How Ryan built Classified Fitness with Zen Planner’s advanced gym management software

Business Growth
By Mike Wuest
PublishedNov 13, 2025
Ryan Wheeler, owner of Classified Fitness, discusses how Zen Planner’s gym management software helps automate gym operations.

A partnership built from day one 

Since opening in 2017, Classified Fitness, a CrossFit affiliate based in Yuba City, California, has relied on Zen Planner’s advanced gym management software to manage every aspect of its business operations.  

Owner Ryan Wheeler adopted the platform from the start, and it’s been integral to how he runs and grows his community.

Ryan Wheeler
“The biggest thing we have is being able to track attendance for our members and build our milestones based on that.”

Ryan Wheeler

Owner, CrossFit Classified Fitness

From automating attendance reports to celebrating personal milestones, Zen Planner supports the gym’s mission to deliver a consistent and personalized experience that keeps members engaged and motivated.

Automating engagement with data-driven tools

For Ryan, Zen Planner’s ability to turn data into action is what sets it apart. Each week, his team uses the dashboard and custom reports to track member attendance patterns, especially for those who haven’t shown up for three or ten days.

Ryan Wheeler
“I can pull those up as individual reports, create a link, and post it in a Google Doc. As soon as I click that link, it takes me right to the report that’s fresh and ready to go.”

Ryan Wheeler

Owner, CrossFit Classified Fitness

This automation saves valuable time and the advanced gym management software ensures no member slips through the cracks. It’s not just about efficiency. It’s about maintaining relationships and keeping members accountable on their fitness journey. 

Celebrating milestones and birthdays with ease

A member of Classified Fitness at Yuba city celebrating a milestone of completing 500 classes at the gym.

At CrossFit Classified Fitness, recognition is a cornerstone of community. Zen Planner helps the team celebrate members’ achievements, whether it’s 250 or 500 classes completed or an upcoming birthday.

Ryan Wheeler
“We know when a birthday is coming up three days in advance. That way we can get a card ready, post about it in our newsletter, or just make sure we acknowledge them.”

Ryan Wheeler

Owner, CrossFit Classified Fitness

Through simple automations and easy access to data, the gym has built a reliable system to celebrate members consistently and reinforce the sense of belonging that keeps people coming back.

Empowering members with easy scheduling and tracking

Zen Planner isn’t just for owners and coaches but for members’ benefit, too. The mobile app allows them to reserve classes, view schedules, and log workouts effortlessly.

Ryan Wheeler
“Our members like that they can bring up the schedule and reserve class.”

Ryan Wheeler

Owner, CrossFit Classified Fitness

This simplicity empowers members to stay organized and track progress while giving coaches the insights they need to deliver better, more personalized sessions. 

Building a community-first gym experience

The culture-driven community of the CrossFit Classified Fitness gym in Yuba city.

For Ryan, success goes beyond software features. It’s about creating a gym culture where members feel seen, supported, and inspired. 

Ryan Wheeler
“For most affiliate owners, I would say create a class experience that nobody wants to ever leave. Keep it simple, keep it fun, and help people get results because that’s the whole point.”

Ryan Wheeler

Owner, CrossFit Classified Fitness

With Zen Planner‘s advanced gym management software handling all the behind-the-scenes operations, Ryan and his team can focus on what matters most: helping members thrive both inside and outside the gym. 

Zen Planner: powering fitness communities

From attendance tracking and milestone recognition to automated engagement and reporting, Zen Planner gives gym owners the tools to simplify operations, enhance member retention, and strengthen community bonds.

At Classified Fitness, beyond being a software, Zen Planner is the foundation for a culture of consistency, accountability, and celebration.

Ready to strengthen your gym community?

Join thousands of fitness business owners like Ryan Wheeler who trust Zen Planner to streamline operations and build stronger member connections.

Book a demo today and see how Zen Planner can power your gym’s growth and community engagement.

Switching is Simple

Move your gym to Zen Planner without the headaches

Step 1

Meet your specialist

We map out your gym or studio's setup and handle the details for you.

Step 2

Your data moves seamlessly

We migrate everything behind the scenes with no lost payments or member disruption.

Step 3

Launch with confidence

Your system is set up, your staff is trained, and your fitness studio management software runs smoothly from day one.