Gyms are an important part of daily life for many people, whether as a standalone facility or as an amenity to a property. The problem is that everyone operates on their own 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 24-hour gym access control system.

Fortunately, in this post, we go over the best gym access control system. 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:

• What is the best gym access control solution?
• Types of 24/7 gym access systems to choose from
• Benefits of a gym access control system
• Gym access control FAQs

 

 

What is the best gym access control 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. And 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.

 

The best gym security camera system

ButterflyMX also offers the best 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 less 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:

 

Types of 24/7 gym access systems to choose from

Security and safety are major concerns when operating 24/7 gym access control systems. However, many types of gym door entry systems safely permit 24/7 access for members.

The most common door access systems available for 24-hour gyms include:

• Key cards and fobs
• Keypads
• Mobile access
• Biometric access control

 

Key cards & fobs

As one of the most common access control solutions, key cards and fobs are a convenient door entry method. These credentials are easy to track, but they’re affordable to dispense amongst your members, as most cards and fobs are inexpensive. However, costs can quickly add up as people sign up or disband their memberships.

Nonetheless, key cards and fobs offer members a fast and simple way to enter your fitness center.

 

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 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.

 

Keypads

Keypad systems are ideal gym entry solutions for side entrances and administrative areas, such as an office or maintenance closet.

However, keypads require members to type in a PIN code, which isn’t a quick method of entry. In turn, it may result in long lines at the entryway. So, it’s best to either limit these devices to staff-restricted areas or select a keypad that also accepts cards and fobs.

 

Mobile access

This type of system lets members use their phones to gain access to the property. Staff manage access credentials through the mobile app or an online dashboard. Access to the gym can be changed at any time. Mobile access is similar to key cards or fobs in that it can be customized to access certain areas. This way, staff can have their own permissions while members have theirs.

 

Biometric access control

Biometric access control systems scan a user’s body, such as their fingers, face, or eyes and iris, before verifying their credentials and granting access. Biometric access control is highly secure, but it’s also very expensive. Not to mention, biometric credentials take time to scan in, leading to potential lines during peak operating hours.

 

Benefits of a 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

An automated access control system lets users enter the gym on their own. Plus, the right access control system offers a variety of ways for members to enter: smartphone, PIN code, 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 members 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 workout 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, like at night), and they want to make sure they’re in a safe environment when they do so. Access control systems like ButterflyMX give gym-goers peace of mind, knowing everyone they work with is a verified member.

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.

 

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 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 complies 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.

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