Unlocking the Power of Group Classes: Transforming Gyms with Engagement and Member Retention

Group classes offer unique advantages that can help gyms establish themselves as fitness hubs and centers of community. By boosting member engagement and loyalty through strategic implementation, gyms can transform their business models to attract and retain more members. Here’s how gyms can leverage group classes to achieve their goals.

Higher Visitation and Loyalty Rates

Members who regularly participate in group classes tend to visit the gym more frequently and demonstrate greater loyalty than the broader membership base. Studies show that members who attend group classes are 26% less likely to cancel their participation and 35% remain loyal, compared to just 29% of regular gym attendees. Offering engaging, well-curated group classes significantly increases member retention and satisfaction. This consistent attendance fosters a strong sense of community and significantly improves member retention.

Targeted Feedback and Improvement Opportunities

Specialized surveys and class rating systems offer valuable insights into members’ preferences. This data-driven feedback helps gyms pinpoint areas for improvement, enabling them to adapt their class offerings and formats to better suit members’ needs.

To capitalize on these advantages, gyms can implement the following strategies:

 

Personalized Services

Integrate members’ preferences and fitness goals into their profiles to deliver personalized recommendations for group classes. After each session, provide tailored advice on exercises and nutrition, fostering a comprehensive fitness journey that keeps members motivated and aligned with their progress.

Challenges and Scoreboards

Create a fun and motivating environment by introducing friendly competition through challenges and scoreboards. Track members’ progress and performance, inspiring them to push their limits. For instance, challenges might include completing a set number of classes in a specific timeframe or achieving defined fitness milestones.

Timely Event Notifications

Keep members engaged by providing timely notifications via email, text messages, or a dedicated mobile app. Inform them of upcoming events, class schedules, and exclusive promotions, ensuring they’re aware of new opportunities and stay actively involved. 

Up-to-Date Information Sharing

Regularly update and share class schedules and event information through the gym’s management system. Ensure that group class participants stay informed about ongoing activities to maintain their connection to the gym’s broader offerings.

 

By leveraging a comprehensive software management system like Flyby, gyms can enhance member retention, streamline marketing activities, and provide a personalized and engaging experience. Flyby offers key features such as membership management, reservation modules, business apps, mobile applications, and CRM tools that empower gyms to meet these goals.

The Flyby mobile app digitizes the guest experience, enabling members to easily book private or group class sessions through the branded mobile platform. They can cancel or reschedule bookings online within preset parameters, enhancing user experience and saving time while reducing staff workload. Push notifications are a powerful tool for direct customer engagement, helping boost user interaction and revenue. Gyms can update guests on weekly class schedules, special events, upcoming reservations, or expiring memberships. Notifications can also promote campaigns or simply convey birthday wishes. Bulk notifications enable gyms to quickly inform all guests or targeted groups about campaigns, events, or announcements, making it easier to keep everyone updated and engaged.

Additionally, Flyby helps tailor marketing strategies to resonate with specific audiences. With a well-implemented group class strategy supported by Flyby, gyms can solidify their reputation as community fitness hubs, resulting in improved member engagement and retention.