are a useful and marketable tool for your business that will increase membership rates amongst this group.

Ellipticals

Widely known for its effectiveness in burning calories and developing grip and arm strength, the elliptical is a piece of unique cardio equipment that you may need in many spots and consider one of the Gym essentials.

Other cardio equipment

Depending on your area, you may need to expand further from the cardio equipment mentioned above, and it is good to gauge what your clients and staff are requesting. You may need a different machine down the line, such as a stair-climber.

Open Area Equipment

Make sure that your gym includes an open area where members can take their stretching and training equipment, which does not include free weights. This area can be designated for stretches, bodyweight exercises and even be used as a training ground for one-on-one sessions between members and trainers. Below are some suggestions :

Stability balls

Training balance is extremely important. Whereas there will be members who are only there to train their strength, there will be a large part of patrons who understand that stability balls are very versatile and can be combined with any number of the equipment below to increase the difficulty of their workout.

Medicine balls

Very important for training both strength and range of motion, medicine balls provide a great workout alternative

Battle ropes

Another piece of equipment that is highlighted by various media and commercials. Battle ropes double as both equipment and a goal; properly training with battle ropes is a very advanced method that one can aspire to.

Suspension trainers

It is Important for core exercise, a part of the body is always attached to. Hanging from the suspension trainer – making it an extremely important bodyweight exercise.

Resistance bands

These bands are extremely important, especially since most gyms partner with, or have in-house, a physiotherapist. The number one take-home exercise that is recommended to their patients will usually include resistance bands.

Mats

Mats are often overlooked, mats are equipment that is missed when they are not there. Various body exercises and stretches need to be done on the floor, and this also includes the popular Pilates and Yoga disciplines.

Gym management software

Most businesses fail to effectively launch due to logistical and marketing issues. The list has saved the most important for last. Having equipment is important for your members to work out with. If no one shows up, then the business cannot be successful. The most important of gym essentials needs to include management software that can enroll members, market and re-market, schedule your staff, get referrals, offer family plans, and overall help you run your business. Spark Membership is the best gym management software on the market, and you can give them a try for just $1, all from your smartphone.

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How To Reopen Your Gym During The Pandemic

January 22, 2022 by Spark Team Leave a Comment

The Three Best Methods for Gym Reopening

The world has changed as we know it, and business owners are looking for ways to adapt. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, as the ongoing pandemic has placed the same stress upon all organizations to think creatively and offer people what they need. With the shift to remote work and essential services, consumers have seen an increase in both savings and disposable income due to employment shortages.

This opens up a world of possibilities where ideas, and not necessarily budgets, dictate the services you can provide. Before we can talk about the different services you can offer to reopen your gym, below are some helpful tips that you can use as a checklist for the ongoing maintenance and cleanliness of your fitness club. Remember that these are only suggestions, and should look at your local laws before deciding what to implement.

Suggested Protocol for Gym Owners

Research your local rules to find your maximum capacity and stay within or below it.

Choose temporary hours of operation for gym reopening that are following laws, and that staff and customers can handle. A good idea is to find peak times when people are usually in attendance to maximize revenue and minimize exposure.

Complete a safety plan that includes both staff and clients in the event of a possible case.

Develop and post required signage in and around the facility before the gym reopens

Ensure proper hygiene equipment is in places, such as wipes, hand sanitizer, and PPE

Post stickers to keep people 6 feet apart, this includes both lines and equipment.

Provide or ensure all staff and clients wear face coverings unless otherwise exempted from doing so

Coordinate multiple locations, if applicable so that quality and service remain consistent throughout each facility.

Review and perform maintenance if necessary on any HVAC equipment, and call a professional to check the air quality.

Suggested Protocol for Staff and Customers

Staff should be aware and enforce capacity limits to remain compliant.

Attend regular training for instruction on proper hygiene, such as disinfecting themselves and the equipment

Maintain proper physical distancing protocol

Staff should regularly post signage and check that they are still there to remain compliant. Customers should be strongly encouraged to read these rules and update themselves on the ongoing situation.

All clients and staff should wear their PPE and properly wipe down machines after use.

Customers should be strongly encouraged to stay home if they feel unwell.

Provide proper training to staff on proper screening techniques. Customers should also be walked through the form and asked if they have any questions.

Make sure clients are aware that they are not just putting themselves at risk, but other patrons as well if they are irate or non-compliant

Staff should undergo further training and customer service to handle an inevitable increase of complaints due to the situation

Locker rooms should be cleaned every few hours to remain compliant with disinfection rules.

Space out the workout equipment, cardio equipment, and vending machines

Limit or prohibit certain sports or contact activities, such as basketball or boxing

Gym Reopening

Now that we’ve gone over a suggested checklist, check with state or local guidelines to see if there is anything further to plan out. Once your staff are on board and have walked through the checklist, it is time to reopen your gym. As promised, here are the top 3 ways to do so:

Personal One-On-One Training

This feature is a common up-sell and something clients look for in every gym. Personal trainers are the backbone of gym services and have become more important during this pandemic. It is much easier to regulate and remain compliant if there is only one person to train at one time, and this does not even need to be at your facility.

Small-Group Training

Personal training may present certain issues, such as being too costly for most patrons, and this will lead to a scarcely filled calendar. Introduce the option of small group training as well, where 4-8 people can come in and train with the instructor for a smaller fee than a personalized plan. The advantages of small group training can be read here Successful Fitness Clubs Offer Small Group Training – Here’s How

Online Classes

A quick way to reopen your gym before meeting any guidelines and limitations of in-person training is to hold fitness classes online. Remember that while you may be having difficulty with capacity, most corporate employees and executives have been working remotely. Take this opportunity to schedule classes before and after work, and don’t forget about other peak times, such as lunch hours. While online classes may be effective, they are difficult to coordinate as they present novel issues. Member management must be done entirely remotely while still scheduling your staff. Keeping track of their performance with their online training, marketing, advertising, booking classes, and email/text communication between clients, staff and owners can be logistically challenging. Spark Membership offers an all-in-one solution of fitness management software, starting at just 1$

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