Turning New Members into Lifelong Clients: The Importance of Accountability and Community for Getting Active

Jun 19, 2024

By Erin Phelan, Fitness Industry Council of Canada

What makes someone stick with a fitness program? The research continues to show that there are many reasons someone starts – a health scare, wanting to look good in summer shorts, a family history of heart disease. But often these studies show the start line – not the marathon of a never-ending fitness journey.

There is no finish line.

Embarking on a fitness journey can be daunting, but accountability and community support can significantly enhance compliance and success. Research underscores the critical role these elements play in helping individuals stick to their fitness programs, leading to long-term health benefits. As gyms continue to break records in new member sign ups and revenues, we are in an opportunity moment in time to seize upon the power of what we do as the fitness industry to not only change the physical and mental health of our members, but impact their social health, and their joy.

How do you turn a new member into a lifelong client?

Read on.