In an industry where movement is a key component, it’s hard to believe that there are still numerous wellness professionals and fitness trainers being left behind in the mobile revolution. While you may be able to get away with the cliché excuse of not really being “into” all of the latest technology trends today, tomorrow may not make that kind of allowance.
Members and clients who have a fast-paced lifestyle rely on their smart phones and tablets to keep them in the loop, and you can too. These devices are mandatory tools for productivity and profitability. They are jam-packed with an astonishing amount of useful apps that can increase the efficiency of your fitness or personal training business.
For example, your gym boasts an amazing line of fitness products and services. However, there is only one thing standing between you and a steady stream of income — the capability to process payments from anywhere, at any time. Mobile merchant apps are available on all smart phone devices and allow you to accept debit and credit card payments right where you are. This is a great opportunity for personal trainers who meet clients outside of the gym.
However, take your time when choosing a merchant app that best suits your business needs. Be prepared to weigh the pros and cons of apps that charge monthly fees, versus those that only bill per transaction. With most merchant apps, you can e-mail the customer a receipt and correlate the transactions to your accounting program.
As a club owner, when your business grows, so will the demand for your attention. Integrate mobile applications into your processes so that your personal trainers will be able to better handle the increase of clientele, while still providing personal attention to established clients. Professional personal training apps allow trainers to manage current clients, create new client files, time your sessions, measure each client’s success and more.
This list would not be complete if it did not include the most popular mobile app category on the market — social media. Never before has it been so easy to market and brand your fitness services and facility. With a few simple clicks and the permission of your clients, you can communicate to thousands of people the effectiveness of your tried-and-true services with “before and after” photos. Your ability to demonstrate results will set you apart from the competition. Get your current clients involved by posting pictures and testimonials of their experiences. Prospects have the benefit of interacting with them to learn about your services ahead of time.
Another savvy way to use mobile apps is to generate customer loyalty through digital coupon apps. Successful companies are using this technique to draw in new prospects and give loyal customers rewards. It is such an effective strategy that it works for most businesses, including those run by “solo-preneurs.” Just advertise a percentage off of your services through a third-party provider. Then, scan the coupon with your phone from clients who want to redeem the deal.
Mobile devices allow you to take your office with you everywhere you go. Maximum use of these features give you the freedom to manage the more time-consuming side of your fitness business, without completely interrupting what you enjoy most — changing people’s lives.
Terrell McTyer is the Marketing Monster of Affiliated Acceptance Corporation. He can be contacted at 573-374-9970, or by e-mail at Terrell.McTyer@Affiliated.org.
Stay ahead in the fitness industry with exclusive updates!
Rachel Zabonick-Chonko is the editor-in-chief of Club Solutions Magazine. She can be reached at rachel@peakemedia.com.
