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What Is the Membership Basis?

2 min read Updated today

The Membership Basis is selected when creating each membership type.
It defines the underlying structure of the membership, including how it is billed, how long it runs, and how it ends.

Choosing the correct basis is important, as it determines how the membership behaves throughout its lifecycle. Consider which structure best suits the purpose of the membership you are creating.

Select Membership Basis under Settings > Membership Types > Add / Edit Membership > Membership Basis

Open-Ended Contract

A membership with no fixed end date
Members are charged on a recurring schedule (for example, weekly, fortnightly, or monthly)
The membership remains active until it is cancelled

Renewal-Based Contract

A membership with a defined term, such as 3 or 12 months
Members are usually billed automatically at the start of each renewal period
The membership can renew automatically (for example, monthly or annually) until cancelled
Commonly used for fixed-term memberships that still provide ongoing access

Preset Date Program

A short-term membership used for programs or challenges
Designed to start and end on specific, pre-defined dates
Typically not renewable

Add-On Program

An upgrade or add-on membership attached to an existing membership
Provides additional benefits such as extra classes, services, products, or access
Allows members to customise their membership without switching to a higher-tier plan
Usually carries an additional fee on top of the base membership

Charge per Visit

Members are charged each time they visit the club
No recurring membership fee applies
Commonly used for casual or infrequent visitors
Can also supplement standard memberships for pay-per-use access to specific services or facilities

Club Visit Pack

A prepaid bundle of club visits
Members purchase a set number of visits in advance
Visits can be used over time at the member’s discretion
Often used as a flexible option for casual members

Class and Booking Pack

A prepaid bundle of classes or services
Members pay upfront for a set number of bookings
Bookings can be used over time as needed
Provides casual access without committing to a recurring membership

Trial Membership

A short-term trial membership for prospects
Expires after a set number of days
Cannot be renewed

Common Questions this Covers

What is the membership basis
How do I choose the right membership type for my club
What is the difference between open-ended and fixed-term memberships
How do class packs and visit packs work in GymMaster
What is the best membership type for trials or short-term programs