Gym business plan
Plan your gym or personal training studio section by section — concept, memberships, location and numbers — and download a clean plan. Free, in your browser, no sign-up.
A gym has high fixed costs and earns its money from members who keep paying month after month. Lenders want to see how many members you need, how fast you get them and how you keep them. The prompts below are tailored for gyms and training studios.
Tips for a plan that convinces
- Know how many paying members you need to break even before you sign a lease.
- Plan for cancellations: the members you keep matter as much as the ones you sign up.
- Start with a clear concept; trying to be everything for everyone is expensive.
Gym start-up costs
Put an amount you can back up next to each item:
- Fit-out of the premises: floors, showers, changing rooms and ventilation
- Training equipment (bought or leased) and a maintenance contract
- Access control, membership software and payment collection
- Insurance, professional advice and permits
- Marketing and a pre-sale campaign before opening
- Working capital until enough members are paying
Rules and insurance
In most countries you do not need a gym licence, but the premises must be allowed to be used as a gym (planning use), and fire and safety rules apply. Public liability insurance is essential, and trainers need professional cover. Some countries require qualifications for paid coaching: check with the local authority before you hire.
Key figures your plan needs
- Average membership fee per month
- Members needed to break even
- New members per month and monthly cancellation rate
- Rent and staff costs per month
- Extra income per member (personal training, classes, drinks)
More business plan templates
Frequently asked questions
What should a gym business plan include?
Your concept and memberships, a local market analysis, your marketing and pre-sales, operations (staff, equipment, hours, safety), the team and a financial plan with fit-out costs, members needed and expected cancellations.
Do personal trainers need a qualification?
It depends on the country. In the UK there is no legal requirement, but insurers and gyms usually expect a recognised Level 3 qualification. In France paid coaching requires a recognised diploma and a professional card. Check the rules where you will work.
Is it free?
Yes, entirely in your browser with no account.