Author: Emily Duty

With gym facilities closing across the country due to the Coronavirus, gym-goers are worried about how they will do their daily exercises. The truth is, many of them are used to gym life. They feel most comfortable with guidance and group settings. And they’re probably unsure of how to keep busy at home without the proper equipment or instruction.

As their gym owner, you can greatly reduce their worries by doing a few things:

1. Stay connected through emails and texts with the help of your management software
2. Temporarily move your classes online
3. Give them alternative tips for staying busy in the interim, like some easy outdoor workouts.

Even for the most in-shape athlete, it only takes a matter of weeks to lose some or all of that hard-earned progress. And since no one knows for certain how long the coronavirus will be hanging around, it’s important to keep moving at home. Again, let your members know you’re offering online classes but, also give them ideas for working out on their own too.

Yes, social distancing means you shouldn’t be out in groups. That’s because the virus is able to spread from just a few feet of distance. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t go outside.

Check in with your members regularly. If they are feeling antsy being cooped up indoors, encourage them to take their workouts to their yards. It will give them some much needed natural vitamin D, serotonin, endorphins, dopamine and so much more.

Here are ideas to offer them (and to practice yourself!):

• Walk with the family after meals
• Go on a virtual walk/jog with a friend on Facetime
• Lay a blanket in the grass and do yoga sequences
• Get a little cardio and strength training going with gallons of water and canned goods in place of dumbbells
• Take a spin around the neighborhood on bicycles
• Swim several laps in the pool
• Dust off the old jump rope
• Create a ninja warrior obstacle course in the backyard
• Visit a local park or beach (if they’re still open and aren’t crowded)
• Take a hike

What kinds of outdoor workouts have you been doing at home? Share your ideas in our comments. After all, we are all in this together!

Tell us what you miss the most about being at the gym, we want to hear that too! Is it the instructors, a specific class, the snacks, social hour- or all of the above?

The Covid-19 pandemic is continuing to spread throughout the country. Each day, more and more businesses are temporarily closing their doors; Among them are gyms.

Social distancing might be one of our best chances of slowing the spread of the virus. But that doesn’t make the upheaval to daily routines any less irritating. Dedicated gym-goers are looking for ways to maintain their sense of normalcy.

Everyone knows the gym is about way more than physical benefits. It’s about the social and emotional ones as well. So, how do you keep your members moving and connected during this stressful time? The answer is by utilizing the wonderful world wide web.

That’s right- the Coronavirus may have taken our toilet paper but it didn’t take our streaming networks. And it doesn’t have to take your muscle tone or fitness community either. For the time being, consider virtually running your gym with these tips.

Live Sessions

You can take the members out of the gym but you can’t take the gym out of the members! That means, your members should have no problem following you to an online setting for the time being. Especially since almost every household owns at least one computer or cellphone. They can easily jump on for a class and will likely be eager to do so. All you have to do is set one up and announce it across your social media and emails.

If you aren’t sure where to start, there are a ton of platforms available to you. Google Hangouts, Zoom, Discord, Skype and Facebook Live are all good options.

Skype is good for a more intimate class number. Google Hangouts and Zoom each have the ability to accommodate 100 people and more. Discord is perfect for running many channels and classes at the same time. Facebook Live is great when you want to share quick tips, moves or announcements but don’t need to see your audience. The rest let you interact with them.

Pre-Recorded Sessions

In addition to live classes, consider offering pre-recorded lessons too. Nobody knows for sure how long this situation will last. It’s upsetting, we know! But, preparing material for users to access whenever they like could be a real lifesaver. Your members will appreciate having extra workouts at their fingertips to keep their minds and bodies busy.

If you’ve been thinking of creating a Youtube channel, here’s your opportunity. You can choose to give clients exclusive access or leave your videos open to the public. Opening them up for all viewers could lead to a larger following and potential new member sign-ups when you get back inside your gym.

Blog Tips

Startup a blog or vlog where you can talk about anything you feel is interesting and relevant to the times. Things like tips and tricks for how to get moving with limited home space and supplies or, how to keep your body fueled with what’s in your pantry.

Another idea is to line up some beginner tutorials for anyone looking to safely test out a new indoor exercise such as yoga or dance. A lot of people are interested in learning something new but don’t normally have the time to do so. However, right now most everyone is at home and able to learn.

Gym owners, we know you can’t wait for things to get back to normal and to be operating from your gyms. In the meantime, we wish you every success in making the most of the current situation. Check back for more updates!

As a gym owner, you’re bound to have a lot of questions about your services and how you’re performing, and who better to ask them to than your gym members, right? After all, they are with you each day and night and they likely have some beneficial feedback. It could help you identify what you’re doing right and what you need to improve on. The problem is, how do you ask them?

The answer is- with some questionnaires and surveys.

Questionnaires and surveys might sound like a big ask, but they don’t have to be. You can keep them quick and concise and even offer incentives for doing them, if you want.

They are great tools to use and can help you in two major ways. Not only do they gather important information, but they also make your fitness club members feel like their opinions are valued (because they are!). Both of those things combined lead to happier customers and can help increase retention.

Incoming Member Surveys

Why not kick it off with an entrance survey?

It can be short and sweet and still tell you a lot about what you want to know. Like, how your new member found you and if they are brand new to working out or if they are a seasoned pro. It can also help you to understand why they left another fitness center and what they hope to gain from their experience with you.

Are you curious about what inspired them to reach out to you in the first place? That can be asked on an incoming survey as well. It’s never a bad idea to find out if your marketing efforts are getting good reach or if they happened upon you by chance.

Fitness Goal Questionnaires

Most people sign up for the fitness club with a specific goal in mind. So, ask them what theirs is!

When you know your member’s goals and what motivates them, you can better map out your class schedule and calendar of events with that information in mind. Maybe it will even allow you to uncover a trend worth looking into such as a new piece of equipment or a new class.

Knowing your members interests also helps you to curate special push-notifications and nurture emails on your software management program.

Teacher/Class Evaluations

Members start the gym for several reasons but ultimately they stay for one: the way they feel when they’re in the gym environment. A big part of that has to do with great customer service and the interaction they receive with your teachers during classes. Great customer service is a big deal.

Teacher and class evaluations can tell you which ones are preferred, why or why not, and if they are able to follow along, feel comfortable asking questions and if they’re being challenged enough.

General Feedback

A general survey is just you checking in with your members and helping you to create happier customers. You’re saying, “I’m happy you’re here and I hope you’re enjoying your time with us but if there is something we can be doing to make it even better, we’re all ears.”

Ask them how often they come, how they feel about parking, cleanliness, gym equipment, member perks, how you could increase referrals, and if there’s anything else they want to mention.

One Question Surveys

One-question surveys are exactly that—a super simple survey with one direct question on it such as, “Did you enjoy the new class tonight?”

Members appreciate one question surveys because they’re quick and to the point and they never feel like a chore.

Cancellation Surveys

No one likes to see their customers cancel but you can turn it into a positive by learning something from it.

Sometimes, people leave the gym for circumstances out of your control like they simply need to cut back on their finances or they’re moving out of state. But if it turns out it does have something to do with your studio, a cancellation survey can address it so you can fix it for other members moving forward and increase retention. 

Ask them what the best and worst parts were about their time with you and how likely they’d be to recommend you to their friends.

Have fun creating your surveys, we know they will bring you some good information about your business and hopefully increase referrals.

The benefits of martial arts are endless. Not only do they help build up physical endurance, but they also teach discipline, confidence, and moral values. For these reasons, a lot of people are quick to enroll their kids in classes. (Which is never a bad thing!) However, many adults can also gain something from those same lessons.

School owners, are you interested in getting more adult students to sign up for your martial arts classes? We want to help you. There are ways to make your classes more appealing to adult students like by offering a free trial or adding in some evening classes. Read more here.

Plan it Right

You’ve heard it before: timing is everything.

Sometimes, adults are interested in learning but can’t make it to class at the regular scheduled time. That’s where child students have it pretty easy; They can join an after-care or summer martial arts program. Whereas, adult students have jobs and lives to maintain. Which is why finding the time to make it to a class is much harder.

Start by offering several evening classes. The later time slots should allow them ample time to fight traffic home, take care of their family responsibilities and still get to class on time.

Offer Family-Friendly Options

Many parents might jump at the idea of joining a martial arts class if they are able to bring their kids with them. Many parents don’t have anyone to watch their kids or don’t feel comfortable being away from them for a long time. You can help solve this problem in a couple of ways:

• Offer evening daycare services at your facility for the children of your students. That way, while the parents are getting their workout in, the kids are doing homework, watching movies, or participating in other activities with a certified childcare worker.
• Encourage family bonding time and advertise “Mommy and Me” or “Daddy and Me” sessions where the kids can work out alongside their parents.

Run Different Promotions

Consider running different promotions geared toward adult groups. Generally speaking, kids don’t have a problem jumping into new settings and making friends. But adults tend to be more reserved and feel safest in numbers. Offering them the opportunity to bring along a group of friends, or a partner, could make all the difference for a lot of people who are scared to show up alone.

• Group discounts:  If it’s a shyness factor, a group discount could be appealing for many martial arts students. For someone who has never done a martial arts class before, they might feel less uncomfortable being surrounded by a group of friends.
• Couple Classes:  In martial arts, there are many times you get teamed up with a partner. Imagine being able to bring your partner with you. It could turn what would’ve been an awkward evening into a fun date-night routine.
• Word of mouth advertising: Referral programs are great for everyone involved! Chances are, your students are already doing word of mouth advertising for you anyway because martial arts lessons are a ton of fun. So, why not offer them an incentive to tell more of their friends?
• Free trial: This is for the person who knows about the benefits of martial arts but is still on the fence about joining. A free trial could be the push that’s needed to get started. It doesn’t have to be a long time offer, just a couple of free passes.
• Charity event: Hosting a charity event where all of the guests are invited to participate in martial arts lessons could definitely spark some interest.

School owners, good luck on finding more adult martial arts students. One last tip is to be sure to include social media in your marketing efforts. Social media can help you pinpoint the target audience you are looking for.

With more and more people turning to eco-friendly living, businesses are also starting to take an interest; This includes gym studios. Eco-friendly gyms are on the rise.

Believe it or not, gyms can have a huge impact on how to reduce the carbon footprint, especially in the United States, where there are more gyms than any other place in the world. Many are taking up this initiative because they understand the health of the planet directly impacts the quality of our health as well. So, if you’re a gym owner who is curious about ways of applying greener living to your health club, you are in the right place.

In this post, you will discover how eco-friendly gyms are choosing to live more intently. Find quick tips from how to pick out gym equipment and cleaning supplies all the way to why light bulbs and rubber floors make a difference. Here are 3 key things to pay attention to when learning to become more environmentally conscious so you can cut down on your energy bills.

The Three R’s

You might have heard of the three big r’s of going green: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. The idea is to alleviate the amount of garbage being hauled off to already overflowing landfills. All you have to do is cut down on what you buy and then give more life to those items.

• As you know, plastic water bottles are one of the biggest offenders when it comes to waste. Trade them out and sell reusable ones (with your logo!) in their place.
• Offer a water fountain with a bottle filler for members to replenish their bottles.
• Set up a trash/recycle/compost bin.
• Limit your paper use and install a software management program like EZFacility. It can help manage sign-ups, waivers, class scheduling, pop-up events and more.
• Consider second-hand gym equipment instead of brand new.
• Upcycle everyday items and learn how to turn them into effective gym tools.
• Offer a selection of gently used workout clothes for sale in your merchandise shop that has either been donated by other members or hand-picked by you.
• Learn about recycled rubber and see if it’s a good option for your flooring. Not only is recycled rubber easier to manufacture and low on cost, but it also saves many old tires from winding up at the landfill. Research carefully though, as there are some drawbacks, including the smell and potential allergies.
• Bleach, ammonia and formaldehyde can irritate the eyes, skin and lungs. Replace harmful cleaning supplies with all-natural options like baking soda and vinegar.
• Instead of cleaning wipes for personal mats, offer spray bottles, natural cleaners, essential oils, and reusable microfiber cloths. 

Power Down

Some of the easiest changes to start making at your health club have to do with energy efficiency.

• Swap regular light bulbs with LED ones and save on energy bills right away. They live longer, don’t overheat and are up to 90% more efficient.
• Be mindful of water usage. One flush on an older model toilet can use double the number of gallons of water than a low-flow toilet would.
• Install a smart thermometer to help regulate your studio temperature by preprogramming when you want it to shut off.  
• Occasionally turn off the air-conditioner all together and open the windows for cross ventilation instead. Only when it makes sense, for example, on cooler, breezier days. You don’t want anyone to overheat.
• Since you don’t need technology plugged in when it’s not in use, be sure to power down every night during close, or even between classes.

Partner Up

It’s smart to partner up with other companies who are aligned with the same goals as you. It helps you stay on track and also makes your overall mission in reducing your carbon footprint easier. Bonus points if they’re local because supporting your local mom and pop is always cool.

• Opt for eco-friendly flooring companies who offer rubber floors.
• Same for your environmentally friendly gym equipment.
• Purchase sustainable snacks with smart and ethical packaging.
• Replace your bathroom soaps with better-for-you artisanal ones. 
• Include stainless steel reusable straws to sell alongside your cups.
• Team up with a reusable bag company for your swag bags at events.

With this list, you will be part of the eco-friendly gyms club in no time at all and gym goers will take notice. Kudos to you for going green!

Like many jobs in the fitness industry, running a yoga studio can require a yoga instructor to wear several different hats. On top of planning classes, teaching them, and training employees, they also have to grow a business, keep certifications up to date and squeeze in some practice time of their own. Fortunately, there are many great yoga resources for teachers to be able to accomplish all of those things and more. Just ask the universe (and EZFacility) and you shall receive! In this post, here are some of the top ones we recommend starting with.

The Yoga Alliance

The Yoga Alliance is one of the very first resources you will uncover as a teacher. It’s the place where you will go to get registered as a yoga instructor. It’s also where you can connect with one of the largest yoga teacher associations in the yoga community. On the site you will find organizational tools for keeping track of teacher training and credentials as well as endless articles, videos, online workshops, teaching tips, sequencing tips, yoga events and more.

90 Monkeys

90 Monkeys is an online resource created by yoga teachers for other yoga teachers. Co-founders, Amy Ippoliti and Taro Smith wanted something where people could collaborate together in the community because they know it takes an army. 90 Monkeys works super hard to help others thrive in their lives and in their yoga studies. They have taught several online courses to people in many different countries. On their site, you will find a variety of different courses available for enrollment.

Yoga U Online

Online tutorials are great but sometimes you aren’t able to sit down in front of the computer like you’d like to. So, how about listening to something on the go instead? That’s where Yoga U Online’s free podcasts come in handy. They cover a pretty broad range of topics for every level yogi.

Yoga Leader Retreat

Walk away from a yoga retreat feeling spiritually rejuvenated. It’s a pretty magical thing getting together with a group of people who want to share their minds, souls and yoga poses with one another. Any retreat has important takeaways. However, there are retreats created specifically for teachers where all of the activities are heavily focused on teacher training, growth and development.

Yoga Expo

If you can’t get away for a big chunk of time, be on the lookout for a yoga expo happening in your area. Not only are they a lot of fun to attend, but you can also learn quite a few things from them too.

Walk around and discover new industry props, sample healthy snacks and products, and participate in other yoga classes. Participating in another teacher’s class gives you hands-on experience and potentially some new techniques and sequencing to implement in your own classroom. Don’t forget to bring your own yoga mat!

The Yoga Journal

The Yoga Journal is for the everyday yogi. For the last 50 years, they have been helping people keep their minds, bodies, and spirits healthy on and off their yoga mat. They show you how to apply the art in your everyday life.

On their site, they have a little something for everyone.  There are great reads, appetizing recipes, yoga poses and inspirational playlists. In addition, teachers will discover an entire tab devoted to them with tips from some of the top players in the industry.

Have fun getting started with these yoga resources for teachers. Use one or use them all. Whatever speaks the loudest to you. This is just the beginning of possibilities. Namaste. 

If you are researching information on how to open your own CrossFit gym, then you are in the right place. In this post, you will find a quick CrossFit checklist to run through. Similar to opening any other gym, you want to make sure you have the right location and equipment and proper startup costs. This checklist will touch on all of those items and help you get started.

Do you have the right location?

Location is big when opening a gym, because as you know, there are things to consider like if it’s in a central enough area and if people are able to find it okay. Then, there are questions about the building itself like–is it sandwiched between other businesses and will you need to do any remodeling?

However, location is especially important when opening up a CrossFit box. You have people climbing ropes, dropping barbells and dumbbells all over the floor, tossing wall balls, doing walking handstands and push-ups, etc.

Here are some things to consider when looking for your perfect CrossFit business:

• Are you alone in the building or do you have neighbors?
• If you have neighbors, are you on an end or sandwiched between them?
• Is there a way to sound-proof or mask some of the noise?
• Are the ceilings high enough for rope climbing workouts?

Is there room to grow?

This one goes along with the part about selecting a location suitable for CrossFit activities. If you’re teetering between starting small or big, here is food for thought.

It’s true, they do call it a “CrossFit box”. While we agree it could be financially wise of you to start off with a more modest space since you don’t know how your small business will take off. We also know there’s a lot going on in a CrossFit gym and you need sufficient space. There are pros to going bigger right away, as long as you are comfortably within your budget range.

• Are you able to envision many different athletes doing their workouts all at the same time, without being in each other’s way or getting hurt?
• If you have your heart set on a smaller space, is there an available space next door?
• If not, is there a way to put your name on a first dibs list, for future expansion  opportunities?

What type of equipment do you need?

Startup costs can add up quickly. While most of the purchases are necessary and have set prices, like in the case of legal fees and certifications, there are a couple of other ways to cut down costs. One of the biggest ones is by being extra careful with your equipment expenses. Gym equipment alone can cost tens of thousands of dollars, if bought brand new. So, make sure to take your time researching this area.

• What are the essential items you need to start?
• What items can wait to be purchased at a later date?
• Do you plan to buy or lease equipment?
• Have you considered buying secondhand pieces from the internet? Ex: eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace

We hope this CrossFit checklist helps you get started on the right foot with your small business. If you’ve already started your own list and have something to add, let us know in the comments.

Sorry, Shakespeare. A rose by any other name doesn’t smell quite as sweet in the 21st century when there are plenty of other better-looking roses waiting to out smell you. Names do matter and branding is vital.

Branding is when a company creates a name and design specifically for themselves. It’s a visual representation to help set any business apart from the rest so customers can distinguish their products. Branding can either attract or repel customers and increase or decrease business value.

This is especially true in the yoga community right now, where there is a ton of competition. And the market is expected to double within the next year alone. Meaning, upcoming yoga business owners have much to think about. Like, how they plan to showcase their uniqueness for the world. Make sure you’re doing it right. Here are some dos and don’ts for your studio brand.

DON’T Be Impatient or Make Hasty Decisions

Good things take time and first impressions are everything. You want to put your best foot forward.

The many facets of branding include:

·      logo

·      color

·      typography

·      imagery

·      voice

·      actions

·      marketing

Start with your logo because it’s the first thing people encounter. You don’t want to rush this step. Take your time, play around with all your options and consider hiring a designer. You might not think you need one but typically, it’s better to spend the money on this step than skimp or cut corners. Logos appear on everything from yoga studios and merchandise to business cards, banners, flyers, social media and much more.

Rebranding, later on, isn’t necessarily a death sentence for a business. But, it does require more work later on than if you just took your time coming up with one you love in the first place, and were consistent across the board.

DO Your Research

If you are still feeling overwhelmed with what you need to come up with, take a peek at your competitors. Find out who they are and what they are doing right or wrong. And take a look at some bigger brands also, even if they aren’t directly related to your playing field. There’s always a lesson to take away.

DON’T Get Hung up on Competition

Find out who the competition is but don’t become obsessed over it. After all, this is about why you’re different. And if you spend too much time looking at someone else’s product, you could accidentally end up very similar, or worse, feeling discouraged.

DON’T Ignore Color

Color choice is important in any design. There is research to prove how it affects the human mind, body, and emotions. It’s even more important when creating a yoga business. Yoga studios are meant to be a safe space to relax and open up in. You want to make your clients feel drawn in and comfortable.

When you think of hues in the red, orange, and yellow families, they are all things associated with the sun and fire. As a result, you likely imagine warmth, energy, and enthusiasm. Blues and purples give feelings of being cool, or calm. Green is mostly tied to good health and good fortune. But beware, there are shades that can make you green with envy the same way certain shades of red and yellow can leave you angry or discontent.

DO Pick a Brand Voice

Like color, your brand’s voice plays a big role in the way you are viewed and how well you are received. Because you already know your target market and are familiar with the yoga community and lifestyle, this one should be relatively easy.

DON’T Forget About Your Personal Brand

Don’t forget about your personal brand. Who you are as the owner is as significant as what your facility stands for as a whole. For one, be authentic. This shouldn’t only be a job for you. Again, it should be your lifestyle. You’ve heard the saying, “Practice what you preach.”

And second, never stop learning. Stay at the top of your game and in the know by attending workshops and speaking with colleagues and mentors often. These things will help you deepen your practice.

DO Be Consistent

Consistency is key. Your studio brand, voice, personal brand, yoga teachers and social media should be aligned at all times. Yes, mix-up your classes from time to time to keep things exciting and fresh, but the way you leave people feeling after their visit should always be the same. If any part of the whole dynamic ever feels the slightest bit off, your customers will be able to feel it. And then your credibility, authenticity, and business could be affected.

Hold regular training with your yoga teachers to go over company news and share feedback together. Your employees are more likely to have pride in their work and feel like part of the family if your vision is clear and it’s one they can stand behind. The same goes for customers.

Check out our blog for more other yoga-industry related tips like How to Open a Yoga Studio and also some Gym Event Ideas to get business flowing.

For most people, it isn’t the working out part that gets them. It’s trying to stay on track with an eating plan, especially during the holiday season. Because, let’s be honest, no matter how badly you want to drop those pounds, you can’t reason with temptation clouding your brain.

If you need help attending some chocolate-charged holiday parties without face planting in the very first pies, these healthy holiday eating tips are for you.

1. Eat before you go.

The same way you’d never go to the grocery store hungry is the same way you shouldn’t show up to holiday parties on an empty stomach. You’re just asking for trouble. Because when the hunger pains strike, you won’t be eyeballing your grandma’s tray of healthy veggies. You will be headed straight for the sinful calories- and the naughty list!

Curb your hunger by eating something small yet filling before you leave the house like an apple, hard-boiled egg or leafy green salad. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Sometimes your brain tricks you into thinking you want to eat when you’re actually only thirsty.

2. Bring your own food.

Not sure what’s going to be on the menu? Ask the host if you can bring something to contribute. That way you will know for sure there is at least one dish you can enjoy guilt-free. You will be happy, and the host will have one less item to stress over. It’s a win/win.

This is also great for anyone with diet restrictions or food allergies as well. If you are ever unsure about the ingredients, bring something to share. It’s better safe than sorry.

3. Concentrate on your meal.

Research shows people who eat in front of the television, or absentmindedly, tend to eat quicker and bigger portions than normal. So, take it slow and really indulge your senses: Look at your plate and admire the colors before you. Eat slowly and anticipate every bite working its way to your lips. Focus on the way the ingredients smell and taste. Notice the different textures as you chew.

Not only will you be able to better register when you are full and consume less calories, but you will also appreciate your meal more.

4. Grab a friend.

Have you done steps 1-3 but still aren’t sure if you can be trusted? When you’re feeling weak at the knees, it pays to buddy up with someone. Sitting next to another healthy eater holds you accountable and ensures you’re less likely to stray.

5. Use smaller plates.

The bigger the plate, the more likely you are to pile it on. Instead, opt for eating dinner on a smaller one, like a dessert plate. It will ensure your body has more time to recognize when it’s full. Plus, if you pile on the protein and vegetables first you will have less room for the unhealthy stuff.

6. Pick One.

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself or it will give the bad items more appeal. Allow yourself to choose one goodie to eat, and you are less likely to overdo it -or worse- completely sabotage your hard work.

Consider your options though. For instance, don’t waste empty calories on potato chips when they’re available all year long. Pick a treat unique to the season, like your mom’s famous homemade cherry cheesecakes. Now that’s something worth celebrating. And again, don’t scarf it down. Eat slowly and take the time to enjoy it.

7. Workout.

If you follow these tips and still find yourself feeling weighed down the next day, shake it off with a little physical activity.

An early morning workout is known to rev-up your metabolism and help you burn off a few extra calories throughout the day. Go for a walk, or drop inside a nearby yoga class. Your body will feel rejuvenated and so will your mind.

Have you started planning your health goals for the new year? We’d love to hear them. Drop us a line in our comments. For more industry related tips, be sure to visit our blog often.

The first step to opening any business is creating a business plan. You might think a yoga business is a bit different given the large market for it, and your undeniable passion for the practice. But, don’t make the mistake of skipping this step. A wise man once said, “Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.”

WHY YOGA?

You’re probably thinking, “Why not yoga?” Right? You love the benefits of yoga classes, you live and breathe the practice, and you have all your teaching certifications. And you feel like it’s time to carve out your own happy corner of the world by opening a yoga studio business.

You’re off to a great start. But, understand it won’t all be yogi pretzels and rainbows to begin with. Kicking off any business threatens to rob even the most mentally zen person of all their ohm. So, ask yourself these questions.

·      Is this really what you want?

·      How much do you know about owning a small business?

·      Are you okay with working many hours?

·      Can you afford a pay cut until you can get it fully running?

In this post, you will find a quick yoga studio checklist to get started on your path.

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES

Owning your own studio is different than picking up classes in another studio or doing pop-ups in the park. Having your place of business requires you to cover your legal bases.

·      Are your certifications up to date?

·      What about your yoga teachers?

·      What do you know about obtaining a business license?

·      Do you have insurance or liability coverage?

FINANCES:

Money is at the top because you won’t get very far without it. Not many people will have the full amount of money to put down themselves.

·      Have you researched initial costs?

·      Will you have a co-owner?

·      What about investors?

·      How much do you expect to make during your first year?

·      Have you calculated legal fees, rent, licenses, equipment, employees, marketing efforts, etc.?

·      Do you have a nest egg for set-backs and emergencies?

PRICING AND RETENTION STRATEGIES:

Because this is also related to finances.

·  What are your class prices and packages?

·  Have you thought about cancellation fees?

· Will there be membership options?

·  Bonuses or discounts for anything?

TARGET MARKET:

You have an idea of what services you’re going to provide and mostly a target market: Yoga and yogi’s. But that might be too general. Get started on looking at a special niche for yourself, if possible.

·      Is there a certain demographic you want to reach most?

·      Is there a specific style of yoga that appeals to you?

·      Which yoga classes will you offer?

PROMOTION:

Now that you know who you’re targeting, how do you plan to reach them?

·      Have you thought about your business name and logo?

·      Will you have a website?

·      Which social media platforms will you use?

·      Will your yoga teachers have social media too?

·      What events will you organize?

·      Will there be a referral program?

·      What do you know about traditional marketing and digital marketing?

MARKETING STRATEGIES AND TOOLS:

Once you’ve thought about how to promote your small business, you can research tools to implement in your marketing strategies. No, they won’t do all the work for you. But, they will relieve some of the stress. They can help with email blasts, performance analytics, sign-ups, check-ins, scheduling and more.

Check into some of these popular digital marketing tools:

·      Google Analytics

·      Google Adwords

·      Canva

·      Trello

·      Hootsuite

·      Later

·      Management Software

EXECUTIVE BUSINESS PLAN

The last step is to summarize everything. Because, the first thing potential investors will want to see is the bigger picture for your yoga business. An executive business plan on how you expect to achieve it. If it doesn’t sound realistic or worthwhile, they won’t risk their time or money in your vision. Your executive business plan should get right down to the nitty-gritty in one concise document.

Did you find these yoga studio business tips helpful? Check out the rest of our blog for more industry related tips.

People have been taking a seat at their yoga mats for thousands of years. Whether it’s to clear thoughts and become more mindful or to increase flexibility and improve muscle tone, yoga does it all. That’s why practicing yoga isn’t just a workout, it’s a lifestyle.

In recent years, a new wave of yogi’s has rolled onto the scene and brought a handful of modern practices with them to yoga studios everywhere. They’re more dedicated than ever before to finding their om, even if it means experimenting a little. Here are 5 of the hottest (and weirdest) yoga trends right now, plus one less popular one.

Animal Yoga

Move over, downward dog. There are more animals in town; The get-up goat, bending bunny and swaying snake.

Okay, those poses are made-up. But the yoga classes are completely real. People are paying good money to do yoga with animals for different reasons. For example, pet therapy, like bunny and goat yoga, is said to be relaxing and uplifting, especially when dealing with grief or sadness. Snake yoga, on the other hand, is all about creating energy and facing fears.

You should bring an open mind to your mat- and maybe some eco-friendly wipes. Because no matter how enlightened they are, when animals gotta go, they gotta go. Furry friends tend to leave furry dropping during bunny yoga and goat yoga.

Online Yoga

Anything can pretty much be found on the internet today. So, it only makes sense that a lot of businesses and influencers have increased their online presence.

Want to take yoga classes but you’re too afraid to do them in front of other people? Or, you keep missing the classes because of your schedule? No worries. Hop online and look for free instructionals on Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. There are a ton of people there to follow and workout with including Jessamyn Stanley, Rachel Brathen, Adriene Mishler, and Rebekah Borucki, to name a few.

Acro Yoga

Much like in snake yoga, acro yoga is about facing your fears. It’s a mixture of traditional yoga meets acrobatics. So, while it’s a tad more playful, it also knows when to be serious. The primary objective is about vulnerability and communication. You will need to be in constant communication with your partner whether you’re the base, the flyer or any other position. It’s

about challenging yourself, opening up and trusting another person. You can show up with a partner but don’t skip out if you can’t find anyone. People go to class solo all of the time. It could be an opportunity to meet someone new and build a unique relationship from the ground up.

Gin Yoga

There’s been wine yoga and beer yoga, but now there’s gin yoga.

The idea is, if you’re feeling nervous about attending a class, these beverages will give you a boost of liquid courage to get you by. Not only that but gin is especially known for having a calming effect. But be careful not to sip too quickly because it’s also known for creeping up and causing unpleasant feelings -or nausea- as well.

When done the right way, think of gin yoga as a total body experience. The class will teach you to tune in to and appreciate what’s going on in your body. Everything from the way the gin feels as it touches your lips to the journey it takes until you feel that warming sensation in your stomach, and well hopefully, your soul.

Yoga Wheel

Yoga is no stranger to props. Sometimes to achieve a certain posture, or properly support your technique, the instructor will gently slide a yoga block underneath you. Rolled up mats or towels can have the same benefits.

Now there are yoga wheels to help you out also. They’re great for aiding with your backbends flexibility.

Yin Yoga

You’re likely familiar with the yin-yang. They’re two complementary forces in Chinese philosophy that represent the light and dark in all things. While yang is thought of as more of an active energy, yin is much calmer.

What you’re probably unfamiliar with, however, is Yin Yoga. It’s a much slower-paced style of yoga that includes dim lights and guided meditation. Sounds kind of wonderful, right? So, why isn’t it more popular? Yoga studios are stumped too.

This style is different from traditional yoga because it focuses more on the connective tissues in the body versus muscle groups. Also, each pose is held longer than in other classes, often for several minutes at a time.

Though holding each stance can be a bit of a challenge, the real workout is what’s going on in the mind. Everyone stores emotions in their body and yin yoga is able to tap directly into them. It’s not uncommon to cry during a class (never from pain!). Keep in mind each pose should challenge you, but not hurt you. Listen to your body and follow its signals. This is a great practice for anyone in therapy or who suffers from anxiety.

Have you tried these yoga trends before or incorporated any of them into your lifestyle? We’d love to hear all about how you’re practicing yoga.

But ultimately, it doesn’t matter how you downward dog, all that matters is that you enjoy doing it. Namaste! To see more blogs like this one, come back and visit our site often.

Opening a successful yoga studio is similar to opening a gym, except there’s a little more zen and a lot less equipment. If you’ve been into yoga for some time now and have obtained your certifications and teaching hours, here is a quick guide on how to open a yoga studio.

The Time is Now

Yoga isn’t a new fad. It can be dated back thousands of years in history. However, the practice has grown substantially in the past decade, particularly in the United States. So, the time is ripe now for creating a business plan and opening a small business in the yoga community.

If you’re worried there might be too much competition, don’t be. There is plenty of space, and success to be had by everyone. Besides, no two yoga studios are ever alike. Just like no two people are ever exactly alike either. Be yourself and the customers will follow. Keep the yoga classes coming!

Find a Space You Love

Yoga is all about training the mind and body to work together. The place you choose for your yoga studio is important. It should be friendly and inviting. You want to rent somewhere that says you’re warm and welcoming and gives off good vibes. 

When opening a yoga studio, you don’t have a lot to buy for the facility. Yes, you might consider a management software to make organizing and staying on top of things easier like memberships, check-in’s, and emails. And yes, you might need small essentials such as yoga mats, blocks, wheels, and baskets. But, that’s pretty much it. A yoga studio doesn’t require more than active members and floor mats.

That’s great news for you as the business owner. It means you won’t need a huge financial backing to get started like you would at a gym. Instead, you can spend your time focusing primarily on the space itself.

Where will you rent and how big of a studio will you need? If you are already teaching and you have a following, it should give you an idea of how big to start off.

Raise Your Vibration

Raise your vibration! Send out feelings of love, gratitude, generosity, happiness and more. Hire instructors who will do the same. People will take notice.

Not only can you raise the vibration in the energy you’re putting out, but you should also raise the vibration inside your studio. You can achieve this by intentionally filling it up with sights and smells that are pleasing to the senses.

Start with color because colors hold immense power. So, when decorating, be mindful of the paint you choose for the walls. The color you pick can either lift you up and give you the utmost clarity and motivation, or it can mentally block you from tapping into true potential. For example, red is energizing, while yellow is uplifting, green is encouraging and blue is calming.

Aside from colors, keep as much space open as possible to avoid clutter. Use essential oils and incense, play soft music, let fresh air in whenever you can, and place plants and flowers all about. If you don’t have a green thumb, don’t fret. There are still ways to incorporate some, like purchasing faux plants.

Promote Yourself

Raising your vibration is always great but you will still need to market yourself. There are tons of ways to do this! Get on social media, advertise free trials, and host events. Some event ideas include a grand opening, anniversary bashes, and offering up your space to causes in the community. Another idea is planning pop-up events near your small business and getting the word out on social media.

Offer a Variety

You want to offer a variety of yoga classes as well as instructors. People enjoy having options to choose from because it gives them a chance to try out different techniques and styles of teachings.

Also, stay up to date on the latest yoga trends. Of course, skip over the ones you’re uncomfortable with or don’t resonate with the message you wish to send out. But, do stay open to occasionally trying new things.

Namaste

Good luck. Now that you’ve got some ideas to add to your business plan, you will be on your way to becoming a business owner with a successful yoga studio in no time.

You’ve freed up some of your workload by installing a Gym Management Software. (Go you!) And now you have time to shift your focus to other things like interacting with your gym members more- or cleaning your gym mats. Yes, your gym mats!

Admittedly, it might not be the most exciting or glamorous aspect of being a gym owner, but someone has to do it. In this post, you will learnhow to clean gym mats,and other floorings, and why you want to.

Why clean the floors?

If you’re a new gym owner, clean flooring might not feel particularly high on your to-do list. Especially, if everything is brand new, anyway. But trust us, it won’t stay that way forever. Soon, you’re going to have a lot of traffic parading in and out of there. Remember, in addition to your normal flow of members, you’re also planning to host several gym events. 

New and old gym owners alike: Protect your investment! Gym flooring is essential. It provides many functions in your place of business. Like, proper protection and utmost comfort for your members and athletes during their workouts. Also, it boosts the attractiveness of your inside space.

Dirty floors can become a potential health or safety hazard. They harbor bacteria and become slippery when they are built-up with gunk. You don’t need that kind of avoidable stress in your life. Plus, they could smell.

Clean the mats already!

How to clean gym mats:

Turn it up

Your first order of business is to have a little fun with it and turn on your Pandora or Spotify. It’s proven that people are able to go farther and longer during workouts when they’re listening to their favorite jams. The same is true for chores. So, crank it up and get to sweeping!

Determine the type

Before diving into the next cleaning tips, it’s important to take note of which type of material you’re working with. Do you have tile, rubber flooring or something else?

Tile

All you need for tile flooring is a mop, some hot water, and your choice of disinfectant. You can choose from ammonia, bleach (but never the two together!), or a specialty floor cleaner.

If you want to go a more natural route with fewer fumes, you can buy a bulk of good old fashioned distilled white vinegar. It works great because not only does it tackle different bacteria like e.coli and salmonella, it’s also tough on residue and it dries fast. You only need about a half a cup per every gallon of water for it to clean and disinfect properly. Then, let the area air dry.

If you’re worried about your whole gym reeking like a giant bag of salt and vinegar crisps- don’t be. The smell disappears when the floor is dry, and what’s more is, it will absorb other unpleasant scents with it.

Laminate

There aren’t as many cleaning options for laminate flooring as there are with tile. They also can’t handle a lot of the harsher chemicals, have excess water on them or even stay just a little wet for even a short period of time. With that said though, they are cheaper to install and require less maintenance than some of the other floors on this list. Even if it doesn’t sound like it.

Your best bet with laminate is to look for a specialty floor cleaner or use a damp rag with hot water and white vinegar. Afterward, you want to wipe over it again with a dry rag.

Yoga Mats

Yoga mats have all sorts of fun stuff lurking on them- sweat, tears, dead skin and so much more. They get a lot of up close and personal action. Fortunately, they are a bit easier to clean and maintain. All you have to do is set out some paper towels and a homemade blend of water, detergent and essential oils. After each class, have every guest lay their mats on a flat surface and wipe them clean. You can use more paper towels to dry them, or conserve your supply by letting them air dry.

Rubber Mats

Like laminate, rubber flooring has some do’s and don’ts also. You can use a variety of cleaners. But, there are different types of rubber. Don’t use anything acidic to clean them, like vinegar. It will eat through the mat and cause it to degrade faster. Also be sure to find a rubber that won’t mold after exposure to excess water and to use a mop made out of nylon. Cotton mops tend to leave bits and pieces behind.

Now that you know how to clean and disinfect your floor, sit back and enjoy your work. Ahhh, clean flooring. Your members and athletes will appreciate you! One last thing- you should aim to clean the mats at least once a week.

If you found these cleaning tips helpful, come back and visit our blog often for more fitness industry related information.

Gym owners: You’ve got a bangin’ fitness facility, located on the perfect piece of property, filled with only the best of the best equipment and most dedicated employees. But, that means absolutely nothing if you can’t find people who want to sign with your gym. Keep reading to learn 5 ways you can turn prospective members into loyal customers with this “how to sell gym memberships” guide.

Make a Lasting First Impression

You’ve heard it before; First impressions are everything. It’s quite possible the person who walks through the door has tried the gym scene before and it didn’t last. Any hint of pushiness or aggression could send them running in the other direction.

Always be kind, encouraging and patient. If you come off like you’re only interested in membership sales, you could quite possibly confirm the doubts or fears they had before they entered.

Be genuine. Get to know them. Let them ask their questions. When they’re done, ask them their “why” and their goals. Afterward, you will be able to take them on a personalized tour of your place. You can point out classes, instructors, and equipment you feel would be a good match for them. They will appreciate your genuine interest in their mission.

It’s important for your staff to do the same. Schedule a monthly training session. In the training session, you can go over best customer service practices and even do role-playing activities. Consider making your sales team different from your walk-in greeters. Let the sales department take the phone calls.

Get on Social Media

Invest in social media advertising, if you can. Or if you’re pretty online savvy, manage it yourself to save some money. Regardless, it’s a good tool to use. In recent years, it has become a great way to increase brand engagement and sales for all kinds of businesses.

Nowadays, everybody is selling something online and people hate being directly sold to. We get it. Especially if you plan on re-sharing things to your personal page for added reach. However, there is a way to show off your brand and entice your audience without being in anyone’s face about it.

All you have to do is keep it real. Post updates with offers, glimpses into classes, and pictures of your employees and members kicking butt and taking names. It won’t take long for others to notice all the fun going on and reach out with their inquiries.

Look for influencers- people who have a large following in the fitness industry. They have the ability to persuade their audience into checking out your space too. Not all influencers are looking for monetary payment. They might be willing to trade services with you; free shoutouts for a free membership. Though, if they are starting out, they may only want experience for their portfolio.

Run Promotions and Special Offers

Sometimes all you need in order to gain exposure is to run promotions and special offers. You know everybody likes those. Everybody likes free too; a little taste test before they agree to commit.

Now, free might not sound quite as exciting when it’s your money or fitness facility. But, when it’s done right, you stand to garner quite a bit of attention which in turn could lead to membership sales.

If you’re new to the neighborhood, and even if you’re not, throw a welcome party. And then? Throw another one. Why not? Host events where you can offer samples of your most liked classes. Do fun workouts and workshops, informational Q&A sessions and even rent out your space to a community cause or local businesses.

Offer a Referral Program

Why should newbies get all the perks? Give your existing customers an incentive to share in the celebration as well. Start a referral program and give every member a certain amount of free passes. That way, they can bring in friends and family to workout with them and crush their goals together. Once their guests sign-up, they get credits or points toward their account.

Take it one step further and extended the offer to your employees. You can make it a monthly giveaway. The employee to get X amount of signs up gets- whatever you decide.

Use Gym Management Software

Use your handy dandy gym management software to notate strong leads and prospective members to follow up with. You could also use it to track your sales. Find out which tactics are working the best.

Don’t have one or know what a scheduling software is? Not a problem. Read our blog called, “What is Gym Management Software?”. Afterward, ask for a free demo on our gym software page.

We hope you learned something new about how to sell gym memberships. Go snag some loyal customers. If you did, we’d love to hear from you. Leave us a comment. For more fitness industry related tips, keep an eye out on our page.

If you’re new to owning a gym, or thinking about it, you’ve probably heard about fitness software once or twice. What is gym management software, anyway? Besides, “time-saving” and “game-changing.” Read more to find out.

What is Gym Management Software?

As a new, or even seasoned, gym owner, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the business and want to take on many different roles. Big mistake. Don’t do it.

You want to focus your energy on what matters most, like creating lasting connections with your members, not time-consuming administrative tasks. That’s where a reputable software comes in. It’s a management solution with real-time reporting that does the heavy lifting for you.

It goes by many different names: fitness software, gym membership software, gym scheduling software, and scheduling software. Potato-Potato? (read: Potayto-Potahto). Not necessarily. Yes, each one is a powerful set of tools to help you better manage your clients, staff, and finances. But like anything, you will want to shop around to find one that fits your facility’s individual needs.

Who uses it?

These days, many health and wellness facilities use a management system; Small and big gyms, traditional and non-traditional gyms, yoga studios, spin studios and dance studios- you name it. Chances are, they are all using one or are thinking of using one. That’s because it is a great way to save time and grow your business. Any fitness establishment that aims to run things more efficiently and stay ahead of their competition will find it beneficial.

How is it used?

It is used several ways, from assigning classes to specific instructors to onboarding and tracking new members to sending out emails and processing payments.

*Member Management:

It’s no secret your members’ happiness is vital to the health of your establishment. Or that the amount of people who drop out like flies after the New Year is always going to be a threat, no matter how much the industry is booming. That’s what your management tools are for. Customer retention largely depends on the kind of overall experience a customer has with your company. This is why having available data on your members and their behaviors is more valuable than you might know.

Gym membership software tracks the attendance pattern of each person and alerts you when they are at risk of dropping out. Once you’re informed of the situation, you can use email marketing to send a series of carefully curated nurture texts and emails, letting them know they are missed. Or you can try a different approach and send them offers on other classes you think they might enjoy better. Bottom line is: members like to feel included and thought of.

Another thing they like is convenience. That’s because we’re living in the digital age, which means people have become accustomed to instant gratification. And what’s more gratifying as a customer than being able to manage their membership online through a self-service portal? One where they can sign up for classes, create goals, make payments, and check-in, all within seconds? Not very much. Except for maybe post-workout endorphins and protein ice cream.

Nothing kills pre-workout mojo like having to wait in a long check-in line, especially during peak season. Some services offer the option for a quick scan-in with an identification card or even a fingerprint.

*Employee Management:

The same way member management is important to your business so is the morale of your team. The happier your staff is, the likelier the chance of your members being happy too. Stressed out employees will be unable or unwilling to service your community the way you need them to.

A way to remedy this is by lightening up the workload and leaving some administrative tasks to the software. Scheduling, inventory, finances, and satisfaction surveys are all things that it can do. As a result, your employees will have one main program to focus their efforts on versus juggling several different small ones with endless reminders, spreadsheets, and calendars. You will greatly increase their productivity time, which in turn can be used to assist guests. 

*Financial Management:

In addition to managing your members and crew, keeping a close watch on your financial data helps you understand how your facility makes money. It’s a good practice to make yourself aware of all daily revenue, billing statements, month-to-date membership sales, and delinquencies. Also, tune in to conversion rates to learn about prospective members.

Any of the information available will be done with real-time reporting, allowing you to make better informed financial decisions.

What is the cost?

Much like gym shorts, pricing isn’t a one size fits all kind of thing. There are many different options available. In order to find the best suitable package for you and your gym, you will need to consider the size of your location as well as the number of your staff and members.

Did we answer your questions about management solutions? If you are interested in learning about our packages at EZFacility, please request more information on our gym software page or schedule your free demo today.

If you’re new to the idea of owning a gym or just want to grow your business, don’t miss our recent blogs, “How to Start a Gym.” and “How to Run a Successful Gym.” for more helpful industry-related tips.

Anybody can open a gym, if they have the financial backing for it. But, whether or not it will be a successful business is a whole other story. In this post, you will learn how to run a successful gym. Here are four tips from building relationships with gym members to implementing gym management software.

Build Relationships

First things first. Why do you want to open a gym? Is it because you love looking and feeling healthy and want to help others look and feel healthy too? Or, because you believe if you can make money doing something you love, you’ll never work a day in your life?

While those things may be true, you are leaving out a fundamental answer; The community.

Think about why you have been a gym goer in the past. The feeling you got being around other positive, goal-oriented individuals is likely what prompted you to open your own space.

Learn names, build relationships, create a community, and stay involved. Create frequent in-house events and join them. Gym members who feel seen and valued as part of the family will be more likely to become lifelong customers.

A small gym is at an advantage here. They are appealing because it means each trainer has more time to spend getting to know their clients one-on-one. As a result, they are really able to foster that sense of community. But, with a little determination and some added attention to detail, a larger gym can recreate the same intimate atmosphere as a small gym.

Get on Social Media

Nowadays, everyone is on social media, and you (and your instructors) should be too. It’s easier than ever to reach existing and potential customers online. Make sure your business has two things: a welcoming, user-friendly website, and a strong online presence.

Another benefit to having a social media account is you can manage your online reviews. You should encourage your members to give you a shout out. People love to know which places their friends and family recommend and why. If they are on the fence about which fitness establishment to check out, a positive review with your name on it could tip them over your way.

Being online is an excellent way to minimize negative comments too, as well as get honest feedback to incorporate in your business. It shows other people how well you handle those situations.

Consider Marketing

If there is room in your budget, consider getting help with your marketing strategy. A good marketing plan can inform your target audience about your gym and services. Plus, it will help set you apart from your competitors, and attract new members. With a smart marketing strategy, you can even build out loyalty programs to focus on retention.

Start with email marketing. Carefully craft emails offering trial periods to prospective members. Or, those who are looking to test out the waters before making any commitments. Later on, send newly tailored emails with specific messages to encourage those same people in becoming paying members. At the same time, a separate email blast can keep your current members engaged.

Use Technology

Memberships, schedules, and money, oh my! How will you keep track of it all?

With gym scheduling software, that’s how. A reputable software can assist with online class scheduling, management, and membership. It can reduce your workload, keep you organized, increase revenue, and free up quality time you can use to service your members instead.

This one goes back to your community. Your members should always be your main priority because when members feel involved, they are more compelled to return. And most of your financial success will come from keeping cancellation rates low.

Track your membership data with software, like EZFacility’s gym management software. It will alert you of clients who are at risk of canceling their membership, so you and your instructors know when to send them a little extra love.

It will also make planning and sharing class schedules a breeze. Especially if you get set up with a branded app for your customers. With tons of features, the software allows for nurture emails and texts that will keep fitness – and your business – on their mind.

Were these tips on how to run a successful gym helpful? Check out our other blog posts for gym retention strategies and more.