As the fitness industry continues to evolve, member expectations are changing too. Many now want the flexibility to train early in the morning, late at night, or during off-peak hours — and that’s driving a growing demand for gyms that stay open 24/7.

But with the shift to round-the-clock access comes new security challenges. If you’re considering making your gym accessible 24 hours a day, this guide outlines the essential steps and security systems you’ll need to keep your members safe and your facility protected.

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Why More Gyms Are Moving to 24/7

Giving members 24/7 access can be a strong differentiator in a competitive market. It allows you to appeal to shift workers, early risers, and night owls alike — all without increasing your staffing costs.

Three women in activewear laughing and exercising together indoors in a gym setting.

For many gym operators, the long-term benefits are clear:

  • More flexible access = happier members
  • Extended hours without extended payroll
  • Greater potential for membership growth

However, going 24/7 only works if you can maintain a safe and secure environment at all hours.

Security Challenges of Running a Gym Without Staff

When staff aren’t present, gyms face a number of potential risks:

  • Unauthorised access through tailgating or shared entry details
  • Theft, especially from lockers or unattended belongings
  • Vandalism or misuse of equipment
  • Safety concerns, particularly for lone gym-goers during quieter hours

Privacy concerns also limit where CCTV can be used — meaning extra care is needed around changing rooms and toilets. A layered, integrated approach to security is essential.

Key Access Control Solutions for 24/7 Gyms

Choosing the right combination of technology is crucial. The aim is to ensure that only authorised members gain access, and that the facility remains secure without needing someone on-site at all times.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to securing fitness environments. Whether you run a standalone gym or a multi-site leisure chain, the right setup depends on your layout, user flow, and operating hours. Our experience delivering access control and physical security for gyms means we understand the nuances of the sector.

Smart Access Control Systems

Smart access systems allow members to enter using fobs, keycards, or mobile apps. Each entry is logged, giving you a clear record of who was in the gym and when.

Benefits include:

  • Restricting access to paying members only
  • Setting different permissions for staff, cleaners, or contractors
  • Real-time monitoring and control from a central dashboard

Speed Gates and Mantraps (Security Portals)

To stop tailgating — when someone slips in behind another person — physical barriers are key.

  • Speed gates control entry one person at a time, often combined with a swipe or scan system.
  • Mantraps (also known as security portals) offer an even higher level of control, enclosing each person briefly for verification before entry.

These solutions ensure that only one authorised person enters per access attempt, making them ideal for unstaffed gyms.

CCTV and Remote Monitoring

CCTV systems act as both a deterrent and an investigative tool. While privacy laws prevent cameras in changing rooms, they are essential in other key areas:

  • Entrances and exits
  • Gym floor
  • Reception and vending zones

Pairing CCTV with remote monitoring allows incidents to be flagged and responded to quickly — even when no one is on-site.

Protecting Personal Belongings in Unstaffed Hours

Changing rooms are often the most vulnerable part of a 24/7 gym setup. With no cameras allowed and no staff present, theft can be a concern.

A woman selects a locker in a brightly lit gym locker room.

To reduce risk:

  • Encourage use of padlocks or digital lockers
  • Consider installing lock vending machines for member convenience
  • Some operators close changing areas overnight — for example, from midnight to 3am — to limit risk

Regular messaging around locker security, both in-app and on-site, can help reinforce the importance of keeping belongings secure.

Preparing for the Transition

Before opening your doors 24/7, make sure all systems are tested and ready.

Things to review:

  • Entry systems – are they reliable and user-friendly?
  • CCTV coverage – does it cover all public areas effectively?
  • Signage – is it clear how members access help if needed?
  • Emergency procedures – are protocols in place for incidents after hours?

Clear communication with members is just as important. Let them know about the new access hours, how the entry system works, and what’s expected of them when using the gym outside of normal staffed times.

Ready to Go 24/7? We Can Help

Converting to 24/7 access isn’t just about keeping the doors open — it’s about making sure your members feel safe, your assets are protected, and your gym runs smoothly without staff on-site.

We help gym operators implement the right access control, security portals, and monitoring systems tailored to their space.

Get in touch to discuss the right setup for your gym.
No jargon, no hard sell — just clear advice from people who know the industry.

Contact us today to see how your gym can go 24/7 securely with ease.

The most effective way is to combine smart access control (like fobs or app-based entry) with physical deterrents such as speed gates or security portals. These prevent tailgating and ensure only verified members enter the facility, even when it’s unstaffed.

Yes, many gyms operate safely without staff by using a combination of access control, CCTV, and remote monitoring. Some also install help points or panic buttons to allow members to request assistance if needed during off-peak hours.

While cameras can’t be installed in changing areas due to privacy laws, you can reduce risk by offering secure lockers, encouraging the use of padlocks, and restricting access to changing rooms during certain hours. Placing cameras at entrances to these areas also helps monitor who goes in and out.