Get Ready for January: Your Studio and Gym Launch Checklist
With summer out of the way, it’s time to think about your next move. If you run a gym or studio, planning for January isn’t madness, it’s essential. After the festive season, people’s minds shift towards fitness and new goals, so if you’re launching a reformer Pilates studio, they’ll start looking for you.
Here’s everything you need to launch your studio, new class or fresh gym space ready for when January hits.
Key takeaways:
- Order your kit at least 3 months in advance
- Create a space that reflects your brand
- Come up with a pre-launch marketing plan
Get your reformer Pilates kit sorted early
Most Pilates reformer companies work on a three month lead time, especially for custom-made beds or ones that are studio quality. Ordering early means you beat the rush so your delivery, set up and instructor training all happen well before your January launch.
If you’re wondering what you need to launch your reformer Pilates studio, check out our guide here.
Design and prep your studio space
Once your beds and kit are on order, you can turn your attention to creating an atmospheric Pilates studio. Thinking about:
- Layout: Sounds obvious but think about the best way to set out your reformers and how many you need in class at one time. The benefit of folding Pilates reformers is that you get to redesign the room for your class and store the reformers that you don’t need.
- Storage: Folding Pilates reformers give you extra space and can look neat and tidy when folded away. But you may want to think about storage solutions to keep them out of sight.
- Lighting and decor: Think of how to create an inviting space. Warm tones, plants, mirrors and a clean design give a calming and premium energy.
- Finishing touches: Signature scents, playlists and your unique flair will reflect your brand’s personality and make it distinct from other studios.
Order accessories and merch
Offering your customers extra props in class and allowing them to buy from you adds another layer to your member experience. Plus, it creates an extra income stream. Here are some things you might want to think about:
- Grip socks
- Reformer Pilates rings, balls and straps
- A mini ‘shop the class’ area, including mats, resistance bands and props
Build your team and finalise your schedule
Your instructors are the heart of your brand and create community among your members. Think about the types of people you’ll bring into your brand and how you’ll train them. (FÔLD offers a 10% discount on Level 3 YMCA accredited Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates qualifications from T2 Fitness Education.)
Once your team is assembled, think about how you will introduce them to your brand, your class structure and aligning them on customer experience.
This is also the time to finalise your class timetable. It’s a good idea to host a trial session, taster week and look into early-bird pricing.
Name your brand or new concept
If you haven’t already thought of a name for your Pilates studio or your new concept, give it a go. You’ll want to choose a name which is easy to spell, not used by competitors, can grow as your business does and explains what you do.
Then you can align your colour palette, photography, visual identity, socials and any marketing assets. Speaking of marketing…
Build your marketing and PR plan
Consistent promotion is the secret sauce to your January success. It’s about breaking through the noise and connecting with your audience. Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of what that might look like:
- Create your marketing assets, including imagery, videos and social content
- Run a teaser campaign to share behind-the-scenes content of your kit arriving
- Pitch your studio opening to local media, press and influencer networks
- (Optional) Build a paid social campaign that talks about your studio to drive trial sign ups
Check your tech
Booking systems and tech need a once over before you go live. Do a trial run with your booking platform, including taking payment, updating the schedule, cancellations and waitlists.
Make sure your website is up to date and that any automated reminders and confirmation emails are getting through to your members.
Make your launch announcement
With everything set up, it’s time to shout about your studio. Announce your opening with countdowns and sneak peeks to build anticipation and then keep the momentum going by sharing your studio’s journey to transformation.
The best and most confident January studio launches are built now. Plan today. Order early. Glide into your launch.
FAQs
When should I start planning my Pilates studio launch?
The best time to plan your Pilates studio launch is in autumn. This gives you a 3 month run up to make the most of equipment lead times and marketing your business. If you can start any earlier, that’s even better!
What equipment do I need to open a reformer Pilates studio?
It’s up to you how much you invest in your member experience but we would recommend Pilates reformers and accessories including balls, rings and mats.
How do I attract members to a new studio in January?
Ramp up your marketing pre-launch with teaser posts and behind-the-scenes content. Then look into intro offers and special deals for new customers.
What qualifications should Pilates instructors have?
Having at least a Level 3 qualification means that your Pilates instructors are teaching safely. We offer discounts on Level 3 Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates courses with T2 Fitness Education.
Which booking system is best for a new Pilates studio?
To find the right booking system for you, consider what you need from your system. It should be easy to use for you and your customers and it’s useful that it comes with booking reminders and payment options to reduce no-shows.