In recent years, we’ve witnessed a transformative shift in multi-family housing trends with the role wellness centers impact on creating healthy communities.
Read more: Boutique Fitness Trends: Harness Growth with Tech InnovationsThe rise of boutique fitness has had a significant impact on the fitness industry as a whole. According to a report by the International Health and Fitness Association (IHRSA), boutique fitness studios have experienced a 121% growth in the number of studios worldwide between 2013 and 2018. This growth is projected to continue, with the boutique fitness market expected to reach $79.66 billion by 2029.
The report also highlights the changing preferences of consumers, with 42% of boutique fitness participants indicating that they prefer specialized studios over traditional gyms. This shift in consumer behavior has forced traditional gyms to adapt, with many incorporating boutique-like elements into their offerings to remain competitive in the market.
Furthermore, the rise of technology has also influenced the boutique fitness landscape. Mobile apps and online platforms have made it easier for individuals to book classes and track their progress. Wearable fitness technology, such as fitness trackers and heart rate monitors, has also become increasingly popular, allowing individuals to monitor their performance and stay motivated.
In recent years, the fitness industry has witnessed a significant shift towards boutique fitness studios, revolutionizing the way people exercise. The rise of boutique fitness has been nothing short of extraordinary, leaving big-box gyms scrambling to keep up. But what exactly is boutique fitness, and why has it become such a sensation?
Boutique fitness studios are smaller, specialized fitness centers that offer a unique and personalized workout experience, often focusing on a specific exercise style or class. From high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to cycling and yoga, these studios cater to fitness enthusiasts looking for a more intimate and tailored approach to their workouts. With their high-energy ambiance, top-notch instructors, and state-of-the-art equipment, boutique fitness studios create an immersive and motivating environment that keeps members engaged and coming back for more.
As the popularity of boutique fitness continues to soar, it’s clear that this trend is here to stay, transforming the way we approach fitness and challenging the status quo of the fitness industry as we know it.
Key Boutique Fitness Trends
- Maximize Digital Technology
- Multi-Modality Studios
- Develop Personalization
- Build A Tribal Community
- Create A Strong Brand Identity
- Optimize Operational Efficiencies
In the following podcast 40, Paul Bowman is joined by Carrie Kepple, Owner and CEO of Styles Studios. She is also a Board Member on the Fitness Industry Technology Council. Kepple and Bowman discuss emerging trends in boutique fitness. Former journalist turned fitness mogul, Carrie entered the fitness industry following a serendipitous encounter at a California event. Today, she runs her own boutique fitness studio chain and serves as the chairperson of IHRSA, the leading trade association for the fitness industry. She shares valuable insights into how these boutique fitness trends provide opportunities for boutique growth and boutique fitness instructors’ success by harnessing digital and virtual technology.
Boutique Fitness Trends
The trends are shaping the fitness market in unprecedented ways, with consumers increasingly drawn to the personalized attention, community feel, and variety offered by boutique fitness studios. As a result, traditional gyms are now facing fierce competition and are being forced to adapt to meet the changing demands of consumers.
1. Multi-Modality Studios Trends
The future of boutique fitness is evolving towards multi-modality studios, marking a significant shift away from single-modality offerings. This transformation reflects a growing consumer demand for diverse fitness experiences that cater to various needs and preferences. Multi-modality studios, such as Style Studio Fitness, are integrating different fitness disciplines under one roof, offering members a comprehensive approach to health and wellness.
2. Personalization Trends
Consumers are increasingly seeking more personalized and engaging fitness experiences. Traditional gyms can often feel impersonal and overwhelming, with a wide range of equipment and classes that can be daunting for beginners. Boutique fitness studios, on the other hand, offer a more approachable and welcoming environment, making it easier for individuals to get started and stay committed to their fitness goals.
Instructors are often highly qualified and knowledgeable, able to provide individualized guidance and modifications to cater to various fitness levels and goals. This level of attention ensures that members are getting the most out of their workouts and reduces the risk of injury.
3. Community Building Trends
Boutique fitness studios have distinguished themselves by excelling in creating a sense of community and belonging among their members. Creating a tribal sense of community is based upon several key strategies: aligning the brand with the right audience, consistent member engagement, and fostering a culture of integrity and belonging.
“Cultivating a sense of community is tapping into the pleasure part of the brain.”
~ Carrie Kepple, Owner and CEO at Styles Studios Fitness ~
Creating a strong sense of community involves ongoing engagement with members beyond just the fitness classes themselves. Boutique studios go the extra mile to build relationships and foster a sense of belonging among their members. Instructors and staff at boutique studios often get to know their members on a personal level, remembering names, fitness goals, and individual preferences, which helps create a welcoming and inclusive environment. Boutique studios also actively seek feedback from members and respond to their needs through regular surveys, suggestion boxes, or informal conversations to ensure that members feel heard and valued.
Creating a culture of integrity and belonging is essential for retaining members and building a strong community within a boutique fitness studio. Studios that clearly communicate their values—such as inclusivity, health, and community support—build trust and loyalty among members. This transparency helps members align themselves with the studio’s mission. Instructors and staff at boutique studios create a supportive environment where members feel encouraged to challenge themselves and achieve their fitness goals, contributing to a sense of accomplishment and belonging.
4. Digital Technology Trends
Kepple stresses it is crucial to be consistent with digital content creation and create active engagement with viewers to build your audience. These efforts can be time-consuming alongside other aspects of a fitness business, but it is necessary to experience growth and success. Moreover, income generation from digital content can be unpredictable, so create additional multiple revenue streams like ads, sponsorships, and digital product sales to build consistency overall.
For instructors, partnering with fitness facilities offers instructors significant advantages versus going on their own. They gain access to a pre-existing audience of gym members or clients who are already interested in the specific fitness genre and seeking workout content. This built-in audience provides immediate exposure and engagement opportunities.
Fitness facilities also provide valuable resources and support, including access to professional filming equipment, editing software, and marketing assistance. This support helps instructors produce higher quality content more efficiently, utilizing facility amenities like studio spaces and equipment to create visually appealing and professional-looking videos. Instructors can maximize their reach by promoting their content across multiple platforms, leveraging social media, fitness forums, and their own websites or blogs to attract a diverse audience.
Creating digital content presents both challenges and opportunities for fitness instructors. Independently, instructors often face stiff competition and struggle with visibility in a saturated market dominated by established influencers and fitness personalities. They must also contend with the technical demands of video production, editing, and graphic design, which require initial investment and a learning curve.
5. Smaller Class Sizes And Variety
Boutique fitness studios often provide a more convenient and hassle-free experience. With smaller class sizes, it is easier to book a spot and avoid overcrowding. Additionally, the specialized nature of boutique studios means that members can focus on their preferred exercise style without having to navigate through a sea of equipment and classes.
In addition to smaller class sizes, a variety of classes and workouts are available. Traditional gyms often offer a standard set of classes and equipment, whereas boutique fitness studios curate their offerings to cater to specific exercise styles or techniques. This variety allows individuals to explore different workouts and find the ones that resonate with them the most, keeping their fitness routine exciting and engaging.
Strategies To Optimize Boutique Fitness Trends For Success
1. Create A Strong Brand Identity
Creating a strong brand identity is crucial. This involves developing a clear and compelling brand message, designing a visually appealing logo and website, and consistently delivering on the brand promise.
“I think initially the brand attracts its own tribe.”
~ Carrie Kepple, Owner and CEO at Styles Studios Fitness ~
2. Build A Loyal Customer Base
Building a loyal customer base is essential for long-term success. You should build a loyal customer base by delivering exceptional customer service, personalized attention, and fostering a sense of community among members. Offering loyalty programs, referral incentives, and social events can further strengthen the bond between the studio and its members.
3. Utilize Marketing And Promotion
Marketing and promotion are also key to success in the boutique fitness industry. Utilizing social media platforms, creating engaging content, and partnering with influencers can help raise awareness and attract new customers. Additionally, collaborations with local businesses or hosting special events can generate buzz and attract attention.
4. Optimize Operational Efficiencies
Kepple suggests as the boutique fitness landscape continues to evolve, studios must strike a balance between operational focus and member obsession to maintain growth and success. Operational excellence ensures efficient studio management, optimal class scheduling, and seamless member experiences. This includes leveraging technology for booking systems, member communication, and data analytics to enhance operational efficiency.
5. Take Advantage Of Strategic Consolidation And Growth Opportunities
Kepple also shares consolidation is likely to occur within the boutique fitness industry as studios seek financial strength and scale. Smaller studios may face challenges in competing with larger, more established brands that have the resources to expand and innovate. For boutique studios, consolidation may involve partnerships, mergers, or acquisitions to achieve financial stability and operational efficiency. This strategic growth can enable studios to invest in technology, expand their service offerings, and reach new markets.
Challenges and Opportunities for Fitness Instructors
Kepple did share a detailed review of how instructors can grow by taking advantage of these boutique fitness trends. Boutique fitness studios have gained popularity due to their specialized, community-oriented approach, offering classes and utilizing virtual and digital technology to specific fitness niches like high-intensity interval training (HIIT), Yoga, and Pilates. Instructors specializing in these areas can carve out a niche and build a dedicated following, often commanding higher rates per class or session compared to larger gym chains.
Moreover, trends in boutique fitness studios foster a more personal connection between instructors and clients, leading to increased client loyalty and retention. This can translate into more stable and predictable income for instructors as they build a base of regular clients who value their expertise and teaching style. The rise of digital platforms has opened up a wealth of opportunities for fitness instructors to reach a global audience through online content creation. This includes live streaming classes, on-demand workout videos, social media content, and virtual coaching sessions.
“The boutique industry has given people a chance in a physical class to make more money.
I think with digital classes online, people tend to make more just because your audience is larger and can be anywhere.”
~ Carrie Kepple, Owner and CEO at Styles Studios Fitness ~
Live streaming classes allow instructors to engage with clients in real-time via platforms like Zoom or YouTube Live, providing personalized feedback and motivation. On-demand workout videos can be created and sold repeatedly through platforms like Vimeo, generating passive income. Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok can be leveraged to build a following, monetizing influence through sponsored content or digital product sales. Virtual coaching sessions offer personalized training programs tailored to individual client needs, often commanding higher rates than traditional in-person sessions.
Navigating digital marketing, customer retention strategies, and pricing services competitively while making a profit pose significant challenges. Managing multiple income streams, such as in-person classes, online subscriptions, and personal training sessions, requires careful planning to optimize revenue. Embracing boutique fitness models and leveraging digital platforms for content creation can allow instructors to expand their reach, increase their earning potential, and build a sustainable career in the fitness industry. By staying adaptable, proactive, and innovative, instructors can thrive in this new era of fitness.
For more insights into creating ideal boutique fitness environments and take advantage of virtual and digital technology to enhance member experiences, feel free to reach out to robert.louw@wexer.com.
About Carrie Kepple & Styles Studios Fitness
Carrie Kepple is a leader in the fitness industry. She builds and runs profitable and award winning clubs, all while specializing in the group exercise and studio experience. Kepple has travelled the globe training thousands of instructors the art of teaching a great class, as well as teaching club owners and operators how to create profitable club business.
Styles Studio Fitness distinguishes itself by placing its members’ needs and goals at the forefront of its operations. This approach ensures that every member receives personalized attention and support in their fitness journey. The studio’s commitment to understanding individual fitness levels, preferences, and objectives allows it to tailor programs that cater to the specific needs of each member. This personalized approach not only enhances member satisfaction but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among its clientele.
The studio emphasizes a holistic approach to health and wellness, integrating fitness, nutrition, and accountability into its programs. Instructors and trainers work closely with members to develop comprehensive fitness plans that include both workout routines and nutritional guidance. This dual focus ensures that members not only achieve their fitness goals but also adopt sustainable lifestyle changes that support long-term health and well-being.
This dedication to member satisfaction has resulted in strong word-of-mouth recommendations within the community. Satisfied members are more likely to recommend Style Studio Fitness to friends, family, and colleagues, creating a positive reputation that attracts new members. This organic growth through word-of-mouth endorsements underscores the studio’s reputation for delivering effective results and exceptional customer service.
Podcast 40