Updated: January 2026
*This article is reviewed and updated annually to reflect the latest software features and pricing
Running a gym isn’t just coaching and programming. It’s failed payments, schedule changes, late-night texts, no-shows, and way too many tools duct-taped together. Gym management software exists to reduce that chaos, but most platforms push you toward paid plans faster than you expect.
So what’s actually free in 2026? And which tools are worth using if you want to grow without immediately upgrading?
Here’s a clear, honest breakdown.
1. Recess
Recess is the only platform on this list that offers a fully functional, unlimited free plan without booking caps, feature gates, or trial expirations.
Included for free:
- Class & appointment scheduling
- Unlimited bookings and clients
- Integrated payments
- Custom branding
- SMS & email campaigns
- Member CRM and attendance tracking
There’s no “starter tier” that forces an upgrade once you grow. Everything core stays available.
Recess is designed to replace multiple tools—not coexist with them—which is why many gyms move to it after outgrowing spreadsheets or stitched-together systems.
2. PushPress (Free Plan)
PushPress remains popular and offers a legitimate free tier.
Free plan includes:
- Member management
- Scheduling and check-ins
- Payments (2.19% + $0.30 US processing)
What’s changed in 2026:
PushPress has invested heavily in AI (lead response, copy generation, insights), but nearly all AI functionality is paid. Conversation AI alone is usage-based.
The free plan works, but scaling means upgrading.
3. CloudGymManager
CloudGymManager is one of the few platforms that truly markets itself as “free forever.”
Included:
- Scheduling and billing
- POS
- Member portal
- Basic analytics
It’s funded through payment processing rather than subscriptions. Updates in 2025–2026 added mobile apps and improved self-service.
The tradeoff is polish; marketing and UX lag behind newer platforms.
4. SimpleGym
SimpleGym uses a pay-as-you-grow model instead of a subscription.
How it works:
- $0/month software fee
- ~2% ACH, ~3.5% + $0.20 card transactions
For gyms processing under ~$15k/month, this can be cheaper than paid software. Above that, their Pro plan becomes more economical.
5. SimplyBook.me
SimplyBook.me is not gym-specific but is often used by solo trainers.
Free plan limitations:
- 50 bookings/month
- 1 provider
- No email template customization
- Manual monthly renewal required
Useful for very early-stage setups, but impractical for growth.
6. Membership Integrity System (MIS)
MIS is quiet but reliable.
Free tier includes:
- Membership management
- Scheduling
- Billing
It lacks modern engagement tools, automation, or marketing features, but it’s stable and straightforward.
7. WodGuru - Free for Micro Gyms
WodGuru offers a genuinely free plan, but only up to 10 members.
Once you pass that threshold, you’ll need to upgrade. Still, it’s one of the few tools that lets micro-gyms test a full system at zero cost.
Feature Comparison
To make things even clearer, here's a quick look at how these free platforms stack up against each other.
So Which Free Gym Software Wins in 2026?
Most “free” gym software comes with strings attached: booking caps, transaction-heavy pricing, or feature walls that force upgrades once you grow.
- Tools like SimplyBook.me and WodGuru are fine for solo trainers
- PushPress Free works for basics but limits growth
- CloudGymManager and SimpleGym offer solid admin foundations
But if you want one platform that doesn’t punish growth, Recess stands alone in 2026.
It’s the only option that combines:
- Unlimited usage
- Payments
- Communication
- Branding
- Marketing
- CRM
…without charging a subscription or pushing upgrades.
If you’re serious about growing your gym without paying for admin software, start with Recess.
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