Who Should Use Each Platform WellnessLiving: Built for Growing Wellness Businesses WellnessLiving positions itself as a "next-generation" all-in-one business management platform for the wellness industry. Trusted by over 7,500 businesses globally, WellnessLiving serves yoga studios, gyms, spas, martial arts schools, personal trainers, dance studios, and wellness centers across multiple countries.
The platform was designed for businesses that want comprehensive management tools including built-in marketing automation, loyalty programs, advanced reporting, and retail management. WellnessLiving emphasizes being a more affordable alternative to MINDBODY while still offering extensive functionality. The company has grown rapidly and invests heavily in continuous feature development.
fitDEGREE: Purpose-Built for Boutique Fitness Studios fitDEGREE was created specifically for independent boutique fitness studio owners in the United States and Canada. The platform focuses exclusively on yoga studios, Pilates studios, barre studios, and group fitness businesses with one to five locations.
If you're an owner-operator who teaches classes, manages a team of 1-10 instructors, and handles business decisions yourself, fitDEGREE's design reflects that operational structure. The platform emphasizes simplicity, predictable pricing, and dedicated support over comprehensive feature sets.
Key Difference: WellnessLiving serves the broad wellness industry with growing businesses seeking extensive built-in features. fitDEGREE serves independent boutique fitness studios exclusively with a focused, simpler approach.
Product Philosophy & Approach WellnessLiving: All-in-One Feature Ecosystem WellnessLiving operates on an "all-in-one" philosophy where the platform provides built-in tools for virtually every business function. The software includes integrated marketing automation, loyalty rewards programs, review requests, email and SMS campaigns, social media integration, events management, retail tracking, and comprehensive reporting—all within the platform itself.
The company invests significantly in feature development, regularly releasing updates and new capabilities. WellnessLiving positions itself as a mid-market solution: more feature-rich than basic platforms but more affordable than enterprise systems like MINDBODY.
This breadth creates both value and complexity. The platform offers extensive functionality across multiple business areas, but users report a learning curve and occasional overwhelming options. According to Capterra reviews, many studio owners appreciate the comprehensive tools but mention that mastering all available features takes time.
Customization Philosophy: WellnessLiving allows significant customization of emails, SMS messages, notifications, membership structures, and pricing models. This flexibility means studios can tailor the platform to specific operational needs, but setup requires investment in configuration.
fitDEGREE: Focused Core + Specialized Integrations fitDEGREE takes a "focused excellence" approach: provide stable, reliable core studio management and integrate with specialized external platforms for advanced functions. Rather than building everything in-house, fitDEGREE concentrates on scheduling, payments, basic client management, and reporting while partnering with industry specialists.
The integration strategy includes:
LoopSpark for CRM automation and marketing campaignsLenzVU for CRM automation and marketing campaignsGoHighLevel for CRM automation and marketing campaignsPerkville for loyalty and referral programsMailchimp for email marketingClassPass for marketplace exposure (optional)Zapier for custom workflow automationThis "best-of-breed" approach means you use specialized tools for specialized tasks rather than generic built-in features. Studio owners describe the platform as predictable and unintimidating, prioritizing daily operational simplicity over feature comprehensiveness.
Customization Philosophy: fitDEGREE offers straightforward options for essential functions like pricing, schedules, and membership structures, but doesn't provide extensive customization of every aspect. The trade-off is simplicity over flexibility.
Key Difference: WellnessLiving builds comprehensive features internally, creating a feature-rich but complex system. fitDEGREE builds focused core features and integrates with specialists, creating simplicity with more dependencies.
Daily User Experience Using WellnessLiving Day-to-Day WellnessLiving's interface reflects its comprehensive feature set. The dashboard presents numerous options across scheduling, marketing, reports, client management, staff management, and more. Users describe the platform as "feature-rich" with substantial capabilities once you learn the system.
Training Requirements Most studio owners report a moderate learning curve, particularly when setting up automated marketing campaigns, configuring loyalty programs, or customizing complex pricing structures. The platform provides video tutorials, a knowledge base, and support resources to help users learn features. Staff typically need 1-2 weeks of regular use to feel comfortable with daily functions.
Mobile Experience WellnessLiving offers the Achieve Client App for members and the Elevate Staff App for business management. Users generally praise the client app for ease of booking and engagement. The staff app provides on-the-go management capabilities, though some users report that certain administrative functions work better on desktop.
Common User Feedback (from verified reviews on Capterra, GetApp, SoftwareAdvice): "Feature-rich platform with everything we need in one place" "Marketing automation saves us significant time" "Loyalty program helps with retention" "Branded app at reasonable cost compared to competitors" "Regular updates and new features" Critical: "Interface can feel cluttered with so many options" "Learning curve for less tech-savvy owners" "Occasional bugs and glitches disrupt operations" "Some clients report issues signing up for classes" "Customization options require time to configure properly" Interface Complexity: A recurring theme in reviews is that WellnessLiving offers extensive functionality but sometimes at the cost of intuitive navigation. Users who invest time in learning the platform generally praise its capabilities. Users seeking simple, quick implementation sometimes find it overwhelming.
Using fitDEGREE Day-to-Day fitDEGREE prioritizes intuitive daily operations. Studio owners consistently describe the interface as requiring minimal training, with most staff becoming comfortable within days. The platform focuses on making core tasks—checking clients into class, processing payments, viewing schedules, pulling basic reports—straightforward and quick.
Client App Experience Members praise the booking experience. The app shows your studio exclusively with no competing businesses appearing. Social features let clients see who else is attending class, connect with other members, and share experiences. Studio owners report this strengthens community and retention.
Studio-to-Client Communication The in-app announcement feature allows direct communication with membership without social media algorithm competition. Studio owners use this for last-minute schedule changes, special events, or community updates.
Common User Feedback (from verified reviews on Trustpilot, G2, Capterra): Positive: "Simplest booking software I've used in 11 years of studio ownership" "Clients actually love using the app, which was never true before" "Staff can handle most tasks without asking me" "Clean interface that doesn't overwhelm" "Customer support rep knows our studio and responds quickly" Critical: "Would like more built-in marketing automation" "Reporting is straightforward but not as customizable as other platforms" "Some features we don't use (social aspects) while missing others (retail tracking is basic)" Trade-off: If you need highly complex configurations, extensive retail management, or deep customization across every feature, fitDEGREE's simplicity means fewer options. If you prioritize daily operational ease over feature depth, fitDEGREE's focus serves that goal.
Scheduling & Client BookingWellnessLiving Class Scheduling WellnessLiving offers comprehensive scheduling with advanced features for complex operations:
Capabilities: Multi-location calendar management with cross-location booking Class series, workshops, and events scheduling Sophisticated waitlist automation with notifications Flexible pricing structures (by class type, instructor, location, time) Recurring bookings and appointment scheduling Staff scheduling with availability management Integration with Google Calendar Reserve with Google direct booking Multiple service types beyond fitness (appointments, treatments, etc.) Client Booking Experience: Clients can book through the WellnessLiving website, the Achieve Client App, your studio's website (via widget), Facebook integration, or directly through the WellnessLiving Explorer directory listing. The platform automatically sends confirmations and reminders via email and SMS.
Users generally praise the booking functionality, noting that clients find it convenient. Some reviewers mention occasional technical issues with booking flow for families or complex membership scenarios. The automated reminders significantly reduce no-shows according to user feedback.
Customization: WellnessLiving allows extensive customization of confirmation messages, reminder timing, cancellation policies, and booking windows. This flexibility accommodates specific studio policies but requires configuration time.
fitDEGREE Class Scheduling fitDEGREE focuses on straightforward scheduling without extensive configuration:
Capabilities: Simple class creation (recurring or one-time) Automatic capacity management Waitlist automation with notification Multi-location support (1-5 locations) Private session and one-on-one booking Event and workshop scheduling Filter by instructor or location Mobile app check-in Client Booking Experience: When clients open the fitDEGREE app, they see your studio exclusively. The booking flow is streamlined: browse schedule, select class, confirm booking. No competing studios appear. No marketplace navigation. No external directory listings.
Studio owners who switched from other platforms frequently cite improved client experience as their primary reason. When members find booking easy and intuitive, they book more frequently and require less support.
Customization: fitDEGREE provides essential customization for class descriptions, pricing, capacity, and policies. The platform doesn't offer deep customization of every booking parameter, prioritizing simplicity over flexibility.
Trade-off: WellnessLiving offers more sophisticated scheduling options including multiple service types, complex pricing rules, and extensive calendar management features. fitDEGREE offers simpler, more focused scheduling for class-based fitness businesses.
Pricing Structure ExplainedWellnessLiving Pricing Tiers (2026) WellnessLiving uses three-tier pricing with increasing features at higher levels:
Starter Plan: $99/month Client and staff management Class scheduling and online booking Waitlist management Basic reporting Email and SMS marketing tools Rewards program Mobile apps for staff and clients Events and inventory management Payment processing integration Email support
Business Plan: $199/month Everything in Starter Advanced marketing automation Review request automation Advanced reporting and analytics Enhanced loyalty program features Priority support
BusinessPro Plan: $349/month Everything in Business Custom-branded iOS and Android client app (included) Advanced customization options White-label features Premium support Additional integrations
Enterprise Plan: Custom Pricing Everything in BusinessPro Multi-location management (Enterprise Cloud) Dedicated account management Custom integrations Advanced security features Negotiated contract terms Additional Costs to Consider: Payment Processing Fees: WellnessLiving uses Paragon Payment Solutions as their integrated processor. Processing rates vary by contract and are not publicly disclosed. Some user reviews mention processing fees being higher than expected, with one reviewer noting their payment processor contact described Paragon's fees as "borderline predatory." Studios should carefully review processing contracts before committing.
Text Message Credits: SMS marketing uses a credit system. After included credits, additional SMS messages cost extra.
Custom Branded Website: Custom website development available as add-on service (pricing not publicly disclosed).
Video Integration (Zoom/FitVid): Additional monthly costs for video integration capabilities.
QUICK Setup Service: For faster onboarding with professional configuration assistance, available as paid add-on.
Data Migration: Two free data migrations included, additional migrations may incur costs.
fitDEGREE Pricing (2026) fitDEGREE uses flat-rate pricing with no tiers:
Standard Plan: $250/month
All features included (no limitations) Unlimited users and clients Scheduling and booking Payment processing integration Client management with profiles Staff management and permissions Payroll reporting All reporting and analytics Social features (member connections) Integration capabilities (ClassPass, LoopSpark, Mailchimp, etc.) Dedicated customer support rep No contract required (month-to-month)
Branded App Add-On: $150/month (Optional)
Custom-branded app on Apple App Store Custom-branded app on Google Play Store fitDEGREE handles publication fitDEGREE manages all updates Total with branded app: $400/month
New Studio Discount: $150/month (First 12 Months)
Available for brand-new studios in their first year Full feature access at discounted rate Month-to-month, no contract No Hidden Fees: No marketplace commissions No per-feature charges No setup fees No cancellation penalties No additional costs for features No annual contract Payment Processing: Completely Transparent Credit cards: 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction ACH bank transfers: $1 flat fee to studio, $0 to client Studios choose to absorb or pass fees to clients No monthly minimums No PCI compliance fees $20 chargeback fee Total Cost Comparison Example (Single Location Yoga Studio with 100 Members): WellnessLiving BusinessPro (needed for branded app): Monthly software: $349 First 3 months: $174.50/month (50% discount) Months 4-12: $349/month Year 1 total: $523.50 + ($349 × 9) = $3,664.50 Annual average: ~$305/month Payment processing: Variable (rates not disclosed, some users report higher than market rates) fitDEGREE with branded app: Monthly software: $400 ($250 base + $150 branded app) New studio first year: $250/month ($100 base + $150 app) Consistent cost year-round Payment processing: Transparent 2.9% + $0.30 credit card, $1 ACH Payment Processing CostsUnderstanding payment processing affects your cash flow directly. This section explains both platforms' models in plain language.
Credit Card Processing Basics (Review) When clients pay by credit card, processing companies charge fees to handle transactions. The market standard rate (set by Visa/Mastercard networks) is approximately 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction.
Example: A $100 membership payment incurs approximately $3.20 in processing fees (2.9% of $100 = $2.90, plus $0.30 fixed fee).
Studio owners have two options:
Absorb the fee (you pay the $3.20, client pays $100)
Pass it to clients (client pays $103.20, labeled as "processing fee")
WellnessLiving Payment Processing WellnessLiving uses integrated payment processing through Paragon Payment Solutions:
Disclosed Information: Processing rates vary by contract and business Rates are not published on WellnessLiving's website Must negotiate during sales/onboarding process Studios report rates vary significantly User-Reported Experiences: According to verified reviews and BBB complaints:
Some studio owners report processing fees higher than standard market rates One SoftwareAdvice reviewer stated their payment processor professional reviewed the WellnessLiving/Paragon contract and described fees as "borderline predatory" Hidden fees mentioned including annual fees, monthly PCI compliance charges, and other costs not clearly disclosed upfront Several users express frustration with lack of transparency in processing costs Additional Payment-Related Considerations: Merchant services provided through Paragon Payment Solutions Cancellation of merchant services requires separate form submission beyond general account cancellation Several BBB complaints document continued merchant fees being charged after account cancellation because users weren't aware of separate merchant cancellation process Integration is convenient but creates dependency on WellnessLiving's chosen processor Important Note: When canceling WellnessLiving, you must submit a separate cancellation form to Paragon Payment Solutions to stop merchant processing fees. This is independent of canceling your WellnessLiving subscription. Multiple BBB complaints document users being charged merchant fees for months after canceling their main account because they weren't informed of this requirement.
fitDEGREE Payment Processing fitDEGREE uses transparent, market-rate processing through a third-party integration:
Credit Card Transactions: Rate: 2.9% + $0.30 per transactionApplies to: All card payments (swiped in-person, typed, or entered online/app)Studio's choice: Absorb fee or pass to client at checkoutACH Bank Transfer Transactions: Studio pays: $1 flat fee per transactionClient pays: $0 (no processing fee to member)Significant savings: For a $100 membership, ACH costs $1 vs. $3.20 for credit cardReal Cost Impact: Scenario: Studio with 100 monthly members paying $100/month
If all pay by credit card: Processing costs: $320/month ($3.20 × 100) Annual processing: $3,840 If 50% switch to ACH: Credit card costs (50 members): $160/month ACH costs (50 members): $50/month Total: $210/month Annual processing: $2,520 Annual savings: $1,320 Many fitDEGREE studios report 40-60% ACH adoption within 3-6 months. The platform makes ACH setup simple for clients, and members appreciate avoiding processing fees.
Additional Fees: Chargeback/retrieval: $20 flat Failed payment: $0 Monthly minimums: None PCI compliance: None Annual fees: None No hidden processing costs Key Advantage: Complete transparency. You know exactly what every transaction costs before processing. No surprise fees on monthly statements.
Onboarding & SupportHow software companies handle your transition and ongoing support often determines whether a switch feels worthwhile or regrettable.
WellnessLiving Onboarding Experience WellnessLiving's standard onboarding includes training and guidance, with paid options for more hands-on assistance:
Standard Onboarding (Included in All Plans):
Kick-off call with dedicated Onboarding Specialist Two 1-hour training sessions covering platform features Access to video tutorials and knowledge base Self-service configuration of business settings, pricing, schedules Email support during onboarding period QUICK Setup Service (Paid Add-On): Professional configuration assistance Collaborative setup of business settings, staff, services, products Faster implementation timeline More hands-on guidance through setup Data Migration: Two free data migrations included You export data from old system WellnessLiving imports into platform Additional migrations available for a fee User-Reported Experiences: Positive Reviews (Capterra, GetApp, SoftwareAdvice): "Onboarding specialist was thorough and professional" "Training sessions covered a lot of ground" "Video tutorials helpful for learning features after onboarding" "Knowledge base has good resources" Critical Reviews (common themes): "Onboarding felt rushed through many features without deep understanding" "Expected to do most configuration and setup ourselves" "Learning curve steeper than anticipated" "Still discovering features months after launch" "Would have benefited from more hands-on setup assistance" Timeline: Most studios report 2-4 weeks from first call to going live, depending on complexity and how quickly they complete self-service configuration tasks.
WellnessLiving Ongoing Support Support Availability: Email support (all plans) Phone support during business hours Priority support (higher tier plans) Live chat support Ticket submission system Extensive knowledge base with videos User-Reported Experiences: Positive Reviews: "Support team responsive when we reach them" "Eventually get answers to questions" "Knowledge base helpful for basic issues" "Phone support available during business hours" Critical Reviews (prevalent across review platforms): "Response times vary significantly—sometimes quick, sometimes days" "First-level support often doesn't have answers to complex questions" "Ticket system means different representatives each time" "Some issues go unresolved for extended periods" "Quality inconsistent depending on who responds" A GetApp analysis of 232 verified reviews found mixed support experiences: many users praised responsiveness and helpfulness, while others reported "delays, inefficiencies, slow responses, and inconsistent follow-through on resolving issues.
fitDEGREE Onboarding Experience fitDEGREE structures onboarding as "comprehensive onboarding" where they handle implementation work rather than teaching you to do it yourself:
Standard Onboarding Process (Included in All Plans): Week 1-2 Initial setup call (45-60 minutes)
Onboarding specialist maps your business model They build your class structure in the system They configure pricing and packages They set up staff accounts with appropriate permissions You participate but don't do manual work Week 2-3 Follow-up and configuration call (45-60 minutes)
Review initial setup together Configure discounts and promotions Set up client account structure Walk through reporting and analytics Address questions from your initial exploration Week 3-4 Launch strategy call (45 minutes)
Final system verification Client communication plan Go-live checklist Post-launch support overview Dedicated Data Support Specialist assigned They handle export from old platform They clean and format data They import into fitDEGREE You verify accuracy but don't do manual work Timeline: Most studios go live within 3-4 weeks. Onboarding is flexible—if you need additional calls or more time, the team accommodates without additional fees.
User-Reported Experiences () "Switching software was less stressful than expected—they did most of the work" "Onboarding specialist understood studio operations, not just software features" "Didn't feel rushed or overwhelmed" "Operational faster than anticipated" "Data transfer happened without me manually moving information" fitDEGREE Ongoing Support Support Model: Dedicated customer care representative assigned to your studio
How It Works: You have a direct contact (real person, not ticket queue)
They know your studio and previous interactions
Video call support for complex issues (screen sharing)
Response within hours during business hours
Resolution often happens same day
User-Reported Experiences: "I email my rep and get response within hours" "They jump on Zoom calls to solve problems in real-time" "Never felt like I was starting from scratch explaining my issue" "Support treats us like partners, not ticket numbers" "Personal relationship makes asking questions comfortable" Trade-off: fitDEGREE support is business hours only (not 24/7). However, studio owners report that response quality and resolution speed during available hours compensate for limited hours.
Best Fit StudiosWellnessLiving Makes Sense For: Growing Businesses Seeking Comprehensive Features If you want extensive built-in capabilities for marketing automation, loyalty programs, advanced reporting, and retail management without needing multiple separate tools, WellnessLiving provides that breadth.
Studios Comfortable with Technology Businesses with owners or staff comfortable learning complex software and investing time in configuration to leverage extensive features.
Multi-Service Wellness Businesses Studios offering diverse services beyond group fitness classes—appointments, treatments, retail, workshops, events—benefit from WellnessLiving's flexibility across service types.
Multi-Location Operations (3-10+ Locations) Studios with multiple locations needing centralized management, cross-location reporting, and the Enterprise Cloud benefit from WellnessLiving's infrastructure.
Budget-Conscious Operations Willing to Self-Implement At $99/month (Starter plan), WellnessLiving is affordable if you're willing to handle setup and configuration yourself and don't need a branded app.
Studios Prioritizing Marketing Automation Businesses wanting built-in email campaigns, SMS marketing, automated review requests, and loyalty rewards without external integrations.
International Studios WellnessLiving serves businesses globally, not limited to US/Canada like fitDEGREE.
Businesses Seeking Lower Entry Price The $99/month entry point is lower than fitDEGREE's $250/month, though feature parity requires higher tiers.
fitDEGREE Makes Sense For: Independent Boutique Fitness Studios Single-owner operations focused on yoga, Pilates, barre, or group fitness in the United States or Canada.
Studios with 1-5 Locations Small multi-location operators who need centralized management without enterprise complexity.
Owner-Operators Teaching Classes If you teach classes yourself, manage a team of 1-10 instructors, and handle business decisions, fitDEGREE's design reflects that structure.
Studios Prioritizing Simplicity Over Feature Breadth Businesses wanting reliable core functionality (scheduling, payments, basic client management) without overwhelming options.
Client Experience as Top Priority Studios whose members struggled with booking complexity on other platforms and where excellent app experience affects retention.
Desire for Dedicated Support Relationship Owners wanting a consistent support contact who knows their business rather than general ticket queues.
Predictable, Transparent Pricing Preference Studios valuing flat monthly costs with no hidden fees, tiers, or surprise charges.
Integration Strategy Comfort Businesses comfortable using specialized external tools (LoopSpark for marketing, Perkville for loyalty) rather than built-in generic features.
No Technical Staff Available Owner-operators without IT personnel who need responsive, relationship-based support when issues arise.
Not a Good Fit For When WellnessLiving Isn't Right: Studios Seeking Ultimate Simplicity If you want the absolute simplest interface with minimal options and straightforward daily operations, WellnessLiving's feature breadth creates more complexity than needed.
Processing Fee Transparency Priority Studios requiring completely transparent, published processing rates disclosed upfront will find WellnessLiving's variable, undisclosed processing fees frustrating.
Aversion to Annual Contracts If you're uncomfortable with 12-month commitments or have concerns about contract terms, WellnessLiving's required first-year contract may not suit you.
Very Small Studios on Tight Budgets Needing Branded App While the $99/month entry is affordable, if you need a branded app (included only in BusinessPro at $349/month), the cost rivals more expensive platforms.
Studios Requiring Dedicated Support Representatives If you need a consistent support contact who knows your business, WellnessLiving's ticket-based system with different representatives may not provide that relationship.
Need for US-Only Focused Platform If you specifically want a platform built exclusively for boutique fitness in the US/Canada market, WellnessLiving's global wellness focus is broader than needed.
When fitDEGREE Isn't Right: Businesses Outside Boutique Fitness Spas, salons, massage practices, personal training businesses, or wellness centers offering primarily appointments rather than classes won't find fitDEGREE's specialized features appropriate.
Location Outside US/Canada fitDEGREE currently serves only studios in the United States and Canada. International businesses need alternatives.
Large Multi-Location Operations (10+ Locations) Enterprise operations or franchises with numerous locations would likely outgrow fitDEGREE's designed capacity.
Need for Built-in Marketing Automation Studios wanting sophisticated marketing automation, email campaigns, SMS workflows, and loyalty programs built directly into primary platform rather than through integrations.
Comprehensive Retail Management Needs Businesses with significant retail operations requiring advanced inventory tracking, retail analytics, and POS features beyond basic tracking.
Lower Monthly Budget (<$100/month) If you need to stay under $100/month, WellnessLiving's Starter plan at $99/month is more affordable than fitDEGREE's $150/month.
Complex Multi-Service Business Model Studios offering diverse services beyond group fitness (treatments, appointments, spa services, personal training) benefit from WellnessLiving's flexibility across service types.
Preference for Built-in Everything If you strongly prefer all functionality built directly into primary platform rather than integrating external specialized tools.
Frequently Asked QuestionsGeneral Comparison Questions Q: Which platform is easier to use for non-technical studio owners? A: fitDEGREE receives more consistent feedback about simplicity and ease of use. Most users report feeling comfortable within days. WellnessLiving offers more features but comes with a steeper learning curve, with users reporting 1-2 weeks before feeling competent with basic functions.
Q: Can I switch from WellnessLiving to fitDEGREE (or vice versa)? A: Yes. fitDEGREE's onboarding team handles data transfer including client profiles, class history, and membership information. When switching to WellnessLiving, you typically export data yourself and they import it (two free migrations included). Both transitions are possible but require coordination.
Q: Which platform has better client reviews overall? A: fitDEGREE: 4.7/5 on GetApp (19 reviews), 4/5 on Trustpilot (179 reviews). Client experience consistently cited as primary strength.
WellnessLiving: 4.3/5 on Capterra (hundreds of reviews), 4.3/5 on GetApp. Praised for comprehensive features, criticized for complexity and mixed support experiences.Both platforms have positive overall reviews, but fitDEGREE receives more consistent praise specifically for simplicity and client app experience, while WellnessLiving receives more praise for feature breadth.
Q: How long does implementation take with each platform? A: fitDEGREE: 3-4 weeks from first call to going live. They handle most implementation work.
WellnessLiving: 2-4 weeks typical, but varies based on complexity and how quickly you complete self-service configuration. More hands-on implementation from studio owner's side.
Pricing & Cost Questions Q: What's the real monthly cost difference for a single-location studio? For basic functionality without branded app:
fitDEGREE: $150/month (all features, no contract)WellnessLiving Starter: $99/month (first 3 months ~$50 with discount, then $99)For full functionality with branded app:
fitDEGREE: $300/month ($150 base + $150 app)WellnessLiving BusinessPro: $349/month (first 3 months ~$175 with discount, then $349)For new studios in first year:
fitDEGREE: $250/month with branded app ($100 base + $150 app)WellnessLiving: Same pricing as aboveQ: Are processing fees really that different between platforms? A: Processing fee transparency differs significantly:
fitDEGREE: Completely transparent. 2.9% + $0.30 for all credit cards, $1 for ACH. You know exact costs before processing.WellnessLiving: Uses Paragon Payment Solutions with undisclosed rates that vary by contract. Some users report fees higher than standard market rates. One reviewer's payment processor professional described fees as "borderline predatory.The lack of transparency makes it difficult to predict true costs with WellnessLiving. Studios should carefully review actual processing contracts before committing.
Q: What about hidden fees with each platform? fitDEGREE Hidden Fees: None. All costs disclosed upfront.
WellnessLiving Potential Hidden Costs:
Processing fees (not disclosed upfront, vary by contract) SMS message credits beyond included amount Video integration add-ons (Zoom/FitVid) QUICK Setup service for hands-on onboarding Additional data migrations beyond two free Some users report unexpected annual fees and PCI compliance charges through merchant processor Q: Can I cancel either platform without penalties? fitDEGREE: Month-to-month, cancel anytime, no penalties.
WellnessLiving: 12-month contract required for first year. Several BBB complaints document difficulty canceling and confusion about contract terms. Additionally, you must submit separate cancellation form to Paragon (merchant processor) or continue being charged merchant fees even after canceling main subscription.
Feature & Functionality Questions Q: Which has better built-in marketing automation? A: WellnessLiving has more comprehensive built-in marketing automation including email campaigns, SMS marketing, automated review requests, loyalty rewards, and push notifications. These features are built into the platform at all plan levels.
fitDEGREE focuses on core studio management and integrates with LoopSpark (dedicated fitness CRM) for sophisticated marketing automation. This integration approach provides specialized tools but requires separate service.
If you want marketing automation built directly into your management platform, WellnessLiving is stronger. If you're comfortable with integrations and prefer specialized tools, fitDEGREE's approach works well.
Q: Can both platforms handle multi-location studios? A: WellnessLiving: Designed for multi-location with Enterprise Cloud offering centralized management, cross-location reporting, and unified dashboard. Handles 3-10+ locations effectively.
fitDEGREE: Handles 1-5 locations with centralized management. Practical for small multi-location operators but not designed for large-scale operations.For 3+ locations with growth plans beyond 5 locations, WellnessLiving's infrastructure scales better.
Q: Which platform has better mobile apps? A: Client-facing experience: Both receive generally positive reviews for client apps. fitDEGREE consistently praised for simplicity and social features. WellnessLiving's Achieve Client App praised for convenience and engagement features.
Business management apps: WellnessLiving's Elevate Staff App provides comprehensive business management on mobile. fitDEGREE's admin app handles core functions but some complex tasks easier on desktop.
Both platforms provide functional mobile experiences. fitDEGREE edges ahead on client app simplicity, while WellnessLiving offers more comprehensive staff management mobile capabilities.
Q: What about reporting and analytics capabilities? A: WellnessLiving offers extensive reporting across finances, attendance, staff performance, marketing campaign results, loyalty program metrics, and custom report creation. Advanced analytics available in higher tiers.
fitDEGREE provides focused reporting on key studio metrics: revenue, attendance, retention, class performance, instructor tracking. Reports are straightforward to generate but less customizable.
For businesses needing sophisticated analytics across multiple dimensions, WellnessLiving provides more depth. For studios needing clear KPIs without complex report building, fitDEGREE's simplicity suffices.
Support & Technical Questions Q: What if I have a problem at 9 PM? A: WellnessLiving: Support available via email ticket submission anytime. Phone support during business hours. Response times vary according to reviews.
fitDEGREE: Business hours support only. Email support with next-business-day response for after-hours issues. However, users report faster resolution during available hours due to dedicated rep model.
Neither offers true 24/7 live support. For after-hours emergencies, both rely on email/ticket systems.
Q: How hands-on is onboarding with each platform? A: fitDEGREE: They do the implementation work. You participate in 3-6 calls but don't handle manual data entry, configuration, or setup. Data transfer handled by their specialist.
WellnessLiving: Standard onboarding includes training on how to use the platform, but you handle most configuration and data migration yourself. Two training sessions included. More hands-on option (QUICK Setup) available as paid add-on.
fitDEGREE's onboarding is more concierge-style. WellnessLiving's is more DIY with guidance.
Q: What happens months after launch when I need help? A: fitDEGREE: Same dedicated rep who onboarded you remains your contact. They know your business and history.
WellnessLiving: Submit support ticket or call general support. Different representatives each time. Must re-explain context and setup with each contact.
For businesses valuing support relationship continuity, fitDEGREE's model provides more consistency.
Decision-Making Questions Q: I'm a brand new studio—which should I choose? A: Consider fitDEGREE if: You want simplicity while learning to run a studio ($100/month first year), dedicated support relationship, and straightforward operations.
Consider WellnessLiving if: You want built-in marketing automation from day one, are comfortable learning complex software, and want lowest possible entry cost ($99/month, though 3-month discount makes first quarter ~$150 total).
Both serve new studios well. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize simplicity (fitDEGREE) or built-in feature breadth (WellnessLiving).
Q: I currently have 2 locations and plan to grow to 6-8 locations—which scales better? A: WellnessLiving is better positioned for that growth trajectory. The Enterprise Cloud is designed specifically for multi-location management and scales to 10+ locations effectively.
fitDEGREE is designed for 1-5 locations. If you plan significant expansion beyond 5 locations, you'll likely need to migrate to enterprise software eventually.
Q: My clients constantly complain that booking is confusing—will switching help? A: Client experience is fitDEGREE's most-cited strength. Studios switching specifically for client experience report significant improvement in booking frequency and reduced support questions.WellnessLiving also receives positive feedback for client booking experience, though some users mention occasional technical issues or complexity with family booking flows.
If client booking confusion is your primary pain point and you want the simplest possible experience, fitDEGREE's streamlined approach typically resolves this.
Q: I need sophisticated marketing automation—which is better? A: WellnessLiving provides more comprehensive built-in marketing automation including email campaigns, SMS marketing, automated review requests, loyalty rewards programs, and push notifications. These tools are integrated directly into the platform.
fitDEGREE integrates with LoopSpark (specialized fitness CRM) for advanced marketing automation. This approach provides specialized tools but requires separate service and integration management.
For studios wanting marketing automation built into their primary platform without external dependencies, WellnessLiving is the stronger choice.
Q: Which platform is more affordable for a single-location studio? It depends on what features you need:
Without branded app:
WellnessLiving Starter ($99/month) is more affordable fitDEGREE ($150/month) costs $51/month more but includes features that WellnessLiving gates to higher tiers With branded app:
fitDEGREE ($300/month total) is more affordable WellnessLiving BusinessPro ($349/month) costs $49/month more Plus processing fees: fitDEGREE's transparent processing (especially ACH advantage) often saves more money than the software price difference, particularly for studios encouraging ACH adoption.
Making Your Decision: Final GuidanceThe right studio management software depends on your operational reality, priorities, and what tradeoffs you're willing to accept.
Choose WellnessLiving If You: Want comprehensive built-in features for marketing, loyalty, and advanced reporting without external integrations Are comfortable learning complex software and investing time in configuration Operate (or plan to operate) 3+ locations and need multi-location infrastructure Offer diverse services beyond group fitness classes (appointments, treatments, retail) Want the lowest possible entry price ($99/month) and are willing to handle setup yourself Are located internationally (not limited to US/Canada) Prefer built-in marketing automation over external integrations Can dedicate staff time to learning and managing feature-rich software Choose fitDEGREE If You: Own an independent boutique fitness studio (yoga, Pilates, barre, group fitness) Operate 1-5 locations in the United States or Canada Prioritize daily operational simplicity over comprehensive feature sets Want excellent client app experience as a primary retention tool Value dedicated support relationship over ticket-based general support Prefer flat, transparent pricing with no hidden fees or annual contracts Are comfortable integrating specialized external tools (LoopSpark, Perkville) Need concierge-style onboarding where they handle implementation work Operate on tight margins where predictable costs and transparent processing fees matter The Core Philosophical Difference WellnessLiving believes your business software should provide comprehensive built-in tools across every business function from marketing to loyalty to analytics. This creates feature-richness and potential cost-effectiveness (everything in one platform) but also complexity and learning curve. It serves growing wellness businesses that need that breadth.
fitDEGREE believes your business software should do core studio management exceptionally well and integrate with best-in-class external specialists for advanced functions. This creates simplicity and predictability but less built-in comprehensiveness and more integration dependencies. It serves independent operators who want straightforward systems.
Neither platform is universally "better." They're built for different operators with different priorities.
Final Questions to Ask Yourself: Feature breadth vs. simplicity: Do I want comprehensive built-in features (WellnessLiving) or focused core features with integrations (fitDEGREE)?
Technical comfort: Am I comfortable learning complex software with many options, or do I need simple, straightforward operations?
Support style: Do I want dedicated support rep who knows my business, or am I comfortable with ticket-based general support?
Location count: Do I operate (or plan to operate within 2 years) more than 5 locations?
Pricing predictability: Can I absorb potential hidden processing fees and cost variability, or do I need flat transparent pricing?
Contract comfort: Am I comfortable with 12-month commitment, or do I need month-to-month flexibility?
If you can answer these questions honestly, you know which platform aligns with your studio's needs.
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