Modern consumers expect everything to be instant — from streaming movies to same-day delivery. The fitness industry is no different.
When someone decides to join a gym, that moment of motivation is fleeting. Every delay between “I want to join” and “I can start training” risks losing a member to hesitation or distraction.
If a potential member buys a membership online at 9:00 p.m. but can’t access your club until the next day, there’s a good chance they’ll move on — or simply lose momentum.
This is the “I need it now” mentality at work. And for forward-thinking gym owners, embracing it means not just better member experiences — but immediate revenue growth.
Why Instant Access Means Instant Revenue
When your club enables new members to enter immediately after purchasing online, you turn impulse into income. Instead of waiting for a manual approval process or staffed hours, the system does the work — granting access securely within minutes.
Automation turns your website into a 24/7 sales engine. Members get what they want instantly, and you get new revenue without lifting a finger.
But to make this work safely, the access method you choose matters. Let’s explore the main options.
Option 1: SMS PIN Codes
How it works:
A temporary PIN code is sent via SMS after a new member signs up online, allowing them immediate access to the club for a short period.
Benefits:
- Extremely fast setup and easy for members to use.
- Ideal for late-night or after-hours signups.
- Requires minimal staff involvement.
Risks:
- PINs can be shared easily with others.
- If automation isn’t set up correctly, old PINs may stay active.
- No identity verification — anyone with the code can enter.
Verdict:
Convenient for temporary access, but risky for long-term use. Works best as a bridge solution until a more secure system is in place.
Option 2: Barcode Access via Member App
How it works:
Some club management apps provide members with a barcode or QR code that can be scanned at entry.
Benefits:
- Easy for members — scan and go.
- Simple to integrate with existing software systems.
Risks:
- Barcodes can be screenshotted or shared freely.
- Once shared, there’s no reliable way to track or stop misuse.
- Doesn’t verify who’s actually entering.
Verdict:
A convenient but low-security solution. Fine for staffed environments, but risky for 24/7 access control.
Option 3: Doorguard24 Mobile Pass
How it works:
The Doorguard24 Mobile Pass is a secure digital access credential issued instantly when a member joins online. It integrates directly with your club’s management platform and access control system.
Benefits:
✅ Instant activation — members can train straight after joining online.
✅ Secure and non-shareable — credentials are encrypted and device-bound.
✅ Fully automated — integrates with platforms like Mind Body and Clubworx, and Mindbody. (In discussions with other platforms)
✅ Transparent tracking — monitor access events and usage in real time.
✅ Low admin overhead — no manual setup or PIN resets required.
Risks:
- Requires integration setup (which can be done once, centrally).
- Depends on a member’s mobile device — although coverage issues are rare today.
Verdict:
The perfect balance between security and convenience. Doorguard24 enables true 24/7 autonomous club access — safely, instantly, and with zero manual handling.
Old Habits, New Opportunities
Many gym owners still rely on manual onboarding or next-day activations simply because “that’s how it’s always been done.” But in today’s environment, delay equals lost opportunity.
Secure instant access is not just about convenience — it’s about capturing a sale at the peak of motivation. When a member signs up at 10 p.m., they expect to train at 10:05. With the right systems in place, they can.
By integrating your access control through Doorguard24, you unlock instant revenue while protecting your facility from security risks associated with outdated methods.
Comparison at a Glance
| Access Method | Activation Speed | Security | Risk of Sharing | Automation | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SMS PIN | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ | High | Moderate | Temporary or short-term access |
| Barcode | ★★★★☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ | Very High | High | Staffed or supervised entry |
| Doorguard24 Mobile Pass | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Very Low | Full | 24/7 autonomous access |
The Bottom Line
The fitness industry thrives on momentum — and momentum doesn’t wait for office hours.
By adopting secure instant-access technology like Doorguard24 Mobile Pass, your club meets modern expectations, captures more signups, and protects your facility at the same time.
It’s time to move beyond “the way things used to be” — and meet your members where they are: ready right now.
