The Growth Trap: What Most Gym Owners Get Dead Wrong
You’ve probably heard the phrase “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.”
But here’s a reality check: growth isn’t always progress.
In fact, chasing growth the wrong way can wreck your business, stress your team, and drain your energy faster than a poorly programmed bootcamp.
Marc Cuban of Shark Tank fame says, “If you chase the top line enough you’ll chase away your profit.”
Let’s break down three lies gym owners often believe and the truth that’ll actually set you (and your business) free.
Lie #1: More Revenue Means I'm Winning
It feels good to hit a revenue milestone.
But if your expenses are ballooning right alongside it, that big month doesn’t mean much. All too common, revenue climbs with added expenses rivaling the revenue increase for a net zero gain in money and a positive net gain in stress!
👉 Truth: Profit > Revenue.
Your take-home matters more than your top line.
Don’t confuse busy with profitable.
Lie #2: Bigger Is Better
More space. More equipment. More programs. More staff.
Sounds exciting, right?
But here’s the deal. Bigger problems come with bigger operations.
👉 Truth: Simplicity scales.
Dial in your systems, your core offer, and your member experience before adding “more.”
Growth should serve your life, not consume it.
Lie #3: I Just Need to Work Harder
Hard work has its place no doubt. But you can’t outwork poor systems, unclear vision, or messy financials.
👉 Truth: Focus fuels freedom.
The most successful gym owners aren’t doing everything. They’re doing the right things consistently.
So What’s the Play?
If you want to grow…
Define what success actually looks like. (Hint: It’s not just revenue.
Audit your current business for waste, confusion, and complexity.
Build margin. Not just money, but time and clarity.
I’ve coached gym owners who were bringing in $30K/month and still couldn’t pay themselves.
And I’ve worked with others doing $10K/month and living a low-stress, profitable life.
Growth isn’t bad.
But growth without intention is just noise.
Let’s build something better.
If this hit home, share it with a fellow gym owner who might be stuck in the growth trap.
And while you’re at it, book a call to gain some CLARITY!
