Why Most Gyms Waste Money on Ads (And How to Get Real Results)

Growing a gym today is more than just having great equipment and classes—it’s about bringing in new members consistently. That’s where running ads, capturing leads, and following up come in. If you’re not doing these things, you’re missing out on a ton of potential growth.

Let’s start with ads. Most people aren’t actively looking for a gym. Ads give them a reason to pay attention, planting the seed that they should be thinking about their fitness. But it’s not just about throwing out a generic message. Your ads need to grab their attention with something they can’t ignore, like a free trial or a special class.

Once someone clicks on your ad, you’ve got a lead—but the work doesn’t stop there. Too many gyms lose potential members by sending them to a generic website where nothing happens. You need to capture their info. Whether it’s signing up for a class or a consultation, getting their contact details is how you turn a random click into a lead.

The next step is following up. Just because someone showed interest doesn’t mean they’re ready to sign up on the spot. That’s why staying in touch is key. You don’t need to spam them, but regular, helpful content—like workout tips or gym events—keeps your gym on their radar and builds trust. Over time, this relationship makes it easier to turn leads into paying members when the timing is right.

If you want to see real growth at your gym, mastering ads, leads, and follow-ups is non-negotiable. It’s not just about hoping people walk in—it’s about reaching them where they are, showing them why your gym matters, and guiding them toward becoming members.

At Iron Workshop, we specialize in helping gyms do exactly that. We’ll handle everything—from running targeted ads to capturing leads and following up, making sure your gym gets the growth it deserves. Ready to turn your leads into loyal members? Let’s talk.