Managing a fitness or wellness studio isn’t easy. Between juggling class schedules, memberships, payments, and marketing, the last thing you need is clunky software slowing you down. Mindbody has long been a go-to platform, but many studios owners are realizing it’s not always the perfect fit.
Here’s why, and what alternatives might work better for your studio.
Why Studio Owners Are Looking Beyond Mindbody
Studio owners cite a few recurring frustrations with Mindbody:
- High Costs & Long Contracts : Even small studios can feel locked into expensive monthly plans.
- Complex Interface : Staff training can take weeks, and features aren’t always intuitive.
- Slow Support : Offshore customer service can delay critical problem-solving.
- Extra Charges : Want a branded app or integrations? Be ready for extra fees.
If you’ve encountered any of these issues, switching to a more flexible, modern platform can save time, money, and headaches.
What Makes a Great Mindbody Alternative?
When searching for software to run your Vancouver studio, look for solutions that offer:
- Custom-branded app and website : Let your members interact with your brand, not someone else’s.
- Easy class and membership management : Streamlined scheduling, attendance tracking, and reporting.
- Transparent, contract-free pricing : Avoid surprise fees and long-term commitments.
- Flexible payment options : Support for popular Canadian payment methods like Stripe.
- Fast onboarding and migration : Transition your data with minimal downtime.
With these features, your team can focus on running classes and growing your community instead of fighting software.
Top 5 Mindbody Alternatives
Here’s a curated list of platforms that studios are loving in 2025:
- Pros: Intuitive interface, boutique-oriented, ClassPass integration, excellent value for boutique studios
- Cons: Limited integrations and advanced features for franchise studios.
- User feedback: “A one-stop platform for the community to book fitness classes and connect with instructors.”
- Best for: Small or boutique studios seeking affordable, easy-to-use software
2. Glofox
- Pros: Branded app, reliable booking and payment management, strong onboarding support
- Cons: Interface can be less intuitive; full-feature plans are pricey; migration support limited
- User feedback: “Glofox’s branded app was a hit with our members – booking and cancellations have never been easier.”
- Best for: Growing studios looking for a branded app and robust features
3. WellnessLiving
- Pros: Feature-rich (bookings, waitlists, marketing, events), responsive support, competitive value
- Cons: Can feel heavy for simple operations; occasional minor glitches
- User feedback: “The support team is extremely responsive… no other platform fit my type of business.”
- Best for: Studios with diverse offerings and marketing needs, willing to invest in onboarding
4. Acuity Scheduling
- Pros: Simple, affordable, automated notifications, easy for appointment-based services
- Cons: Limited customization for class- and membership-based studios; occasional reliability issues
- User feedback: “Easy to use and perfect for small to medium-sized businesses.”
- Best for: Solo instructors or small appointment-based studios
5. FLiiP
- Pros: All-in-one platform for scheduling, billing, communication, and member tracking; responsive support
- Cons: Early-stage product maturity, some bugs, Canadian payment/localization support may need verification
- User feedback: “Customer support is friendly and quick to implement feedback.”
- Best for: Studios seeking modern, integrated tools with growth potential
Choosing the Right Fit
Switching platforms doesn’t have to be painful. A good Mindbody alternative can save you hours each week, reduce frustration, and give your members a better experience.
Take the Next Step
Running a studio is a full-time job, your software shouldn’t slow you down. Whether you operate a boutique Pilates studio, yoga center, or personal training hub, intuitive, flexible software can simplify daily operations and help your business thrive.
Platforms like Vibefam provide everything you need for bookings, memberships, and payments without unnecessary complexity or hidden fees. By choosing the right software, you can focus on what matters most: delivering an exceptional experience to your clients.