Free trials might look like a quick way to bring people in — but are they costing boutique gyms more than they help?

Welcome to Gym Marketing Made Simple, the podcast built for boutique gym owners who want to attract more members and increase revenue without becoming full-time marketers.

Episode Highlights

In this episode, Sherman Merricks breaks down why free trials no longer work for boutique fitness gyms. Instead of wasting time on uncommitted leads, he explains how shifting to meaningful conversations with potential members can increase conversions, save time, and build stronger client relationships.

Key Insights

• Free trials attract uncommitted individuals who devalue the service.

• Coaches spend time working for free, with little return.

• A better alternative: 15–30 minute consultations focused on client goals and past experiences.

• Meaningful conversations help position the gym as the solution, boosting conversions and retention.

• Gyms that abandon free trials see higher-quality leads and stronger revenue growth.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Intro

00:57 The Problem with Free Trials 

03:46 Alternatives to Free Trials

04:32 Benefits of Abandoning Free Trials

Call to Action (CTA)

Subscribe to Gym Marketing Made Simple for more straight-to-the-point strategies to help boutique gyms grow with the right clients. Share this episode with another gym owner who might still be stuck on free trials.

Supporting Information

👉 Book a free strategy call: https://www.lassoframework.com/

Thanks for tuning in! Stay focused on what works and keep building the kind of gym community that lasts.