10 Best Merchant Services for Gyms: Secure Payments in 2024

Many merchant service providers fall short when it comes to meeting the unique needs of fitness centers. High processing fees, long-term contracts with hidden costs, and poor customer support can quickly turn your profits into unnecessary expenses.

You also need a solution that can seamlessly handle recurring payments, integrate with your existing management software, and provide quick access to funds. Security features are also essential to protect sensitive customer data from breaches and unsecured software interfaces.

After thoroughly researching the most popular credit card processors in the fitness industry, I’ve identified the top 10 options that cater to gym owners’ unique needs. Leading the pack is Leaders Merchant Services (LMS). It offers low rates, customizable contracts, and subscription management systems for recurring membership payments at your gym.

Read on to discover why Leaders Merchant Services is the best merchant service for gyms in 2024, or explore other providers that might be the perfect fit for your business.

What We Look For in the Best Merchant Services for Gyms

When selecting the best merchant services for gyms, I focused on features that address the unique needs of fitness businesses. Here’s what I prioritized during my research:

• Low transaction fees. Since gyms often operate on tight margins, I prioritized services that offer low transaction fees so you can retain more of your revenue and maintain profitability.
• Recurring payment capabilities. Gyms rely heavily on membership subscriptions, so I looked for services that handle recurring payments smoothly and reliably so you never miss a payment cycle.
• Flexible payment options. Not all members prefer to pay in the same way. I selected services that offer a variety of payment methods, from credit cards to mobile wallets, so that you can cater to each member’s preferred payment method.
• Robust security features. Protecting your members’ payment information is critical. I chose services that offer advanced security measures, such as PCI compliance and fraud detection, to keep your gym’s transactions safe.

1. Leaders Merchant Services: Best for Gyms Seeking Low Fees1

Leaders Merchant Service (LMS) offers some of the lowest transaction fees in the industry, starting from ~0.15% + $0 per transaction for swiped payments. You can also negotiate rates to align with your gym’s specific financial needs. And if you’re already with a merchant service, LMS promises to either meet or beat the rates you’re currently getting.

I found LMS’ integration with Authorize.net invaluable for gyms, especially when managing memberships. Authorize.net easily handles recurring payments, ensuring your members are billed seamlessly every month. It also provides robust security features, reducing the risk of fraudulent transactions.

You also get access to CartManager via LMS – a shopping cart you can add to your gym’s website, allowing you to sell fitness products like protein powder and creatine. It also supports recurring billing for these products, making it convenient for your customers to maintain a steady supply of their favorite supplements. However, it’s worth noting that adding a shopping cart might involve extra costs or setup time.

Features and Benefits

• High approval rate. LMS boasts a 98% approval rate, making it easy for gyms to get approved and start processing payments quickly. This is especially helpful if you’ve struggled with approvals elsewhere.
• Chargeback protection. Chargebacks can be a headache, but LMS provides a dedicated chargeback and fraud department for handling chargeback cases.
• Cash advance. LMS offers merchant cash advances, which can be a lifeline if you need quick capital to expand your gym, invest in new equipment, or manage seasonal dips in revenue.
• Extensive POS integrations. LMS integrates with a wide range of POS systems and even offers free equipment with long-term contracts. You get access to all Clover devices for managing transactions, tracking sales, and engaging customers through loyalty programs.

Read our expert LMS review for more details.

2. Paysafe: Advanced Subscription & Gym Management1

One of the main reasons I recommend Paysafe for gyms is its partnership with Vindicia. Vindicia is a subscription management system that automates billing, reduces churn, and increases customer retention. It can also recover 50% of failed recurring payments, so you can focus on expanding your gym rather than chasing overdue accounts.

Another great Paysafe integration is GymMaster. GymMaster is a gym management software that allows you to effortlessly manage memberships, send automated reminders, and process payments without lifting a finger. Its intuitive system ensures that all your payments are streamlined directly through Paysafe, which means less hassle and more time to focus on your gym’s growth.

Paysafe supports over 250 payment types, so you can cater to every possible preference your members might have. These include credit cards, mobile wallets, and cryptocurrencies. While this is impressive, it’s essential to consider Paysafe’s transaction fees, which vary depending on the payment method. And while the transaction fees are competitive (starting from 0.50% + $0.10), they might add up if you’re processing a large volume of smaller transactions.

Features and Benefits

• Integration with reputable POS options. Paysafe integrates seamlessly with popular POS systems like Clover and SwipeSimple. So if you already have existing operations with external equipment, Paysafe got you covered.
• Dedicated account manager. As a Paysafe merchant, you get access to personalized support. Whether you need help with transaction issues, integrating new features, or optimizing your payment processes, your account manager is there to assist.
• Encytro Advantage Program. This Paysafe program is designed to safeguard your gym’s financial health. It offers robust services like fraud prevention and chargeback management. This includes coverage for chargebacks up to $250 per case, even in the event of certain data breaches – all for a flat monthly fee of $29.95 per location.
• Paysafe Mobile Pay app. Paysafe’s app allows you to accept payments anywhere, which is perfect for gyms that offer outdoor classes and pop-up events or even just need to process payments outside the main office.

For more details, check out our comprehensive Paysafe review.

3. Square: All-In-One Merchant Solution for Independent Gyms1

Square’s Appointments plan offers precisely what you need to manage your gym’s appointments and classes smoothly. Whether booking one-on-one personal training sessions or managing group fitness classes, the Appointments plan lets you keep track of everything in one place. You’ll be able to set up a recurring class schedule, track your clients’ fitness progress, run targeted email campaigns, and many more.

I like that Square integrates with GymDesk, a gym management software that covers everything from member management to automated billing. This integration enables you to create member profiles and sell branded merch. You’ll also be able to handle payments, memberships, and scheduling all in one ecosystem.

Square is transparent about its fees. And while it’s not the most affordable merchant service out there, I really like that it follows a simple flat-fee pricing model. For in-person payments, the fee is typically 2.6% + 10 ¢ (in-person) per transaction. Meanwhile, rates for recurring billings start from 2.9% + 30 ¢ (online).

Features and Benefits

• Free mobile reader. Square’s free mobile reader is a nice touch, especially for new gyms or those centers that need the flexibility to take payments on the go. This easy-to-use reader turns your phone into a POS system and connects seamlessly with the Square app.
• Free online store. Square also offers a free online store where you can sell memberships, merchandise, or even online classes directly from your site. The store is easy to set up and integrates with your Square payments, so everything is streamlined.
• Business checking account. With Square’s business checking account, you don’t have to worry about transferring funds between accounts or waiting for payments to clear. The account comes with a debit card, meaning you can access your funds immediately.
• Advanced business software. Square offers a suite of tools that can help streamline your operations. These include software for payroll, email marketing, reports and analytics, and an extensive app marketplace.

Read our full Square review for more details.

4. Stax: Affordable Subscription Model for High-Volume Gyms1

Stax’s subscription-style pricing is great for gyms that generate high monthly revenue. The flat monthly fee starts at $99.00, paired with a tiny per-transaction fee of 15¢ + interchange (online). Additionally, if your gym generates over $8,000 in monthly revenue, you could save up to 40% on fees, freeing up funds to invest in better equipment or marketing. Stax also offers custom pricing for gyms bringing in over $500,000 annually.

I really like that Stax integrates with Zapier. Zapier opens up thousands of possibilities for syncing your existing software with your payment processing system. Whether you’re integrating with your customer relationship management (CRM), email marketing software, or accounting tools, Zapier helps everything work together seamlessly.

If you’re looking to sell fitness products, Stax has you covered with a variety of e-commerce solutions. It supports platforms like BigCommerce and Shopify and provides pre-built shopping carts. And if you need something more tailored, you can get hands-on and build a custom shopping cart using Stax’s developer tools. However, it’s worth noting that the pre-built shopping carts do come with an additional monthly fee.

Features and Benefits

• Compatibility with third-party POS devices. Stax integrates with over 90% of third-party POS devices. Whether you’re using devices like Swipe Simple, Dejavoo, or a PAX payment terminal, Stax has got you covered. Essentially, you won’t have to worry about additional expenses for new equipment.
• Same-day payouts. The quick turnaround helps keep your business running smoothly, ensuring you have cash for day-to-day operations, paying staff, or investing back into your gym.
• Fast onboarding process. Stax’s fast onboarding process is a big plus if you’re eager to get started without a lengthy setup. The quicker you’re up and running, the sooner you can focus on what really matters – your gym members.
• Stax Pay payment platform. Stax provides a comprehensive solution that offers everything from invoicing to recurring billing, which is perfect for managing memberships. The platform is straightforward and allows you to create custom fields and automate invoice reminders.

Our comprehensive Stax review has more info on rates.

5. Payment Depot: Flexible Plans for Gyms of All Sizes1

Payment Depot’s flexibility means you can choose a plan that fits your business’s size and needs. The flat-rate plan is great for large gyms that process high-volume transactions. It starts at $0 a month and includes a tiny 0.2%-1.95% per-transaction fee. On the other hand, if your gym is a small boutique studio, I recommend the interchange plus plan. With zero monthly fees and transaction fees starting at 0.2%-1.95%, you’ll appreciate how those savings add up over time.

I think it’s really nice that Payment Depot offers its merchants a free Dejavoo terminal because it takes away the initial investment hurdle. And if your gym sees a lot of walk-ins or offers daily passes, having a reliable terminal is non-negotiable. What’s more, if your gym is growing, you can even negotiate with Payment Depot for multiple free terminals, which means more savings.

Payment Depot also offers e-commerce integrations for selling gym products and managing memberships online. You can build a custom shopping cart or use one of its pre-built templates. I just wish Payment Depot would offer a means for receiving your funds on the same day.

Features and Benefits

• Fast onboarding process. You can get started with Payment Depot by simply calling sales support or filling out a contact form. From my experience, picking up the phone and talking to a sales agent directly is the way to go. Not only do you get a quicker response, but you also have a better chance of negotiating a deal that works in your favor.
• Chargeback protection and risk monitoring. Payment Depot has your back when it comes to dealing with occasional chargebacks. You’ll be able to dispute chargebacks from within your account area, and there’s a 24/7 risk monitoring team on standby.
• Certified reseller of Clover equipment. If you prefer Clover equipment for its versatility and reliability, Payment Depot makes it easy to get what you need.
• Multiple virtual terminals. Whether you’re processing payments from your front desk or on the go, Payment Depot gives you the flexibility to do it your way. Its proprietary virtual terminal performs well, and the integration with Authorize.net offers additional flexibility.

For more information, read our expert Payment Depot review.

6. Chase Payment Solutions: Flat Rate and Predictable Costs1

One of the first things I noticed about Chase Payment Solutions is its clear, flat-rate pricing. You’re not going to be blindsided by hidden fees or confusing rates. If you’re processing in-person payments, it’s 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction, which may be higher compared to other providers like Leaders Merchant Services. For keyed-in transactions, it’s 3.5% + 10¢, and for e-commerce, it’s 2.9% + 25¢.

Chase Payment Solutions offers a suite of payment solutions tailored for specific industries. One of my favorites is Orbital Virtual Terminal, a web-based application that allows you to set up automated recurring billing for gym subscriptions. With Orbital, you can control the type of billing, frequency, subscription expiration, and promos/discounts.

If you’re not thrilled with the existing software, Chase Payment Solutions provides a robust developer kit with SDKs and APIs. This is perfect if you’re a bit of a tech-savvy gym owner or have someone on your team who can create customized solutions. The kit includes everything you need to test and fine-tune your software before it goes live.

Features and Benefits

• Fast payouts. Chase Payment Solutions offers next-day funding as standard and same-day payouts to Chase Business Banking account holders.
• Customer insights. Chase’s business analytics platform gives you access to customer insights that can help you make better decisions. You can see who’s attending regularly, who’s dropping off, and what services are most popular.
• Chase Mobile app. The Chase Mobile app is straightforward to use. Whether you’re checking transactions, managing deposits, or just keeping an eye on things, the app has you covered.
• E-commerce solutions. Chase offers multiple e-commerce solutions, including the Authorize.net payment gateway and the Silver Essentials by NCR Voyix retail
• POS system. It also has a partnership with BigCommerce if you already have an online store with the platform or plan to build one.

Learn more about Chase Payment Solutions in our full review.

Other Notable Merchant Services for Gyms

7. Sekure Payment Experts1

Sekure Payment Experts offers an all-in-one POS system tailored for the fitness industry. With Sekure, you’ll be able to manage appointments and bookings, set up memberships and auto-billing, manage your staff effectively, build loyalty programs, and collect customer reviews. You’ll also get access to a detailed range of reports that provide insights into your fitness business.

I was impressed to find that Sekure offers free equipment, which is great for startup gyms. Plus, you get access to ETA Certified Payment Professionals, so you’re not navigating payment processing alone. Sekure Payment Experts offers a flat-rate plan that goes for 3.5% + 19¢ (in-person & online) per transaction and an interchange plus rate of 2.99% + 19¢ (in-person & online) – both of which include zero monthly fees. However, Sekure tends to have hidden fees, so ensure you review your contract well when signing up.

8. Helcim1

Helcim’s fully-hosted online store builder is a valuable tool if you’re running a gym and want to expand your revenue streams beyond memberships. With it, you can create an online store to sell fitness products, supplements, or even branded gym merchandise. It’s easy to use, so you don’t need any coding skills to get started. But it might not have the extensive design options some specialized e-commerce platforms offer.

Helcim also makes it easy to automate the billing process for memberships or other services like personal training packages. And it offers transparent, competitive transaction rates that start from 0.30% + 8¢ (in-person). My only problem with Helcim is that it offers limited hardware and doesn’t support third-party hardware integrations. So, it might not be the best option if you’re migrating from another payment processor.

9. POS Pros1

POS Pros offers customized solutions like RhinoFit, Clover Station, and SmartSwipe, which are designed to handle everything from membership management to point-of-sale transactions. After an initial consultation, POS Pros will invite you to try out different POS solutions to find the perfect fit for your gym. This will help reduce the risk of buying equipment that doesn’t serve your needs.

POS Pros integrates seamlessly with Authorize.net. Whether members are renewing their subscriptions or purchasing merch online, Authorize.net offers a secure way to process these transactions. You can also use it to send digital invoices or set up recurring payments. I just wish POS Pros was a bit more transparent about its pricing. And it would be nice to see it offer more e-commerce features other than Authorize.net.

10. PaymentCloud1

PaymentCloud’s 98% approval rate is great for high-risk gyms, as it ensures you don’t waste time chasing approvals. PaymentCloud also provides hands-on personal assistance to help your gym apply for and achieve PCI compliance. Moreover, you’ll get access to fraud and chargeback prevention services, so you can focus on growing your gym rather than worrying about financial setbacks.

I understand that as a gym owner, you need to offer flexible payment methods. So you’ll like that PaymentCloud supports debit and credit cards, ACH, e-checks, and even crypto payments. This variety means you can accommodate almost any member’s preferred payment method. However, it’s disappointing that PayPal isn’t accepted. And while PaymentCloud’s fees are relatively competitive, you may need to sign a long-term contract to get the best rates.

Streamline Subscriptions With the Best Merchant Services for Gyms

Choosing the right merchant service is crucial to running a smooth and profitable gym. You need a provider that can handle the specific challenges of your fitness business, from managing recurring memberships to offering robust security features.

If you’re looking for low transaction fees and customizable contracts, Leaders Merchant Services is my top recommendation1. It allows you to negotiate a fee that suits your budget and integrates seamlessly with Authorize.net to provide effective subscription management.

If you want a comprehensive merchant service that centralizes your gym operations, consider Paysafe instead1. It gives you direct access to an advanced subscription management system and gym management software – both of which can help streamline your business.

Or, if you’d rather have an all-in-one solution with transparent pricing, go with Square1. It offers everything you need for managing appointments, selling memberships, and even setting up an online store.

FAQ

What should gyms look for when choosing a merchant service provider?

Gyms should prioritize low transaction fees, recurring payment capabilities, and effective security features when choosing a merchant service provider. Leaders Merchant Services ticks all the boxes. It offers customizable contracts, low rates, chargeback protection, and seamless integration with popular systems, so your gym operates efficiently while keeping costs down.

How do merchant services handle recurring payments for memberships?

Merchant services manage recurring payments by automating billing cycles, ensuring that your gym members are charged consistently without manual intervention. Paysafe is a strong option because it integrates with advanced tools like Vindicia and GymMaster. These tools don’t only automate payments but also reduce churn and recover failed transactions.

What are the payment methods for gyms?

Gyms commonly accept payments through credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments, and ACH bank transfers. To ensure seamless and secure transactions, I recommend using a reliable merchant service like Square that supports multiple payment methods.

What fees should gyms expect with merchant services?

Gyms should expect to pay various fees with merchant services, including transaction fees, setup fees, chargeback fees, monthly fees for account maintenance, and charges for add-on features like payment gateways. It’s crucial to review and compare different merchant services to ensure the fee structure aligns with your gym’s budget and transaction volume.