- Welcome and Onboarding Campaigns: Send personalized welcome texts to new members within minutes of sign-up. Include class schedules, trainer intros, and membership benefits to create a great first impression.
- Class Reminders: Reduce no-shows with automated reminders sent 24 hours and 1–2 hours before classes. Personalize messages for better engagement.
- Special Promotions: Offer time-sensitive deals like discounted personal training packages or seasonal challenges to drive additional revenue.
- Member Retention: Re-engage inactive members with win-back offers and celebrate milestones like birthdays or anniversaries to build loyalty.
- Event Announcements: Use SMS to promote fitness challenges, community workouts, or special events, ensuring members stay in the loop.
- Exclusive Content: Share workout tips, nutrition advice, and success stories to keep members motivated and connected to your gym.
- Feedback and Surveys: Collect actionable insights through quick SMS polls or surveys, and show members you’re listening by acting on their suggestions.
Why SMS Works:
- 98% open rate compared to email.
- Messages are read within minutes, ensuring timely communication.
- Automation tools save time and integrate with booking systems.
Compliance Tips:
- Always get consent before sending messages.
- Include opt-out instructions in every text.
- Use registered 10DLC numbers to ensure reliable delivery.
Key Takeaway:
Whether you’re welcoming new members, boosting class attendance, or re-engaging inactive clients, SMS helps you connect with members on a personal level while driving results. Start with simple strategies like class reminders and onboarding texts, then expand to promotions and retention campaigns for long-term growth.
How we convert fitness studio prospects into members using E-mail and SMS marketing
1. Welcome and Onboarding Campaigns
First impressions are everything, especially in the fitness world, where new members might feel uncertain or overwhelmed. An automated welcome SMS can immediately make members feel appreciated and informed. A well-planned welcome campaign sets the tone for a strong, lasting connection with your members.
Timing is crucial. Deliver a personalized welcome text within minutes of sign-up. This quick response builds excitement, showcases professionalism, and helps establish clear expectations for their fitness journey.
A great welcome message should cover three essentials: a warm, personal greeting, key information, and clearly defined expectations. Start by addressing the member by name and expressing genuine enthusiasm about their membership. Include practical details like a link to their first-week class schedule and a quick introduction to your trainers. If you’ve gathered fitness goals during sign-up, mention them. For instance, if a member is focused on weight loss, you could highlight relevant classes to show you’re paying attention.
According to a 2023 industry report, gyms that used automated welcome SMS experienced a 30% boost in first-week class attendance and a 25% increase in membership renewals compared to those relying solely on email.
A strong start paves the way for future engagement. Consider a short series of messages during the first week: an immediate welcome, a trainer spotlight midweek, and a reminder of membership benefits toward the end of the week.
Introducing trainers through SMS can be particularly effective when visuals are added. Send an MMS featuring trainer photos and short bios or include a link to a brief welcome video.
One fitness center found that incorporating a trainer introduction video in their welcome SMS led to a 40% increase in member engagement during the first month.
Keep the frequency manageable – limit messages to one per day during the first week, ensuring each one offers clear value.
Don’t forget compliance. Always obtain explicit consent before sending SMS campaigns, and make sure to include simple opt-out instructions. For 10DLC compliance, properly register your numbers and avoid language that could trigger spam filters.
Finally, track your campaign’s performance. Key metrics like SMS open rates (which often exceed 90%), link click-through rates, and first-week class attendance are invaluable. These insights will help you refine your approach and create an onboarding experience that keeps members engaged from day one.
2. Class Reminders and Attendance Boosters
Empty spots and no-shows can hurt your revenue and waste valuable resources. SMS reminders are a powerful way to tackle both issues, keeping your classes full and your members engaged.
Why do SMS reminders work so well? For starters, text messages boast a 98% open rate, with most being read within minutes. Compare that to email reminders, which often get lost in cluttered inboxes or flagged as spam. To make the most of this, timing and personalization are key.
Timing matters. Send out reminders 24 hours before class and follow up with another 1–2 hours prior. This gives members enough time to adjust their schedules and provides a final nudge to show up.
Personalization seals the deal. Generic messages like "Don’t forget your class today" don’t cut it. Instead, craft messages tailored to each member. For example: "Hi Sarah, your Yoga class starts at 6:00 PM today. See you there!" This small effort makes members feel valued and significantly increases attendance rates.
A 2023 case study highlighted by Wod.Guru showed how a mid-sized fitness center saw a 30% increase in class attendance after implementing automated SMS reminders and last-minute opening alerts. This was a major improvement compared to their previous use of email-only reminders.
Last-minute availability alerts are another game-changer. When someone cancels, send a quick text to your waitlist or regular attendees. A message like "A spot just opened up in tonight’s HIIT class at 7:00 PM. Reply JOIN to claim it!" creates urgency and often fills the spot within minutes.
To streamline attendance tracking, use a simple confirmation system. For instance, include easy calls-to-action like "Reply YES" to confirm or "Text CANCEL" if they can’t make it. This two-way communication ensures better class management and helps you keep track of capacity.
The best part? Modern SMS platforms can integrate with your gym’s booking system. This automation ensures reminders are sent based on your class schedules and member sign-ups, saving you time while maintaining consistent communication.
Don’t forget to monitor key metrics like attendance rates, response times, and how quickly you fill last-minute openings. These insights will help you fine-tune your timing and messaging for even better results.
Finally, compliance is non-negotiable. Always secure member consent and register with 10DLC to meet TCPA requirements. Include opt-out instructions in every message to stay on the right side of regulations.
3. Special Promotions and Upsells
Your current members are your most reliable source of revenue. They already trust your gym and value what you offer. Using SMS promotions, you can quickly turn that trust into additional sales more effectively than other marketing channels.
The key to successful SMS promotions? Create a sense of urgency and offer something exclusive. Generic discounts won’t cut it. Your members need to feel like they’re getting a deal that’s rare and time-sensitive. Let’s dive into some specific strategies that drive quick action.
Time-limited personal training offers are a great way to encourage immediate responses. For example, you could send a message like: "Sarah, we have 3 spots left for our January Personal Training Package – 8 sessions for $320 (reg. $400). Offer expires Sunday at midnight. Text TRAIN to claim yours!" By adding a personal touch, highlighting the savings, and including a clear deadline, you motivate members to act fast.
Seasonal challenges are another effective option, as they align with natural motivation cycles. Think January weight-loss goals, summer body prep, or fall fitness resets. A message like "Join our 30-Day Summer Shred Challenge! $49 includes meal plans, daily workouts, and weekly check-ins. Only 25 spots available. Reply SHRED to join!" combines exclusivity with an easy call-to-action, making it hard to resist.
You can also use SMS to promote retail upsells, which can significantly boost your profit margins. For instance, after a workout, send a message like: "Great job today, Mike! Don’t forget – your protein powder is running low. Get 20% off your next tub this week only. Show this text at the front desk." This feels helpful rather than pushy and encourages members to make a purchase while they’re still in the fitness mindset.
Birthday and anniversary promotions are another great way to connect emotionally with members while driving sales. For example: "Happy 1-year anniversary at FitZone, Lisa! Celebrate with 50% off any massage or recovery service this month. You’ve earned it!" This type of message shows appreciation for their loyalty while promoting higher-margin services.
To get the most out of your promotions, segment your audience. Tailor your messages to different groups – new members versus longtime members. New members might appreciate introductory personal training deals, while seasoned members may prefer exclusive access to advanced programs or premium services.
Timing is another crucial factor. For example, send personal training offers on Mondays when motivation is high, promote weekend workshops midweek, and schedule retail promotions right after peak workout hours when members are still in the zone.
Finally, make it easy for members to act on your promotions. Include one clear call-to-action, whether it’s replying with a keyword, calling a specific number, or showing the text at the front desk. Keep the process simple – complicated redemption steps can discourage engagement.
As with any campaign, track your results. Monitor which offers get the best responses, what times of day work best, and which audience segments convert the most. This data will help you fine-tune future campaigns and maximize your results.
4. Member Retention and Re-Engagement
Keeping your current members engaged is not only easier but also more budget-friendly than constantly trying to bring in new ones. When members become inactive, you lose both recurring revenue and their long-term value to your gym. SMS provides a direct and effective way to reconnect with members who’ve gone quiet and to celebrate those who remain loyal.
Here’s how you can use SMS to protect your members’ lifetime value and maintain a steady revenue stream.
Win-back campaigns are highly effective because text messages are usually read right away. For example, if a member hasn’t checked in for 30 days, send them a friendly nudge like:
"We miss you at [Gym Name]! Come back this week for a free group class – just reply YES to claim your spot."
This approach is gentle, adds value, and encourages them to return without feeling pressured.
According to industry data, gyms that use targeted SMS win-back campaigns have seen up to a 25% increase in membership renewal rates compared to those relying solely on email.
Acting quickly with personalized messages when a member goes inactive can make all the difference. Beyond win-back efforts, celebrating milestones is another powerful way to boost loyalty.
Birthday and anniversary campaigns add a personal touch that resonates with members. A simple birthday message or a note celebrating their membership anniversary can create emotional connections. Gyms using these strategies have reported an increase in visits and even retail sales.
Segmentation takes your retention efforts further by ensuring messages are relevant to each member. For example, you can tailor messages based on activity levels or specific milestones to maximize their impact.
Automated milestone celebrations are a great way to ensure no one is left out. When a member hits a milestone, like their 100th check-in, send a congratulatory text. For instance:
"Congratulations on your 100th workout, Lisa! You’re officially a FitZone legend. Enjoy a free personal training session to celebrate – you’ve earned it!"
These small gestures go a long way in making members feel valued.
To avoid overwhelming your members, space out retention messages every 30–60 days. This balanced approach ensures your messages remain effective without becoming a nuisance.
Make your calls-to-action (CTAs) as simple as possible. For example, a direct prompt like "Reply YES to claim your free class" eliminates unnecessary steps and encourages immediate responses.
Finally, track your results to see what’s working. Monitor metrics like response rates, return visits, and offer redemptions. Use these insights to refine your campaigns – whether that means focusing more on milestone celebrations or tweaking the rewards that drive the best engagement.
5. Event and Challenge Announcements
Events and challenges bring energy and engagement to your gym, and SMS is a fast and effective way to share these announcements. By delivering instant updates, you can drive quick sign-ups and keep your members excited about what’s happening. Let’s break down how different event types can connect with various member groups.
Fitness challenges are a great way to spark members’ competitive side. For instance, you could send: "Hi [Name], join our 30-Day Summer Shred Challenge starting June 1. Reply YES or tap [link] to sign up." It’s short, direct, and creates a sense of exclusivity while making the goal feel achievable.
Community workouts encourage social bonds that help members stay committed. A simple message like: "Join our free Saturday Bootcamp at 9:00 AM with a friend. RSVP here: [link]." removes participation barriers and ensures everyone gets the invite at the same time.
Special events such as member appreciation nights or guest trainer sessions help generate excitement beyond your usual offerings. For example: "Don’t miss our Member Appreciation Night on July 15 at 6:00 PM – enjoy food, games, and prizes! Save your spot: [link]." This type of announcement builds anticipation and simplifies the RSVP process.
A 2023 industry report shows that gyms using SMS for event announcements saw a 30% boost in class attendance and a 25% increase in membership renewals compared to those relying on email alone.
To make your event announcements even more effective, use clear calls-to-action (CTAs) like “Reply YES” or provide a direct, mobile-friendly registration link. Always double-check your links before sending to ensure they work properly.
Timing is everything. Send your first announcement 1–2 weeks before the event, then follow up with reminders 3 days before and again on the event day. This keeps the event fresh in members’ minds without overwhelming them.
Personalization adds impact. Use members’ names and tailor messages to their interests. For example, if someone regularly attends yoga classes, invite them specifically to a yoga challenge instead of sending a generic message.
For a polished and professional look, use URL shorteners to create clean, trackable links. These links not only improve the message’s appearance but also help you monitor click-through rates to see which events resonate most with your audience.
Don’t forget compliance! Every SMS should clearly identify your gym and include an opt-out option like "Reply STOP to unsubscribe." If you’re using automated campaigns, make sure your messages are sent through a registered 10DLC number to ensure reliable delivery.
Finally, track key metrics like open rates, click-throughs, and attendance numbers to fine-tune your strategy over time.
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6. Exclusive Content and Tips
Delivering valuable fitness content beyond the walls of your gym turns your facility into more than just a place to work out – it transforms you into a trusted partner in your members’ fitness journeys. By sharing workout tips, nutrition advice, and success stories directly to members’ phones, you stay connected around the clock and build meaningful relationships.
To make an impact, focus on providing timely, actionable tips that feel personal. Generic advice won’t cut it – customize your messages to show members you’re invested in their progress. For instance, you could send:
"Hi Sarah, here’s a 10-minute core workout to try at home!"
or
"John, check out this protein-packed smoothie recipe for after your next session."
These small, personalized touches go a long way in showing that you care about their goals.
With MMS, you can take communication up a notch by incorporating images, videos, and infographics. A quick video demonstrating proper squat form or an infographic on meal prep ideas is far more engaging than plain text. Plus, text messages are often read within minutes, making them an effective way to keep your members engaged.
Sharing member success stories is another powerful way to motivate and inspire. Highlight real transformations (with permission, of course) to build a sense of community. For example:
"Meet Jessica! She lost 15 pounds in 8 weeks with our strength training program. Ready to start your own journey?"
These stories not only inspire but also reinforce the idea that your gym is a place where results happen.
Consistency is key when it comes to keeping members engaged. Consider scheduling recurring messages like a ‘Trainer Tip Tuesday’ or ‘Friday Motivation’ series. This regular cadence gives members something to look forward to and keeps your gym top of mind.
A 2023 industry report revealed that gyms using regular SMS campaigns – including weekly workout tips and member spotlights – saw a 30% increase in class attendance and a 25% boost in membership renewals over 12 months compared to those relying solely on email.
Interactive content can further enhance engagement. Add calls to action like "Reply YES for today’s 10-minute ab workout video!" or invite members to share their progress photos. Polls such as "Which workout tip should we feature next?" are another fun way to make members feel involved.
Behind-the-scenes content adds a personal touch and strengthens the connection between members and your gym. Share videos of trainers prepping for classes, sneak peeks of new workout routines, or exclusive invites to upcoming workshops. These insider glimpses make members feel valued, almost like VIPs.
Timing is everything. Send motivational content on Monday mornings to kickstart the week and share weekend activity ideas on Friday afternoons. Keep exclusive messages to 1–2 times per week to avoid overwhelming members. Be sure to include opt-out instructions to stay compliant, and using 10DLC numbers ensures reliable delivery.
Finally, track your efforts to measure success. Monitor open rates, clicks on links, and how members engage through replies or shares. Compare attendance and retention data before and after launching your campaigns to see what’s working and where you can improve.
7. Feedback and Community Building
Building a strong gym community goes hand-in-hand with listening to your members. SMS surveys and polls are an excellent way to open up a direct line of communication, making members feel heard while giving you the insights you need to improve. Unlike lengthy email surveys that often get ignored, text messages are quick to open and respond to, making them a more effective tool.
In fact, text surveys boast an impressive 98% open rate and an 8x higher response rate compared to email surveys. This makes SMS an ideal method for collecting honest and actionable feedback from your members. Here’s how to create surveys that deliver real value:
Keep your surveys short and focused – 3 to 5 questions max. Let members know upfront that it’ll only take 30 seconds to complete. Ask specific, actionable questions instead of vague ones. For example, instead of asking, "Do you like our gym?" try, "If you could improve one thing about our gym’s service, what would it be?" Use multiple-choice or rating scale questions to make it easy for members to respond quickly. Here are a few examples:
- "Rate your trainer session today: Reply 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)."
- "Which class time works best for you? A) 6am B) 12pm C) 6pm D) 8pm."
These types of questions are easy to answer and provide clear, actionable data.
Another effective tactic is to ask for feedback immediately after a class. For instance, send a quick message like: "Hey Mike! How was your spin class with Sarah today? Reply with any feedback or just a thumbs up!" This creates a natural moment for members to share their thoughts while the experience is still fresh.
Polls are another great way to engage members and make them feel like active contributors to your gym’s growth. Use questions like:
- "What new class should we add next month? A) Pilates B) Boxing C) Yoga D) HIIT."
- "Should we extend Saturday hours? Reply YES or NO."
These polls not only gather valuable input but also build a sense of partnership between you and your members.
Two-way SMS takes this engagement a step further by fostering real conversations. If a member shares detailed feedback, make sure to respond personally. For example, if someone mentions an issue with equipment, reply with something like, "Thanks for letting us know about the treadmill. We’re fixing it today!" This shows that you’re not just listening – you’re taking action.
To improve over time, track which questions get the most responses and adjust your approach accordingly. Topics like class schedules and trainer performance often spark high engagement, while questions about pricing or policies may see fewer replies.
Don’t forget to stay compliant by including opt-out instructions and using 10DLC numbers for reliable delivery. Most importantly, follow up on the feedback you receive. When you act on member suggestions, let them know! For example: "You asked for earlier morning classes – now offering 5:30am sessions starting Monday!" This not only shows that you’re listening but also strengthens the bond within your gym community.
When members see their feedback turning into real changes, they feel more connected to your gym and are more likely to become loyal advocates. This sense of partnership is at the heart of building a thriving, engaged community through SMS.
SMS Strategy Comparison Table
Select an SMS strategy that aligns with your gym’s goals, resources, and member demographics. Each approach offers distinct advantages, making it easier to tailor your efforts effectively.
| SMS Strategy | Open Rate | Response Rate | Ideal For | Implementation Difficulty | ROI Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome & Onboarding | Very High | High | Creating a positive first impression and retaining new members | Easy | Immediate |
| Class Reminders | High | Moderate | Reducing no-shows and keeping class attendance high | Easy | Immediate |
| Special Promotions | High | Moderate | Increasing revenue and upselling additional services | Medium | Short-term |
| Member Retention | Moderate | Moderate | Reconnecting with inactive members | Medium | Medium-term |
| Event Announcements | High | Moderate-High | Encouraging participation and fostering community engagement | Easy | Short-term |
| Exclusive Content | Moderate | Low | Offering extra value and building credibility as a leader in fitness | Hard | Long-term |
| Feedback & Surveys | Very High | Very High | Collecting valuable insights to enhance services and member satisfaction | Medium | Long-term |
This table serves as a handy guide to help you prioritize SMS campaigns while fine-tuning your gym’s overall marketing plan.
For new gym owners, starting with class reminders and welcome campaigns is a smart move. These straightforward strategies are easy to implement and provide immediate benefits by reducing no-shows and creating a warm, inviting experience for new members.
Established gyms can focus on special promotions and member retention campaigns. These tactics are excellent for targeting existing members with timely offers that drive revenue and improve conversion rates.
Meanwhile, large fitness chains can achieve lasting success by investing in feedback systems and exclusive content strategies. While these methods may require more effort and time to show results, they are highly effective for building loyalty and positioning your brand as a trusted authority in the fitness industry.
The ‘implementation difficulty’ and ‘ROI timeline’ categories highlight both the initial setup and the ongoing effort required. By starting with simpler strategies and gradually incorporating more complex ones, you can achieve quick wins while steadily expanding your SMS marketing capabilities.
Conclusion
These seven SMS marketing strategies equip gym owners with practical ways to enhance member engagement and achieve tangible business results. Whether it’s welcoming new members with tailored onboarding messages or reconnecting with inactive clients through re-engagement campaigns, each approach tackles a vital stage in the member journey.
The statistics back it up: gyms that consistently use SMS campaigns experience a 30% boost in class attendance and a 25% uptick in membership renewals compared to those relying solely on email. Plus, with over 90% of text messages read within minutes, SMS provides the immediacy and personal touch that email often lacks.
For gym owners just starting out, beginning with class reminders and welcome messages is a simple yet effective way to see quick results. For more established gyms, focusing on special promotions and retention campaigns can help increase revenue and improve member loyalty. Larger fitness chains can take it a step further with feedback systems and exclusive content to foster long-term relationships.
Compliance is crucial when it comes to SMS marketing. Always secure explicit consent before sending messages, include clear opt-out options, and use registered 10DLC numbers to stay in line with regulations and avoid potential penalties.
In today’s competitive fitness industry, members expect timely and personalized communication. SMS marketing allows you to reduce no-shows, boost revenue, and strengthen connections with your community – all while saving time through automation.
Don’t wait to take action. Empty classes and declining retention rates don’t have to be the norm. Book a free discovery call with RevText today to get expert advice and create an SMS strategy tailored specifically to your gym. Your members are ready to connect – make sure your message reaches them.
FAQs
How can gym owners stay compliant with SMS marketing rules while using these strategies?
How Gym Owners Can Stay SMS Compliant
Gym owners need to follow specific rules to ensure their SMS marketing stays on the right side of the law. A key regulation to keep in mind is the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), which lays out clear guidelines for sending promotional text messages.
Start by securing explicit, prior consent from your members before sending any marketing texts. This step isn’t just a legal requirement – it’s also a way to respect your members’ preferences. Additionally, every message you send should include simple opt-in and opt-out options so recipients can easily manage their subscription.
To further safeguard your business, use a messaging platform that supports 10DLC registration. This registration process verifies your business, helping you avoid potential penalties. It’s also a good idea to regularly review your SMS marketing practices to ensure they’re in line with current regulations.
By staying on top of these requirements, you not only protect your business but also strengthen trust with your members.
How can gym owners segment their members to create more effective SMS marketing campaigns?
Segmenting your gym members enables you to craft SMS messages that truly connect with different groups. To get started, consider breaking your audience into categories like membership status (active, inactive, or new), attendance patterns (regular or occasional), and preferences (group classes, personal training, or challenges).
For instance, you could send renewal reminders to inactive members, offer personal training discounts to regular attendees, or highlight upcoming fitness challenges to those who love group classes. By focusing on tailored and meaningful content, you can drive better engagement, encourage attendance, and support stronger member retention.
What’s the best way for gym owners to track the success of their SMS marketing campaigns and make improvements?
Gym owners can measure the effectiveness of their SMS marketing campaigns by keeping an eye on key performance indicators (KPIs) like open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates. These numbers give a clear picture of how engaged members are and whether they’re acting on the messages they receive.
Beyond these metrics, tracking results such as higher class attendance, more membership renewals, and responses to special promotions can offer deeper insights into how well campaigns are working. Regularly analyzing this data allows gym owners to adjust their messaging, timing, and offers to improve outcomes and better connect with their members.
