Kenko QR Check-Ins vs PATO

Kenko QR Check-Ins lets fitness-business members enter by scanning a unique QR code in the Kenko app. An iPad displays the code at a kiosk, and the member’s phone scans it, avoiding shared touchscreens and helping reduce front-desk queues. Each scan is automatically logged and timestamped, with attendance updated in real time across locations. Kenko presents the feature for Pilates, yoga, gyms, dance fitness, HIIT studios, and personal training businesses. Android, iOS, and web access are listed, along with attendance reports and multi-location support. The Premium plan includes a self check-in kiosk, while the Booking plan lists a check-in kiosk and access control. Pro costs $199 a month; Premium costs $399 a month. A 15-day free trial is available, but there is no free plan. Kenko reports TLS 1.2 communications, AES-256 encryption at rest, and SOC 2 audit certification.

PATO is an AI-first gym management system for owners and members, available on Android, iOS, and web. Members can use its AI to log meals, build training and meal plans, book classes, and ask billing questions. Food entries can be made by photo, text, voice, or label scan, with estimates matched against a catalogue of 11K+ verified foods. Coaching tools include 2.9K+ movements and a plan builder for programs from 2 to 24 weeks. PATO detects at-risk members and supports automated or drafted outreach, recording each send. Gyms connect their own Stripe or GoCardless account for card and direct debit payments; PATO says it takes no percentage of member payments, while gyms pay the processor directly. Access provides QR check-in, and Access Pro can control compatible smart locks, keypads, and card readers. Classes, Access, Access Pro, Shop, and Custom Gamification are add-ons rather than base-plan features. PATO says gym data is isolated at the database level and staff access is role-based. It stores customer data in Australia under New Zealand privacy obligations; its AI does not give medical advice and routes injury, pain, and medical questions to gym coaches.