The Owner's Corner: What Gym Owners Wish They Knew at the Start


The Owner's Corner

Helping gym owners achieve sustainable growth

What Gym Owners Wish They Knew at the Start

Hi Reader,

We read a summary on BarBend about the lessons that some longtime CrossFit affiliate owners have learned over the years. We felt it was incredibly useful advice to all gym owners and we wanted to summarize the highlights here:

"I wish I would have known this is a people and relationship-based business more than a fitness program."

Dealing with members and staff is probably one of the hardest challenges there is. Focusing your efforts on becoming an expert people manager (for both populations) can be the difference in your business.

"I was too focused on being a competitive gym catering to high-level athletes"

Your ideal client is a busy person that works and maybe wants to lose a few pounds, gain some muscle, and feel better about themselves. Most people don't necessarily aspire to compete, and if we focus on that, we're missing the boat. Focus on the population that needs you the most.

"Consider your family, coaches, and members with all decisions"

Don't forget that you didn't start a gym for yourself. You did it for the good of others. Don't lose sight of that, and make sure that you operate with those you serve in mind. This is a people business!

"Most of the worst decisions have come from rushing into hiring a staff member due to feeling like it was an emergency and being understaffed"

This is literally the reason Barbell Jobs exists - find the right talent the first time and watch your gym flourish!


Post a Fitness Job

If you're ready to grow your business, let us help you on the hiring side. We help you find quality talent using our vast fitness network.


Until next time!

Team Barbell Jobs

600 1st Ave, Ste 330 PMB 92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2246
Unsubscribe · Preferences

BarbellJobs.com

Get industry news and fitness job opportunities in the world of functional fitness delivered to your inbox.

Read more from BarbellJobs.com
7 phases of gym growth for owners

The Owner's Corner Helping gym owners achieve sustainable growth The 7 Phases of Gym Growth In the fitness industry, scaling a gym from a startup to a thriving enterprise requires careful planning and awareness of potential pitfalls. Jason Fernandez (aka "Fern"), co-creator of Best Hour of Their Day breaks down the key phases of business growth, highlighting revenue milestones, member counts, and critical risks that can make or break success. Whether you're just starting out or aiming for...

A barbell loaded with weight plates.

The Owner's Corner Helping gym owners achieve sustainable growth How to Turn Your Gym Members into Your Best Marketing Team Let’s be honest — in 2025, paid ads cost more than a new squat rack, and social media algorithms change faster than your clients’ excuses for skipping leg day. But there’s one marketing strategy that never goes out of style (and doesn’t require a marketing degree): your members. Here's how to make it happen. 1. Create “Instagram‑able” Moments People love to share their...

A barbell loaded with weight plates.

The Owner's Corner Helping gym owners achieve sustainable growth Proven Strategies to Boost Your Gym Website’s Lead Capture and Conversions Hi Reader, Your gym’s website is your digital front desk—make it work smarter to capture leads and convert them into members. Below are concise, data-backed strategies to turn your site into a lead-generating powerhouse, tailored for gym owners ready to grow. 1. Design a Mobile-First Site Use authentic images of your gym’s community and ensure mobile...