The Rise of Boutique Fitness Studios in the Netherlands
In 2020, 17.4% of the Dutch population held a fitness club membership, making the Netherlands one of the countries with the highest fitness market penetration. This can be attributed to a highly active population, the presence of major fitness chains, high urbanisation rates, and strong average income levels. With these factors in play, boutique fitness studios are rapidly gaining traction—fuelled by growing Western influence and the demand for more personalised fitness experiences.
Boutique studios succeed by crafting unique, high-end experiences that appeal to selective customers. Their success goes beyond a trendy concept or prime location—it lies in attention to every detail. From seamless online booking and payments to curated music, premium locker room amenities, and top-tier trainers, every aspect is designed to leave a lasting impression and encourage repeat visits.
In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of a robust booking system in optimising studio operations. With many options available, we’ll also compare leading fitness booking systems in the Netherlands to help you choose the best fit for your business.
The Importance of a Fitness Booking Software
A reliable fitness booking software streamlines operations, enhances customer experience, and boosts retention. Ideally, it should help you simplify scheduling, payments, and class management while reducing administrative workload. With automated reminders and seamless integrations, you can focus on delivering top-tier fitness experiences rather than handling complex, and manual logistics.
Curious to know more? Read on the top 10 Must-Have Features in Fitness Class Booking Software here!
Comparing Top Fitness Booking Software Providers
1. Mindbody
Mindbody is a globally recognised leader in fitness booking software, widely used by studio owners looking for robust features and AI-driven automation. Best suited for medium to large-sized fitness businesses, it offers advanced analytics and seamless integrations to help streamline operations.
Why Mindbody:
- Extensive Third-Party Integrations – Connect effortlessly with CMS website builders, digital documentation tools, ClassPass, and more to scale your business.
- AI-Powered 24/7 Client Engagement – Their Messenger[AI] tool automates responses, manages bookings, and nurtures leads, ensuring potential clients are never lost.
- Advanced Performance Analytics – Access real-time, data-driven insights to optimise operations, track key metrics, and drive growth.
Things to Consider:
- High Pricing – With four-tiered plans starting at $79 per month per location, costs can be steep for smaller studios.
- No Free Trial – Unlike other platforms, Mindbody requires upfront commitment without a trial option.
- Customer Support Issues – Reviews on Capterra highlight delays in issue resolution and inconsistent service.
Mindbody is a powerful tool for scaling fitness businesses, but its high costs and lack of a free trial may not suit smaller studios. Looking for a more budget-friendly alternative? Keep reading as we compare other top fitness booking platforms.
2. BSport
BSport is a comprehensive solution that empowers fitness studio owners to optimise their operations and focus on what matters most: their clients. With powerful tools for improving engagement, streamlining administrative tasks, and enhancing the overall studio experience, BSport helps studios grow while delivering a more personalised and efficient service.
Why BSport:
- Data-Driven Insights – Provides powerful analytics to help fitness studios make informed decisions and improve business performance.
- Client Retention Tools – Includes automated reminders and customised member experiences to increase retention and satisfaction.
- Integrated Tools for Growth – Includes marketing automation, lead generation, and client retention features to help studios attract and retain members.
Things to Consider:
- Pricing – BSport does not publicly disclose their subscription plans, so it’s best to contact them directly for customised pricing based on your studio’s needs.
- No Free Trial – Similar to Mindbody, BSports also does not have a free trial period, and may require upfront commitment.
3. Momence
Momence is an all-in-one fitness and wellness management platform designed to streamline bookings, automate client engagement, and simplify payments. With user-friendly features and built-in marketing tools, it helps studios grow while enhancing the customer experience.
Why Momence:
- Comprehensive Fitness Management – Manage class bookings, memberships, and event scheduling from a single dashboard, integrating CRM solutions and tracking business goals with detailed reports
- Client Engagement & Marketing Tools – Use automated SMS campaigns, retargeting, and webchat-to-text to capture leads and enhance client retention. Set up and track Facebook and Instagram ads directly in the dashboard.
- Branded Mobile App – Offer a custom-branded app for your clients, enhancing their on-site and digital experience with online sign-ups, class bundles, and live or on-demand sessions.
Things to Note:
- Pricing – Subscription costs start at $95 USD per month, which may be higher compared to budget-friendly alternatives.
- Customisation for Large Gyms – While suitable for small to mid-sized studios, larger gyms may find customisation options somewhat restrictive.
- Learning Curve – Some users report an adjustment period when navigating the platform’s features.
Momence is ideal for studios looking for an easy-to-use booking system with strong client engagement and even virtual class features. If your focus is on automation and digital growth, it could be a great fit!
4. Vibefam
Vibefam is a cutting-edge fitness booking platform designed for boutique fitness studios and freelance trainers. With a focus on flexibility and ease of use, it simplifies class bookings, membership management, and payments while offering powerful lead management and AI-driven insights to help studios grow efficiently.
Why Vibefam:
- Flexible Booking & Membership Management – Customise class schedules, manage memberships, and offer package-based bookings. Studios offering Pilates and yoga can take advantage of spot booking, allowing members to reserve their preferred spots in advance for a more personalised experience.
- Seamless Payment Integration – Accept payments for memberships, class packages, and drop-in sessions with automated invoicing and transaction tracking.
- AI-Driven Business Insights – Get real-time analytics and data-backed recommendations to optimise studio performance and boost revenue.
- Built-in Lead Management Tools – Capture and nurture potential clients with CRM features designed to improve retention and engagement.
Things to Consider:
- Best for Small to Mid-Sized Studios – While perfect for boutique fitness studios, larger gyms may require additional customisation.
- Customer Support Availability – Based in Singapore, response times may vary for studios located in Europe or other time zones.
Conclusion
As the boutique fitness studio market in the Netherlands continues to thrive, choosing the right booking software is essential for streamlining operations and enhancing client engagement. Each platform offers unique features, so selecting the one that best fits your studio’s needs is crucial for continued success.
Ready to optimise your studio operations and elevate your client experience? Book a FREE demo with vibefam for more tailored insights and start transforming your studio today!