Re:How I Monetized My Passion
by jasonkester on Friday May 07, 2010 @11:51AM
(#1327884)
That's actually my point, and the reason that gyms struggle. 90% of the people you see only pay them money once a month, and even then they complain if it's more than $50/month.
Daypasses cost $16 and end up generating a lot more revenue. Birthday parties cost $10/head, happen 16-30 times a month, and bring in enough to keep them afloat.
That's why you end up with tons of toproping areas, easy routes, and pretty looking features: to bring in the one-time visitors.
A good training area doesn't need to look pretty. In fact, the more it looks a lot like an inclined piece of plywood, the better. History shows, however, that training-focused gyms fail every time, whereas beginner & birthday party "social" gyms can sometimes squeak by.
It's certainly not an industry you go into to make money.
The ones I've been to have a range of climbs: from a small section available to beginners, to routes and bouldering that require a much higher level of technique and endurance.
From personal experience, I've already spent an embarrassing amount on courses, memberships, and equipment.