By Dave Alstead, Commercial Director, Xplor Gym
If you’re planning to start offering 24/7 access, you need the right software in place first. In this article, Xplor Gym’s Dave Alstead runs through what to look for in a software platform and partner.
A third of privately owned gyms and fitness clubs are now open 24/7 according to the latest State of the UK Fitness Industry Report from Leisure DB. And with some of the biggest operators open 24/7 as standard, more look set to follow this trend in years to come.
It’s not hard to see why owners and operators are making the switch. Opening 24/7 can bring significant benefits like the ability to compete with big name low cost chains and attract a wider membership base.
Many clubs choose unmanned access, some or all of the time, when opening 24/7. With the right security and safety protocols, this means you don’t have to have staff working around the clock.
Does your software support 24/7 opening?
When you’re planning to start offering 24-hour access, you’ll need to make sure your gym management software can keep up. These are the must-haves that you should look for:
· A web-based solution that always has complete and up-to-date member data – plus an onsite back up should your club temporarily lose Internet connection
· The power to control access in real-time and automatically as memberships start, end and are suspended
· The ability to choose whether access is granted when a membership payment fails. This is usually only possible to do without delays if you choose an all-in-one solution that has embedded payments. And you’ll be able to let members back in the club as soon as they make a catch-up payment online
· Integrated access control equipment that lets you choose who can visit which areas of your club
· The capability to support dynamic QR codes with a new code generated regularly. This discourages code sharing to reduce fraudulent access. It also makes it easy for new members and visitors to access your club as soon as makes it easy for new members and visitors to access your club as soon as they buy a membership or a pass
· Digital member self-service tools, customised to your branding, that let members conveniently manage their own experience and membership. Anytime, anywhere
· Proactive UK-based support, including your own dedicated Customer Success Manager, who’ll be there to help you make your software work harder for your 24/7 business
And with an all-in-one solution, you’ll also be able to track access to see exactly who is in your club and when. This can help you identify busy and quiet periods to inform staffing and other decisions. Xplor Gym has everything you need from a 24-hour gym management software solution. And a passionate team there to support you on your successful journey to 24/7 opening. Let us show you what Xplor Gym can do for your business – watch the tour or request a personalised demo.