Impact of Recession on MMA Gyms
July 8, 2008
The San Diego Business Journal has a short piece on the effect the economic downturn is having on fitness gyms, as well as MMA-based gyms. Enrollment levels have remained surprisingly level, with usage of memberships actually seeing an increase in some cases. This may be specific to that market, though, as San Diego has a higher rate of fitness membership than the national average. Nevertheless, one way of weathering the fiscal storm is through specialization of offerings, which agent and MMA gym owner Mark Dion elaborates on:
Mark Dion, owner of the mixed martial arts gym and training centers City Boxing, says it’s the small niche of world champion trainers his business offers which makes it recession-proof.Dion charges $109 per month or $1,199 for an annual membership at his City Boxing centers on Garnet Avenue in Pacific Beach and on 14th Street.
“That sounds expensive to the average person, but the benefit comes from our trainers, who are all credentialed, world champion martial artists,†Dion said. “Other gyms may charge under $40 per month, but for any guidance or training, members pay an extra $60 per hour for a trainer who doesn’t have nearly the qualifications (as City Boxing trainers).â€Dion admits that the slowing economy is taking a toll, but keeping overhead low has helped ease the blow.
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