nextGYM GmbH: Rolling Out New Studios in 5 Minutes Instead of 4 Hours
How WZ-IT moved nextGYM GmbH's staffless 24/7 studios from decentralized Raspberry Pi management to a central, sovereign remote-management and provisioning platform - new locations live in 5 minutes instead of 3 to 4 hours.
The Project in Brief
Client
nextGYM GmbH
Country
Germany (Leipzig)
Industry
Staffless 24/7 fitness studios (smart gyms)
Challenge
Decentralized per-studio Raspberry Pi devices, 3 to 4 hours of manual setup, individual SSH access, configuration drift and no central control
Solution
Central cloud dashboard with template-based provisioning, Node-RED IoT automation, RBAC and WireGuard mesh VPN
Result
New-studio setup from 3 to 4 hours down to 5 minutes (98 % faster), 100 % automated, monitored 24/7
The Challenge
nextGYM GmbH
nextGYM GmbH operates staffless smart-gym studios accessible around the clock. App check-in via QR code, online membership and self-service only work if the technology in every studio runs reliably. The original infrastructure was based on Raspberry Pi devices installed locally in each studio and maintained individually.
This decentralized architecture led to significant challenges: different configuration states, complex asset management, 3 to 4 hours of manual setup per studio and no central control. Scaling during expansion became increasingly difficult and security-critical.
Achieved Results
From 3 to 4 hours to just 5 minutes: deployment time for new studios reduced by 98 %.
100 % automation and 24/7 monitoring ensure maximum efficiency and reliability.
Staffless Studios Are the Fastest-Growing Segment
The German fitness market hit a record in 2025 with EUR 6.25bn net revenue (+7.4 %) and 12.36m members (+5.6 %) across 9,647 facilities. The strongest growth comes from the chain and smart-gym segment - exactly the staffless, small-footprint model nextGYM GmbH operates. Scaling that model requires no on-site staff, but technology that lets every location be provisioned, monitored and secured centrally.
The chain and smart-gym segment grows fastest according to Deloitte; roughly 186 additional smart-gym sites were added in the last year alone.
Several staffless-studio operators reach break-even within this window - with just 2 to 4 hours of operator time per week per site (BODYMEDIA).
fit+ alone opened 250+ studios in six years and targets more than 1,000 - scaling stands or falls with central remote operations.
That is where the IoT fleet-management market is heading by 2030 (~17 % CAGR, Grand View Research) - every unmanned location is a distributed edge node that must be managed centrally.
Sources: Deloitte / DSSV "German Fitness Market" 2025/2026, BODYMEDIA, Grand View Research.
From Manual Management to Fully Automated Cloud
Before: Decentralized Management
Deployment
3 to 4 hours of manual effort
Management
Individual SSH access per device
Configuration
Inconsistent across locations
After: Cloud-Based Automation
Deployment
5 minutes with one click
Management
Central dashboard for everything
Configuration
Unified templates
The Solution
Automated Provisioning
Cloud-init and automated scripts set up a new studio with one click - with no manual steps on site.
Central Management
One dashboard for all studios and devices - with a fleet overview and per-location detail view.
IoT Integration
Node-RED controls temperature, ventilation, lighting and other building systems per studio.
Template System
Node-RED configurations are bundled into reusable template packages that auto-deploy for every new studio - no configuration drift.
Secure Remote Access
Fine-grained RBAC, per-site firewall policies, SSO and WireGuard mesh VPN instead of exposed devices.
File Management & Backups
Integrated file browser for location-specific documents plus automated backups and disaster recovery.
One Central Control Plane for the Entire Studio Fleet
At the center sits a central, EU-hosted control plane: the management dashboard with provisioning, RBAC and asset administration. Each studio location is an edge node reachable only through an encrypted WireGuard mesh tunnel - no device is exposed to the open internet. New locations are rolled out from templates and operational within minutes.
Central dashboard, provisioning engine, RBAC, asset and credential management, file browser
Encrypted connectivity for each site with its own firewall policy - no exposed device
Per studio: edge device with deployed template and Node-RED IoT control
The Management Dashboard in Action
A custom-tailored dashboard perfectly adapted to customer requirements that fully automates repetitive tasks.
Dashboard Overview
Here you can see an overview of the various machines managed through the dashboard. In this example, a new machine 'Studio-3' is being deployed.
Templates for New Machines
The software is pre-configured via templates. Node-RED configurations can be combined into template packages that are automatically rolled out when creating new machines.
Detailed Machine Management
Standardized fields for all important data: credentials, configurations, information and notes - everything centrally in one place.
Integrated File Browser
Location-specific files can be stored and secured directly in the dashboard. All documents are exactly where they are needed.
User Management & Security
Fine-grained permission management with individual firewall policies, SSO services and mesh VPN support for maximum security.
Technologies Used
Open, EU-hosted building blocks - no hyperscaler lock-in.
WZ-IT: the Partner for Remote Management of Distributed Sites
Off-the-shelf remote support like TeamViewer or per-device licences do not solve the unmanned-site problem: they scale expensively per device, expose targets and provide neither role-based governance nor unified provisioning. Instead, WZ-IT builds a dedicated control plane where secure remote access, provisioning and audit are designed together from the start.
RBAC, Governance & Audit by Design
Fine-grained roles, central credential management and traceable access - a foundation for NIS2-era expectations when managing distributed sites and member data.
Secure Remote Access, Not Bolt-On
Every site is reachable through WireGuard mesh VPN with its own firewall policy - no exposed device, no per-device VPN client. "Reach a remote site safely" becomes a solved, standardized problem.
Sovereign, EU-Hosted, Open Source
Hetzner, Coolify, Docker, Node-RED, WireGuard and PostgreSQL keep data and infrastructure in the EU - with no hyperscaler lock-in. A concrete trust anchor for German and DACH operators.
One Platform for the Whole Site Lifecycle
Provision via templates, operate via dashboard and Node-RED, secure via RBAC, firewall, SSO and VPN, monitor 24/7 - one control plane instead of a toolbox.
nextGYM GmbH is served DACH-locally from Germany - the same remote-management expertise WZ-IT uses to run critical infrastructure in Australia (ABCO Water Systems / AB-View) from a DACH base.
How We Deliver This for You
What we built for nextGYM GmbH is available as a productized offering for any operator of distributed, unmanned sites.
Remote Management Platforms
Central site administration with secure remote access, RBAC and audit-grade logs - our productized offering.
View the platformSoftware Development
Custom software, dashboards and automation - from architecture concept to production operations.
Go to Software DevelopmentCase Study: AB-View (ABCO Water Systems)
The same remote-management thesis at critical-infrastructure grade: browser-based HMI access, WireGuard, roles and audit logging.
Read the case studyManaging Distributed Sites Centrally - Without On-Site Staff?
We build and operate remote-management and provisioning platforms for unmanned sites and IoT fleets - secure, sovereign, EU-hosted.
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“I got to know Timo and Robin as dedicated and professional partners who make a lot of things possible for their clients that initially seem impossible. I felt very well advised. The services offered have thoroughly convinced me. (translated)”
Andrea Pawlowski
Communications Manager, Golem.de
Golem.de - leading German IT news outlet.
“With Timo and Robin, you're not only on the safe side technically - you also get the best human support! Whether it's quick help in everyday life or complex IT solutions: the guys from WZ-IT think along with you, act quickly and speak a language you understand. The collaboration is uncomplicated, reliable and always on an equal footing. That makes IT fun - and above all: it works! Big thank you to the team! (translated)”
Sonja Aßer
Data Manager, ARGE
ARGE Neue Medien - master data & digital standards for plumbing and building technology.
“I recently worked with Timo and the WZ-IT team, and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best tech decisions I have made for my business. Right from the start, Timo took the time to walk me through every step in a simple and calm way. No matter how many questions I had, he never rushed me. The results speak for themselves. With WZ-IT, we reduced our monthly expenses from $1,300 down to $250. This was a huge win for us.”
Aleksandr Shuliko
CTO, EVA Real Estate, UAE
EVA Real Estate - leading real-estate agency in Dubai.
“WZ-IT manages our Proxmox cluster reliably and professionally. The team handles continuous monitoring and regular updates for us and responds very quickly to any issues or inquiries. They also configure new nodes, systems, and applications that we need to add to our cluster. With WZ-IT's proactive support, our cluster and the business-critical applications running on it remain stable, and high availability is consistently ensured. We value the professional collaboration and the noticeable relief it brings to our daily operations.”
Pascal Hakkers
Managing Director, Aphy B.V., Netherlands
Aphy - AI platform for hotel back-office.
“WZ-IT provided very competent support in implementing our server and virtualization infrastructure. As part of the project, a Proxmox-based virtualization environment was set up along with a virtual machine for our application systems. Additionally, a structured backup concept was implemented. A particular focus was on security: the setup of a VPN tunnel and the clean implementation of encryption and access concepts were professionally executed. The structured consulting as well as the reliable and swift implementation deserve special mention. We are very satisfied with the services provided and are happy to recommend WZ-IT.”
John Hellmerichs
Managing Director, AInergy GmbH
AInergy - consultancy for energy and facility management.
“We have had very good experiences with Mr. Wevelsiep and WZ-IT. The consultation was professional, clearly understandable, and at fair prices. The team not only implemented our requirements but also thought along and proactively. Instead of just processing individual tasks, they provided us with well-founded explanations that strengthened our own understanding. WZ-IT took a lot of pressure off us with their structured approach - that was exactly what we needed and is the reason why we keep coming back. (translated)”
Matthias Zimmermann
Managing Director, Annota GmbH
Annota - healthtech startup with an AI documentation assistant.
“Timo and Robin from WZ-IT set up a RocketChat server for us - and I couldn't be more satisfied! From the initial consultation to the final implementation, everything was absolutely professional, efficient, and to my complete satisfaction. I particularly appreciate the clear communication, transparent pricing, and the comprehensive expertise that both bring to the table. Even after the setup, they take care of the maintenance, which frees up my time enormously and allows me to focus on other important areas of my business - with the good feeling that our IT is in the best hands. I can recommend WZ-IT without reservation and look forward to continuing our collaboration! (translated)”
Sebastian Maier
Managing Director, Yonju GmbH
Yonju - business coaching and AI products.
“Counting on WZ-IT team was crucial, their expertise and solutions gave us the pace to deploy in production our services, even suggesting and performing improvements over our configuration and setup. We expect to keep counting on them for continuous maintenance of our services and implementation of new solutions.”
Gabriel Sanz Señor
Managing Director, Odiseo Solutions
Odiseo Solutions - software engineering for the space industry.
“I got to know Timo and Robin as dedicated and professional partners who make a lot of things possible for their clients that initially seem impossible. I felt very well advised. The services offered have thoroughly convinced me. (translated)”
Andrea Pawlowski
Communications Manager, Golem.de
Golem.de - leading German IT news outlet.
“With Timo and Robin, you're not only on the safe side technically - you also get the best human support! Whether it's quick help in everyday life or complex IT solutions: the guys from WZ-IT think along with you, act quickly and speak a language you understand. The collaboration is uncomplicated, reliable and always on an equal footing. That makes IT fun - and above all: it works! Big thank you to the team! (translated)”
Sonja Aßer
Data Manager, ARGE
ARGE Neue Medien - master data & digital standards for plumbing and building technology.
“I recently worked with Timo and the WZ-IT team, and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best tech decisions I have made for my business. Right from the start, Timo took the time to walk me through every step in a simple and calm way. No matter how many questions I had, he never rushed me. The results speak for themselves. With WZ-IT, we reduced our monthly expenses from $1,300 down to $250. This was a huge win for us.”
Aleksandr Shuliko
CTO, EVA Real Estate, UAE
EVA Real Estate - leading real-estate agency in Dubai.
“WZ-IT manages our Proxmox cluster reliably and professionally. The team handles continuous monitoring and regular updates for us and responds very quickly to any issues or inquiries. They also configure new nodes, systems, and applications that we need to add to our cluster. With WZ-IT's proactive support, our cluster and the business-critical applications running on it remain stable, and high availability is consistently ensured. We value the professional collaboration and the noticeable relief it brings to our daily operations.”
Pascal Hakkers
Managing Director, Aphy B.V., Netherlands
Aphy - AI platform for hotel back-office.
“WZ-IT provided very competent support in implementing our server and virtualization infrastructure. As part of the project, a Proxmox-based virtualization environment was set up along with a virtual machine for our application systems. Additionally, a structured backup concept was implemented. A particular focus was on security: the setup of a VPN tunnel and the clean implementation of encryption and access concepts were professionally executed. The structured consulting as well as the reliable and swift implementation deserve special mention. We are very satisfied with the services provided and are happy to recommend WZ-IT.”
John Hellmerichs
Managing Director, AInergy GmbH
AInergy - consultancy for energy and facility management.
“We have had very good experiences with Mr. Wevelsiep and WZ-IT. The consultation was professional, clearly understandable, and at fair prices. The team not only implemented our requirements but also thought along and proactively. Instead of just processing individual tasks, they provided us with well-founded explanations that strengthened our own understanding. WZ-IT took a lot of pressure off us with their structured approach - that was exactly what we needed and is the reason why we keep coming back. (translated)”
Matthias Zimmermann
Managing Director, Annota GmbH
Annota - healthtech startup with an AI documentation assistant.
“Timo and Robin from WZ-IT set up a RocketChat server for us - and I couldn't be more satisfied! From the initial consultation to the final implementation, everything was absolutely professional, efficient, and to my complete satisfaction. I particularly appreciate the clear communication, transparent pricing, and the comprehensive expertise that both bring to the table. Even after the setup, they take care of the maintenance, which frees up my time enormously and allows me to focus on other important areas of my business - with the good feeling that our IT is in the best hands. I can recommend WZ-IT without reservation and look forward to continuing our collaboration! (translated)”
Sebastian Maier
Managing Director, Yonju GmbH
Yonju - business coaching and AI products.
“Counting on WZ-IT team was crucial, their expertise and solutions gave us the pace to deploy in production our services, even suggesting and performing improvements over our configuration and setup. We expect to keep counting on them for continuous maintenance of our services and implementation of new solutions.”
Gabriel Sanz Señor
Managing Director, Odiseo Solutions
Odiseo Solutions - software engineering for the space industry.
“I got to know Timo and Robin as dedicated and professional partners who make a lot of things possible for their clients that initially seem impossible. I felt very well advised. The services offered have thoroughly convinced me. (translated)”
Andrea Pawlowski
Communications Manager, Golem.de
Golem.de - leading German IT news outlet.
“With Timo and Robin, you're not only on the safe side technically - you also get the best human support! Whether it's quick help in everyday life or complex IT solutions: the guys from WZ-IT think along with you, act quickly and speak a language you understand. The collaboration is uncomplicated, reliable and always on an equal footing. That makes IT fun - and above all: it works! Big thank you to the team! (translated)”
Sonja Aßer
Data Manager, ARGE
ARGE Neue Medien - master data & digital standards for plumbing and building technology.
“I recently worked with Timo and the WZ-IT team, and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best tech decisions I have made for my business. Right from the start, Timo took the time to walk me through every step in a simple and calm way. No matter how many questions I had, he never rushed me. The results speak for themselves. With WZ-IT, we reduced our monthly expenses from $1,300 down to $250. This was a huge win for us.”
Aleksandr Shuliko
CTO, EVA Real Estate, UAE
EVA Real Estate - leading real-estate agency in Dubai.
“WZ-IT manages our Proxmox cluster reliably and professionally. The team handles continuous monitoring and regular updates for us and responds very quickly to any issues or inquiries. They also configure new nodes, systems, and applications that we need to add to our cluster. With WZ-IT's proactive support, our cluster and the business-critical applications running on it remain stable, and high availability is consistently ensured. We value the professional collaboration and the noticeable relief it brings to our daily operations.”
Pascal Hakkers
Managing Director, Aphy B.V., Netherlands
Aphy - AI platform for hotel back-office.
“WZ-IT provided very competent support in implementing our server and virtualization infrastructure. As part of the project, a Proxmox-based virtualization environment was set up along with a virtual machine for our application systems. Additionally, a structured backup concept was implemented. A particular focus was on security: the setup of a VPN tunnel and the clean implementation of encryption and access concepts were professionally executed. The structured consulting as well as the reliable and swift implementation deserve special mention. We are very satisfied with the services provided and are happy to recommend WZ-IT.”
John Hellmerichs
Managing Director, AInergy GmbH
AInergy - consultancy for energy and facility management.
“We have had very good experiences with Mr. Wevelsiep and WZ-IT. The consultation was professional, clearly understandable, and at fair prices. The team not only implemented our requirements but also thought along and proactively. Instead of just processing individual tasks, they provided us with well-founded explanations that strengthened our own understanding. WZ-IT took a lot of pressure off us with their structured approach - that was exactly what we needed and is the reason why we keep coming back. (translated)”
Matthias Zimmermann
Managing Director, Annota GmbH
Annota - healthtech startup with an AI documentation assistant.
“Timo and Robin from WZ-IT set up a RocketChat server for us - and I couldn't be more satisfied! From the initial consultation to the final implementation, everything was absolutely professional, efficient, and to my complete satisfaction. I particularly appreciate the clear communication, transparent pricing, and the comprehensive expertise that both bring to the table. Even after the setup, they take care of the maintenance, which frees up my time enormously and allows me to focus on other important areas of my business - with the good feeling that our IT is in the best hands. I can recommend WZ-IT without reservation and look forward to continuing our collaboration! (translated)”
Sebastian Maier
Managing Director, Yonju GmbH
Yonju - business coaching and AI products.
“Counting on WZ-IT team was crucial, their expertise and solutions gave us the pace to deploy in production our services, even suggesting and performing improvements over our configuration and setup. We expect to keep counting on them for continuous maintenance of our services and implementation of new solutions.”
Gabriel Sanz Señor
Managing Director, Odiseo Solutions
Odiseo Solutions - software engineering for the space industry.
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