What Can Golf Clubs Can Adopt From The Fitness Industry
Introduction
The fitness industry has cracked the code when it comes to keeping customers engaged, and paying, month after month.
Gym memberships, online coaching platforms, and fitness apps all use subscription-based models that drive consistent revenue while keeping users invested in their progress.
Meanwhile, many golf clubs still rely on outdated annual memberships or one-off payments that don’t encourage ongoing engagement. If golf businesses want to build a more predictable revenue stream, they need to take a closer look at how the fitness industry has perfected the subscription model.
Flexible Membership Options Attract More Customers
The days of rigid, one-size-fits-all gym memberships are long gone. Fitness brands now offer tiered memberships that cater to different customer needs.
Peloton offers multiple subscription levels—from digital-only access to full hardware integration.
Gyms provide basic access memberships, premium packages with personal training, and VIP tiers with added perks.
Community Keeps Customers Engaged
Fitness businesses have realised that community = retention. When people feel like they belong, they stick around.
CrossFit has built a cult-like community that keeps members engaged long after they’ve signed up.
Peloton users are loyal because of the interactive classes and leaderboard competition.
Subscription Models Create Habit-Forming Behaviours
The fitness industry thrives on habit-building—encouraging users to show up regularly and integrate workouts into their daily routines.
Fitness apps use streak tracking, progress reports, and personal goal setting to keep users engaged.
Gyms offer attendance rewards, accountability programs, and progress check-ins.
Digital Memberships Open Up New Revenue Streams
The fitness industry has capitalised on digital subscriptions, offering app-based coaching, live-streamed workouts, and on-demand content.
Nike Training Club, Strava, and Whoop all offer premium digital memberships with exclusive content and data-driven insights.
Online coaching platforms like Future provide one-on-one training through a fully remote model.
Conclusion: Golf Businesses Need to Think Beyond Traditional Memberships
The fitness industry has proven that subscriptions create loyalty, drive consistent revenue, and keep customers engaged. Golf businesses that embrace this model—whether through tiered memberships, digital coaching, or habit-building strategies—will build stronger long-term relationships with their customers.
