At the recent FBA SUCCEED! Virtual Conference, Fitness On Demand’s very own Todd Wiginton and Andy Peat hosted an exclusive session exploring what it really means to be future-ready. They shared strategies on how gyms can scale, streamline, and simplify operations, while still preserving the irreplaceable human element of member experience.
As the session wrapped, attendees asked some powerful questions that sparked equally valuable answers from Todd and Andy. We didn’t want those insights to stay in the (virtual) room, so we’ve captured them here in this blog. Whether you run a large facility or a small independent club, these takeaways will help you navigate the balance between technology and human connection.
How to Balance Technology Investments and Human Touch
One of the biggest fears in the fitness industry is that technology will replace people. But as Todd and Andy stressed, technology should never replace your team; it should empower them.
When you use technology to automate repetitive tasks, like check-in emails, class reminders, or printing signage, you’re not taking away from the human experience, you’re freeing up time for your staff to do what really matters - build relationships.
For example, swapping static posters for digital signage not only saves hours of admin work (and ink!), but it also creates a more engaging, flexible way to communicate with members in real time.
Andy summed it up perfectly: “You can’t replace the hellos and relationships that come with gym community. But technology can enhance the class experience, expand your offerings, and provide tools when instructors aren’t available.”
The bottom line? Tech should complement your team, not compete with them.
Keeping Up with Big-Box Competitors
A common question from smaller or independent gyms: “How can we keep up with big-box competitors without overextending ourselves?”
The truth is that smaller gyms do not necessarily equal smaller impact. Members join your facility for the same reasons they’d join a large chain, and often because they’re looking for more personal connection.
The key is to know your audience and cater to your community. You don’t need every shiny new piece of technology. Instead, focus on tools that:
- Scale with your business
- Directly improve member experience
- Fit your budget
Everyone will have different starting points and for some, this might be adding a mobile app or virtual fitness classes to start. For others who may already have a digital strategy and are looking to make some additions, it could be as simple as adding guided recovery tools like massage guns or even ice baths.
Todd advised focusing on “lower hanging fruit” - simple, impactful upgrades like digital group fitness that don’t break the bank. Andy added: “Lean on your vendors. You don’t need to build something from scratch. Your partners should be innovating for you.”
Training Your Team to Champion New Technology
The best technology in the world won’t work if your team resists it. The key? Don’t start with the “what,” start with the “why.”
When staff understand how a new tool helps them and benefits members, adoption comes naturally. Hosting education sessions, involving your team in the decision-making process, and showing them the real value for their day-to-day work helps turn resistance into enthusiasm.
Todd suggested bringing staff into the process from the start: “Consult with your team before implementation so you get buy-in from inception.”
Indicators You Need to Evolve Your Tech Strategy
Technology moves fast, and member expectations move right along with it. How can you tell if your facility’s strategy is falling behind?
Look at the data. A drop in usage, or worse, a drop in membership, often signals that members are finding better solutions elsewhere. Another clear sign? Members start asking about things that you don’t offer.
The solution is simple but powerful: ask for feedback before the gap widens. Surveys (delivered via email or QR codes around the gym) not only give you valuable insight but also show members that you care about their experience.
And here’s a quick gut check: if you’re updating your personal phone every year, but your facility tech hasn’t changed in five, it’s probably time to review your tech stack.
The future of fitness isn’t about choosing between technology and human connection - it’s about blending the two; seamlessly.
- Technology should enhance, not replace.
- Smaller gyms can make a big impact by focusing on the right tools for their community.
- Staff adoption comes from buy-in, not mandates.
- Regular feedback keeps you ahead of member expectations.
At Fitness On Demand, we believe technology should create space for what truly matters: building meaningful connections, delivering exceptional experiences, and helping members succeed.
To view the session and download the workbook visit: https://www.fbasucceed.com/online/your-modern-gym-blueprint-simplify-streamline-and-scale
Author
Tiarre Sales
Tiarre Sales is a rising marketing professional at Fitness On Demand, where she leads SEO, inbound strategies, and website optimization with a unique blend of creativity and commitment. She’s passionate about creating seamless customer experiences and building actionable strategies that drive authenticity, embrace diversity, and deliver measurable growth.
