Getting Fit From The Living Room : A qualitative study on how the digitalization of fitness services have impacted the customer experience

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this study is to get insights in how the digitalization of fitness services has affected the customer experience, this with a focus on fitness services such as dance classes and PT-sessions online.  Theoretical background The theory has its foundation in both the customer journey where different touchpoints are perceived and the factors affecting the customer experience. Many studies have been done in the subject of customer experience and five factors are categorized. First, the cognitive factors then the affective factors, sensory factors, social factors and last the conative factors.  Methodology The study employs a qualitative research type with a cross-sectional research design. Primary data are collected through semi-structured interviews with four customers and one gym. Empirical findings and analysis Multiple differences and similarities between the digital and physical experience are presented. For example, physical gyms have more equipment than all of the respondents have in their home. At the same time, it can be a disadvantage that the internet connection and digital tools are required at the digital classes. However, the flexibility is higher when the classes are online, both because of the accessibility and the higher ability to choose time and place for the workout.  Conclusion The digitalization of fitness services has affected the customer experience, both positive and negative. To what extent the change is positive or negative are based on personal preferences. For instance, some customers enjoy the lack of social interaction while some miss is, some may like the smell of the gym while some prefer the smell of their own home. Therefore, the ability to choose in the future is recommended and the gyms do need to work on the optimalization of the experience both for their digital and physical customers.