Let’s be honest, as a box owner, this question would never have crossed your mind just a few years ago. Group fitness and personal training, at their core, require a coach to make sure everyone stays safe, motivated, and honest. Traditionally, 24-hour access has been the domain of globo gyms, sacrificing instruction (and arguably results) in favor of convenience.

But, much like everything else, gym software technology has helped CrossFit boxes and boutique fitness facilities compete on a higher level. With mobile apps, key fobs, smart locks, and cameras becoming more affordable, smaller box owners can now have the same peace of mind as the “always open” big-box gyms and unlock a potential new revenue stream.

If you’re considering 24/7 gym access, here are a few reasons that may help you make the jump:

You’ll increase retention 

By offering 24-hour access, you’ll give members a stronger incentive to stay at your gym, since they won’t need any additional memberships. After-hours workouts that used to be done at the globo gym can now be done exclusively at your box. Your members will appreciate the added convenience and value.

You’ll attract new members

A potential lead may be turned away if their work schedule doesn’t allow them to attend your classes as often as they’d like. With 24-hour access, that’s no longer a problem. Obviously, they’ll still need to learn safe lifting and movement techniques from your coaches, but allowing access to your gym on their schedule gives you an advantage over the competition.

You can enhance your remote programming experience

If you’re already offering remote programming to members or thinking about starting, allowing 24-hour access gives you a way to offer the programming PLUS access to equipment. Instead of relying solely on the WOD notes, athletes can pull up ancillary workouts like ROMWOD or their own remote programming on the kiosk and follow along in the gym. 

Should you decide to expand your business hours, take the time to clearly communicate any rules and restrictions to your members, both in person and on your gym’s website, to avoid confusion.

If you’re ready to go, Wodify has set up a Zapier integration with HybridAF, a leader in 24-hour access. You can offer greater flexibility without adding staff or payroll hours. And your members can use the simple HybridAF mobile app to access your facility without key fobs or punch codes. Get your first 2 months FREE!