Summary:

This fitDEGREE vs MarianaTek comparison breaks down which platform fits your studio and why. fitDEGREE is a $250/month flat-rate system built for independent boutique studios with 1-5 locations, featuring month-to-month terms, dedicated support reps, and transparent processing at 2.9% + $0.30 for cards and $1 for ACH. MarianaTek is a premium enterprise platform with custom-quoted pricing (reportedly $250-$485+/month including add-ons at $80-$100 per location), annual contracts, sophisticated pick-a-spot functionality for equipment-based classes, and comprehensive white-label customization for high-end boutique brands.

Last Updated:

January 7, 2026 | Independent Studio Owner's Guide to Choosing Between fitDEGREE and MarianaTek

The Smart Way to Choose

Monthly Cost

Best For

Payment Processing

Pricing Transparency

Onboarding Duration

Support Model

Client App Cost

Contract Length

Feature Complexity

Target Market

$250 flat (all features)

Independent studios (1-5 locations)

2.9% + $0.30 (cards), $1 (ACH)

Fully disclosed upfront

3-4 weeks (they do the work)

Dedicated rep per studio

$150/month add-on (optional)

Month-to-month

Focused simplicity

US/Canada boutique fitness

Custom quoted, add-ons extra

Premium boutique brands & franchises

Stripe integrated (2.9% + $0.30)

Custom quotes, not publicly disclosed

5-8 weeks (structured training)

Team-based support (95% CSAT)

Included in base price (branded)

Typically annual

Comprehensive, sophisticated

Global premium studios

Contents

Who Each Platform Serves

Product Philosophy

Daily User Experience

Pricing Structure Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

Making Your Decision

Who Each Platform Serves

MarianaTek: Built for Premium Boutique Fitness Brands

MarianaTek (now Xplor MarianaTek) positions itself as premium boutique fitness software for studios that prioritize high-end, branded client experiences. The platform serves thousands of studios globally, from single locations to large multi-location brands and franchises.

MarianaTek's clients include premium studios like B/SPOKE, Neighborhood Barre, FlowCorps, and Pilates House—upscale brands focused on delivering polished, exclusive experiences. The platform was designed by fitness industry experts and former studio operators who understand the nuances of running high-end boutique operations.

Key Philosophy:

MarianaTek emphasizes being a partner in your studio journey, providing expert guidance from lease signing through grand opening to long-term scaling. 70% of MarianaTek clients migrated from another platform, attracted by the premium experience and sophisticated capabilities.

fitDEGREE: Purpose-Built for Independent Boutique Studios

fitDEGREE was created specifically for independent boutique fitness studio owners in the United States and Canada. The platform focuses exclusively on yoga, Pilates, barre, and group fitness businesses with one to five locations.

If you're an owner-operator who teaches classes, manages a small team, and handles business decisions yourself, fitDEGREE's design reflects that operational reality. Over 50% of fitDEGREE clients switched from MINDBODY, citing simplicity and client experience as primary reasons.

Key Philosophy:

fitDEGREE emphasizes predictable operations and transparent pricing over feature comprehensiveness. The platform aims to make daily tasks straightforward so you spend less time managing software and more time running your studio.

Key Difference:

MarianaTek serves premium boutique brands seeking sophisticated, customizable platforms with extensive capabilities. fitDEGREE serves independent operators seeking simple, predictable, transparent systems.

Product Philosophy

MarianaTek: Sophisticated Premium Experience

MarianaTek operates on a "premium-first" philosophy where the platform provides sophisticated tools for creating high-end branded experiences. The software includes:

Custom-branded iOS and Android apps (included, not add-on)
Pick-a-spot functionality for reformers, megaformers, and bikes
Advanced floor plan customization
Comprehensive client tagging and notes system
Goals, challenges, and milestone tracking
Built-in marketing automation
Robust data analytics and visualization
Enterprise-level reporting
Franchises and multi-location management
White-label customization throughout

MarianaTek invests heavily in creating a polished, modern look that represents premium brands well. The platform allows deep customization so your digital experience matches your in-studio brand identity.

User reports:
Studio owners consistently praise MarianaTek's "modern, polished look" and ability to deliver branded experiences. One studio reported 27.5% revenue increase and 30% check-in increase within a year of switching to MarianaTek.

Trade-off:

This sophistication comes with complexity. Setup requires more time, the learning curve is steeper, and pricing reflects premium positioning.

fitDEGREE: Focused Simplicity + Integration Strategy

fitDEGREE takes a "focused excellence" approach: provide stable, reliable core studio management and integrate with specialized external platforms for advanced functions.

Core focus areas:

Class scheduling and booking
Client management
Payment processing
Basic reporting
Staff management
Social features for community building

Integration strategy:

LoopSpark (CRM automation)
LenzVU (CRM automation)
GoHighLevel (CRM automation)
Perkville (loyalty programs)
Mailchimp (email marketing)
ClassPass (marketplace exposure)
Zapier (workflow automation)

Core focus areas:

Class scheduling and booking
Client management
Payment processing
Basic reporting
Staff management
Social features for community building

Integration strategy:

Class scheduling and booking
Client management
Payment processing
Basic reporting
Staff management
Social features for community building

This "best-of-breed" approach means using specialized tools for specialized tasks rather than comprehensive built-in features. Studio owners describe the platform as predictable and unintimidating.

Trade-off:

Less built-in sophistication, more dependencies on integrations, simpler customization options.

Key Difference:

MarianaTek builds sophisticated premium features internally. fitDEGREE builds focused features and integrates with specialists.

Daily User Experience

Using MarianaTek

MarianaTek's interface reflects its premium positioning with modern, clean design and sophisticated capabilities:

Scheduling

Advanced pick-a-spot functionality, custom floor plans, comprehensive class management

Reporting

Enterprise-level analytics, data visualization, customizable dashboards

Mobile Experience

MarianaTek Biz App for staff provides comprehensive on-the-go management. Client app is custom-branded and consistently praised for user experience. Over 90% of bookings happen through the app.

Client Management

Detailed tagging system, milestone tracking, injury notes, celebration features

Marketing:

Built-in automation, email/SMS campaigns, transactional messaging

Common Feedback (Capterra, SoftwareAdvice):

Positive:

"Modern, polished look that represents our brand perfectly"
"Pick-a-spot functionality clients love"
"Comprehensive data access and reporting"
"Branded app without competitors showing"
"Expert onboarding team was fantastic"

Critical:

"Expensive compared to competitors"
"Add-ons cost $80-100 per location per month on top of base price"
"Some settings complicated for staff"
"Custom report creation costs extra"
"Would stay if more affordable"

Learning Curve:

Moderate. Most users report 1-2 weeks to feel comfortable with daily functions, longer for advanced features.

Using fitDEGREE

fitDEGREE prioritizes intuitive daily operations where core tasks—checking clients in, processing payments, viewing schedules, pulling reports—are straightforward and quick.

Scheduling

Simple class creation, capacity management, waitlist automation

Reporting

Focused KPIs (revenue, attendance, retention)

Client Management

Basic profiles, class history, purchase tracking

Marketing:

Members see who's attending, connect with each other

Common Feedback (Trustpilot, G2, Capterra):

Positive:

"Simplest booking software in 11 years of studio ownership"
"Clients love using the app"
"Staff comfortable within days"
"Dedicated support rep knows our studio"
"Clean interface, not overwhelming"

Critical:

"Would like more built-in marketing automation"
"Reporting straightforward but not as customizable"
"Some features basic compared to enterprise platforms"

Key Difference:

MarianaTek offers sophisticated, comprehensive features with steeper learning curve. fitDEGREE offers focused, simple features with minimal training needed.

Pricing Structure Explained

MarianaTek Pricing (2026)

MarianaTek uses custom quote pricing that is not publicly disclosed. Based on user reports and industry sources:

Estimated Base Pricing:

Single location: Depends on features and negotiation
Multi-location: Pricing scales per location
Branded iOS/Android apps: Included in base price
Critical Note: Many features require add-ons at additional cost

Reported Add-On Costs (from Capterra reviews):

Custom report creation: Significant additional cost
Advanced marketing features: May require upgrades

One Capterra reviewer stated

"And a lot of these offerings come at an extra cost. $80 per studio location per month for one thing. $100 per studio location per month for another. And that's on top of a price that is already the most expensive among their competitors."

Contract Terms:

Typically annual commitments
Custom negotiated terms
Onboarding: 5-8 weeks standard

Total Cost Predictability:

Difficult to estimate without custom quote. Add-ons can significantly increase monthly costs beyond base price.

Value Proposition:

Premium positioning means higher costs but sophisticated features, white-label customization, and enterprise capabilities.

fitDEGREE Pricing (2026)

fitDEGREE uses flat-rate transparent pricing:

Standard Plan:

$250/month

All features included (no tiers, no add-ons except branded app)
Unlimited users and clients
Complete scheduling, payments, client management
All reporting and analytics
Social features
Integration capabilities
Dedicated support rep
No contract (month-to-month)

Branded App Add-On:

$150/month (Optional)

Custom-branded iOS app
Custom-branded Android app
fitDEGREE handles publication and updates
Total with branded app: $400/month

New Studio Discount: $150/month (First 12 Months)

Brand-new studios in first year
Full feature access

Total Cost Predictability:

Complete. You know the exact monthly cost before signing up. No surprise add-ons or feature charges.

Payment Processing

MarianaTek Payment Processing

MarianaTek processes payments through Stripe integration:

Credit cards:
2.9% + $0.30 per transaction (standard Stripe rate)
Contactless payments:
Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay supported
PCI Level 1 certified
(highest security standard)
Saved payment information
for recurring billing

fitDEGREE Payment Processing

fitDEGREE uses transparent market-rate processing:

Credit cards:
2.9% + $0.30 per transaction
ACH bank transfers:
$1 studio fee, $0 client fee
Studio choice:
Absorb or pass card fees to clients

ACH Advantage:

For $100 membership, ACH costs $1 vs. $3.20 credit card—significant savings when members adopt ACH.

Key Difference:

Both use similar credit card rates. fitDEGREE's ACH advantage provides savings opportunity. MarianaTek's Stripe integration is well-regarded for reliability.

Onboarding & Support

MarianaTek Onboarding

Timeline: 5-8 weeks standard (can move faster if needed)

Process:

Dedicated onboarding team of industry experts
Individualized training and resources
Demo environment for practice
Custom app built during onboarding
Structured training program

User Experience (from reviews):

"Onboarding team was fantastic and thorough"
"Felt confident teaching staff"
"Hands-on approach appreciated"
"Expert guidance through entire process"

Data Migration:

70% of clients migrate from another platform. MarianaTek's team handles this transition.

Support:

Team-based support with 95% customer satisfaction score. Multiple reviewers praise support responsiveness.

fitDEGREE Onboarding

Timeline: 3-4 weeks standard

Process:

3-6 calls (45-60 minutes each)
They build your setup (classes, pricing, staff)
Data Support Specialist handles migration
You verify, don't do manual work
Launch strategy planning

User Experience (from reviews):

"Less stressful than expected—they did the work"
"Understood studio operations, not just software"
"Faster than anticipated"
"Data transfer seamless"

Support:

Small, tight-knit team with knowledge of your account. Video calls for complex issues. Email response within hours.

Key Difference:

MarianaTek provides structured expert training over longer timeframe. fitDEGREE provides concierge implementation with hands-on work.

Best Fit Studios

Choose MarianaTek If You:

Run a premium boutique brand prioritizing sophisticated, polished experiences

Need pick-a-spot functionality for reformers, megaformers, or bikes

Want comprehensive built-in features without external integrations

Operate or plan multi-location/franchise operations (3-20+ locations)

Have budget for premium software ($250-500+/month)

Value deep customization and white-label capabilities

Need enterprise-level reporting and data visualization

Want expert industry guidance from former studio operators

Serve high-end clientele expecting premium digital experiences

Choose fitDEGREE If You:

Own independent boutique studio (1-5 locations, US/Canada only)

Prioritize simplicity and ease of use over feature comprehensiveness

Want transparent, predictable pricing with no surprise costs

Need dedicated support relationship (one rep who knows your business)

Value quick implementation (3-4 weeks, minimal work from you)

Comfortable with integration strategy (LoopSpark, Perkville, etc.)

Operate on tighter margins where $150-300/month is the right range

Want pick-a-spot functionality for reformers, megaformers, or bikes

Want month-to-month flexibility (no annual contract)

Focus on class-based group fitness (not appointment-heavy)

Not a Good Fit For

MarianaTek Isn't Right If You:

Operate on very tight budgets (<$250/month for software)

Want completely transparent pricing disclosed upfront

Need the absolute simplest interface (minimal learning curve priority)

Prefer month-to-month flexibility over annual commitments

Want to avoid add-on costs for additional features

Don't need sophisticated pick-a-spot or custom floor plans

Operate single location with no growth plans

Uncomfortable with custom quote pricing models

fitDEGREE Isn't Right If You:

Run premium brand requiring sophisticated white-label customization

Need pick-a-spot functionality for equipment-based classes

Want all features built-in without external integrations

Operate 10+ locations or franchise operations

Located outside United States/Canada

Need enterprise-level reporting and data visualization

Want comprehensive built-in marketing automation

Serve appointment-heavy business (personal training focus)

Require advanced retail management capabilities

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which platform is more expensive?

A: MarianaTek's reported range ($179-$285+ base + $80-$200+ add-ons) typically totals $250-$485+/month. fitDEGREE is $150-$300/month total. However, value depends on what features you need—MarianaTek includes sophisticated capabilities that justify higher cost for premium brands.

Q: Which has better client app experience?

A: Both receive excellent client app reviews. MarianaTek's custom-branded apps are highly polished with pick-a-spot functionality clients love. fitDEGREE's app is praised for simplicity and social features. MarianaTek likely edges ahead for equipment-based studios needing spot selection.

Q: Can I get MarianaTek pricing without a sales call?

A: No. MarianaTek uses custom quote pricing not publicly disclosed. You must schedule demo/consultation for pricing. fitDEGREE displays all pricing on website ($250/month base, $150/month branded app add-on).

Q: Which onboards faster?

A: fitDEGREE (3-4 weeks) vs. MarianaTek (5-8 weeks). However, MarianaTek's longer onboarding includes more comprehensive training for their more complex platform.

Q: Do both handle multi-location studios?

A: Yes, but differently. MarianaTek is built for enterprise multi-location/franchise with sophisticated controls. fitDEGREE handles 1-5 locations. For 6+ locations, MarianaTek is better designed for that scale.

Q: Which has better reporting?

A: MarianaTek offers enterprise-level analytics and data visualization tools—significantly more sophisticated. fitDEGREE offers focused KPI reporting that's straightforward but less customizable. For data-driven premium brands, MarianaTek's reporting is superior.

Q: Can fitDEGREE clients do pick-a-spot for reformers?

A: No. Pick-a-spot functionality is MarianaTek's strength. fitDEGREE's scheduling is class-based without equipment spot selection. For Pilates reformer studios where clients choose machines, MarianaTek provides this capability.

Q: Which has better payment processing?

A: Both use similar credit card rates (2.9% + $0.30). MarianaTek uses Stripe (highly reliable, PCI Level 1). fitDEGREE offers ACH advantage ($1 vs $3.20 per $100 transaction) for cost-conscious studios.

Q: If I'm opening a single-location yoga studio on a budget, which should I choose?

A: fitDEGREE (3-4 weeks) vs. MarianaTek (5-8 weeks). However, MarianaTek's longer onboarding includes more comprehensive traiA: fitDEGREE likely better fits budget-conscious new studios ($100/month first year). If you're opening a premium-positioned yoga studio with higher pricing and want sophisticated branded experience from day one, MarianaTek may justify the investment.ning for their more complex platform.

Q: Which platform offers better support?

A: Both receive praise. MarianaTek: 95% CSAT with team-based support from industry experts. fitDEGREE: Dedicated rep per studio with personal relationship. Choose MarianaTek for expert industry guidance, fitDEGREE for consistent personal contact.

Making Your Decision

The Core Difference

MarianaTek believes premium boutique brands deserve premium software—sophisticated, customizable, comprehensive features that create polished digital experiences matching high-end in-studio experiences. This philosophy serves studios positioning themselves at the premium end of the market.

fitDEGREE believes independent studio owners need predictable, simple, transparent systems that work reliably without overwhelming complexity. This philosophy serves owner-operators who want software that stays out of the way.

Neither is universally "better"—they serve different operators with different priorities.

Final Self-Assessment Questions:

Brand positioning:

Am I a premium boutique brand with high-end pricing, or an accessible community-focused studio?

Budget:

Can I invest $250-500+/month for sophisticated software, or do I need $150-300/month predictability?

Feature needs:

Do I need pick-a-spot, advanced customization, enterprise reporting—or focused core features?

Location count:

Do I operate (or plan) 1-5 locations or 6-20+ locations?

Technical comfort:

Am I comfortable learning sophisticated software, or do I need absolute simplicity?

Pricing transparency:

Do I need costs disclosed upfront, or am I comfortable with custom quotes?

Answer these honestly, and you'll know which platform aligns with your studio's reality.

Ready to Explore Further ?

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Read Customer Reviews on Trustpilot

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Read Customer Reviews on Capterra

Last updated December 2025. Based on publicly available information, user reviews from verified platforms (Capterra, SoftwareAdvice, GetApp, Trustpilot, G2), and published information from both companies. Individual experiences may vary.

fitDEGREE vs MarianaTek
‍Complete 2026 Comparison for Boutique
Fitness Studio Owners

Studio scheduling
‍like it should be

Excellent

The Smart Way to Choose

Ready to Explore Further ?

Excellent

fitDEGREE vs MarianaTek‍Complete 2026 Comparison for Boutique Fitness Studio Owners

Studio scheduling ‍like it should be

Excellent

The Smart Way to Choose

Ready to Explore Further ?

fitDEGREE vs MarianaTek
‍Complete 2026 Comparison for Boutique
Fitness Studio Owners

Studio scheduling
‍like it should be