Learning how to attract new members can be difficult for smaller gyms. The big box gyms (Planet Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Retro Fitness) all have large budgets from their corporate headquarters to market their gym. But what about the smaller gyms? It can be tough at times to compete with the larger gyms, right? Our team at RhinoFit made these tips for you, small gym owners!
Attract New Members With Facebook Ads
One of the most tried and true methods, local Facebook ads can be one of the best ways to market to potential clients! For as cheap as $5-$10/day, you can reach people in your local area that might be interested in joining your gym. Local ads are relatively easy to set up and can be paused at any time! You can utilize your ads to get people to call your gym, sign up online, or get a free pass! These are all easy ways to get people in the door and interested in your gym. Utilize these ads to promote your gym/facility, its benefits, and much more.
Consider all Demographics
Most gyms typically have a certain customer demographic (ex: male/females age 18-55). Have you ever considered the market for senior citizens? One of the largest populations with ample income, baby boomers have money for memberships. If you haven’t considered this population, it’s a good time to consider.
Even for seniors that have a budget in mind, consider partnering with organizations such as Silver Sneakers. With Silver Sneakers, seniors can join your gym through most Medicare Advantage Plans. Seniors are also very likely to refer a gym to friends, meaning that your gym could add a vast amount of people with seniors going to your gym.
Establish Partnerships
Work with nearby corporations to establish a presence in their workplace. Connect with human resources to begin. Convey the importance of fitness for their employees and that it’s a personal lifelong investment. You can offer bulk memberships for companies, along with offering options such as open houses or 14-day passes to get people in the door. Once you get your gym established with several businesses you will see your revenue jump tremendously! You might not only be gaining new members from the workplace, but possibly their friends and family as well!
Offer Coaching Discounts
Coaching allows your clients to find out what they are looking for. Too many members or prospects often leave gyms or aren’t interested because they don’t know where they should start. Starting them out with a coaching discount is one way to make them feel comfortable with their transition. You can even offer the same discounts to their friends and offer a discount for group coaching. People love working out with friends and this will make them feel more comfortable going into a personal training session
