As fitness evolves, so do the needs of your members. Generation Z is the dominant segment joining clubs across our ABC Fitness portfolio, demanding new ways to engage and support their needs.

Today’s members are looking for more than just a workout—they want an experience tailored to their lifestyle, where they can manage their fitness journey on their terms. By offering self-service options at your gym, you empower members to take control and meet their needs effortlessly. With 81% of people preferring to solve issues independently, it’s clear that your club members value autonomy.

In this article, we’ll explore why self-service is becoming essential for gyms and how ABC Ignite can help you deliver it.

The Rise of Member Self-Service

Traditionally, gyms have relied on manual check-ins, paper schedules, and limited member interaction. But with self-service technology, everything has changed.

Now, members can manage their entire gym experience through easy-to-use apps and web portals—whether it’s booking classes or making payments, they can do it all on their own. We’re seeing the self-service trend explode across the ABC Ignite member base, where online joins have increased to 42% from pre-COVID levels of 24%.

Why It Matters:

Efficiency: Moving away from manual processes saves time for both members and staff.
Autonomy: Members can handle things their way, without waiting for help.
Scalability: As your gym grows, self-service tools help you keep up without overwhelming your staff.

Easy Signups: A Smooth Start

First impressions matter, and the signup process is your first chance to shine. Traditional signups often involve paperwork, waiting in line, and steps that can turn people away. With self-service signups, potential members can join your club anytime, anywhere, with just a few clicks.

Why It Matters:

Convenience: Sign up online and avoid the sales barrier of in-person or phone registration, making the process easier and more appealing.
Speed: Instant access to trials or memberships keeps people interested and reduces second thoughts.
Referrals: Satisfied members are more likely to refer friends when signing up is simple, helping your club grow naturally.

Example in Action: Imagine someone browsing your club’s website late at night. With self-service signup, they can start a trial or buy a membership right away, without waiting for business hours. This quick process not only secures the sale but also makes a great first impression, leading to future engagement.

Simplified Onboarding: A Warm Welcome for New Members

Onboarding is your chance to make a great first impression by offering a stress-free experience. With a smooth digital onboarding process, new members can take charge right from the start—whether it’s setting up their profile, picking payment options, or booking their first session. Leveraging technology becomes a win/win to free up your staff and reduce costs. Trainers can support members with gym training instead of conducting manual administration.

Why It Matters:

Flexibility: Members can complete onboarding at their own pace, making it more comfortable and satisfying.
Personalization: Tailored onboarding shows only relevant options, creating a more personalized experience.
Efficiency: Automation frees up your staff from admin tasks, allowing them to focus on connecting with members.

Example in Action: A new member signs up and gets an email right away, guiding them through the onboarding process. They can set up their profile, choose payment options, and book a welcome session—all before their first visit. This easy, guided experience makes them feel ready and excited to join the club.

Empowered Members: Easy Account Management

Members appreciate having control, and self-service account management lets them take charge of their fitness journey. Allowing them to manage memberships, update billing, and even switch locations without staff help gives members the freedom to make choices that fit their lifestyle.

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Why It Matters:

Control: Members can make changes anytime, anywhere, which boosts satisfaction and retention.
Transparency: Clear account information builds trust and prevents misunderstandings.
Staff Focus: With fewer admin tasks, your staff can concentrate on providing personalized support.

Example in Action: A member wants to switch to a different membership plan that better suits their needs. Instead of waiting to talk to someone at the front desk, they log into the app, make the change, and get on with their day. This simple process keeps them engaged and less likely to cancel.

From Trial to Member: Welcome to Ignite Engagement

ABC Ignite Engagement enhances your club’s app with a new feature that lets members seamlessly convert from a trial to a full membership without any in-person hassle. With just a few taps, members can upgrade their status, simplifying the process and making it easier to commit to your club and stay engaged.

Enhanced Member Visits: Easy and Efficient In-Club Solutions

Your members spend a lot of time at the club, so making their experience smooth and enjoyable is key. Self-service options make their time at the gym more efficient and satisfying such as 24/7 door access and frictionless front desk support.

Why It Matters:

Ease of Use: Simplifying tasks like check-ins and bookings reduces stress and frustration.
More Engagement: When it’s easy for members to use your facilities, they’re more likely to come back often.
Extra Revenue: Streamlined in-club purchases, like for classes or snacks, can boost revenue without needing more staff.

Example in Action: A member arrives for a morning workout, checks in with their phone, books a spin class for later, and buys a smoothie—all in a few minutes, without needing help. This convenience makes their visit more enjoyable and keeps them coming back for more.

Personalized Experiences: Meeting Each Members’ Needs

Self-service isn’t just about convenience; it also means personalization. With self-service tools, you can offer customized experiences that fit each member’s goals and preferences, making them feel more connected to your club.

Why It Matters:

Customization: Members can get personalized workout plans, nutrition advice, and more.
Engagement: Tailored experiences keep members interested and satisfied, leading to better retention.
Loyalty: When members see that your club supports their goals, they’re more likely to stay and recommend you to others.

Example in Action: A member uses the club’s app to access a customized workout plan from a trainer. The plan adjusts based on their progress and fits their schedule, helping them stay on track and feel more connected to your club.

Engaging Communication: Keeping Members Informed and Motivated

Good communication is key to strong relationships. Self-service platforms help by giving you a direct way to connect with members. You can send personalized offers, promote events, and keep them informed, making them feel valued.

Why It Matters:

Retention: Personalized messages keep your club in members’ minds and reduce dropout rates.
Revenue Growth: Timely, tailored offers can boost revenue.
Community Building: Promoting events helps members feel more connected and involved.

Example in Action: Your club’s app sends a personalized notification about an upcoming charity run, encouraging participation based on the member’s past event involvement. This makes members feel recognized and motivated to join, strengthening their connection to your club.

Transform Your Club with ABC Ignite: A Win-Win for Members and Staff

Self-service isn’t just a trend; it’s a smart move that benefits members and staff. By offering flexible and personalized options, you meet members’ needs while freeing staff to focus on building relationships. This makes your club more efficient, boosts engagement, and strengthens your community.

That’s why we’re focused on bringing more self-service functionality to ABC Ignite Engagement, our club-branded mobile app, including: