Getting a kickboxing club over the Christmas period
TL;DR: Running a kickboxing club during Christmas requires careful planning. You’ll need to decide on opening dates, manage staff holidays, keep members engaged with festive classes, and plan ahead for January demand. Success means balancing rest with revenue and maintaining community spirit.
Introduction
Christmas brings unique challenges for kickboxing gym owners. The festive season means holiday closures, staff time off, and shifting member schedules. But it’s also packed with opportunities to boost engagement and prepare for the busy New Year period.
Whether you’re running an established club or thinking about opening one, understanding how to navigate December successfully is crucial. Many gym owners find this season stressful, but with the right approach, you can keep your community excited and your business thriving. Let’s explore what makes a kickboxing club successful during the Christmas rush.
When Should You Close Your Kickboxing Club Over Christmas?
Most UK kickboxing clubs close for 3 to 7 days between Christmas and New Year. The exact dates depend on your location, staff preferences, and member expectations. Many gyms close from 24 December through to 2 or 3 January.
Think about your members’ needs. Some want to stay active during the holidays. Others appreciate time away from the gym. A popular approach is staying open with reduced hours. You might run morning classes on Boxing Day or lighter sessions on 27 December.
Check what similar clubs in your area do. Consider your staff’s wellbeing too. Forcing people to work when they want time with family creates resentment. Be transparent with members about your closure dates well in advance. Post it on your website and social media by November.
How Can You Keep Members Engaged During the Holidays?
The weeks before Christmas are perfect for building excitement. Offer special festive classes with themed music or decorations. Partner with local shops to create gift voucher bundles. These make excellent presents for anyone interested in fitness.
Run a “12 Days of Christmas” social media campaign. Share tips, member stories, or fun kickboxing facts daily. This keeps your club top of mind without being pushy.
Consider hosting a festive social event. A casual New Year’s party or coffee morning for members builds community. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple refreshments and good company work well.
What Staffing Changes Should You Plan For?
Your team will need time off during Christmas. Start planning in July or August for the best coverage. Create a rota that balances business needs with staff holidays.
Consider hiring temporary instructors if you’re staying open longer. Universities often have fitness graduates seeking holiday work. They’re enthusiastic and cost-effective. Pay them fairly, usually between £15 and £25 per hour depending on experience.
Give staff advance notice of the schedule. Ask about their preferences early. Someone working Christmas Eve probably deserves New Year’s Day off. Fair planning builds loyalty and prevents burnout.
How Do You Prepare for the January Rush?
January sees fitness clubs packed with New Year’s Resolution makers. This is your chance to grow your membership significantly. Start promoting in November with “January Specials” or discounted membership packages.
Create a new member welcome plan. These fresh faces need guidance. Assign experienced members or staff to help beginners. Consider offering free introductory classes in early January.
Stock up on equipment and supplies. Check your punching bags, pads, and cleaning products. A busy January with broken equipment is frustrating for everyone. Schedule maintenance before the rush starts.
What Should You Communicate to Your Community?
Clear communication prevents problems. Send emails, texts, and social media posts about your Christmas plans. Include exact opening and closing dates, any schedule changes, and special festive offers.
Remind members about proper gym etiquette during busy periods. A packed gym requires space awareness and respect. Encourage them to book classes in advance if you’re using reservation systems.
Conclusion
Getting your kickboxing club through Christmas successfully means planning ahead. Decide your closure dates, keep staff happy, engage your members, and prepare for January’s busy period. With thoughtful planning, this challenging season becomes an opportunity to strengthen your community and grow your business.
Don’t tackle this alone. Find a kickboxing club near you by searching our free UK directory. You’ll discover local owners, share experiences, and learn from others managing the same seasonal challenges.
FAQ
Q: Can I stay open on Christmas Day?
A: Yes, but most UK clubs don’t. Few members train on Christmas Day, and staff deserve time with family. It’s not usually worth the effort.
Q: Should I discount memberships for December?
A: Limited-time discounts work well. Offer three-month memberships at a reduced rate, perfect for people wanting January motivation.
Q: How do I handle late cancellations during Christmas?
A: Be flexible with members cancelling for holidays. Keep goodwill by waiving fees. They’ll remember your kindness when returning in January.
Q: What classes work best in the quiet weeks?
A: Shorter sessions (30 minutes), beginner-friendly classes, and casual drop-in times attract people with flexible schedules during the holidays.
Q: How can I prevent losing members over Christmas?
A: Pause memberships temporarily for those travelling. This keeps them registered without charging fees, ensuring they return rather than cancelling completely.