Pros
The BayClub model is based on large multi-faceted properties that include fitness centers, swimming pools, group exercise classes, racquetball, tennis, and in some instances, golf. This model allows the member many options to enhance their health and fitness. From a trainers perspective, BayClub allows the independence to work flexible hours, interact with a large network of members, and build a training business within their club. As most clubs have 2000+ members, there is the ability to build a nice network of clients.
Cons
The club where I am employed was only recently, (3 years), taken over by BayClub, so I have a unique perspective on the current business model as compared to the previous owner. As BayClub is owned by an equity firm, (KKR), I feel they have forsaken the goal of helping people and are only focused on the bottom line, ($). Don't get me wrong, I realize this is a business, but if you treat your members and employees well, the business will flourish organically. Post-Covid has been very challenging for our club. While BayClub still markets the club as "high end", to increase membership they discounted dues to the point that it has changed the demographic of our club to a member base that is less interested in paying for personal training services. Partner this with a 33% increase in the cost of services for some clients, it has made it harder to grow and maintain a business within this "big box" model. This company does not know or care about the subtle nuances of growing a business within their 4 walls. Over the past 2 years, they have cut staff so drastically that the facilities are filthy, equipment is broken or malfunctioning, and service is lacking. This has driven many loyal clients away, and has put the front line workers in a compromising position of having to explain why the facilities have fallen into such disrepair. Many of the trainers have had to train in-home clients or train at other facilities to maintain a steady client base. The past two years BayClub has changed our compensation plan 3 times and they are currently in the process of changing it again. Each time, the compensation plan gets worse for the trainer and more lucrative for the club. Recently our club has hired multiple mid/high management people from a competitor. This new staff has instituted policies from the company where they came from. The only problem is that this competitor has been in and out of bankruptcy courts. Why are we trying to emulate a company that is obviously failing at it's objective?
