The COVID-19 pandemic has seen the online fitness industry explode in a very short period. Although the unprecedented numbers are mainly due to billions of people being quarantined, the truth is that digital fitness has been quietly growing over the last number of years. While live, on-demand sessions are now the most popular way to work out, fitness content, technology, and applications have been increasing in popularity for several years. 

The world is becoming more aware of the importance of exercise for both mental and physical health. Although obesity and weight-related issues are prominent in society, most populations are more health-conscious than ever. This awareness is one of the main drivers behind industry growth. 

We are seeing people look to less traditional methods of exercise over the last number of years. There has been an industry shift toward minimalist exercise, where training takes place without specialist equipment. Boutique gyms and health clubs run small classes that thrive off the energy of its participants. Incorporating fitness into a lifestyle is a major focus for many. 

Marrying fitness with technology is another fast emerging trend. People are keen to measure, track, and share their fitness journey. It’s no longer enough to see progress in the mirror; wearable technology now informs users as to how they’re performing throughout their workouts.

The current climate, as well as the combination of changing preferences and technological advancements, have opened up many opportunities in the world of fitness. Whether you’re a trainer, coach, or have aspirations to break into the fitness industry, here are five tips for creating a successful online venture. 

 

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels.

 

Website excellence

Any modern business should prioritize website excellence. Visually, the site should be easy on the eye. A clean, slick, and simple look are often very effective in drawing in audiences. Clutter and information overload tend to drive users away. 

From a usability standpoint, the site should be easy to navigate. The most important consideration is the customer journey. Once the user accesses your site, is the journey from the landing page to the order or purchase confirmation page smooth and easy? If not, you should consider a redesign.

Ensure there is relevant call-to-action (CTA) on every landing page, but avoid hard selling. 

 

Be social media savvy

For an online fitness business, social media is arguably your most powerful marketing tool. For most companies, social media is the main communication platform to share information with their customers. Every post should be planned and scheduled ahead of time in accordance with your overall digital strategy. 

Your social media channels provide excellent advertising platforms for producing new customers. Generate your ideal customer profiles and create targeted ad campaigns to drive customers to your website or your latest fitness course purchasing page. 

One of the most beneficial aspects of having an active social media community is the data that is collected by your channels. Facebook and Instagram, in particular, provide business page owners with useful insights regarding the performance of your pages, as well as customer information. 

The data provided by social media channels must be thoroughly analyzed to gain crucial information about your customers and your digital campaigns. This analysis should be used as a platform to grow and to enhance future campaigns. 

 

Expert copywriting

One of the most influential aspects of any great marketing campaign is the copywriting that’s used. Any great product description, advertisement script, slogan, or company motto is carefully pieced together for maximum effectiveness. 

Ensure that your website, social media channels, advertising, and content contain excellent copywriting. This is a specialized skill, so perhaps you should consider hiring a professional fitness writing service to handle this side of the business. 

Great copy should not be underestimated, and it could be the difference between gaining a new customer and losing one. 

 

Be e-commerce enabled

If you’re seeking success in any online business venture, your website must be e-commerce enabled. Whether you’re selling fitness products, courses, or subscription to a workout program, your website will require an e-commerce store. The store should be optimized for mobile and desktop users. 

Concentrate on creating a smooth buying process. A high percentage of abandoned shopping carts are due to a complicated checkout process. Make sure this doesn’t cause you to lose a customer. 

 

Be customer focused

Being customer-focused seeps into every aspect of your business. From your website layout to your social media content, and from your branding to your customer service, you must be geared towards satisfying your customers. 

The online fitness industry has many opportunities for success, but it’s easy to fall along the wayside if you neglect your customers. Inspire, motivate, and lead your customers to success through expertise, hard work, and unrivaled preparation.