Key takeaways
- Gym door entry systems offer benefits that improve convenience, including 24-hour access, better member management tools, and more.
- Some of the most common types of door access systems for gyms include key cards and fobs, smartphones, and biometrics.
- Access control systems comprise readers, credentials, security doors, and management software.
Gyms are an essential part of daily life for many people, whether as a standalone facility or an amenity to a property. The problem is that everyone operates on a unique schedule. We know it’s not feasible to staff a gym at all hours of the day, so we’ve found that the solution for many properties is a gym access control system that operates on a 24-hour basis.
In this post, we go over the best gym access control systems. Additionally, we teach you how door entry systems benefit fitness centers, the types of systems available, and the components that comprise them.
This post covers:
- Why you need a 24/7 gym access control system
- Types of 24/7 gym access systems to choose from
- Guide to selecting a gym access control system
- What is the most robust gym access control solution?
- Gym access control FAQs
Why you need a 24/7 gym access control system
As of 2022, Statista reports that more than 64 million people in the U.S. have a gym membership. With such a high volume of users, fitness centers require effective security features to maintain the safety of members. If you’re wondering how to choose a gym access control system, make sure to purchase one with the following benefits.
The benefits of access control at a fitness center include:
- Convenient entry options
- Guest management
- 24-hour gym access
- Better member management
- Enhanced security
Convenient entry options
A gym door entry system lets users enter the gym on their own. Plus, the right gym and club access control system offers a variety of ways for members to enter: smartphone, PIN code, or key card. As a result, you cut down long lines from forming and get members to their workouts faster. This is especially handy during a gym’s peak operating hours.
Additionally, trainers staffed by or affiliated with your gym might require access to areas within your facility that are otherwise restricted to members. You might have the same security needs for delivery drivers. A good gym access system will manage multiple tiers of entry for different types of users.
Guest management
Grant timed or temporary access to guests for a variety of situations. A cloud-based access control system makes it easy to manage who can enter the gym and at what times. This way, you can host events, run a referral program, or offer shorter memberships for increased revenue. Regardless, an access control system enables you to easily manage guests in various ways.
24-hour gym access
Enable 24-hour gym access so your members can work out at any time of the day or week. After all, access control systems verify a user’s credentials, so it’s safe for members to enter when employees aren’t present.
Moreover, 24-hour entry is important to users because:
- Many people who work odd hours still want to do their daily workouts.
- Some users prefer working out at less crowded times.
- Gyms feature facilities such as lockers, showers, and spas that users may find convenient outside of normal business hours.
Additionally, 24-hour gyms can be more profitable because many users will choose them over gyms with limited hours. Members prefer gyms they can access whenever it’s best for their schedule. After all, gyms benefit from not having to staff employees at all hours of the day. Instead, gym staff can perform other duties during normal hours, such as working with new members or maintaining equipment.
Better member management
Gym access systems allow staff to monitor who uses the gym and at what times. We’ve found that with a detailed audit log, management can easily track who enters the gym. In addition, management can view other information, such as the door they entered, the credentials, and more.
Furthermore, management can easily manage member access by integrating their system with gym management software. Thus, when a gym-goer stops their membership, the access control system automatically removes their credentials, preventing entry. If your system doesn’t integrate, select a solution that offers convenient remote management from a phone or online dashboard.
Enhanced security
One of the most important benefits of a gym access control system is improved gym security. Members are vulnerable while working out, especially at odd hours, and they want to make sure they’re in a safe environment when they do so.
If an incident occurs, gyms with a robust access control system can more easily identify anyone who causes problems within the gym than those without an ACS. They can also quickly deny access to gym members in bad standing.
Access control systems also work well with other security technology, such as surveillance cameras, improving the overall safety of your property.
Types of 24/7 gym access systems to choose from
When selecting an access control solution for a public space like a gym, it’s important to consider various entry systems beyond key fobs and mobile-based access. Different types of entry solutions offer varying levels of security, convenience, and member experience.
Here are some common entry systems that gym owners may find beneficial:
Interlocking doors
Interlocking doors, also known as mantrap door systems, are ideal for high-security gyms or fitness centers that require strict access control. This system consists of two doors that only allow one to open at a time. A member must first authenticate their credentials at the first door, which locks behind them, before granting access to the second door. This setup prevents tailgating, where unauthorized individuals attempt to follow members inside without valid credentials.
Speed gates
Speed gates offer a modern solution for gyms that prioritize security and ease of access.
These gates use sensors to quickly open and close in response to authorized credentials, reducing wait times while still maintaining a controlled entry process. They are particularly useful in high-traffic gyms where members need to enter smoothly without causing bottlenecks.
Turnstiles
Turnstiles are a great option for controlling member entry while preventing unauthorized access. They come in different designs, including tripod turnstiles that allow one person to move through at a time and full-height turnstiles that provide a more secure, gated entry. These systems help gym owners monitor foot traffic efficiently and can be integrated with key fobs, RFID cards, or mobile credentials for seamless access.
Guide to selecting a gym access control system
Choosing the right access control system for a gym requires careful consideration of factors like security, convenience, and member experience. With various options available, gym owners should assess specific needs before making a decision.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to selecting the best gym access control system:
- Identify your gym’s access requirements
- Choose the right authentication method
- Ensure integration with software
- Consider features
- Evaluate scalability
- Compare costs
1. Identify your gym’s access requirements
Start by evaluating your gym’s size, hours of operation, and security needs. For example:
- 24/7 gyms require automated access control that works without staff supervision.
- Boutique studios may prefer mobile-based entry for seamless check-ins.
- High-traffic gyms might benefit from turnstiles or speed gates to manage member flow.
2. Choose the right authentication method
Selecting a system that supports multiple authentication methods can enhance flexibility and security. As such, different access control systems use various authentication methods, such as:
- Key fobs and RFID cards. These are reliable but require physical credentials, which many customers are glad to get away from as smartphone apps become more popular.
- Mobile-based access. Empowers members to use their smartphones for entry, reducing the risk of lost or shared credentials and ensuring that your visitors are happy.
- Biometric systems. Provide the highest security by using fingerprints or facial recognition, but this may also make some customers uncomfortable.
3. Ensure integration with software
To streamline operations, the access control system should integrate with gym visitor management software. This allows automatic activation and deactivation of member credentials based on subscription status, reducing manual work for staff and preventing unauthorized access.
4. Consider features
A good access control system should go beyond just unlocking doors. Look for additional security features like:
- Tailgating prevention systems with video surveillance or interlocking doors help stop uncredentialed visitors from sneaking in behind others and bypassing sign-in.
- Remote access control enables gym owners to manage entry permissions from anywhere.
- Audit logs and reporting provide insights into who enters the gym and when.
5. Evaluate scalability
As your gym grows, your access control needs may change. Choose a system that can scale with your business, whether that means adding more entry points, integrating with new technology, or upgrading security features.
6. Compare costs
While upfront costs are important, gym owners should also consider long-term benefits. Investing in a robust access control system can reduce staffing costs, improve security, and enhance the member experience, contributing to long-term profitability.
By following this guide, gym owners can select an access control system that meets their security requirements, improves operational efficiency, and provides a seamless experience for members.
What is the most robust gym access control solution?
If you’re looking to upgrade your gym access solution, ButterflyMX offers an expansive access control system to buy.
ButterflyMX has garnered more than 40,000 five-star ratings and is used in more than 15,000 buildings across the country. Not to mention, we offer the only property-wide access control solution on the market, making our system perfect for gyms and fitness centers. ButterflyMX can enhance access control at your gym or fitness center with our Video Intercoms, Keypads, Security Cameras, Front Desk Station, and Smart Lock integrations.
ButterflyMX is a cloud-based access control company that enables users to access properties with their smartphones. In addition to mobile access, gyms can implement credentials like key cards, fobs, and PIN codes.
More importantly, your fitness center will easily manage member access with ButterflyMX. Our cloud-based system empowers you to manage and edit access permissions to all gym locations with a single mobile app or online dashboard.
Why integrate your gym access control system with ButterflyMX?
Here’s why ButterflyMX isn’t your average gym Access Control System:
- Cloud-based gym access control software. With a cloud-based infrastructure, ButterflyMX has fewer installation requirements, lowering costs. Not to mention, maintenance is easy with remote updates, prolonging the life of your gym access control system.
- Gym access control app. Entering your fitness center is easier than ever with a quick swipe on the ButterflyMX mobile app. Additionally, we’ve made it so members can enable access using their Apple Watch or a widget on their phone’s home screen. This boosts tenant satisfaction and, in turn, retention rates.
- Multiple credentials. While mobile access is the primary credential for ButterflyMX, the system also supports other types of credentials, such as key cards, fobs, and PIN codes. Offering multiple credentials helps you please a wider range of tenants, further increasing satisfaction and retention.
- Audit log. Anytime a member uses their credentials to enter your fitness center, the ButterflyMX Access Control System records it. This way, you can review the audit log in the event a security or safety issue arises, as it includes timestamps, member information, and more. This enhances your gym security system and is a vandal deterrent.
- Integrations. ButterflyMX integrates with a variety of other software and hardware, such as security cameras, smart locks, and property management software. So, you’ll be able to control your entire access control system from a single app. This means no more jumping between systems to manage access.
- ButterflyMX ecosystem. Take advantage of all the products from ButterflyMX. Your Access Control System works alongside all of our other products, from Elevator Controls and Smart Locks to Vehicle Readers and Video Intercoms. As a result, users can access your entire property through one intuitive platform.
Picking a gym security camera system
ButterflyMX also offers the t gym Security Cameras. Our Bullet and Dome Cameras cover a variety of different scenarios for your gym.
Our cameras feature:
- 24/7 HD recording. Our Cameras deliver uninterrupted HD coverage around the clock, capturing every moment on your property. This is especially useful for late night hours when fewer staff are on hand. This continuous recording not only provides valuable insights into your gym’s operations but also allows gym users to feel safe and secure.
- Durability. Our Cameras can be placed outside your gym and are built to withstand the elements. Not to mention, they feature tamper- and impact-resistant housing for a longer lifespan.
- Cloud storage. With our system, you won’t lose footage during an internet outage. The Gateway stores recordings locally until the internet is restored and then backs them up to the cloud. The ButterflyMX software subscription ensures that you can access your footage for up to seven days.
- Simple installation. Setting up our cameras is easy, requiring only a single Power over Ethernet (PoE) cable connected to the Camera Gateway. This simple installation means less of a disruption to your gym users.
Watch how ButterflyMX works:
Gym access control FAQs
Here are some commonly asked questions about gym entry systems:
- What is the cost of a gym access control system?
- How do you get access to the gym while traveling?
- Is there an app for multiple gym access?
- What is the app that opens gym doors?
- How can I make my gym accessible?
- What is a gym access card?
- How do gym key fobs work?
What is the cost of a gym access control system?
On average, gym access control costs approximately $500 to more than $3,000 per door.
With that said, many factors influence costs, such as:
- Type of access control
- Building architecture
- Dealer or installer
- System manufacturer
- Location
In addition to the key fob system for gym costs, you should also factor in any potential maintenance, integrations, and subscription fees.
How do you get access to the gym while traveling?
If you attend a gym that offers travel memberships or passes in several states, you can use your existing access credentials to access the facility.
Is there an app for multiple gym access?
Yes, some apps allow you to access gyms across multiple locations.
What’s more, if you manage gyms across multiple locations. For example, ButterflyMX empowers you to control and manage access to your gyms remotely using a single dashboard.
What is the app that opens gym doors?
The ButterflyMX mobile app is a gym access control app that opens gym doors when a ButterflyMX Access Control System is installed at a gym.
How can I make my gym accessible?
You can make your gym more accessible by installing access control systems that are simple to use and keyless. Furthermore, we recommend that your facility comply with ADA standards by providing ramps, elevators, and wide doorways for those with mobility impairments. Next, you should incorporate accessible equipment, like machines that can accommodate wheelchair users and adjustable features for those with varying needs. Additionally, clear signage and staff training on assisting members with disabilities will create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.
What is a gym access card?
A gym membership card system requires members to use a card as a credential to gain entry into a gym or fitness center. When members wish to enter the gym, they present the card to a reader, who grants access upon verifying the credentials.
Gym access card permissions can be altered at any time manually by management or automatically by management software if the membership status changes.
How do gym key fobs work?
Gym key fob systems work similarly to key card systems that use RFID technology. Radio frequency identification is a technology consisting of tags and readers. Tags are located within the key fob or card containing all of the user’s information. The reader emits a radio frequency, searching for tags.
Once it detects a tag in range, it pulls the data from the tag to verify the credentials. It submits the information to a door controller, which acts as the decision maker. After verifying the credentials, the controller will send a signal to the door release, opening the door for the user.
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