How Stepz Group Training Sets Us Apart from 24/7 Gyms and Boutique Studios
The fitness industry is crowded. From 24/7 access gyms to high-intensity boutique group studios, today’s gym-goer has no shortage of options. But at Stepz Fitness, we’ve carved a unique position in the market—one that combines the flexibility of 24/7 access with the structure and energy of boutique group fitness.
And we’ve been doing it longer than most.
In 2017, Stepz became the first fitness franchise in Australia to implement a hybrid model, blending open-gym access with structured group training sessions powered by StepzTV, our proprietary software. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how that sets us apart from the competition—and why that matters for both members and franchisees.
1. How Stepz Group Fitness Is Different from Other 24/7 Gyms
At a glance, it might seem like Stepz and Anytime Fitness or Jetts Fitness are playing in the same league. We all offer 24/7 gym access. But that’s where the similarities end.
A standard Anytime Fitness membership is around $23/week, and while it includes "group training", this varies drastically between locations. It often depends on whether the individual franchisee decides to run classes, hire coaches, or offer informal small group training. There’s no nationally unified program or consistent training experience across clubs.
Stepz, on the other hand, charges around $29/week—and here’s what members get in return:
StepzTV: Our in-house developed training software runs daily workouts in dedicated functional training zones, streamed through on-site screens.
Coach-supported or coach-free: Members can join guided sessions with a trainer or follow the programming solo at off-peak times. Either way, the workout is always available and always evolving.
Progressive programming: Designed by fitness professionals, the training follows a proven structure for strength, cardio, and functional fitness improvements—no guesswork needed.
This system not only delivers better results for members but also increases retention and perceived value, which are key levers for franchise profitability.
2. How Stepz Compares to Boutique Group Fitness Studios
Now let’s look at the other end of the spectrum: boutique fitness.
Studios like F45, Orangetheory, or BFT offer tightly programmed group workouts, usually in a coach-led format. Memberships at these studios typically cost between $60–$75/week, and while they deliver great training, they’re a very different product in terms of access and flexibility.
Stepz bridges the gap.
We offer the structure and accountability of boutique-style programming, but within a 24/7 hybrid facility that members can use on their own terms. It’s half the price of a boutique studio, with a more sustainable long-term membership model. Members don’t have to commit to strict session schedules—and franchisees don’t need to staff every class, which reduces overhead.
With StepzTV, the programming is scalable, repeatable, and doesn’t rely on superstar trainers to carry the experience. It’s tech-enabled fitness that works with or without a coach in the room.
Why It Matters for Franchisees?
From a franchising perspective, Stepz Fitness represents a smart middle ground:
Lower capital investment and staffing than boutique studios
Higher member value and retention than traditional 24/7 gyms
A scalable, systemised group training product powered by proprietary software
StepzTV isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a differentiator. It ensures consistency across locations, enables leaner operations, and gives franchisees a tool to deliver real results without reinventing the wheel.
Final Thoughts
Today’s fitness consumers expect more than just access—they want structure, flexibility, and value. At Stepz Fitness, we deliver all three. By blending the best of boutique training with the freedom of 24/7 gym access, and backing it all with our own technology, we’re redefining what a gym membership can look like.
If you’re a future franchisee looking to join a brand that’s ahead of the curve, Stepz isn’t just another gym. We’re a smarter way to train—and a smarter way to invest.