New research highlights untapped potential in after-hours gym inquiries, urging fitness operators to align with evolving consumer behaviors.
Keepme, a leader in AI-driven solutions for the fitness industry, has launched its latest study, “How Many Gym Leads Are Lost After Hours?” The report uncovers a critical blind spot in lead generation for fitness operators: the significant percentage of high-intent gym searches occurring outside traditional operational hours.
The study, conducted across the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia, reveals that after-hours searches, defined as activity between 8:01 PM and 8:00 AM, account for a considerable share of gym-related inquiries. The findings emphasize the need for gyms to rethink their lead engagement strategies to capture these late-night prospects and stay competitive in an increasingly digital and on-demand world.
Hilary McGuckin, Director of Marketing at Keepme, underscores the importance of adapting to these behaviors:
“This study reveals a seismic shift in consumer expectations. Gym prospects are searching and making decisions when it’s convenient for them – often outside traditional operational hours. Fitness operators who fail to engage with these high-intent leads risk falling behind more responsive competitors. If you want to be a competitor to watch, the time to adapt is now.”
The research demonstrates the pressing need for fitness operators to align their strategies with evolving consumer habits. The delay in responding to after-hours inquiries often leads to lost opportunities, as prospects move on to more responsive gyms.
McGuckin adds:
“This isn’t just about filling a gap; it’s about future-proofing your operations. The gyms that thrive will be those that understand and cater to the 24/7 expectations of today’s consumers.”
The methodology behind the study is as rigorous as its findings are compelling. Using tools such as Google Trends, Google Keyword Planner, and VPN validation, Keepme analyzed hourly search behaviors for the term “gym near me” across 12 months (Q4 2023 – Q3 2024). This approach ensured the data was both comprehensive and regionally accurate.
The report not only highlights the issue but also provides practical solutions for gyms to address it, including:
Operators who embrace these strategies can transform late-night searches into tangible outcomes, such as gym tours and trial bookings, driving both membership growth and revenue.
In an industry where responsiveness can make or break a sale, this study offers fitness operators a clear path to gaining an edge. By aligning their operations with consumer expectations, gyms can not only recover lost leads but also position themselves as leaders in member acquisition.
“The stakes are high,” McGuckin concludes. “Operators who don’t adapt risk losing out not just on leads, but on their competitive edge. This study is a wake-up call for the industry.”
The complete study, “How Many Gym Leads Are Lost After Hours?”, is now available and is free to access. Download it today to access detailed findings, keyword insights, and actionable strategies to optimize your after-hours lead generation.
Blending artificial intelligence, operational tools and a unique automations engine, Keepme supercharges and streamlines your team’s efforts to generate, capture and convert gym leads.
Find out more at www.keepme.ai and follow on https://www.linkedin.com/company/keepme-ai/
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