Guide to 24-hour gym entry systems & access control

Benefits of a gym access control system

Aside from controlling who can enter a fitness center and protecting the property, a system for controlling access at gyms can also provide insight into other areas, such as business growth. Some benefits of a gym access control system include:

Stronger security

An effective gym entry system ensures that only authorized users can access and use the gym’s facilities, protecting the property, people and revenue. 

Better customer service

Because gym staff do not have to monitor access or spend time on the front desk signing in users, they can focus on customer service and other one-to-one tasks. Implementing a cloud-based system also reduces the management and maintenance burden.

Greater convenience for users

A streamlined gym check-in system means users can access the gym quickly and easily with minimal congestion and no delays with signing in at the front desk. 

Extended opening hours

A 24-hour gym access system means that users can enter the gym and use the facilities at a time that suits them. This can make membership more flexible and attractive, with an impact on both revenue and customer satisfaction. 

Greater control over usage

Extending access control to other areas of the gym or specific equipment gives operators greater control. For example, a gym membership card system can be customized to restrict or secure access to facilities only available to users with higher membership levels. 

More insight into usage patterns

Data from a gymnasium access control system provides valuable insights into usage patterns, such as peak traffic times, most popular equipment and usage by different membership levels. The data can be used to improve capacity management and plan future investment. 

Simple integration with other gym systems

The latest gym access control systems are built on open standards and can be used as part of an integrated security system with security video cameras, intrusion detection sensors and fire alarms, as well as building management and environmental control systems. Integration at this level can help operators develop a smart solution for managing all gym systems from a single dashboard. 

Aside from connecting with other systems to give operators a greater control over all areas of security, an integration with a membership software allows gym operators to easily sync membership data with access permissions, credentials and fitness class schedules. The integration strengthens security by ensuring that every individual entering a gym is authorized and simplifies administrative processes.

Types of 24/7 gym access systems

Gyms can use a number of different types of systems with credentials, each with its own set of access hardware that have potential advantages and drawbacks. These credentials typically come in the form of: 

PIN-based gym entry systems 

Users will gain access by entering a PIN code to a keypad. The codes can be general or unique to each user in the membership system. However, PIN code systems offer minimal security, as passcodes can be easily shared with unauthorized users.

PIN-based gym access systems are among the simplest and least expensive options to set up, but they’re far from the most secure or user-friendly. If PIN codes aren’t changed regularly, signs of wear on key pads can help intruders guess active codes. If PIN codes are changed regularly, users may forget their PINs, locking them out and increasing the likelihood of credentials being shared and overheard by malicious actors.

Gym key fob system 

Users will present a key fob to the door reader to gain access to the facility. A key fob system for gym users is simple and convenient, but gym key fobs can be lost, stolen or shared, which can compromise security. 

Key fobs for gyms are among the most intuitive types of access credentials for users, with many members likely to have used similar devices elsewhere. However, replacing lost or damaged fobs can quickly become expensive for gym operators, with additional concerns surrounding the potential for key fob data to be intercepted and cloned to grant intruders unauthorized access.

Gym key card system

Users will typically swipe their card through a reader to request access. Gym key card systems allow administrators to customize the card with the gym member’s specific details and access level, giving greater control. However, like gym key fobs, the physical token-based nature of key cards can be a detriment to security because they are easily lost, stolen or shared. 

That said, gym key cards can form part of an effective and user-friendly gym security system when paired with additional credential types. For example, operators may secure low-risk areas behind key card readers, with main entrances and high-risk areas locked behind key cards and additional high-security credential systems such as biometric or mobile credential readers.

Mobile gym check-in system

A more secure and convenient solution for gym access is a mobile app that can be downloaded on a smartphone, Smart Watch or other mobile device. Like key cards, the app can be customized to give users access to certain areas or equipment. Unlike key cards or key fobs, mobile credentials are more difficult to lose, steal or share.

Mobile credential gym access control systems can be both cost-effective and highly secure, with operators able to avoid the expense of issuing physical tokens and adjust active permissions. Also, as credentials are stored on the user’s smart device, members will be less likely to forget their credentials at home, with added security provided by the password and biometric protections already present in most modern smart devices.

Barcode reader systems

Barcode and QR code gym entry systems are another popular and user-friendly option, acting similarly to mobile and key card gym scanner systems. Members are issued credentials as a barcode, printed on a physical token or sent to a smart device, and presented to a stationary reader for access.

Barcode and QR code systems are highly customizable, with operators able to adjust and issue credentials to both permanent and temporary users easily. These systems can also be inexpensive if codes are sent to mobile devices. However, barcodes typically can’t hold as much data as other credential types and can be prone to errors if systems are not properly calibrated. Barcodes printed onto key tags are one of the most common forms of gym membership access control, but are often lost, damaged or shared.

What to look for in a gym access control system

Security

A gym access control system must provide a high level of security, as gyms and fitness facilities house different types of expensive, moveable equipment and members’ personal belongings such as wallets, phones and headphones stored in lockers, which could easily be stolen by intruders. 

The system must also ensure that only authorized users, health club members, residents and paying customers can gain access to the facilities. Uncontrolled access dilutes the benefits of membership and risks lost revenue through unauthorized entry. Having strong physical security gives gym owners a competitive advantage.

24/7 protection

Although gyms may have regular weekday and weekend opening hours, some users may want to use the facilities at any time, day or night. This makes a 24-hour gym access system essential. Because customer service or security staff may not be onsite outside normal hours, a 24-hour access gym benefits from cloud-based remote management that allows operators to observe activities from anywhere, at any time. 

Convenient credentials

Operators must be able to offer users a choice of credentials that are convenient to use. While gym key cards, custom gym access cards or gym key fob systems remain popular, an increasing number of gyms are using mobile credentials as more convenient gym check-in systems. 

Simple administration

A gymnasium access control system must be simple to manage. While larger gym groups may have dedicated security specialists, small or medium independent establishments depend on customer service staff to handle security. 

The most important tasks are keeping membership or resident lists up to date and issuing or revoking credentials. The system must be able to automate the process of validating credentials and updating the database. 

Data recording and analytics

Thorough record-keeping is crucial in facilities like a gym. An access control system helps staff accurately record and store access data. The data helps gym operators ensure that gym members are using the facilities in line with their membership level. Access control data can also be analyzed to detect possible fraudulent use of credentials or to help identify individuals in the event of an incident. 

Data provides useful insights into patterns of usage, which can help operators optimize the way they manage their facilities. 

Integration

An effective 24/7 gym access system requires integrations between credential readers and wider security technologies. When access control data is fed into integrated CCTV, video management, intrusion detection and visitor management systems, automated and intelligent responses can be configured to benefit security and building management operations.

For example, cameras can be programmed to record and flag footage of all entry events to aid investigative processes, with alarms configured to activate in response to suspicious access requests. Integrations can also improve the customer experience, with access logs offering insight into occupancy and habitual metrics that can help inform service improvements.

Components of gym entry systems

One of the most convenient forms of fitness center access control is keyless and touchless access. Commercial keyless entry is a suitable solution for a 24/7 gym access system, as it requires minimal supervision. There are a few main components needed for a keyless gym check-in system.

Gym access control readers

A reader positioned at the main entrance or on an entry barrier like door entry systems requires users to present credentials to the device. The reader transmits the data to gym software and grants access to the user if it recognizes the credential. Access control readers can take a number of forms, depending on the type of credentials issued. Some gyms may use intercom or PIN keypad door entry systems to control access.

Security door or entry barrier

Gymnasium access control systems can incorporate types of physical entry barriers to strengthen security, including: 

• Turnstiles: Tripod or full-height turnstiles are paired with access control readers. Users present their credentials to the device, and the turnstile releases its locking mechanism to allow access when the credentials are validated. Although secure, turnstiles may require a staff member to be present, in case any security issues arise. Turnstiles can also be used in other areas of the gym to control access to swimming pools, changing areas, locker rooms or special equipment rooms.
• Security doors: These doors are located at the main entrance and fitted with electronic locks, which can only be released when a user presents valid credentials. Although they are secure, tailgating is possible, increasing security risks.

Management software

Management software for gym entry systems streamlines procedures by giving operators the ability to easily issue credentials like gym key fobs or gym key cards for new members and revoke them when users cancel their membership. Credentials can also be tied to gym membership by integrating your management software with a database of authorized users, making it easier to prevent membership fraud. 

Infrastructure

The infrastructure to house the gym entry system software and access control system generally comes in two forms: 

• On-premise infrastructure: A server is located onsite and is managed by the staff, who are also responsible for updating the software and maintaining the hardware, as well as installing new capacity limits if necessary.
• Cloud infrastructure: A hosting company takes responsibility for managing, maintaining and updating the software. This means there is no need to have physical infrastructure on the premises. A cloud-based access system scales easily with the ability to add new users and devices to a network with a few clicks. Because the system is Internet-based, it can be accessed and managed from any location with mobile access.

Choosing the right solution for your gym

There are many door entry system options for gyms, each with its list of benefits and potential drawbacks to carefully consider. To choose the right solution for your gym, take the time to think about the unique structure of your business, the needs of your members and your plans for adjusting your operations in the future. Before selecting an option, answer the below questions.

• How many entry points need to be secured? A balance between cost and security must be achieved for gyms with multiple entrances. Consider how practical it might be to monitor all access points and how high-security readers may be beneficial.
• How many users will require credentials? Including existing customers, potential new members and staff, user numbers can quickly rise, as can the cost of producing and replacing physical tokens like key cards and fobs.
• How will access be granted to temporary users? Gyms may offer one-time access to guests using certain amenities or for contractors needing facility access.
• How common are intrusion events? To help inform your decision, local crime records should be reviewed before developing gym access systems. If intrusion events are common, investments in high-security systems may be cost-effective.
• Is 24/7 property access a requirement? 24/7 gyms may operate with fewer staff at night and face new or elevated security risks. Therefore, 24/7 gym access systems must be user-friendly and highly secure, with remote management options available to operators.
• What type of system will be most convenient for members? User-friendly and intuitive gym check-in systems can save members a lot of time and may be the deciding factor between your gym and another, so consider asking for your members’ opinions.
• What is your available budget? If your budget is low, it can be worth combining multiple types of readers to secure high and low-risk areas, with main entrances secured using advanced readers and low-risk internal spaces locked behind simple PIN codes.
• Will the system need to be scaled in the future? Adding new amenities and sites will require your gym access system to have additional readers and profiles, so make sure your chosen solution can support your plans.
• Are wider security improvements planned? If you plan to upgrade wider security systems like cameras and alarms, you’ll need to ensure that your chosen gym door lock system can integrate with proposed technologies.

A gym access control system for your business

If you are considering implementing a new access control system or upgrading an existing gym key fob or gym key card system installation, you can gain all the benefits above by investing in the latest access control technologies. To help you plan your system, it’s important to consult a security specialist or a security system integrator for expert advice and professional support.