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The Boxonomist
Actionable strategies you can implement right now to grow your CrossFit gym.
Local Directories - The Secret Weapon To SEO
Good Morning Team!
This week we’re recommending that you make sure your gym is listed (and listed properly) on all possible local directories. Getting listed on free local directories like Yelp and Thumbtack can significantly boost your SEO (search engine optimization), making your box more discoverable to those searching for fitness options nearby.
Like we said a few weeks ago, don’t think of this as something people will see that makes them join. Think of it as something that Google sees, and therefore starts recommending you more.
Why Local Directories Boost Your SEO:
Local directories enhance your online presence by providing consistent business information across multiple platforms. This consistency helps search engines like Google trust and rank your gym higher in local search results. These directories often have high “domain authority”, meaning a listing can drive more traffic to your website and improve your overall SEO ranking. A huge part of SEO is backlinks from reputable sites.
Little stuff like this is annoying to set up, but you just need to do it once and it’s over with. The best time to have done this is 10 years ago, the next best time is now. The sooner you get these listings up, the sooner the SEO can start to build.
Action Steps:
Pick Local Directories: Focus on major platforms such as Yelp, Thumbtack, Bing Places, Waze, etc.
Create Complete Profiles: Fill out every section with accurate information—name, address, phone number, website, hours, and detailed descriptions. Having consistent info across these platforms boosts your SEO more.
Add Quality Photos: Upload high-resolution images showcasing your gym, classes, and community. Remember what we said about naming the photos!
Encourage Reviews: Ask satisfied members to leave positive reviews and respond to them to show engagement, but beware: Yelp is cracking down on reviews that weren’t actually procured through Yelp. Be careful and don’t do tons of them at once.
Monitor and Update: Regularly check your listings for accuracy and update them with new information. Don’t get suckered into paying for Yelp or Thumbtack ads just yet - we need to get your Google ads built up first which is much more valuable.
Top Directories to Sign Up For Based Off Location:
Google My Business (obviously)
Yelp
Bing Places
Thumbtack
Facebook Business
Local Chamber of Commerce Websites
Local News Websites
Start right by optimizing your profiles on these platforms and watch your gym’s visibility—and membership numbers—grow.
The Boxonomist Team
Last week we got a lot of replies asking if we recommend any specific SEO or Google ads agencies. If you’re busy being the face of your gym and don’t have time to learn all of this, the best group we can recommend is Hitchhike SEM. Email [email protected] - and tell him we sent ya!
Best business bank account we’ve found so far: Mercury