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What People Hate About Gyms — and How Small Studios Can Win
They quit gyms.
After scanning Google reviews, ClassPass feedback, Instagram comments, and consumer forums from across the city, one thing is clear: there’s a growing mismatch between what big gyms offer and what people actually want.
And that’s exactly where small studios have an edge.
The 5 Most Common Complaints About Big Gyms in Barcelona
1. Overcrowded and chaotic
Chains like VivaGym, DiR, and Metropolitan get constant complaints about packed classes, unavailable equipment, and overwhelming peak hours. Many describe training there as more stressful than energizing.
Chains like VivaGym, DiR, and Metropolitan get constant complaints about packed classes, unavailable equipment, and overwhelming peak hours. Many describe training there as more stressful than energizing.
2. No personal attention
Clients feel anonymous. Trainers don’t correct form, adapt workouts, or even greet people. The coaching experience feels generic and transactional.
3. Complicated contracts and cancellations
Frustration is high with cancellation policies, surprise renewals, and limited flexibility. People want to commit—but not be trapped.
4. Intimidating environments
For beginners—especially women—the weight floor can feel like enemy territory. The atmosphere often favors fit, experienced members, not newcomers.
5. No results
Without structure, support, or consistency, many users say they stagnate. They get discouraged and drop off.
What People Want—But Aren’t Getting
Based on search trends, booking data from ClassPass and Mindbody, and patterns across Instagram and TikTok, here’s what working professionals in Barcelona are seeking:
- Small groups (4–8 people)
- Expert-led strength training
- Progress they can see and feel
- A friendly, supportive community
- Transparent pricing and flexible plans
In other words: not just a workout, but a meaningful experience.
How Small Studios Can Win
1. Create structure and personalisation
Every class should feel intentional. Clients want feedback, smart programming, and to feel like their trainer knows them.
2. Build community from Day 1
Learn names. Celebrate wins. Send follow-ups. Studios like Mov and FitMastery do this well—and clients stick around.
3. Be transparent and fair with pricing
Offer drop-ins, flexible memberships, and honest policies. Trust builds loyalty.
4. Welcome beginners openly
Feature real clients, not just fitness models. Make it clear: this space is for everyone, not just the already-fit.
5. Track and show progress
Whether through simple visuals, personal notes, or automated tracking—help clients see how they’re improving. Small wins fuel motivation.
Final Thought
Big gyms offer scale.
Small studios offer care.
And in today’s Barcelona—where health is a priority, remote work is rising, and people crave real connection—care is what wins.
If you run a small gym or are thinking of launching one: now’s your moment.
This isn’t about fighting the big chains.
It’s about doing what they can’t.
And doing it better.
Steve Brewer
@svpersteveLast updated 31 Jul 2025