business plan sample for fitness center

Gym Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Gym Business Plan & Example

You’ve come to the right place to create a gym business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans and many have used them to start or grow their gyms.

Gym Business Plan Example

Use the example below as a template to write a gym business plan.

Executive Summary

Business overview.

Steven’s Gym is a startup locally owned gym located in El Paso, Texas. Steven’s Gym will include various exercise equipment, strength training equipment, free weights, aerobic equipment, and plenty of cardio equipment. The gym will also offer HIIT group classes, spin classes, strength training instruction, and personal training.

Located in an up and coming, newly developed, and highly trafficked area of town, Steven’s Gym will attract both men and women ages 16 to 75+. There is something for everyone at Steven’s Gym, whether someone is just beginning their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete and gymrat. The gym will have a welcoming atmosphere, experienced personal trainers, friendly staff, and frequently cleaned equipment and restrooms.

The membership options are affordable and will be offered on a month-to-month basis, a 6 or 12 month contract, or the ability to pay for an entire year upfront. Discounts will be offered to military, teachers, and healthcare workers.

Service Offering

The following are the services that Steven’s Gym will provide:

• Strength training equipment
• Cardio equipment
• Free weights/dumbbells
• Aerobic equipment
• HIIT group classes
• Strength training instruction

Customer Focus

Steven’s Gym will target all men and women ages 16 – 75+ who are interested in achieving and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. El Paso is a very diverse city that includes men and women from all walks of life. There are numerous blue collar individuals, white collar individuals, government employees, and military members as the local Army base is one of the largest in the country. Since Steven’s Gym will be very affordable, it will be able to attract people from all walks of life.

Management Team

Steven will manage the day-to-day tasks of running the gym. Steven will hire a gym manager to manage membership and three trainers. Steven will outsource a local CPA to handle payroll, accounting, and tax payments. He will also outsource a local advertising company to develop the gym’s logo, branding, photography, social media accounts, website, and billboard design.

Success Factors

Steven’s Gym will be able to achieve success by offering the following competitive advantages:

• Large, clean, and spacious fitness center that has all the necessary equipment for their fitness routine.
• Knowledgeable and friendly staff of trainers.
• Best value for membership pricing. The membership pricing options are affordable and offer military, teacher, and healthcare employee discounts.
• Convenient hours of operation.

Financial Plan Highlights

Steven’s Gym is seeking $300,000 in debt financing to begin operations of the business. The funding will be dedicated towards securing the warehouse space, gym build-out, and purchase of the equipment. Funding will also be dedicated towards three months of overhead costs to include payroll of the staff, rent, and working capital. The breakout of the funding is below:

• Securing warehouse space, gym build-out, and design: $25,000 to $125,000
• Gym equipment purchase: $50,000 to $100,000
• Three months of overhead expenses (payroll, rent, utilities): $15,000 to $55,000
• Marketing & advertising: $15,000
• Working capital: $10,000

Company Overview

Who is steven’s gym.

Steven’s Gym is a new, locally owned gym located in El Paso, Texas. Steven’s Gym will include strength training equipment, free weights, aerobic equipment, and plenty of cardio equipment. The gym will also offer fitness classes, strength training instruction, and personal training. Located in an up and coming, and highly trafficked area of town, Steven’s Gym will attract both men and women ages 16 to 75+. There is something for everyone at Steven’s Gym, whether someone is just beginning their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete and gymrat. The gym will have a welcoming atmosphere, experienced trainers, friendly staff, and frequently cleaned equipment and restrooms. The membership options are affordable and will be offered on a month-to-month basis, a 6 or 12 month contract, or the ability to pay for an entire year upfront. Discounts will be offered to military, teachers, and healthcare workers.

Steven’s Gym History

Steven’s Gym is owned by Steven Malone, a retired Army Master Sergeant who is also a seasoned powerlifter. Steven was stationed at El Paso’s Fort Bliss for many years before eventually retiring and deciding to stay in El Paso and embark on his dream of eventually owning his own gym. As a frequent gym goer, Steven recognized that El Paso lacks high quality independent gyms. The nicest and most equipped gyms in El Paso are large franchises that have too many rules and regulations. Steven envisioned a gym that was welcoming to all types of people that is encouraging, clean, and adequately equipped for those who are focused on sustaining an active, healthy lifestyle.

Since incorporation, Steven’s Gym has achieved the following milestones:

• Found a 10,000 square foot warehouse space for lease in El Paso, Texas that can easily be converted to a gym.
• Registered Steven’s Gym, LLC to do business in the State of Texas.
• Began the branding image, logo, website, and social media accounts for the gym.
• Began researching and pricing out equipment.

Steven’s Gym Services

The following will be the services Steven’s Gym will provide:

Industry Analysis

The Gym industry is expected to grow to an annual revenue of $38 billion in the next five years. This growth is likely a result of increased per capita disposable income, in addition to growing health-consciousness. As consumers’ disposable income levels rise, individuals are usually more willing to purchase gym memberships. Additionally, time spent on leisure and sports is expected to increase over the next five years, effectively increasing the potential pool of consumers.

During this period, demographic changes are expected to drive revenue growth for operators. In particular, as healthcare costs continue to escalate, health insurance providers may implement incentives to promote preventive health practices, including the use of fitness centers among individuals within their provider network. Additionally, initiatives that promote the health benefits of exercise will likely increase over the next five years, stimulating industry revenue.  

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

Steven’s Gym’s target audience will include all men and women ages 16 – 75+ who are interested in achieving and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle. El Paso is a very diverse city that includes men and women from all walks of life. There are numerous blue collar individuals, white collar individuals, government employees, and military members as the local Army base is one of the largest in the country. Since Steven’s Gym will be very affordable, it will be able to attract people from all walks of life.

Customer Segmentation

Steven’s Gym will primarily target the following customer profiles:

• High school and college students
• Locally-based Military
• Athletes who frequently train for fitness competitions

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Steven’s Gym will face competition from other companies with similar business profiles. A description of each competitor company is below. Gold’s Gym Gold’s Gym is a large franchise-owned gym with two locations in El Paso. Gold’s Gym gives access to everything one needs to transform their life: state-of-the-art amenities, a variety of fitness classes tailored towards someone’s fitness needs, and the world’s best trainers. There are weekly fitness classes for group workouts ranging from martial arts-inspired cardio classes to foundational yoga sessions. There are also certified trainers if someone is new to exercise or just looking for more guidance and coaching. Gold’s Gym’s amenities include cardio equipment, group exercise, personal training, a pro shop, sauna/steam rooms, group cycle, free weights, functional training, kids club, locker rooms, and wifi.

Planet Fitness Planet Fitness is for people from all walks of life, whether they’re a first-time gym user or a veteran member, they are there to provide a workout environment in which anyone and everyone can be comfortable. All Planet Fitness members enjoy unlimited access to their home club and the support of their friendly, knowledgeable staff anytime they need it. PF Black Club members receive additional benefits, including the ability to bring a guest for free and access to any of their 2,000+ PF locations. Also, the PF member can take advantage of their free fitness training or find motivation by reading real member experiences on Planet of Triumphs. The goal of Planet Fitness is to provide a clean, safe, welcoming environment for anyone who walks through the door, and all the equipment, amenities, and support they need once they arrive.

Anytime Fitness Anytime Fitness is a welcoming gym that exists to help someone get to a healthier place – by giving the right support at the right times, in the ways the member wants. Every member receives a free, personalized Get Started Plan when they join. Their friendly, professional staff is trained to help someone along their fitness journey, no matter how much support they need. Aside from a large selection of strength and cardio equipment, Anytime Fitness offers the following services – 24-hour access, 24-hour security, convenient parking, anywhere gym access, private restrooms, private showers, health plan discounts, wellness programs, cardio TVs, and HDTVs.

Competitive Advantage

Steven’s Gym will be able to offer the following advantages over their competition:

• Large, clean, and spacious facility that has all the necessary equipment for their fitness routine.

Marketing Plan

Brand & value proposition.

Steven’s Gym will offer the unique value proposition to its clientele:

• Large, clean, spacious, and well-equipped facility.
• Dedicated team of trainers.
• Affordable membership pricing plans.

Promotions Strategy

The promotions strategy for Steven’s Gym is as follows: Social Media Marketing Strategy Steven’s Gym will invest in advertising the gym on social media platforms Facebook and Instagram. By using targeted social media marketing, Steven’s Gym will be able to reach the appropriate target audience of El Paso. Before opening, Steven will hire an advertising agency to develop the branding and photography needed to create captivating social media posts.

Billboards Steven will invest in two billboards strategically located at busy intersections that receive thousands of traffic daily. The advertising agency will develop the print for the billboard design. Website/SEO Marketing Strategy Steven’s Gym will invest in a strong SEO presence so that when someone enters “El Paso gym” or “local gym near me” in their Google or Bing search bar, Steven’s Gym is at the top of the list. Their website will list all of Steven’s Gym’s services, location, pricing, and contact information. Word of Mouth Word quickly spreads around town and once a few people experience the clean, affordable, and professional staff at Steven’s Gym, more and more people will come in to see for themselves and sign up for a membership plan.

The pricing of Steven’s Gym will be moderate and on par with competitors so customers feel they receive value when purchasing their services.  

Operations Plan

The following will be the operations plan for Steven’s Gym.

Operation Functions:

• Steven Malone will be the sole gym owner and operator of Steven’s Gym. He will oversee the staff, maintain that the cleaning schedules are being enforced, and ensure that all equipment is working per standard and safely. He will also manage all ordering of new and replacement equipment, schedule the group HIIT classes, and daily management tasks.
• Steven will hire a gym manager to be in charge of members and member management.
• A team of three trainers will run all of the fitness classes. As the membership grows and clients require more attention, more trainers and fitness classes will be added.
• A local CPA will manage all high level accounting functions, such as payroll and tax payments.
• Steven will also hire an advertising agency to develop the gym’s branding, photography, website, social media accounts, and billboard design.

Milestones:

Steven’s Gym will have the following milestones completed in the next six months. 8/1/202X – Finalize contract to lease warehouse space. 8/15/202X – Begin build-out and design converting warehouse space into a functional gym. 9/1/202X – Hire advertising company to begin developing gym’s branding, logo, social media accounts, website, and billboard design. 9/15/202X – Order all equipment. 10/5/202X – Hire gym manager and team of personal trainers. 10/15/202X – Train staff on proper policies and procedures. 11/1/202X – Grand Opening of Steven’s Gym.  

Steven’s Gym will be solely owned by Steven Malone. Steven is a retired Army Master Sergeant who has been stationed off and on at El Paso’s Fort Bliss for the past twelve years. Upon retirement, Steven decided to make El Paso his permanent home and embark on his dream of owning his own gym. Steven recognizes the lack of quality, independent gyms in El Paso and wants to open a gym that fits his idea of what a high-quality gym should be.

As a former powerlifter and personal trainer while serving in the military, Steven is aware of the proper equipment and facilities a gym should have. Steven envisions his gym to be friendly, clean, well-equipped, and affordable for the average person so that people from all walks of life will feel comfortable going to the gym and achieving their fitness goals. Steven will dedicate his life and focus on ensuring that his gym is always clean, staffed with the best trainers, and members are happy with what the gym has to offer.  

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Steven’s Gym are the membership fees it will charge each person that signs up to become a member. Each member will be placed on a membership plan where they can either pay month to month, enroll in either a 6 or 12 month contract, or pay for the entire year upfront.

The cost drivers will be the payroll for the staff, rent, utilities, cleaning supplies and equipment, and gym equipment purchase and maintenance. Other cost drivers will be the targeted marketing costs on social media and monthly fees for the CPA and advertising company.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following outlines the key assumptions required in order to achieve the revenue and cost numbers in the financials and in order to pay off the startup business loan.

• Initial Number of New Clients per Month: 60
• Average Monthly Membership Fee: $150
• Gym Lease per Year: $100,000

Financial Projections

Income Statement

Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Gym Business Plan FAQs

What is a gym business plan.

A gym business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your gym. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing strategies and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your gym business plan using our gym business plan template here .

What Are the Main Types of Gyms?

There are many types of gyms or fitness centers. There are large, franchise gyms that have multiple locations across the country. There are also large single facility gyms. Finally, there are smaller gyms that tend to focus on a particular fitness segment, such as strength training, CrossFit, or group HIIT training.

What Are the Main Sources of Revenue and Expenses for a Gym Business?

The primary source of revenue for a gym or fitness center are membership fees. Typically, members pay month-to-month, or fulfill a year-long contract.

The key expenses for a gym or fitness center are the costs associated with payroll, purchase and maintenance of equipment, cleaning supplies, marketing costs, and working capital. Other expenses will be rent, utilities, taxes, accounts payable, and other licensing fees (if necessary).

How Do You Get Funding for Your Gym?

Gym businesses are most likely to secure funding from banks. Typically you will find a local bank and present your gym business plan to them. Family and/or friends could also be potential investors and other types of capital-raising such as crowdfunding are other common funding sources.

A well-crafted gym business plan, complete with a solid financial plan is essential for attracting any type of potential investor. This is true for a new gym business or established businesses looking to grow.

What are the Steps To Start a Gym Business?

Starting a gym or fitness center can be an exciting endeavor. Having a clear roadmap of the steps to start a business will help you stay focused on your goals and get started faster.

1. Write A Gym Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a solid gym business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include market research on the fitness industry and potential target market size, information on the services and/or products you will offer, marketing strategy, mission statement, business model and pricing strategy and a detailed financial plan.  Our business plan template is the perfect guide to show you how to start a gym business plan.

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your fitness   business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your gym business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Gym Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your gym business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your gym business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Gym Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your gym business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your gym or fitness   business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising to reach your target audience.

Learn more about how to start a successful gym or fitness business:

• How to Start a Gym Business

Where Can I Get a Gym Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free gym business plan template PDF here. This is a sample gym business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Other Business Plan Templates

Food Truck Business Plan Template Event Venue Business Plan Template

Gym and Fitness Center Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business ideas » Fitness and Wellness » Gym House

Are you about starting a gym or fitness center? If YES, here’s a complete sample gym or fitness center business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE .

Okay, so we have considered all the requirements for starting a gym/fitness center . We also took it further by analyzing and drafting a sample gym/fitness center marketing plan template backed up by actionable guerrilla marketing ideas for gym/fitness centers. So let’s proceed to the business planning section.

Suggested for You

• Gym and Fitness Center Marketing Plan [Sample Template]
• Yoga Studio Business Plan [Sample Template]
• How to Start a Gym Business With No Money
• 50 Catchy Fitness & Gym Business Name ideas
• Starting a Gym House – Licenses, Permits & Insurance

If you very much agree with the saying that goes ‘ health is wealth’, then you may also very well agree that one of the ways of staying healthy is by keeping fit and having a good BMI.

It is very important to not be complacent when the issue of staying fit comes to fore. This is one of the reasons why there has been the craze for fitness lately all over the globe. Those who are particular about staying fit know that it is a part of life

In the united states of America for instance; the rate at which folks get obese have continued to be an alarming thing. This is no thanks to the junk type of diet that these folks subject themselves to.

However, truth is that one can curb being obese and even totally eradicate those unwanted fats in the body by simply enrolling in a gym and eating healthy. This is one of the sole aims which those who are in the gym business try to pass across.

Starting a gym is a very interesting and profitable venture. This is because much more than wanting to help other people realize their weight goals, you also can keep and stay fit always. Below is a sample Gym business plan that you can effectively use to write yours.

A Sample Gym & Fitness Center Business Plan Template

1. Industry Overview

Gym business is gaining more grounds in recent times as it was in the 20th century. People are now more aware of the immeasurable benefits they stand to gain when they enroll in a gym. It is now obvious to a myriad of people that they can stay healthy, improve their lifestyle and live longer if they exercised regularly.

Statistics has it that there is a steady increase in the number of people that enroll in gyms and the fact that gym facilities is now closer to residential areas make this possible. In order words, with the increase in the number of people that enroll in gyms, comes the increase in the revenue generated by gyms.

Some people enroll in gyms not because they don’t have the money to purchase some of the basic gym equipment , but because exercising regularly requires discipline and that is part of what they stand to get when they enroll in a gym with an instructor at hand.

Loads of factors are responsible for the springing up of gyms in various locations in the United States of America; chief amongst them is the rise in the number of obese people. Being obese is a risk to one’s health, which is why obese people who thoroughly want to stay healthy and fit enroll in gyms that are close to them.

Different people visit gyms and fitness centers for various reasons. Some people register in the gym basically to shed some weight through proper exercising, whilst others go to the gym to train and increase their biceps (muscles) i.e. body building and other enroll in gym for cardio sessions et al.

Researchers, engineers, health and fitness experts are always improvising and inventing fitness equipment that can help people and gym owners achieve their aims.

Although gym equipment can be expensive, but the truth is that most of the equipment last longer if they are well utilized. Aside from the fact that they last longer, acquiring any gym equipment is an investment that is worth the while.

Starting a gym business in the United States of America is less stressful; it requires enough cash to equip the gym facility to meet the standard expected by gym users. As a matter of fact, building a swimming pool around the gym facility is one of the factors that could attract clients to enroll in gyms.

The gym industry is not going to go out of fashion anytime soon, but rather the number of people that enroll in gyms will continue to be on the increase and that of course will translate to more monies for gym owners.

2. Executive Summary

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is a company that is in the business of ensuring that people stay fit by exercising regularly and maintain healthy lifestyle. We are going to be located at 135 E John Carpenter 1400 Irving, Texas United States of America.

We are able to secure a standard facility along the road in the heart of the city. The facility for our gym and fitness club has a standard Olympic size swimming pool. We are going to services the whole of the community as well as visitors and travelers

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is going to become the number one family-focused gym and fitness in the whole of Irving, Texas, and we will work hard to build our facility to match the needs of the average family in Texas. Our gym facility has enough parking spaces to accommodate more than the numbers of customers we will accommodate per time.

Our facility will be equipped with modern technology, and we will install large TV screens close to cardiovascular equipment and treadmills, so as to help our clients stay entertained whilst they engage in their exercise.

We will work towards ensuring that we provide our clients /members with a daily program of exercise and diet that perfectly suit their lifestyle and also to help them achieve their desired results and to help them create lasting healthy habits that will last them for life.

One of our major goals of starting Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is to encourage families in Irving, Texas, to cultivate the habit of regularly exercising and to stay healthy. Our gym facility is specifically designed and built to take care of adults and children, we have active childcare services for toddlers and we have a membership package that is highly discounted for families that enrolled in our gym.

We are quite aware that one of the reasons why some parents may not want to enroll in gyms is the reason that they may not have who to take care of their children whilst they are away in the gym.

Part of our strategies of encourage families to enroll in our gyms is to ensure that whenever these guardians come with children, their children will be well treated and entertained, so much so that they will be the ones reminding their parents to go to gym next time.

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club will be open 24 hours in a day and seven days in a week, in order for us to be able to accommodate people with different time preference. This is why we have made provisions to recruit enough workers and to run shifts amongst our workforce. We will go out of our way to acquire standard cardiovascular and weight training equipment for our gym.

We will run a fitness club that will help members who want to lose weight to achieve their desire without little stress. We have a weight management consultant who will work with individual based on customized fitness and nutrition needs.

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is privately owned by the renowned health and fitness coach Arnold Quest and Family.

Arnold quest has well over 15 years of experience as a leading health and fitness coach in the United States of America. He wants to start Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club because of his desire to see families enroll in gym and exercise together.

3. Our Products and Services

Fit as Fiddles Gym and Fitness Club is in business to provide all round health and fitness services to the residence of Irving, Texas, which is why we have been able to put up a facility that can help us achieve the goal. We are optimistic that everyone who enrolled in our gym and fitness club will definitely derive huge value for their money. These are the services and amenities that will be made available to our clients;

• Personal Training
• Group Fitness Classes
• Yoga Classes
• Pilates (full body walkout)
• Spinning Classes
• Weight Management
• Kinesis Station
• Nutrition Counseling
• Childcare / Daycare
• Full Locker Room Services
• Physical Therapy
• Internet Café
• Sports shop (sale of sportswear, towel, shampoos et al)
• Comprehensive fitness assessment
• Full gym membership

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision is to contribute our quota to encourage families and residence in Irving, Texas, to engage in the regular exercising of their bodies, so as to enable them stay healthy.
• The mission of Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is to build a world class gym and fitness club in Irving, Texas, where residents can comfortably train for health and for fitness; a place where residents can connect whilst achieving their health goals.

Our Business Structure

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is in business to become the leading family gym facility in the whole of Irving, Texas, and we are fully aware that it will take the right facility, management and organization – structure to achieve our goal. We will ensure that we recruit only the best hands that can help us achieve all that we are set to achieve.

Our business will not be built only for the purpose of giving our members / customers value for their money, but also we will ensure that we make our work environment highly conducive for all our employees.

We will provide them with facilities that will help them stay motivated and deliver on their various tasks and goals et al. In view of that, we have made provisions for the following positions to be occupied by highly qualified and experienced staff;

• Gym Manager (Owner)
• Accountant / Cashier
• Marketing Officer
• Exercise Physiologists
• Trainers (5)
• Training Assistants (10)
• Juice bar Manager
• Childcare Assistant

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Manager (Owner):

• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for recruitment
• Responsible for payment of salaries
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Responsible for managing the daily activities in the hotel
• Ensures that the facility is in tip top shape and conducive enough to welcome customers
• Interfaces with vendors
• Prepares budget and reports for the organization
• Responsible for Training and Development in the organization
• Handles procurement
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members

  Training Instructors (5)

• Creates training rosters for members
• Assists members during exercise session
• Guides members on how to make use of gym and fitness equipment

Marketing Officer (2)

• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information.
• Represents the company in strategic meetings
• Helps increase sales and growth for the company
• Manages the company’s CRM system
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al

Juice Bar Manager:

• Interacts with customers, take orders for drinks
• Plans and presents bar menu.
• Mixes ingredients to prepare cocktails and other drinks.
• Mixes drinks, cocktails and other bar beverages as ordered and in compliance with gym’s standard drink recipes.
• Serves fruit juice to guests.
• Assesses customers’ needs and preferences and make recommendations
• Makes lists of supplies in conjunction with the management
• Prepares inventory or purchase requisitions as needed to replenish supplies.
• Ensures that the assigned juice bar area is fully equipped with tools and products needed for mixing beverages and serving guests.

Accountant / Cashier:

• Handles all financial transaction on behalf of the company
• Collects payment for drinks served and balance all receipts
• Prepares financial report at the end of every working week
• Interfaces with our bankers
• Responsible for payment of tax, levies and utility bills
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the manager

  Exercise Physiologist

• Responsible for evaluating, researching, and provide advice on coaching.
• Responsible for training
• Engages in recovery practices in all areas of exercise and rehabilitation
• Provides timely information and support on injury prevention, technique analysis, and nutrition.

Cleaners (3):

• Responsible for cleaning in and around the gym facility
• Cleans up after customers and clean work area.
• Clears ashtrays as and when required.
• Washes glassware and utensils after each use.
• Maintains a clean working area by sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of glass doors and windows, etc. if required.
• Ensures that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Handles any other duty as assigned by the restaurant manager

6. SWOT Analysis

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is in business to help its clients achieve their health and fitness goals and at the same time to make profit.

We are aware that there is competition in the gym and fitness industry which is why we took out time to conduct an effective SWOT Analysis, as stated in our gym and fitness center marketing plan; before investing our hard earned money.

We know that if we get things right before starting our gym and fitness club, we will not have to struggle before attracting loyal clients and building our membership base to a level where we can easily breakeven. We hired the services of Mr. Emmanuel Bright, an HR and Business consultant to help us conduct SWOT analysis for our company and he did a pretty good job for us.

Here is a of the result we got from the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club, Irving, Texas;

One of the obvious strength that will definitely stand as a plus for Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is the fact that our facility is centrally located in a densely populated – residential area in Irving, Texas; our location is in fact one of our major strength.

We equally have a team of highly qualified professionals who will work with all our clients to achieve their aims or enrolling in our gym and lastly our membership package is one of the best that anybody living in Texas can get; it is cheap and affordable.

Having critically looked into our Business model , we were able to identify two major weaknesses. One is the fact that we are a new business and the second is the fact that we may not have the financial resources required to match up with existing gyms in Texas when it comes to acquiring latest gym equipment and generating the needed hypes that can drive traffic towards our facility.

• Opportunities:

We are centrally located in one of the busiest areas in Irving, Texas, and we are open to all the available opportunities that the city has to offer. We also run a 24 hours, 7 days a week gym and fitness club; thus giving us the advantage to leverage on any available opportunity.

Some of the threats that are likely going to confront Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is unfavorable government policies, demographic/social factors, downturn in the economy which is likely going to affect consumers spending and lastly, the emergence of new competitors within the same location where our gym and fitness club is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The trend in the gym and fitness industry is such that if a gym is well positioned in a residential area or a place where people can easily access without much stress, there is the likelihood that the gym will enjoy high patronage. Just like in other business venture, the owner of gyms and fitness clubs are always looking for ways to increase their market share; they go as far as signing deals with high schools and also offer home services.

What they do is that they offer pro bono services for a period of time, and then thereafter introduce a fee gradually and before too long they would have successfully converted some of the people that benefited from their pro bono services to loyal members.

It is common trend that as gyms grow, it becomes necessary for them to develop new service offerings or install new facilities that will help them attract more people.

Little wonder some gyms now have juice bars within their facility to encourage people towards healthy drinking. In order words, it is very important for gyms to continue to improvise if they want to grow their business and generate their target revenues.

8. Our Target Market

The target market for gyms cuts across people of different walks of life. The fact that people register in gyms and fitness clubs for various reasons makes marketing the business interesting. The target market for gym and fitness centers can be categorized into three various groups.

The first group is the people who are looking towards shedding some weight through proper exercising and under the guidance of a qualified instructor.

The other group of people are those who are interested in building their biceps (body building), and the last group of people are those who just want to enroll for cardio sessions under the watchful eyes of a qualified trainer. These sessions are a combination of light weights, treadmills and bikes.

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club will work towards providing services, facilities and environment that will help us reach out to our target market. These are the category of people that we intend marketing our gym and fitness club to;

• Corporate Executives
• Business People
• Sportsmen and Sportswomen
• Young Couples

Our Competitive Advantage

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is centrally located in a densely populated – residential area in Irving, Texas; this is obviously going to give us an edge amongst our competitors.

We can confidently say that the location of our gym will definitely count as a positive for us amongst any competitor that might start a gym and fitness business in same location where ours is located. We will continue to work hard to ensure continuous improvement in our facility and service delivery. As a matter of fact, our services will be second to none in Texas.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club will generate income from the following service offerings;

• Childcare/Daycare

10. Sales Forecast

It is important to state that our sales forecast is based on the data gathered during our feasibility studies and also some of the assumptions readily available on the field. It would be hard to create a sales forecast with a newly opened business like gym and fitness club. This is simply because the statistics that will be provided will be on a short term basis.

Experts said that usually a business should be in operation for at least one year before they can generate the statistics that will be need to help in accurate forecasting; statistics should be at least one year old in order to show the trends and pattern in consumer spending.

We expect to register a minimum of 1,000 active members within our fits year of operations and then in subsequent year we will grow our membership. Below are the sales projection for Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club, it is based on the location of our facility and the services and products that we will be offering to our clients (members);

• First Year-: $200,000
• Second Year-: $450,000
• Third Year-: $700,000

N.B : This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major competitor offering same additional services as we do within 4.5 miles radius from our gym facility.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Our marketing strategies will be directed towards achieving specific objectives that support the strategic goals of the organization.

The truth is that all that we do will be geared towards creating new market channels, increasing sales and increase our market share. We will leverage on improving on our services and facility to ensure that we win new clients and retain old members.

At Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club, our marketing strategies will be consistent throughout the marketing mix and we will take into consideration product improvement, promotion, and price. As part of our sales and marketing strategies, we will pay attention to the promotion of our gym so as to attract people to enroll and become members of our gym.

Our unique selling proposition is that we are well positioned and people can easily access our facility, our prices are affordable and we have a complete package for families. Parts of the marketing and sales strategies that we will adopt are;

• Open our gym and fitness club with a big party in the neighborhood.
• Advertise our gym and fitness club on national dailies, local TV stations and local radio station
• Promote our gym and fitness club online via our official website and all available social media platforms
• Continuously Improve the performance of our brands
• Hire the services of experts to make our brands the first choice for people in Irving, Texas
• Deliver consistent customer experiences to all our members; making our first impression count positively to those making use of our gym facility for the first time
• Make use of attractive hand bills to create awareness and also to give direction to our gym and fitness club
• Adopt direct mailing coupon marketing approach
• Position our signage / flexi banners at strategic places
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our consistent members especially those that registered as a family.
• Engage on road shows within our neighborhood to create awareness for our gym and fitness club.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is in Irving for serious business, which is why we have identified key platforms that will enable us achieve our goal of promoting and advertising our business so as to attract the crop of people that we designed our business for.

We have been able to enter into alliance with key stakeholders in Irving, Texas to help us use their good will to promote our business.

We will ensure that we leverage on all conventional and non – conventional publicity and advertising technique to promote our gym and fitness club. Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Sean and Sharon Hotel, Las Vegas;

• Encourage our loyal members to help us use Word of Mouth mode of advertisement (referrals)
• Advertise our gym and fitness club in sports magazines, local newspaper, local TV stations and local radio station
• Promote our gym and fitness club online via our official website
• List our gym and fitness club on local directories (yellow pages)
• Sponsor relevant community sport events
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our brand
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations
• Direct coupon mailing approach to introduce our gym and fitness club to residence
• Engage in road show from time to time to create awareness of our gym and fitness club in the residential areas around our facility
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Our pricing system is going to be based on what is obtainable in the industry, we don’t intend to charge more (except for premium and customized services) and we don’t intend to charge less than what our competitors charge their members in Irving, TX.

Be that as it may, we have put plans in place to offer discount services once in a while and also to reward our loyal customers especially when they refer clients to us or when they register as a family. The prices of our services will be same as what is obtainable in the United States’ open market.

• Payment Options

Our payment policy is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that will be available to clients who want to make payment / register for our gym program;

• Payment by cash
• Payment by check
• Payment via Point of Sale (POS) Machine
• Payment via online bank transfer (online payment portal)
• Payment via Mobile money

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our payment plans without any difficulty. These are the types of exercise equipment that we will make available in our gym and fitness center;

• Resistance bands
• Weight machines
• Flexion machines
• Pull-up bars
• Weight training
• Elliptical trainer
• Street Strider (elliptical cross trainer on wheels)
• Exercise machine
• Kettle bell
• Fitness (biology)
• Hojo undō
• Pull-up bar
• Medicine balls
• Boxing Gear
• Gym flooring
• Cable Attachments
• Weight plates
• Wearable items as proper footgear, gloves, and hydration packs.
• Filing Cabinets
• Notice board
• Employee Uniform

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

This is the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital on;

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in Irving, Texas: $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits: $1,500.
• Marketing promotion expenses (8,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $10,000.
• Cost for hiring Consultant – $5,000.
• Insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $30,800.
• Cost of accounting software, CRM software and Payroll Software – $3,000
• Cost for leasing facility for the gym: $80,000.
• Cost for facility remodeling – $50,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery – $1000
• Phone and utility deposits – $3,500
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $40,000
• The cost for Start-up inventory – $15,000
• Storage hardware (bins, utensil rack, shelves, glasses et al) – $1,720
• Cost for acquiring gym equipment – $200,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al): $4,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website: $600
• The cost for our grand opening party: $1,500
• Miscellaneous: $5,000

We would need an estimate of $3.6 million to successfully launch our gym and fitness club in Irwin, Texas. It is important to state that the testing and evaluating expenses would be high because of the large amount of equipment needed to start up a gym and also the sophistication of the technology used in gyms. Also, the supplies would cost a bit more because of the regular demand for it.

Generating Funding/Startup Capital for Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club

Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club is a family business and it will be financed by the owner who is also the gym manager. These are the areas where we intend sourcing for fund for Fit as Fiddle Gym and Fitness Club;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from family members and friends (soft loans and gifts et al)
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the banks (loan facility).

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

We are in business to make profits and to build a popular gym and fitness brand in Irvin, Texas, hence we must do all it takes to grow the business and to ensure that the business survives generation after generation.

Part of the plans we have put in place to sustain our business is to ensure that we continue to deliver quality services, acquire latest gym and fitness equipment and improvise on better and cheaper packages four members and intended members.

Our workers will sure continue to enjoy working with us because we will deliberately make it our work environment very conducive and accommodating.

Furthermore, we are quite aware that our customers are key components to the growth and survival of our business hence we are going to continuously engage them to give us ideas on how to serve them better. We will not waste time in diversifying our services; expand our product and service offerings once the need arises.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Acquiring facility and remodeling the facility: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• writing of business plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed gym and fitness equipment , electronic appliances, office appliances and suppliers: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: Completed
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and in the neighborhood: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress

Fitness Business Plan Template (+ Free Examples)

Use this free fitness business plan template to modify and use as you learn how to create a fitness business plan.

Do you dream of starting your own fitness business ? With the increasing demand for health and wellness services, now is the perfect time to turn your passion for fitness into a profitable venture. There are many ways to make money with fitness (you can even start a fitness business from home or start a fitness business with no money ). However, before diving headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship, it is crucial to develop a comprehensive fitness business plan that will serve as your roadmap to success.

Looking to start a fitness business? Our comprehensive fitness business plan template will guide you through the process, helping you create a solid foundation for success. Then learn how to create a gym business plan , how to create a gym budget , how to create a gym sales forecast , how to get a gym loan , and more—all part of understanding how much it costs to open a gym , how to start a fitness business , and how to start a gym . Or maybe you want to learn how to become a fitness influencer —we’ve got you covered with the best online fitness coaching software and the best fitness software for fitness influencers who want to start a fitness influencer business online.

And, of course, managing your fitness business online with the best gym management software and the best personal training software means that you can easily create fitness session plans, waivers, forms, fitness assessments, lead forms, registration forms, online booking, workout plans, and much more. Save yourself some time and hassle and get a demo with the best fitness business platform: Exercise.com.

Get a demo now!

Fitness Business Plan Template

[business/brand name], executive summary.

Business Concept

• Briefly describe the fitness business idea, its core offerings, and unique value proposition.
• Outline the short-term and long-term goals of the business.

Mission Statement

• A clear statement defining the business’s purpose and approach to reaching its goals.

Vision Statement

• A depiction of what the business aspires to achieve in the future.

Business Description

Nature of the Business

• Detailed explanation of the type of fitness business (e.g., gym, personal training studio, online coaching service).

Target Market

• Description of the target demographic and their fitness needs.
• Details about the business location and why it’s beneficial.

Market Analysis

Industry Overview

• Overview of the fitness industry, current trends, and future projections.

Target Market Analysis

• Detailed analysis of the target market, including demographic, psychographic, and behavioral aspects.

Competitive Analysis

• Analysis of competitors, their strengths and weaknesses, and your business’s competitive edge.

Services and Products

Service/Product Offering

• Detailed description of services and products offered (e.g., personal training, group classes, wellness programs).

Pricing Strategy

• Rationale behind pricing models for services and products.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

Marketing Plan

• Strategies for reaching and attracting the target market.
• Channels and tactics to be used (e.g., social media marketing, community events, referral programs).

Sales Strategy

• Approach for converting prospects into customers.
• Sales funnel and customer journey mapping.

Operational Plan

Daily Operations

• Description of daily business operations, including opening hours and staffing.

Facilities and Equipment

• Details about the physical space and equipment required for the business.

Suppliers and Partnerships

• Information on any third-party suppliers and partnerships.

Management and Organization

Organizational Structure

• Breakdown of the business’s organizational structure.
• Roles and responsibilities of key team members.

Management Team

• Profiles of key management team members.

Financial Plan

Start-Up Costs

• Detailed list of initial expenses to start the business.

Revenue Projections

• Forecast of revenue for the first few years.

Profit and Loss Statement

• Projection of income, expenses, and profitability.

Funding Requirements

• Total amount of capital needed to start and run the business.
• Plans for securing funding (e.g., loans, investors).
• Additional supporting documents like market research data, resumes of key team members, detailed financial forecasts.

Using a platform like Exercise.com can significantly enhance the operation of a fitness business. Its comprehensive tools for client management, workout programming, scheduling, and reporting can streamline business processes and improve client engagement and retention.

This template provides a structured approach for creating a fitness business plan. It can be customized to reflect the specifics of your fitness business idea, market, and operational strategy.

Fitness Business Plan Example 1: Dynamic Pulse Gym

Dynamic pulse gym.

• Dynamic Pulse Gym, a state-of-the-art fitness center specializing in personalized training programs and high-energy group classes.
• Short-term: Establish a member base of 500 within the first year.
• Long-term: Expand to multiple locations and incorporate wellness services.
• To provide an empowering fitness environment that motivates members to achieve their health goals.
• To be recognized as the premier fitness destination in [City/Region] that transforms lives through innovative fitness solutions.
• A full-service gym offering cutting-edge equipment, diverse fitness classes, and personalized training.
• Health-conscious adults aged 20-50, looking for a motivating and supportive fitness environment.
• Situated in [City/Region], in a densely populated area with high foot traffic.
• Growing interest in personal health and fitness, with an increase in demand for versatile workout options.
• Busy professionals and fitness enthusiasts seeking convenient and varied workout options.
• Competitors include local gyms and fitness studios. Dynamic Pulse Gym differentiates itself with advanced technology integration and a wide range of services.
• Personalized fitness assessments, one-on-one personal training, various group classes like yoga, spin, and HIIT.
• Wellness workshops and nutritional counseling sessions.
• Competitive membership fees with premium options for additional services.
• Launch campaign with social media ads, local partnerships, and community events.
• Ongoing engagement through a referral program, member testimonials, and fitness challenges.
• Focus on building relationships through free trial sessions and personalized gym tours.
• Implement a tiered membership system to cater to different customer needs.
• Operation hours from 5 AM to 11 PM, with a staff of trained fitness professionals.
• 10,000 square feet facility equipped with cardio machines, weightlifting areas, a yoga studio, and a spin room.
• Equipment sourced from leading manufacturers; partnerships with local wellness brands.
• Led by a CEO, with departments for operations, marketing, and training.
• CEO with extensive experience in the fitness industry.
• Operations Manager with a background in gym management.
• Marketing Manager skilled in digital marketing.
• Estimated $250,000 for facility lease, equipment purchase, and initial marketing.
• Projected $500,000 revenue in the first year based on membership and service sales.
• Expected profitability within the first two years with controlled operating expenses.
• Seeking $300,000 in funding for initial start-up and operational costs.
• Market research data, equipment lists, detailed biographies of management team members.

Exercise.com’s comprehensive platform enhances Dynamic Pulse Gym’s operational efficiency, offering seamless scheduling, client management, workout creation, and progress tracking. This robust system ensures that Dynamic Pulse Gym operates at the forefront of the fitness industry with superior client engagement and retention.

Fitness Business Plan Example 2: Holistic Harmony Online Coaching

Holistic harmony online coaching.

• Holistic Harmony, an online coaching service focusing on holistic health, combining fitness, nutrition, and mental wellness.
• Short-term: Build a client base of 100 active clients in six months.
• Long-term: Develop a holistic wellness app and expand service offerings.
• To guide clients towards a balanced lifestyle through tailored online coaching.
• To become a leading online platform for holistic health and wellness coaching.
• Online personal coaching with a holistic approach, offering custom workout plans, nutrition advice, and mindfulness coaching.
• Individuals seeking a balanced approach to health, particularly remote workers and those with busy lifestyles.
• Fully online operation with the potential for global reach.
• Increasing demand for online health services and a shift towards holistic health approaches.
• Individuals aged 25-45, primarily working professionals who prefer the flexibility of online coaching.
• Other online fitness and wellness platforms. Holistic Harmony’s comprehensive approach and personalized services provide a competitive edge.
• Custom online fitness programs, nutritional planning, and virtual mindfulness sessions.
• Subscription-based pricing with different tiers based on service levels.
• Digital marketing strategy focusing on content marketing, influencer collaborations, and targeted social media campaigns.
• Offering free initial consultations and introductory discounts to new clients.
• Leveraging testimonials and success stories for client acquisition.
• Regular client check-ins, content creation for the platform, and ongoing program adjustments.
• No physical facility required. Investment in a high-quality website and coaching software.
• Collaboration with freelance nutritionists and mental health experts.
• Founder-led with a small team of certified coaches and administrative support.
• Founder with expertise in fitness training and holistic health.
• Team of freelance professionals for specialized coaching needs.
• Approximately $50,000 for website development, marketing, and initial software setup.
• Anticipated $150,000 in the first year, based on subscription model and consulting services.
• Profitability projected within the first year with minimal operating expenses.
• Seeking $75,000 in seed funding for initial setup and marketing.
• Detailed website plan, service descriptions, and credentials of coaching team.

Utilizing Exercise.com’s versatile platform, Holistic Harmony can streamline client management, workout and nutrition plan creation, and progress monitoring. This platform facilitates efficient operations and high client engagement, positioning Holistic Harmony as an innovative leader in online holistic coaching.

These examples demonstrate how a fitness business plan can be structured for different types of fitness ventures, emphasizing the integration of Exercise.com as a key tool for operational efficiency and enhanced client service.

Why You Need a Fitness Business Plan

A fitness business plan is more than just a document. It is your blueprint for building a thriving fitness empire. Whether you are seeking investors or planning to self-finance your venture, a well-crafted business plan will demonstrate your understanding of the industry, your target market, and your sustainable competitive advantage. Moreover, it will provide you with a clear roadmap and actionable strategies to navigate through the challenges and uncertainties that come with starting and running a fitness business.

Additionally, a fitness business plan can help you secure funding from banks or other financial institutions. Lenders often require a detailed business plan to assess the viability and potential profitability of your fitness business. By including financial projections, market analysis, and a comprehensive marketing strategy in your plan, you can increase your chances of obtaining the necessary funding to launch or expand your fitness venture.

Key Components of a Fitness Business Plan

When creating a fitness business plan, there are several key components that you need to include. These components will ensure that your plan covers all essential aspects of your fitness business, allowing you to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively.

The first component is setting clear goals and objectives for your fitness business. This includes defining what you want to achieve and outlining specific milestones that will measure your progress. By setting clear goals, you can stay focused and motivated throughout your journey.

The second component is defining your target market. Understanding your ideal customers is crucial for tailoring your products and services to their needs and preferences. By conducting thorough market research, you can identify your target market’s demographics, interests, and pain points, enabling you to position your fitness business as the ultimate solution.

Next, you need to develop a unique selling proposition (USP) for your fitness business. Your USP is what sets you apart from your competitors and gives your target market a compelling reason to choose your fitness services over others. By identifying your unique value proposition, you can communicate your brand’s distinctiveness effectively.

Another essential component is analyzing the competition in the fitness industry. By assessing your competitors, their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning, you can gain valuable insights to refine your business strategies and maximize your competitive advantage.

Creating a comprehensive marketing strategy is also crucial for attracting and retaining customers. Your marketing strategy should outline the channels and tactics you will use to reach your target market effectively. This includes online and offline marketing, social media, content creation, and building strategic partnerships.

Designing your products and services is another vital component of your fitness business plan. You need to clearly outline the range of services you will offer, including personal training, group classes, or specialized programs. Additionally, you should consider the equipment, facilities, and technology required to deliver exceptional experiences to your clients.

Outlining financial projections is essential for creating a sustainable business. This includes estimating your revenue, expenses, and profit margins. By projecting your financials, you can determine pricing strategies that balance profitability and competitiveness.

Estimating startup costs and funding sources is another critical component of your fitness business plan. This involves identifying the capital required to launch and operate your business and exploring financing options, such as loans, investors, or personal savings.

Formulating a management and organizational structure is crucial for streamlining your operations and ensuring smooth business processes. This includes defining roles and responsibilities, creating a hierarchy, and establishing efficient communication channels.

An effective sales and customer service strategy is essential for driving revenue and creating customer loyalty. You need to define how you will generate sales, whether through memberships, packages, or partnerships. Additionally, you should outline your approach to customer service, including feedback collection, complaint handling, and staff training.

Developing a strong brand identity is crucial for standing out in the crowded fitness market. Your brand identity should encompass your mission, values, visual elements, and tone of voice. By aligning your brand with your target market’s aspirations, you can create a powerful connection that inspires loyalty and drives referrals.

Implementing technology solutions is vital for enhancing your fitness business’s operations. This includes utilizing management software, scheduling systems, and online booking platforms to streamline administrative tasks and improve customer engagement.

Creating an actionable timeline and milestones will ensure that you stay on track and achieve your business goals within a specific timeframe. This involves breaking down your business plan into smaller, manageable tasks and setting deadlines to complete them.

Evaluating risk factors and formulating contingency plans is necessary for protecting your fitness business from potential threats and uncertainties. By identifying risks and establishing protocols to mitigate their impact, you can ensure business continuity and resilience.

Finally, monitoring and reviewing the performance of your fitness business based on the plan is essential for making data-driven decisions and adapting to market changes. By regularly analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs), such as revenue, customer satisfaction, and employee productivity, you can identify areas of improvement and make necessary adjustments to drive growth.

In conclusion, creating a comprehensive fitness business plan is the first step towards turning your fitness passion into a successful business venture. By addressing all key components, you can ensure that your plan covers every critical aspect of your fitness business, allowing you to make informed decisions and navigate challenges with confidence. Remember, a well-crafted business plan is not only a roadmap; it is your recipe for success in the ever-evolving fitness industry.

Related Posts

• Sweat Equity: fitness x business
• Fitness Dashboard Template (Free Example)
• Fitness Business Proposal Template (Free + Examples)
• Where to Buy Gym Equipment for Your Fitness Business in 2024
• Gym Owner Guide
• 50+ Fitness Trends in 2024 to Grow a Fitness Business
• What type of fitness business is a fitness center?
• 15 Best Fitness Business Blogs in 2024
• Fitness Business Association Review (2024)
• Fitness Calendar Template (Free)
• What is the best fitness business to start?
• Fitness Instructor Contract Template (FREE)

Need a business plan? Call now:

Talk to our experts:

• Business Plan for Investors
• Bank/SBA Business Plan
• Operational/Strategic Planning
• L1 Visa Business Plan
• E1 Treaty Trader Visa Business Plan
• E2 Treaty Investor Visa Business Plan
• EB1 Business Plan
• EB2 Visa Business Plan
• EB5 Business Plan
• Innovator Founder Visa Business Plan
• UK Start-Up Visa Business Plan
• UK Expansion Worker Visa Business Plan
• Manitoba MPNP Visa Business Plan
• Start-Up Visa Business Plan
• Nova Scotia NSNP Visa Business Plan
• British Columbia BC PNP Visa Business Plan
• Self-Employed Visa Business Plan
• OINP Entrepreneur Stream Business Plan
• LMIA Owner Operator Business Plan
• ICT Work Permit Business Plan
• LMIA Mobility Program – C11 Entrepreneur Business Plan
• USMCA (ex-NAFTA) Business Plan
• Franchise Business Planning 
• Landlord Business Plan 
• Nonprofit Start-Up Business Plan 
• USDA Business Plan
• Cannabis business plan 
• eCommerce business plan
• Online Boutique Business Plan
• Daycare business plan
• Mobile Application Business Plan
• Restaurant business plan
• Food Delivery Business Plan
• Real Estate Business Plan
• Business Continuity Plan
• Buy Side Due Diligence Services
• ICO whitepaper
• ICO consulting services
• Confidential Information Memorandum
• Private Placement Memorandum
• Feasibility study
• Fractional CFO
• How it works
• Business Plan Templates

Fitness Center Business Plan Sample

Published May.11, 2016

Updated Apr.23, 2024

By: Jakub Babkins

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 4

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

Table of Content

Do you want to start a Fitness Center business plan?  

Fitness has gained paramount importance in the last decade or so. More and more people have started focusing on both their mental and physical health. Some people have even started centers for people to come together and attain common goals. These are fitness centers, meditation and yoga retreats, and much more. 

The benefit of starting a business like this is that you can slowly increase its scope. And you don’t even need to have any specialized information for this. You can just get started by learning how to write a business plan for a fitness center. 

If you are thinking of starting a business in this domain, you can take help from this business plan for a fitness center. This plan is written for Goals Inc. 

The business plan that we are presenting below is for starting a business in the fitness domain. But you can also use it to develop a business plan for buying a franchise as business plans help you understand the necessary characteristics of every successful business.

Executive Summary

2.1 about the business.

The fitness business started by Paul Anne will be called Goals Inc. The main aim of the business will be to establish itself as a pioneer in sustainable healthy practices that improve day to day life of people. Another secondary aim of the business will be to introduce its branches across the US for a better and wider reach.

2.2 Management of Fitness Center

To ensure that your business is well managed and moving towards success, you need to do due diligence on your part. The best way to ensure good management is to make a plan and stick to it. Make a plan for everything in your business, even a fitness equipment business plan. In that way, you will remain informed of all the important scenarios and how to handle them adequately. 

To help you out, we are providing all the details of a fitness center in this fitness center business plan template free.

2.3 Customers of Cleaning Services Company

Though Goals Inc will welcome people from all backgrounds, the focus groups of customers will include:

• Students/ Young Adults
• Working People
• Differently-abled People

2.4 Our Competitors

Knowing your competitors is as important as knowing your customers. The competitors of Goals Inc will include other gyms and fitness centers in the area. 

To gain an insight into how they are conducting the business, you should read more than one  business plan for fitness centers.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

2.5 Business Target

The target of our fitness center is to help people develop a healthy mentality and practices regarding their health. We also aim to expand our business across different states of the US. 

The financial targets that Goals Inc wants to achieve in the next three years are demonstrated below in this sample business plan for fitness center:

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Paul Anne will be the owner and operator of Goals Inc. Paul has been an avid supporter of healthy lifestyles all his life. Therefore, after completing his MBA, he decided to join his passion and degree to start Goals Inc.

3.2 Why is Goals Inc being started?

Looking into his competitors’ working models, Paul realized that more focus was laid on achieving monetary goals than on providing good customer service.

To change this trend, Paul decided to launch his fitness center and show the world that profits can still be earned while providing impeccable customer service.

3.3 How the Fitness Center will be started

Step1: Research Everything

The key to developing a sample business plan for a fitness center is thorough research. You need to research and take down everything in your fitness center business plan including the info regarding your customers, market, competitors, and services. This will eventually help you develop a fitness studio business plan template that will persuade your investors.

Step2: Choose a Name and Register Your Business

Once you know the kind of business you want to start, you need to decide on a name. Opening a fitness center business plan comprises all the details that you will later use to register your business. 

Step3: Pick a Business Location 

You can start a business anywhere, but each location has its pros and cons. It is up to you to select the most beneficial location. As per this fitness center business plan example, Paul decided to open his fitness center in Phoenix, Arizona. 

Step4: Establish a Web Presence

Online presence is necessary for every business nowadays. It is a part of every good business plan even if it is written for pure physical services such as a business plan for an indoor sports complex . Therefore, Paul intends to establish social media profiles and a website for his business.

Step5: Market your Business 

The final step in developing a business plan and starting your business is to develop a marketing plan. You need a marketing plan for every business to advertise the business to your customers. In this blog, we will give a detailed fitness and yoga marketing plan in the later sections.

Services  

Writing a business plan for a fitness center involves a lot of research and collection of information. As you develop a small fitness center business plan, you will need to hone all the details about the services you want to provide as well.

If you are looking for an accurate starting a fitness center business plan, you can take a look at this document. In this business plan template fitness center, we will guide you about all the details that can be beneficial to you.

As Paul decided to offer a variety of services when starting a fitness center business, you can take help from here and mold it according to your own needs. The services offered by Goals Inc will include:

• Gym Facilities

The main service that will be included in this business center fitness plan sample will be related to the gym. Goals Inc will provide all the necessary equipment needed for exercise and workouts. This will include:

• Exercise Bikes
• Ellipticals
• Weight Sets
• Crunch Benches, and more.
• Yoga Classes

Keeping in view our focus on mental health and wellness, we will offer guided yoga classes to our customers. This service can be utilized by people of different ages and expertise levels as there will be a variety of options. These classes will aim to keep people safe from injuries and mentally well.  

• Guided Meditations

We will also be providing guided meditation sessions so that along with their physical health, our customers also have a chance of taking care of their minds. 

• Cycling and Outdoor Activities

Goals Inc will also provide several options for outdoor activities for people who don’t like working out indoors. We will offer activities like group biking, trainer-led exercise sessions and running, etc. 

Marketing Analysis of Fitness Center 

Another important part of business plan of fitness center is the market information. If you look at different fitness club business plan examples, you will see that they all include details about their target market groups and competitors. Including this information in plans like small gym business plan helps the owners understand the strong and weak points of their company.

excellent work

excellent work, competent advice. Alex is very friendly, great communication. 100% I recommend CGS capital. Thank you so much for your hard work!

If you want to develop a fitness studio business plan, you will need to do a thorough analysis of your target market. In this way, you can add details about your market in your fitness business proposal.

If you don’t know how to develop a fitness center business proposal you can take help from this document here. For a greater analysis, you should read some other fitness center business plans before delineating one for your startup.

5.1 Market Trends

According to PolicyAdvice, the global fitness industry has a market of $87 Billion. And the U.S. is one of the countries with the highest number of fitness clubs. However, there is still a huge demand for fitness centers that can provide unique and flexible options to their customers. 

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Goals Inc will have customers from the following groups:

Business plan for investors

5.2.1 parents.

Our primary focus will be on the families living in the residential areas around us. The adults in these households usually need flexible options to exercise. We will target such customers to help them attain a balanced life with reduced stress. 

5.2.2 Students/ Young Adults

The secondary focus of our fitness center business model will be on the students and working young adults in the area who need to de-stress after a hard day.

5.2.3 Working People

We will also offer specialized programs and activities that can fit the lifestyle of working people. 

5.2.4 Differently Abled People

Lastly, we will offer services and activities for differently-abled people who perhaps cannot utilize the usual exercise plans. Our trainers will help them at every step to ensure that they meet their fitness goals.

5.3 Business Target

• To develop a fitness industry business plan that will revolutionize the way people think about health and wellness. 
• To become a reliable source of fitness help to the community.
• To earn profits up to $25k/month by the end of the second year.

5.4 Product Pricing

Our prices will be outlined differently as compared to other sample business plans for fitness centers. We will offer different plans for different groups of our customers so that they have a good and affordable fitness option available to them.

Marketing Strategy  

Whether you are developing a bouldering gym business plan or a free fitness center business plan, you will need to highlight several advantages of your business relative to your competitors in the market. 

You can follow this fitness center business plan template where we will highlight the competitive advantages of Goals Inc. We will also describe the strategies for marketing this type of startup in this business plan for fitness. You can take an idea from this fitness center business plan pdf to develop good marketing strategies for your business. 

6.1 Competitive Analysis

• We will offer services that prefer people over money. We will provide customized options for our clients so that they can achieve the right balance of work and relaxation in their life. 
• We will offer activities that don’t only make our customers well physically but also mentally.
• Our customers will be able to choose from a variety of options and plans available.

6.2 Sales Strategy

• We will offer free trial classes whenever our customers are not sure about the kind of activities that will be best for them.
• We will offer discounts to our long-term customers. 
• We will offer free weekly guided meditation sessions that our customers can attend to unwind after a busy week.

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Personnel plan

Starting your own fitness center can seem daunting but if you plan everything, you will be equipped to deal with a lot of situations. One of the things you can plan for the smooth running of your business is to figure out the employees that you will need to run the business. To help you in making a list for your company, we are presenting one in this fitness center business plan sample.

7.1 Company Staff

According to the business plan for fitness center pdf, Goals Inc will need the following employees:

• 6 Certified Trainers
• 1 Technician to Upkeep Machinery
• 1 Receptionist
• 2 Customer Support Person

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial Plan

A business plan for a fitness studio requires financial planning on your part as well. You have to balance the start up cost for a fitness center with the revenue that will be earned. Every business needs to balance these costs. For example, the cost to open a trampoline park business will be balanced by the revenue earned from its services. 

You can study different financial plans like a financial plan in the martial arts school business plan to have an understanding of the financial information you will need before you start a business.

In this business plan template for fitness center, we will be providing details about the financial viability of Goals Inc. 

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 Break-even Analysis

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 Profit Monthly

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 Business Ratios

• How do I write a business plan for a fitness center?

You can write a business plan for a fitness center by following this business plan fitness center pdf. 

• Is a fitness center a good business?

Opening a fitness studio can be a great idea if you follow all the steps to make it successful.

• How much does it cost to open a fitness studio?

Opening a fitness center cost varies according to the location and scale of the business. But you can calculate the estimates through financial analysis. 

• How to open a boutique fitness studio?

You can open a boutique fitness studio by developing a business plan fitness center and then sticking to it.

Download Sample Business Plan for a Fitness Center in pdf

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

Bowling Alley Business Plan Sample

Nightclub Business Plan (2024): A Comprehensive Guide

Rabbit Farming Business Plan

Beverages Business Plan

Private Schools Business Plan

Business Plan for a Lounge

Any questions? Get in Touch!

We have been mentioned in the press:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Search the site:

Gym Business Plan Template & PDF Example

• July 22, 2024
• Business Plan

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful gym. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial forecasts. It helps establish your gym’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure essential resources for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a gym business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the fitness industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your gym concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our gym business plan follows a clear and straightforward structure, covering all the important areas you need in a business plan. Below are the key sections of our business plan:

• Executive Summary : a quick look at your gym, its market landscape, management and financial plan.
• Facility, Amenities & Equipment : what your gym looks like, what equipment it has, and its features.
• Location & Accessibility : where your gym is and why it’s a good location for potential customers.
• Memberships & Classes : types of memberships and classes available (as well as prices)
• Key Stats : the industry size , growth and some recent important statistics on the gym industry.
• Key Trends : the recent market trends defining and driving the gym and fitness industry (regulation, customers trends, etc.)
• Key Competitors : who are your key competitors in the area and how they compare vs. your business.
• SWOT : strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.
• Marketing Plan : how you intend to attract and retain members / customers.
• Timeline : major steps and goals from starting up to growth (12 months minimum plan)
• Management : who runs the gym and what they do.
• Financial Plan : the expected 5-year financial performance of your gym (revenue and profits), as well as how much you expect to spend.

Gym Business Plan

Fully editable 30+ slides Powerpoint presentation business plan template.

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your gym’s business plan, offering a brief look at your gym and its goals. It should cover your gym’s combination of fitness and wellness services, top-notch equipment, variety of membership plans, and prime location.

This section should also highlight how your gym fits into the broader gym market, how many direct competitors you have and who they are, as well as your unique selling points.

Finally, you should also include here details on the management and co-founding team (who they are and what they do), as well as a summary of your financial projections (5-year revenue and profits are enough).

Gym Business Plan Executive Summary Example

Business Overview

In the  business overview , you should clearly define your gym’s characteristics. This includes its name, location, facility details, membership plans, and the variety of classes offered. This part of the summary is critical for showcasing what makes your gym stand out in a  competitive  fitness industry.

Example: For instance, “FitFusion Gym,” situated in the city center, offers a 15,000 sq. ft. space with an open-plan design and state-of-the-art equipment. Its unique selling points include a comprehensive range of fitness classes, from HIIT to Yoga, and premium amenities like a wellness center. These features position FitFusion as a versatile and appealing fitness destination.

Market Overview

In this section, you should analyze the gym market, including its size, growth trends, and  key competitors . This gives context to where your gym fits within the industry and highlights how it can capitalize on current fitness trends.

Example: FitFusion Gym enters a robust U.S. market valued at $30.8 billion. It sets itself apart from the five main competitors in its vicinity by offering a blend of holistic wellness and cutting-edge fitness technology, tapping into the growing demand for integrated health and fitness experiences.

Management Team

Detailing the experience and roles of your management team is vital. This section should highlight their qualifications in gym and wellness management, underscoring their ability to drive the gym’s success.

Example: The CEO of FitFusion brings extensive experience in fitness management, guiding the gym’s strategic direction and operations. The CFO & Marketing Director, with a strong background in finance and marketing, plays a crucial role in managing the gym’s finances and developing effective  marketing strategies  to enhance customer engagement and retention.

Financial Plan

A clear presentation of financial goals and projections is key in this section. It should include targets for revenue and profit margins, offering insight into the gym’s financial health and growth prospects.

Example: With a target of $2.0 million in yearly revenue and a 22% profit margin by 2027, FitFusion Gym is positioned for significant growth. Its financial strategy is supported by an ambitious marketing approach and a focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences, aligning the gym for success in the competitive fitness market.

For a gym, the Business Overview section succinctly covers three critical components:

Facility, Amenities & Equipment

Detail the gym’s layout, showcasing a wide range of equipment for cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises. Highlight unique amenities such as sauna rooms, personal training services, and on-site nutritionists that contribute to a holistic fitness environment.

Location & Accessibility

Describe the gym’s location, emphasizing its convenience for members, whether it’s close to residential areas, business districts, or has ample parking and public transport links. The aim is to illustrate how the gym’s location is strategically chosen to fit seamlessly into members’ daily routines.

Memberships & Classes

Explain the variety of memberships and classes available, catering to different preferences and schedules. Focus on the inclusivity of fitness programs, from beginner to advanced levels, and any unique offerings like group fitness classes, yoga sessions, or specialized training workshops that differentiate your gym from competitors.

Industry Size & Growth

In the Market Overview section of your gym business plan, start by assessing the gym industry’s size and anticipated growth. This evaluation provides an understanding of the market’s potential and the opportunity for new entrants.

Key Market Trends

Next, discuss recent market trends, such as the increasing consumer focus on holistic health, incorporating both physical and mental wellness practices. For example, highlight the rising popularity of gyms offering a variety of fitness options, from traditional weightlifting to wellness classes like yoga and meditation, catering to a broader audience seeking comprehensive health solutions.

Competitive Landscape

A  competitive analysis  is not just a tool for gauging the position of your gym in the market and its key competitors; it’s also a fundamental component of your business plan. This analysis helps identify your gym’s unique selling points, essential for differentiating your business in a  competitive  market.

In addition, competitive analysis is integral in laying a solid foundation for your business plan. By examining various operational aspects of your competitors, you gain valuable information that ensures your business plan is robust, informed, and tailored to succeed in the current market environment.

Identifying Your Competitors in the Gym Industry

To begin the analysis, it’s imperative to identify and categorize local competitors. These encompass a spectrum of fitness establishments, including renowned chain gyms, specialized boutique studios, community-based fitness centers, and even online workout platforms. The competitive landscape extends beyond direct gym-to-gym rivalry, incorporating alternative fitness options like outdoor boot camps, virtual training programs, or home workout subscriptions.

Leverage digital tools and platforms such as Google Maps, Yelp, or industry-specific directories to map out competitor locations. Simultaneously, dive into customer reviews and ratings to gauge the  strengths and weaknesses  of rival gyms. For instance, positive feedback on “Peak Performance Gym’s” personalized training sessions highlights a competitive edge worth considering.

Gym Competitors’ Strategies 

Analyzing the strategies of your competitors encompasses various facets:

A thorough examination of competitor strategies involves a multi-faceted approach:

• Fitness Offerings:  Scrutinize the array of fitness services and programs offered. If “Mindful Movement Studio” gains traction with mindfulness-based workouts or niche programs like aerial yoga, it signals a trend towards holistic fitness approaches.
• Training Methodologies:  Consider the diverse training methodologies adopted by competitors. A gym like “Strength & Conditioning Hub,” focusing on functional fitness and group classes, may attract a different demographic than “Cardio Fusion Fitness,” known for its cardio-centric programs.
• Pricing Structures:  Conduct a comparative analysis of membership fees and pricing models vis-à-vis competitors. Are your rates in alignment with the budget-friendly options of “EconoFit” or more akin to the exclusive memberships at “Premier Fitness Retreat”?
• Marketing Strategies :  Evaluate the marketing initiatives deployed by rival gyms. Are they heavily invested in social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, or local community engagement events?
• Member Experience:  Analyze the holistic member experience provided by competitors. For instance, “Rejuvenate Wellness Center” might stand out for its holistic approach, offering nutritional counseling, spa facilities, and group therapy sessions in addition to workouts.
• Operational Efficiencies:  Observe if competitors leverage technology for member engagement, facility management, or workout tracking. For example, “Virtual Vitality Gym” might excel in offering live-streamed classes and personalized virtual coaching.

What’s Your Gym’s Unique Value Proposition?

Crafting a distinct  value proposition  is pivotal for setting your gym apart. Identify your gym’s strengths and core offerings. It might specialize in cutting-edge equipment, an exclusive training methodology, or a diverse array of classes catering to all fitness levels.

Continuously gather member feedback and analyze industry trends to identify unmet needs or evolving preferences. For instance, an emerging interest in sustainability might prompt your gym to adopt eco-friendly practices or organize outdoor workout sessions to align with this trend.

Additionally, consider your gym’s physical location and its demographics. A gym nestled in a tech-centric neighborhood might emphasize digital fitness innovations, while one in a family-oriented community could prioritize childcare services and family-friendly programs.

First, include here a SWOT analysis to identify the gym’s Strengths (such as cutting-edge equipment or a prime location), Weaknesses (like high operational costs or stiff competition), Opportunities (for example, a growing interest in fitness among the local population), and Threats (such as economic downturns affecting customer spending).

Marketing Plan

Then, adding a marketing plan is another crucial component, detailing how the gym will attract and retain members through targeted advertising, promotions, social media engagement, and community events.

Marketing Channels

Leverage a mix of  marketing channels  to engage with potential and existing gym members.

Digital Marketing

• Engage on Social Media:  Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share workout tips, success stories, and gym events. Foster an online fitness community through regular engagement.
• Email Marketing:  Cultivate an email list and send newsletters featuring fitness advice, class updates, and promotional offers to keep members engaged.
• Website and SEO:  Develop a user-friendly website showcasing gym amenities, class schedules, trainer profiles, and client testimonials. Optimize for local SEO to boost visibility in searches.

Local Advertising

• Harness Local Marketing : Distribute flyers in nearby neighborhoods, participate in community events, and invest in local media advertising to expand your gym’s reach.
• Host Community Events:  Organize fitness challenges, open days, or charity events to engage with the community and showcase your gym’s offerings.
• Partnerships:  Collaborate with health-related businesses or local establishments for mutual promotion and referral programs.

Promotional Activities

• Offer Attractive Deals:  Launch promotional campaigns like ‘New Year Fitness Challenges’ or ‘Summer Transformation Programs’. Provide trial memberships or discounts for new sign-ups to attract potential members.
• Loyalty Programs:  Implement rewards for long-term members, offering perks like free classes or merchandise after a certain number of visits to foster member retention.
• Referral Incentives:  Encourage existing members to refer new clients by providing discounts or free sessions as rewards, boosting word-of-mouth marketing.

Sales Channels

Efficient  sales strategies  within your gym are crucial for revenue generation and maintaining member satisfaction.

In-Gym Upselling 

Optimizing revenue during every member visit:

• Personal Training Add-Ons:  Encourage members to explore additional services such as personal training sessions, nutrition consultations, or specialized fitness assessments during gym visits or membership sign-ups.
• Supplementary Gear : Showcase fitness accessories like resistance bands, foam rollers, or heart rate monitors, highlighting their benefits for enhancing workout routines. Ensure staff are well-versed in product knowledge to assist members in making informed purchases.
• Tailored Membership Packages : Present customized membership upgrades such as VIP access to exclusive gym areas, extended class schedules, or priority booking for sought-after sessions to cater to diverse member preferences.
• Complementary Add-Ons:  Offer complimentary sessions or trial classes for new equipment, workout programs, or group fitness sessions, encouraging members to explore and possibly opt for extended services.

Online Booking and Sales

• Online Booking System:  Design an intuitive and user-friendly website or mobile app for seamless membership purchases, class bookings, and payments.
• Integration of Payment Systems : Incorporate secure payment gateways, allowing for hassle-free transactions and offering various payment options.
• Membership Customization:  Enable members to personalize their memberships by choosing preferred services, class types, or add-on packages during the online signup process.
• Automated Notifications:  Implement automated confirmation emails or text messages upon successful bookings, ensuring members receive timely reminders.
• Virtual Consultations:  Introduce virtual fitness classes or on-demand workout videos accessible through the online platform, catering to members’ preferences for at-home workouts.

Membership and Loyalty Programs 

Encourage repeat business and foster member loyalty:

• Membership Options:  Provide tiered membership levels with varying services, amenities, and pricing to cater to different member preferences.
• Loyalty Rewards:  Develop a digital loyalty program where members earn points for each visit, referral, or participation in gym activities, redeemable for discounts on services or merchandise.

Strategy Timeline

Finally, a well-defined timeline sets clear milestones for the gym’s launch, marketing campaigns, membership growth, and expansion goals, ensuring that the business progresses with purpose and direction.

The Management section focuses on the gym’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the gym towards its financial and operational goals.

For your gym business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the gym’s mission.

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of the gym’s financial strategy, including projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out the gym’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your gym business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. pricing strategies for memberships and services, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

Related Posts

Dance Studio Business Plan PDF Example

• June 17, 2024

Rock Climbing Gym Business Plan PDF Example

Competitive Analysis for a Rock Climbing Gym (Example)

• May 14, 2024
• Business Plan , Competitive Analysis

Privacy Overview

• Online classes
• Tips and tools

Gym business plan: a checklist with templates & examples

In this article, you'll find a checklist of everything you need to know to create a business plan for your gym or fitness business.

If you've recently discovered an ambition to start a gym , or this has been your dream for years, we've got you covered!

The first step in your journey is to create a gym business plan. This will include understanding your business's structure, determining your target market and what sets you apart from other gyms (your unique selling point), forecasting future finances, and any further details about your venture.

Your gym business plan is the key to your success. It will help you make better decisions and attract potential investors. Creating a business plan is ongoing; it's not something you do once and then forget about. Your business plan should be flexible and adapt as you move forward. 

You have to consider many elements to ensure your gym will succeed. All stages of your business plan are critical. In this article, we'll be doing a deep dive into understanding the core essentials of creating a fitness business plan.

What is a gym business plan? 

A gym business plan is a document that informs the reader about your company and where it's headed. In other words, it answers essential questions such as:

• How does your business work?
• How are you going to succeed?
• What steps do you need to take to succeed?

According to research, entrepreneurs who write formal business plans are more likely to be successful . 

This is especially true for business owners seeking external financial support. A formal business plan can help new businesses by providing a clear focus for their ideas.

Why it’s important to have a business plan for your gym? 

Simply put, your gym business plan is an organized and detailed process that provides a roadmap for your business. If someone reads it – like a potential investor, for example – they should be able to understand how you expect the gym to progress and succeed over time.

Plus, putting together a business plan with detailed description forces you to take a critical look at your operation as it currently stands and identify room for improvement or new areas of opportunity altogether.

Depending on where your business is located, a well-crafted business plan can serve multiple purposes.

Keep reading for even more reasons you need a business plan from day one!

Taking advantage of a steadily growing industry

The gym industry is booming, allowing gyms to capitalize on this growth. In the US alone, over 87 million people regularly attend the gym and spend billions of dollars annually on membership fees.

And according to projections, the global gym market is expected to reach 434 billion USD by 2028 – a 171% increase from 2021! This steady growth provides room for gym owners to get in on the action and reap the benefits.

By having a gym business plan that considers the health & fitness industry as a whole, you'll be able to capitalize on this growth.

Ensures your business idea is feasible 

If you're considering starting a fitness business, know it will be complex. You have a fantastic idea and think it could take off--but how can you test that theory without launching the business? 

This is where a business plan comes in handy. By working through your concept and creating a well-rounded plan of action, you'll be able to figure out key details like numbers, market trends, and what your competition is doing and save yourself loads of time down the line.

It helps to bring in investors and secure funding 

To secure funding for your gym business from investors, you need a comprehensive business plan. This document helps startup businesses obtain the initial capital they need and provides established companies with funds for expansion.

Would-be contributors usually request substantiated data— such as numbers backed up by facts and figures—before deciding whether or not to invest in a project.

If you don't have a business plan, chances are slim that you'll receive money from sources like investors, banks, or other financial organizations outside your company.

Set and reach goals, both big and small 

Having long-term and short-term goals is a great start, but it's time to take the next step. A successful business plan will contain specific tactics on how you plan to achieve your objectives. 

This might be through your business model, acquiring equipment, hiring new talent, or marketing campaigns.

A successful business needs a clear plan to achieve its goals. Breaking down important goals into smaller, more manageable pieces would be best. 

And remember-- as your business changes and grows over time, so should your plan. Keep it updated regularly. 

Business planning is no longer a daunting task

A business plan is a vital tool for new and established businesses. It provides direction and helps to set the foundation for a successful start. 

By budgeting, analyzing your market, and setting out your goals and strategies, you can make more informed decisions about how to proceed. This process also makes it easier to track your progress over time and assess whether or not you are on track.

Something to consider before creating a gym business plan

Consider the cost of starting a gym. There are many potential expenses, such as equipment, personal trainers, class instructors, insurance policies, property fees, etc.

Also, consider how much time you are willing to invest in this venture – especially during the beginning stages when there is likely to be a lot of work involved in getting everything up and running smoothly.

It can be challenging to maintain a good work/life balance when starting any business; it will probably require working additional hours outside of your usual schedule.

Money and time are essential, but there are other things you need to be successful. 

People skills, marketing know-how, and financial smarts are essential if you want to succeed in the gym business world. It's not going to be easy, but it will be worth it if this is your passion. A solid plan is the first step toward making your dream a reality.

The 11 key elements of a detailed gym business plan

Before you develop your business plan, think about where you are and where you want to see yourself. Keep this vision in mind, as it will help guide you through writing your business plan. There will be countless opportunities wherein consulting your business plan will assist you in making a decision.

To create an effective health club business plan, you will need extensive research on your fitness industry, competitors, and future finances. 

Following these 11 steps, you can build an excellent gym business plan that covers all aspects of your health club.

Step 1: Executive summary

Your executive summary needs to be clear and concise while also grabbing attention. What you want readers to know is:

• Your mission/purpose
• How you'll achieve success (What will make you a success story?)

And finally, your vision for the future. Though it may seem tempting to hurry through this section because it is shorter than other parts of the business plan, don't rush! 

This is your chance to shine and explain what makes your company special. Don't worry if you feel like you have more to say about your goals and vision. You can expand on these topics in your company overview.

Step 2: Company overview

Your company overview is where you get to sell your gym and its potential. Build on your executive summary's vision and mission statement, delving deeper into what makes your gym unique. 

Think of your vision statement as a tagline for your future website. When outlining the purpose of your gym, which audience it will cater to, and how you plan to achieve business goals, also consider including the following: 

Your personal mission statement for the business- i.e., what outcome do you hope to see?

Then, give your readers some information on your background:

• What have you done in the past?
• Have you had any other businesses?
• What is your current status?

This is helpful for investors and partners to know so they can understand where you've been and where you're going. The more they know about you, the more trust they'll have in you.

Step 3: Services and amenities

Outline your strategy in detail: what services you'll offer and how you will develop new offerings. This includes if you need to hire someone or build a facility, such as a spa or a studio. 

This information will help you realize when or where your business requires more funding and extra staff.

By describing your products and services, you can gain valuable insights into your gym's size. Test your vision to determine if you have the necessary funding for these assets. If not, consider how you might acquire the required financing.

Some potential products you could invest in are: 

• Gym equipment like treadmills and rowing machines 
• Specialist equipment to cater to different types of gym-goers, such as bodybuilders 
• Food and drinks like energy drinks or healthy foods 

And services like: 

• Personal training sessions 
• Group classes like yoga, spinning, or body pump 
• Lockers for storing belongings while working out 
• Spa amenities like saunas or massages 
• A swimming pool 
• Physiotherapy

Furthermore, thinking about increasing your market share is a significant next step. You could start by offering pro bono services at local workplaces and schools, eventually introducing a fee.

This way, you can attract larger customers while still providing value.

When creating a business plan - be it for a gym or something else entirely - remember that its purpose is to lay out your objectives easily for potential bankers, partners, employees, and investors.

Step 4: Management team

It is essential to consider the positions you'll need to fill and how these people can help your gym succeed. 

You should write a summary emphasizing their skills and management experience while incorporating what they will be responsible for and any incentives you plan on offering.

Furthermore, creating an employee ladder is vital to establish who or what each new hire will report to so your business can secure its success.

Step 5: Market research and marketing strategy

Marketing is a field where creativity can shine. It's all about identifying different groups of people who would buy your product, coming up with reasons why they should choose you over others, and figuring out ways to get more sales.

Learn more:

Gym marketing strategy

Gym promotion ideas

Gym membership pricing

Best gym features

Even if marketing your fitness business isn't your favorite thing, remember that your marketing strategy will help you lay out a plan for expansion if you do it right. Your first target should be to summarise what you found in your market research. Are you still stuck? 

Consider where you are situated, similar businesses nearby, and who makes up the community around you.

Define your target market here. It could be

• Working professionals
• Senior executives

Or a particular group, like cyclists. After that, try to understand why this specific demographic would join a gym – for example, are they looking for cardio?

After you have completed your market research, take some time to understand your target audience. Ask yourself the following questions:

• How can I make this customer base loyal?
• What makes my company unique?
• What's the best membership package I can offer?
• Is there a need for special equipment or offerings?

In your plan, identify and communicate what makes your business valuable and unique. 

This is called a Unique Selling Proposition (USP), and it will help instill confidence in potential investors that they are making a wise choice by investing in your company. 

Furthermore, detailing marketing strategies in this document provides peace of mind that future income streams are lined up and secure.

There are many marketing strategies you can use to grow your business, including:

• Improving your services
• Advertising and sponsorship
• Loyalty plans and website promotions
• Email marketing campaigns
• Investing in new equipment or technology

Step 6: Competitor analysis - Understanding direct and indirect competitors

To do a competitor analysis, research businesses in your field that offer similar services. These are your direct competitors. 

You can mention indirect competitors, but this section is mainly for an in-depth look at businesses like yours. Depending on your business type, you could have brick-and-mortar and online rivals.

When investigating a competitor, these are some critical areas you'll want to focus on: 

• Services and products they offer 
• Target audience 
• Pricing and business model 
• Strengths and weaknesses

Step 7: Create comprehensive financial projections

Starting a gym requires careful budgeting. Make sure you consider every possible purchase and estimate the cost of each item.

The following are key areas to cover when starting your business:

• Lawyer fees
• Recruiting expenses
• Constructional endeavors
• Exercise equipment for the workplace
• Three months' worth of bills and other operational costs
• An accounting software

It's time to be practical and ascertain how much money you will need to open your gym and make it thrive. This way, you'll get a better understanding of what falls within your budget and what will require additional funding.

Next, you need to prove to investors, stakeholders, and employees that you have a feasible plan for attaining ROI. 

Consider revenue streams such as classes, services provided, and product sales- anything that brings in money. Set down an estimate here based on research and expert opinion.

If you're looking for ways to make money, selling healthy food could be a great option. You could create your protein shakes or energy bars, for example. 

If you plan to sell food, ensure you stay up-to-date with food hygiene standards.

Step 8: Financial forecasting

Your sales forecast for your business's first, second, and third years should be detailed. Specifying the number of active members, you estimate for your first year would also be beneficial. Estimate using:

• Unit sales per month
• Any relevant past data
• How purchases will be broken down (as specified in financial projections)

Step 9: Financial strategy

How can you use your fees in a way that will increase customer registration? For example, if all the other gyms in your area charge higher prices than average, this could be an opportunity to set your business apart by being financially conscious (lowering membership fees or having better offers than competitors).

Consider ways to show your appreciation for loyal customers, such as discounts or complimentary services.

Furthermore, if you're in the process of creating a gym and spa business plan, consider adding discounts for those who use both facilities. For example, many people would love to take advantage of the jacuzzi after working out.

Writing your pricing strategy down will help give you peace of mind about what's to come for your gym.

Step 10: Payment option

An easy and accessible payment system is crucial for any business, let alone a gym. To retain customers , ensure your payment processing is up-to-date and user-friendly. 

Let potential investors know what platform you're using or planning to use, so they can see that you're taking customer experience seriously. A positive buyer experience will encourage loyalty among your clientele.

Step 11: Funding

Make it clear where your business will obtain the extra startup capital it needs. 

This is a chance to be practical about your company. Can you realistically obtain the funding required to reach your targets? Or do you need to readjust your plan?

Below are some vital external resources that might provide the necessary funding:

• Loans from friends or family members
• Crowdfunding campaigns
• Business partners or sponsors

If you are looking to gain investors, be sure to detail where the funding for your project will come from and how much of a return they can expect. You should also include any previous loan applications related to this venture here.

You're almost there!

Now it's time to put all the elements outlined above into a gym business plan. This plan will be a reference point when you need to make tough decisions, help secure investment, and show direction to new employees or partners.

Your next steps to successfully run your gym

Here's a personal checklist to help you ensure that you have everything covered before you open your gym. Use it as a reference point throughout the development process to ensure nothing is overlooked.

• Write a business plan
• Register business
• Apply for a business license and permit
• Open business bank accounts
• Select an online payment platform
• Obtain taxpayer's ID
• Purchase insurance
• Rent/purchase facility
• Purchase/rent equipment
• Secure funding
• Recruit employees
• Drafting contract documents along with any other legal documents required
• Design company logo
• Develop website
• Write website content
• Create social media accounts
• Design leaflets & brochures
• Organize branded uniforms
• Launch party

Any business, no matter how big or small, comes with its fair share of challenges. However, the payoffs in the end always make it worth your while

Starting a gym can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, it is important to ensure that you are well-prepared with all the necessary information before you open your gym. 

A comprehensive Gym Business Plan detailing the market research, financial projections and strategy, services and amenities, management team, and more should be developed to ensure success. 

Additionally, obtaining the necessary licenses, finding and hiring trainers, investing in the right equipment , and appealing to members with friendly incentives are all important steps.

Gym business plan template & examples

In addition, we've gathered a few of the gym business plan templates and examples below. These samples will provide you with suggested language for your own document as well as guidance on what to include.

Adam Fitness Centre

Grow think's template

PAWSitively Fit Club

Ecogym business plan

Capital Health and Fitness Club

Frequently asked questions on good gym business plan

How can i start my own gym business.

Follow these steps and understand gym business plans:

• Choose your area/location
• Develop a comprehensive business plan
• Apply and obtain all necessary licenses
• Find and hire certified trainers
• Invest in the right equipment for your business
• Appeal to members with friendly incentives

How do I write a business plan for a gym?

To write a gym business plan, you can implement the steps below:

• Executive summary
• Company overview
• Services and amenities
• Management team
• Market research and marketing
• Competitor analysis 
• Financial projections
• Financial forecasting
• Financial strategy
• Payment option

What type of gym is the most profitable?

Out of the gyms surveyed in November 2020, 69 percent of CrossFit gyms were profitable, while half of martial arts gyms reported being in the black.

Is owning a gym a good business?

Owning a gym can be profitable, but you will need more time to make yourself rich. To succeed in this industry, you must put in the effort.

Do gym owners make money?

According to ZipRecruiter, an American jobs marketplace, gym owners in the United States will earn an average of $69,472 annually as of June 2022.

Do gyms make a lot of money?

A gym that is managed efficiently and has a good mixture of members can generate quite a bit of money. For example, if a gym has 1,000 people paying $50 monthly, the gym could bring in $50,000 each month. And if the monthly expenses for the gym are $20,000 per month, the profit would be $30,000 per month.

Webinars and Live Events

From product demos to valuable insights from fitness business owners - watch on demand or sign up for future events!

Ready to scale your fitness business?

Try the #1 fitness management software for boutique fitness studios, gyms and franchises.

What I really enjoy about working with TeamUp is there’s a face to everybody. It’s not a random email. There’s communication and follow up.

—Stella Hull-Lampkin, BASI Pilates USA

Related posts.

How to start a Lagree studio: A step-by-step guide

Starting your Lagree studio isn't just about creating a fitness space; it's about bringing a dream to life. 

How to reduce last-minute cancellations & save revenue

Last-minute cancellations refer to class or appointment bookings that clients cancel with little to no notice. These...

Drive revenue with your own virtual content

If you’re not weaving virtual content into your in-person offerings to create an ecosystem of value for your clients, your...

How to become a personal trainer

The fitness industry has seen a major increase in the number of individuals who want to become personal trainers . Not only does...

How a Bootcamp owner goes above and beyond for his customers

While the pandemic threw a curveball into the plans of fitness business owners worldwide, many jumped at the opportunity to...

The top 2022 fitness trends to know about

When 2021 rolled around, the state of play for gyms, studios and the rest of the fitness industry was still uncertain. However,...

The power of business reviews

Nowadays, almost everything can be looked up online, including what other people think of your business. Studies have shown...

Home > Blog > How to Write a Gym Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide + Free Template)

How to Write a Gym Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide + Free Template)

• Updated on 06/08/2024

Opening a gym can be very lucrative but requires a well-thought-out business plan. We mean a document that will help you understand what steps you need to achieve success at your gym. This article will discuss how we design a plan for a fitness business from the scratch.

We will present some examples and gym business plan templates. They will help you understand what elements should be included in this document. From concept development through market and competition analysis to a financial plan.

This article gives you a solid foundation for writing a business plan. Doesn’t matter if you are creating a new gym or improving an existing one.

Download: Free Gym Business Plan Template

What is a gym business plan?

A gym business plan is a document that describes planned activities, goals, and gym marketing strategies for a new or existing gym. It is an important document for anyone who wants to open or develop their own fitness business.

How to write a gym business plan (Step-by-Step)?

• Step 1: Gather answers to important questions from the list below before writing your plan.
• Step 2: Are you opening a gym with an innovative business model? It is better to wait to start writing a business plan immediately to verify whether this model can succeed. 
• Does the gym have a traditional business model (e.g., hour-scheduled group training sessions) already existing in the market? You can skip this step and create a business plan immediately.
• Step 3: Create a gym business plan using the ready-made template (pattern) described below.
• Step 4: Review the business plan regularly, every month in the first months of running the gym, and at least once a year in subsequent years. A business plan is a living document that will help your fitness place grow.

What to remember when creating a gym business plan?

• Write short and concisely. Be specific.
• Use numbers for calculations.
• Assume black scenarios. The blacker you assume, and yet the business has a chance of success, you will manage to beat the market.
• In the first months of the gym’s operation, work with the business plan daily and update calculations and assumptions.
• Once the gym is stable and has reached the so-called break-even point, return to the business plan at least once a year.
• Discuss the business plan with your team. Also, consider sharing some of the profits with your team. In this way, you will build a unique commitment.
• The business plan is for years. The document should be updated regularly.

Where to start writing a gym business plan? (10+ questions to start with)

Start writing your document by answering a few important questions. The questions help you create a good business plan for opening a gym and, above all, help you design a business that perfectly suits your needs:

• Why do you want to start this gym?
• How much would you like to earn per month? 
• How many clients do you plan to serve per month? 
• What kind of gym do you want to run? (e.g., group training place, personal training place, specialized gym of one kind of sport or one kind of clientele). Here is a list of types of gyms and other fitness businesses.
• What kind of service will you offer? (on-site, online, mixed).
• What area will you operate in?
• Who will be your client? 
• How many direct competitors are there where you want to operate?
• How will your gym stand out?
• How will you manage your gym? What gym management software do you choose?
• Who do you need to hire to start a gym? Do you plan a gym staff management software ?
• What metrics will you keep track of? (e.g. retention rate, customers opinions).
• What will your gym look like inside?
• What will the atmosphere of your gym be like?
• What will your fitness offer look like? 
• What will your gym pricing strategy be?

Recommendation

Remember that a sample of your fitness classes can attract potential customers. A well-performed meeting will help you sell your idea. The trainer’s performance and place’s image are your #1 sales tools.

What to write a business plan for?

• A business plan is an action plan. You will stop dreaming and start turning your idea into a real gym business plan.
• Running a business is working in a company. Creating a plan is working “on the company,” i.e. its design and improvement.
• A gym business plan will allow you to verify your assumptions. You will observe it in a year, two, or five years. It’s super satisfying to watch how your knowledge grows every year.
• Writing this document allows you to translate your vision into a specific project and action plan. It also allows you to rethink to what extent your business idea is a recipe for success and what you still need to refine.
• Creating a business plan for a gym will help you assess the reality of your dream. You’ll check the possibilities of its implementation, as well as check the chances of its success. It’s also important to assess the risk you have to take.
• A business plan forces you to be specific. If you don’t know the answer to a question in our guide, you may be blind in this area, which is very risky.
• If you already run a gym and don’t have a plan, fix this mistake. Every gym should have some sort of ideas for the present and future actions.

When is it worth writing a business plan?

In our opinion, it’s always worth it. You plan to open a successful gym, right? Not having the basic elements of your fitness business written down and calculated… dooms you to failure. Remember to verify them regularly too. 

Only a regular analysis of the gym’s results (read more about gym reporting ) and planning the next moves (in the form of a business plan) allows you to have full control over the gym.

Of course, the external motivation is looking for an investor or support (then you are forced to create this document).

Helpful resources when creating a gym business plan

• How Much Do Gym Owners Make in 2024
• How Much Does It Cost To Open a Gym in 2024
• Opening a gym (Step-By-Step Guide)    

Free gym business plan template

A typical gym business plan example includes:

• Executive summary for a gym
• Gym description
• Market analysis

Competition analysis

• SWOT analysis
• Investment costs (one-off to start)
• Operating costs (fixed monthly costs) Financial Projections
• Profit and Loss Account

Break-even analysis

Sensitivity analysis

• Gym marketing plan
• Company description of the vision for further development of the gym

1. Executive Summary

The summary of the gym business plan should include:

• Mission statement, vision, and values.
• Description of the gym concept.
• Why will this idea be a success?
• How do you want to implement this plan?
• Profits and return on investment.

The executive summary should be written at the end after you have written your entire gym business plan. The executive summary wraps the business plan up. It provides the reader with the most important information in a very concise form (max. 600 words, i.e., about 1-2 pages). Discuss only the key aspects of your business idea. Use points!

2. Description of the gym

This section aims to show you the details of your gym. It should not lack the following elements:

• Mission: why do we exist?
• Vision: what we want to achieve in 1, 2, and 5 years.
• Business Type: Is your gym a sole proprietorship, partnership, or other business?
• Gym name (get inspired by this list of gym names ).
• Gym type: specify the type of gym, e.g., personal training gym, group fitness classes gym, online training studio, wide offer studio, etc.
• Specific location: write exactly where your new gym is (or could be) and why you chose this place.
• The style of the place: what will be the colors, atmosphere, decorations, music, etc.
• Ways to serve the customer: only on-site, only remotely, both ways.
• Hours of Operation: What hours will the place be open? Why are these?
• Your offer is surely connected with your experience and skills. But remember to be creative and have 1-3 differentiators from the competition (Unique Selling Points).

3. Market research and competition analysis

You should thoroughly analyze the space to create your premises. Oh, unless you are introducing real innovation to the market – or maybe especially then. What needs to be observed? Analyze the market and competition, focusing on the following:

Market analysis Customers are the key to any gym’s success. Knowing their demographic structure, preferences, and training habits is critical to a business plan.

• Target market for a gym: Think about who your customers will be. Consider their age, interests, expectations, and how to reach them.
• Needs in the market: Describe the market’s needs and how your gym will meet them.
• Target Audience Size: Determine the number of potential customers in the market you intend to target.
• Market trends: Use credible information to show that people will be interested in your gym idea. Find out current trends and how the gym industry is developing.

Check out other gyms that are or could be your competition.

• Is there any other gym or fitness center in your area? Make a list of them.
• Revenue and number of customers they can achieve: Estimate how much such gyms can earn
• Offer and prices: Analyze what these places offer and what is their gym pricing . Try to calculate their revenue cost (it is how much you need to spend before you start earning).
• Competitor marketing activities: See what makes them successful and their weaknesses.
• Competitive advantages: What will be your advantage?

SWOT analysis The abbreviation comes from the words: S for Strengths, W for Weaknesses, O for Opportunities, and T for Threats. Fields S and W are related to the gym’s launch situation. While the O and T fields are related to the success of your project in the future. It is worth conducting such an analysis in the form of a table:

4. Investment plan (cost analysis)

In this section, you will present the costs associated with the initial investment and the spending plan for the first year of operation.

List the costs, dividing them into two groups:

• Investment costs (one-off to start).
• Operating costs (fixed monthly costs). 

After opening a gym, verify the costs regularly, preferably once a month.

Investment costs include, among others:

• Rental or purchase of the real estate.
• Renovation and adaptation of the fitness facilities.
• Purchase of exercise equipment: mats, kettlebells, dumbbells, other special equipment, like poles for a pole sport studio, etc.
• Reception Desk.
• Unified Work Clothes for the staff (if you plan it)
• Gym POS software.
• Payment terminals.
• Computer hardware for the POS system.
• A website with online booking.

Regarding point 5 and 6, take into account a very important monthly purchase, which will however save your time and money finally. It’s a gym management software. You can compare some of the software providers on the market to meet the best gym management software . Yet, what we recommend is WodGuru . With its reasonable price, many useful features, amazingly helpful support and nice cartoon visual identity.

• Insurance of the premises and equipment.
• Organizational and legal costs (e.g., regulations, documentation).
• Costs related to permits and licenses (e.g. license to conduct exercises according to a patented pattern and name).
• External training costs.
• Operating costs.
• Rental of real estate (if the premises are rented).
• Electricity.
• Staff wages: personal trainers, receptionist, outsource trainers etc.
• Purchase of additional items like finger food and drinks.
• Equipment maintenance and servicing costs.
• POS system support.
• Online booking system.
• Employee insurance.
• Online and offline advertising.
• Printed materials.
• Running social media.
• Website positioning (SEO).
• Taxes and fees.

Gym Website Builder

Create your own gym website in minutes.

Use WodGuru website creator to craft a site that turns visitors into customers. Don’t hesitate to contact WodGuru now.

How to finance the opening of a gym?

The biggest problem for a novice gym owner is finding financing for the first business. Various options are worth considering.

• taking out bank loans,
• receiving subsidies — a business plan will even be necessary to receive them
• loans from friends or family.

Considering bank loans or a subsidy, you must first think about the black scenario. What will happen if your business fails and you have to return the borrowed money? But also what to do to prevent this from happening? How much does it cost to open a gym and which costs are inevitable? How high the margin you have to impose on the training performance? This is the key to assessing the chance of return on investment in the gym.

5. Financial forecast

The financial forecast consists of 3 elements:

• Projected profit and Loss Statement: Shows what turnover and profits you will generate. 
• Break-even analysis: Shows when a gym will become profitable.
• Sensitivity analysis: Shows what happens to turnover and profit in negative scenarios. E.g., 50% decrease in turnover for three months.

Profit and Loss Account You will need to estimate the value of the sale considering the size of your gym, target market, sales volume, and revenue cost. You will get a profit and loss forecast, comparing this with the costs. The easiest way to prepare a profit and loss account is in the form of a table:

Investors will want to know how much revenue you will need to generate each month to break even after all fixed and operating costs are considered. In the analysis, you should show how you intend to generate the necessary revenue, even in difficult months with lower sales.

It is worth doing it to assess the negative scenarios.

• The other gyms will be stronger, and you will have to lower price
• You lose key employees
• There is a decrease in sales by 10 or 20% compared to what you assume

This will allow us to be prepared better for different financial crises and reduce stress when such a situation arises.

Make a sensitivity analysis in the form of a table

Business is people. Describe what your team will look like, dividing it into two groups:

If you are looking for investors, this area can be critical for them.

Describe the founders:

• List of founders.
• Experience.

Which positions are necessary for the daily functioning of the premises? Is it the receptionist, a permanent personal trainer, an outsourcing trainer, social media platforms specialist, etc.? Who will suffice as emergency help?

Think about which people you already know with the necessary competencies. Which ones will you have to look for or train as your employees from the beginning? The cost of necessary training should also be included in the gym business plan.

Describe the team you need to build:

• List of job titles.
• Remuneration.
• Type of contract.

7. Marketing plan

Ideally, your marketing strategy should include the items we listed. Below we describe how to do effective marketing in your branch.

• Brand building (logo, colors, gym name , gym slogans)
• Building your own website or app (Here you can check how to create a fitness app )
• Selling training sessions or booking online from your own website (as the main way of selling online)
• Launching a loyalty program
• Will you run social media?
• Will you be implementing gym SEO (Search Engine Optimization)?
• Will you add a business listing on Google Maps?
• Will you run email and SMS campaigns, and if so, how often? How will you build your subscriber base? 
• Will you be blogging?
• Will you be running a gym newsletter ?
• Will you be doing paid Google Ads and Facebook Ads?
• Will you be offering promotions? If so, what types?

Gym Marketing Tools

Create image of your gym with ease.

Increase your customers’ satisfaction by using the WodGuru gym CRM system, no expertise required. Sign up for free!

8. Description of the vision for further development of the gym

Determining the direction of development is very important at the beginning of your business. When setting gym goals you want to achieve in a certain time, you should start with the wider ones, reaching those at the everyday level. It is also worth considering how you want to achieve these goals.

During project execution you need to observe and adapt initial goals. It enables effective management and reduces losses in marketing, service, and other areas. Your gym’s written plan should clearly outline the vision and strategies to achieve desired objectives.

Sample gym business plan

We created a sample gym business plan to help you write your plan. Click below to download an example of a business plan for a gym.

Download: Free gym Business Plan Template

Online Booking System

Let the customers book classes and trainings online

Set up a gym booking software for your website in minutes. Boost revenue while saving time.

Key Takeaways

• The business plan describes what your gym will look like.
• A business plan consists of 10 different elements.
• Create a business plan even if you already run a gym.
• Do not outsource writing a business plan to external companies. It is better to ask an experienced trainer or an external company as a consultant for your ideas.
• Go back to the business plan once a month if you are starting and once a year if you have been operating for several years.
• A business plan is not an artificial document you write once and forget. It is a living document that teaches you how to run a business.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to write small gym business plans.

Regardless of the size of the gym or business, the steps of gym business planning remain the same. Writing this document for a small gym consists of creating:

• Executive summary, 
• Gym description, 
• Market analysis, 
• Investment plan, 
• Financial projections, 
• Team, 
• Marketing plan,
• Company development description

Does every gym need a business plan?

In our opinion, yes. If you are serious about putting your place in the whole fitness industry, you must implement a repetitive method of working “on the company”. A BP that is updated regularly every month and year is a way to run a business.

How to open a gym without money?

Opening a gym with no money can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here are some ways to open a gym without enough funds:

• Rethink the concept of your gym.
• Look for gym investors or alternative funding sources.
• Start your online business to get first customers.
• Consider working with other companies.
• Start a smaller business by offering training sessions on demand and develop your brand.

Discover more ideas on how to open a gym with no money.

How to promote gyms?

Promoting a gym is key to attracting new guests, increasing sales and retaining regular customers. A few steps to help you promote your gym:

• Create a professional website with a website creator like WodGuru.
• Take care of social media by posting regularly and encouraging interaction.
• Add your gym to popular sites.
• Organize contests and promotions.
• Collaborate with influencers.
• Organize events such as health promoting, competitions or concerts.
• Use paid ads such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads.
• Collect gym feedback from satisfied customers.

Check these gym promotion ideas for inspiration.

How much profit does the gym make?

A gym’s profit depends on many factors, such as location, offer, prices, service quality, and business size. The average gym profit margin is between 10 and 15% per year, but it can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above.

Franchise gym profits on the lower end of 10%, boutique fitness studios averaging 20% to even 40% profit margins, and CrossFit gym profit margins in the 25-30% range.

What makes a gym business plan important?

A gym business plan is crucial for several reasons:

• It helps clarify the vision and goals of the gym.
• It provides a roadmap for the business.
• It includes financial projections, budgeting, and funding strategies for securing investors or loans.
• It identifies potential risks and challenges, allowing the business to address them proactively.
• It serves as a reference point for decision-making, helping the management team focus on the business’s objectives.
• It can be used to communicate the business idea effectively to stakeholders, including investors, partners, and employees.

Related Articles

How to Write a Pilates Studio Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide + Free Template)

How to Write a Martial Arts Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide + Free Template)

How to Write a Dance Studio Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide + Free Template)

How to Write a Yoga Studio Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide + Free Template)

Download free Ebook: Booking classes optimizer

• Never miss any messages from clients again
• Boost the number of bookings for your gym’s classes
• Regain loads of time you spend managing bookings manually every day

More from Wod Guru

Opening a gym, 20+ types of gyms (guide for gym owner with examples), gym revenue, how much do gym owners make in 2024, how much does it cost to open a gym in 2024, we will send the materials to your email.

*Only for gym owners!

Email seems not valid!

Success! Check your email. 📩👍

Gym Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Gym Business Plan

If you want to start a gym or fitness center or expand your current gym business, you need a business plan.

The following sample fitness center business plan gives you the key elements to include in a winning business plan for a gym.

You can download our Gym Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Gym Business Plan Example

Below are links to each of the key sections of a solid gym business plan:

• Executive Summary – The executive summary is a brief overview of your gym, including your company’s mission statement, target market, objectives, and goals. If you are seeking potential investors, it is important to make a good first impression with this section.
• Company Overview – The company overview provides an overview of your company, including its history, legal structure, business model, and ownership structure.
• Industry Analysis – Conducting an industry analysis is critical to understanding the market opportunity for your business. This section should include a description of the fitness industry, its size, growth potential, and key players.
• Customer Analysis – This section of your fitness business plan should describe your target customers, including their demographics, needs, and fitness habits.

Download our Gym Business Plan Template and learn how to start a gym business plan.

• Competitive Analysis – Conducting a competitive analysis is essential to understanding the landscape of the market you are entering. This section should include an overview of your direct and indirect competitors, their market share, their strengths and weaknesses, along with your competitive advantage and unique selling point.
• Marketing Plan – Your marketing plan should describe the marketing strategies you plan to use for reaching your target audience. This section should include your pricing strategy, membership fees, advertising and promotional strategies.
• Operations Plan – In the operations plan, you should describe your fitness center, exercise equipment and fitness classes, as well as your personal trainers and their qualifications.
• Management Team – This section of your gym business plan should describe the experience and qualifications of your management team.
• Financial Plan – The financial plan should include your financial projections (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement), as well as how you plan to secure funding such as bank loans.

Comments are closed.

Gym Business Plan Sample

Fitness Center Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Are you starting a fitness center? The demand for high-quality fitness facilities has never been higher. Starting a fitness center can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. However, it's important to have a solid business plan in place to ensure the success of your business. Our Fitness Center Business Plan Template & Guidebook is designed to help you easily create a comprehensive business plan for your fitness center. This guidebook provides step-by-step instructions on how to create each section of your business plan, as well as helpful tips and examples to ensure that your plan is thorough and effective. With our template and guidebook, you can confidently put together a solid business plan to help you achieve your fitness center business goals.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Profitable Fitness Center Business [11 Steps]
• 25 Catchy Fitness Center Business Names:
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your Fitness Center Business:

How to Write a Fitness Center Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your fitness center business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your fitness center business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a fitness center business:

A fitness center business could have the following purpose mission statement: "Our purpose is to help our members achieve their health and fitness goals by providing a comprehensive range of high-quality fitness services and amenities. We are committed to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment that caters to people of all fitness levels and backgrounds. Through expert coaching, innovative programming, and state-of-the-art equipment, we strive to inspire and support our members to live their best, healthiest lives."

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Fitness Center Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your fitness center business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your fitness center business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your fitness center business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your fitness center business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a fitness center business?

To run a fitness center, you'll need a range of equipment and supplies, as well as a few permits. Here's a quick rundown of what you'll need:

• A physical location for your fitness center, such as a standalone building or a space within an existing gym or other fitness facility
• A variety of exercise equipment, such as treadmills, stationary bikes, weight machines, and free weights
• Audio and visual equipment, such as TVs and music systems, to create a welcoming atmosphere
• Changing rooms and showers for customers to use
• A reception area and office space for staff to work in
• Depending on your location and the services you offer, you may need to obtain a business license and other permits, such as a permit to operate a gym or fitness center.

Overall, running a fitness center requires a mix of equipment, supplies, and permits to ensure that you can provide a high-quality fitness experience for your customers.

5. Management & Organization of Your Fitness Center Business.

The second part of your fitness center business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your fitness center business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Fitness Center Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a fitness center business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a fitness center business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your fitness center business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your fitness center business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your fitness center business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fitness Center Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a fitness center business.

A business plan is a document that outlines the goals and objectives of a business, as well as the strategies and tactics that will be used to achieve those goals. It is important to have a business plan for your fitness center business because it helps to focus the efforts of the company, communicate the business's goals and objectives to potential investors, and provide a roadmap for the business to follow. Additionally, a business plan can be used to help secure funding from investors or lenders, who will want to see that the business has a solid plan in place before they provide funding.

How to write a business plan for your fitness center business?)

To build a business plan for your fitness center business, start by researching your industry, competitors, and target market. Use this information to define your business's goals and objectives, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. Next, create a financial plan that outlines your projected income, expenses, and profit. This should include a projected income statement, cash flow statement, and balance sheet. Once you have all of this information, you can use it to create a comprehensive business plan that outlines the goals and objectives of your business, as well as the strategies and tactics that you will use to achieve those goals. A well-written fitness center business plan contains the following sections: Purpose, Products & Services, Marketing Plan (including Marketing Strategy), Operations/Management Plan (including Operations/Management Strategy), Financial Plan (including Financial Forecasts), and Appendixes.

Can you write a fitness center business plan yourself?

Yes, you can write a fitness center business plan yourself. Writing a business plan is a valuable exercise that can help you clarify your business idea, identify potential challenges and opportunities, and develop a roadmap for success. While there are many resources and templates available to help you write a business plan, the process of creating one is ultimately up to you.

Related Business Plans

Home Inventory Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Home Inspection Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Home Decor Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Health And Wellness Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hauling Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hardware Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Handyman Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Hair Extension Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Handbag Business Plan Template & Guidebook

We're newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

Gym Business Plan: Unleash Your Gym's Potential

Discover how a well-crafted gym business plan can unleash the full potential of your fitness center. Unlock growth, attract investors, and chart a path to lasting prosperity. Download your free gym business plan template here.

Gym Business Plan (Free PDF)

How to Launch Successfully a Small Gym

Business Plan Template: What You Get

• The key requirements and content for a gym business plan to help you get your business off the ground faster.
• Tips on financing, choosing the right legal form and the right business location.
• The seven success factors for a profitable small gym.

This Business Plan Template is Suitable For:

• gym business model
• small gym business
• fitness center

Your Benefits:

• Free of cost: Download the business plan template for free!
• Time-saving: Save time and open your business faster!
• Correct data: Avoid unnecessary mistakes!

Get Your Business Up and Running

ZANDURA is the all-in-one desk to get your business up and running. Realize your dream of leading an independent and self-directed gym or fitness center. We provide you with regular input on how to move your business forward. Why are we doing this? – Because small businesses are the backbone of the American economy.

You might be interested in

The Best Free Resources For Thriving Small Businesses

Discover the top 10 free resources that can help your small business thrive in the United States. From business mentoring to access to capital, these valuable partners and institutions will give your business the boost it needs to succeed. Read on to learn more!

The Best Free Small Business Grants and Funds

To successfully launch a business, you need sufficient liquidity. Discover the top free small business grants and funds to fuel your entrepreneurial journey.

Microloan Program For Small Businesses: Facts Finder

With a microloan, founders successfully start their own business. Create a business plan with Zandura and prepare perfectly for your bank interview. This is how you get a microcredit from the SBA microloan program.

photo credit: iStock.com/LuckyBusiness

How to Create a Fitness Studio Business Plan

February 8, 2023

Whether you are starting a studio, or already run one, a well-crafted fitness studio business plan is essential for building a profitable fitness business. A solid gym business plan helps you stay on track by identifying key market dynamics, illuminating opportunities for competitive advantage, and giving you key performance metrics to focus on. 

Your fitness studio business plan may drive such critical decisions as where to locate your gym, how large a space to buy or lease, how many staff members you hire, what their pay rates should be, how many fitness classes and what type of classes and training programs you’ll offer, and the most effective ways to promote your fitness business. 

If you own and operate an already established fitness business, revising your business plan – or creating one if you never have – can make a huge difference in boosting your bottom line and helping you to grow, especially if your gym’s growth has plateaued. A business plan is a constantly evolving blueprint that should reflect where your fitness business is in the moment, and let stakeholders know where you’re going and how you plan to get there. 

In this post, we’ll review the elements of a solid small gym fitness plan, give you some gym business plan examples and links to gym business plan templates.

Here are the key elements of any good fitness studio business plan:

Executive summary.

In this section of your gym’s business plan get down on paper your “why.” What is the purpose of your fitness business plan? What elements will you include in your gym’s business plan and why? How will this business plan demonstrate the viability of your fitness studio over time? What are your long term goals and how will you define success? Consider this section your “elevator pitch.” 

Starting a fitness business is no small feat. Doing your homework up front will not only give you confidence to weather the ups and downs of running your own business, but show potential investors that you’re prepared. Imagine being an investor who is reading your business plan, and whom you want to assure that you’ve got a solid vision backed up by well researched facts and figures. Add a few lines about your fitness business’s “why” that inspire and demonstrate your passion and commitment as a small gym or fitness business entrepreneur. 

Company Overview

This is the place to give all the details about who, what, where, when and why your fitness business exists. Include your mission and vision plus a detailed description of the type of services your fitness business offers and to whom. How is your gym or fitness studio structured? Is it independently owned by one or more people? Is it a franchise? Is there more than one location? What is the ownership structure? Are there shares? How are important business decisions made and by whom? 

This is the place to give clear, concise information about the products and services you offer, why you started your fitness business and what differentiates you in your local market. 

Industry Analysis

Taking time to research your market, understand trends and map the competitive landscape can make or break a fitness business, whether you’re in start-up mode, or an established player. 

What is your population size? How far are the people living in your area willing to travel to work out? What is your target demographic in terms of age, gender, income and other lifestyle factors? Pinpoint your major competitors. Get to know their pricing and promotions. Is there an unmet need in your area that your fitness business can tap into? You may want to consider using a SWOT format, outlining the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats for competing gyms and your fitness studio. 

Also, make sure you’re on top of the latest national and global fitness industry trends like online workouts and gym-goers’ preference for small boutique fitness experiences versus big box gyms. What innovative programs and services are top companies offering? Why? 

Marketing Strategy

Many small fitness business plans rely solely on word of mouth to promote their gym. While getting great recommendations through your community is an essential step in building a thriving fitness community, long-term, your fitness studio needs to have a solid, multi-channel marketing strategy to maximize your brand’s exposure to potential new customers. 

In today’s competitive fitness industry landscape, it’s essential to understand how to efficiently use digital marketing platforms like social media, local search and email. To effectively run promotional programs, having a fitness business software platform that tracks your customer’s engagement and includes email, web and social media integrations is essential. 

List all the key members of your fitness studio’s leadership team and include professional, biographical information that highlights their skills and experience. Your gym’s leadership team could include owners, board members, investors, lead instructors, sales and customer service representative and any business advisors you may have brought on board. 

Describe how each person on the team will guide your fitness business to success. Consider including compensation structures and information about performance bonuses. Plan ahead for an eventual sale of your fitness business and formalize how owners and/or investors will be paid. 

This is the section where many new business owners are overly optimistic. Base your financial projections on fact and always over-estimate expenses and under-estimate revenues. This includes being realistic about membership sales, seasonal fluctuations, attendance and staff turn-over. Calculate your gym’s monthly expenses and then figure out what your revenue per class or training session needs to be to cover your expenses plus owners’ compensation. From here you can determine how many class passes and/or monthly membership’s your fitness business will need to be profitable. 

There can be a high turn-over rate in the gym business, so you’ll need a steady stream of potential new students coming through your doors each month, and know at what rate they will convert into long-term customers. Know your fitness niche’s average new student conversion rate. 

Build out at least five years of financial profit and loss estimates. Be sure to take into account any rent increases in your lease, taxes, increases in instructor pay and get granular with your expenses, from phone and internet to Facebook ads to the toilet paper in the bathroom, and don’t forget all those new cleaning products you’ll need to operate safely and courteously in a post-pandemic world. 

Gym Business Plan Templates

BusinessPlanTemplate.com This site offers a free outline of all the core content you’ll need to include in a fitness studio business plan. You can purchase a step-by-step business plan builder, including access to customer service and expert advise for $97. Business Plan Template.com is rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau and has strong, positive ratings from satisfied customers. 

Bplans If you need a bit of inspiration check out or Bplans DIY gym sample plans for fitness centers, corporate fitness, gyms, health clubs, as well as martial arts studios, gymnastics schools, and a number of other athletics businesses.

For those who want a higher level of support in creating a full fleged, modern business plan, Bplans offers a paid option called LivePlan . It contains the same templates and information you can access for free on the company’s website, plus additional guidance to help you develop a complete plan. Pricing starts at $12/mo. for a year subscription or $18/mo for a 6 mo. plan.

Institute of Personal Trainers This well-respected trade organization offers personal trainers a free business plan that includes step-by-step instructions. You can download the guide using the link on the association’s website. The institute understand that during the process of writing a business plan you will be presented with questions, ideas or challenges that you might not have thought of before. According to the organization, this alone makes it worth doing.

Remember, it’s better to start the process of creating a gym business plan, even if you feel intimidated, than to procrastinate until you feel you’ll get it perfectly right. There is a wealth of knowledge to be gained simply by going through the process. Writing out your fitness studio business plan may open your eyes to blind spots in your business strategy or long-term performance goals and shift your business into a whole new realm of growth opportunity in the coming year. 

Related Posts

Our top 7 business tips for opening a yoga studio, new customer workflow – combining automations to enhance customer onboarding.

10 Essential Steps to Launching Special Events & Programs at Your Fitness Studio

Don't bother with copy and paste.

Get this complete sample business plan as a free text document.

Workout Gym Business Plan

Start your own workout gym business plan

Mountain Brook Fitness Center

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">, opportunity.

People in the area need to have a place where working out can be a family activity. Parents can bring children to be taken care of while they do whatever exercise activity they desire. 

Mountain Brook Fitness Center will expand and create a larger childcare facility. In addition, new equipment will be purchased for the childcare center. The childcare center can currently care for 30 children but only five infants. The new facility will be able to handle up to 60 children including 15 infants. The childcare facility expansion will be funded with a short-term loan.

Monroe is a city on the move. The population has grown by 15% each year for the past three years. The current population of Monroe is 600,000. Most importantly, the growth has been fueled by the increased employment in the city’s high-tech companies. This has attracted a type of professional that is the target customer for the Mountain Brook Fitness Center.

Competition

There are other gyms in the area. However, we are one of a kind since we are focused on families.  They can come and do things together or do separate things and then grab lunch after. 

The Mountain Brook Fitness Center is a thriving business-person’s club but is also one of the only family-focused clubs in the Monroe area. Fifty percent of our members are under the age of 45 and have young children. Currently, the center has 900 members. A center membership is $800 a year. The Mountain Brook Fitness Center wants to add an additional 300 members with families over the next three years.

Expectations

Of course, our forecast depends on key assumptions, especially retention. We think, however, that we can launch and reach critical mass early enough to establish profitability from year 1. 

Financial Highlights by Year

Problem & solution, problem worth solving.

People in the area need to have a place where working out can be a family activity. Parents can bring children to be taken care of while they do whatever exercise activity they desire

Our Solution

Mountain Brook Fitness Center has the ability to offer reasonably priced childcare in a safe environment while a parent works out in the fitness center. The club has increased the size of its fitness center and added more equipment, but many members would be unable to use the center if they didn’t have a service to watch their children while they exercised. In fact, the service has become so popular that the clubhouse has outgrown its existing childcare facilities. Offering childcare has kept many members coming to the club. The lack of current space for a larger childcare area has even kept some prospective members from joining.

Target Market

Market size & segments.

Market Analysis Summary

4.1 Market Segmentation

The Mountain Brook Fitness Center will focus on the young urban professionals as its primary customer base.

Current Alternatives

Our advantages.

The competitive edge of the Mountain Brook Fitness Center is our focus on the family. We offer our members childcare services that are second to none.

Marketing & Sales

Marketing plan.

Our marketing plan will include – signage, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Website – where we will have our trainer blogs/recommendations as well as our classes, and well-placed radio spots to get the attention of potential clients that are not social media savvy. 

The sales strategy is to highlight the childcare service to prospective center members. The focus will be marketing the center to young active families. Every Saturday morning will be an open house for the childcare center. Families will be able to visit the facility for the entire morning.

Locations & Facilities

The Mountain Brook Fitness Center is one of the only family-focused clubs in the Monroe area. The center has grown steadily over the past four years. Our clubhouse is 50,000 square feet and our new fitness center is 12,000 square feet. The Mountain Brook Fitness Center is located at 1234 Main Street in Monroe.

The Mountain Brook Fitness Center has the following activities and services:

• Fitness center with cardiovascular and weight training equipment
• Court sports
• Physical therapy

The club is a 24-hours facility, seven days a week.

Milestones & Metrics

Milestones table.

Key Metrics

Our Key Metrics are: 

• cancellations
• average membership retention
• # of tweets and retweets 
• # of website link shares 
• # of page views and Faceview post shares 
• # of views of our classes and sharing of our trainer blogs

Ownership & Structure

The Mountain Brook Fitness Center is managed by co-owners Robert Sinclair and Arnold Hess. Robert Sinclair is the center’s operations manager and Arnold Hess is the center’s fiscal manager.

Company History

From its beginning in 1996, the Mountain Brook Fitness Center has had an exceptional swimming and tennis program. Two years ago, a loss in membership pointed toward the need for a fitness center to round out the club’s offerings. The club spent approximately $140,000 to add a fitness center with cardiovascular and weight training equipment. The club has also become a 24-hours facility, seven days a week, with childcare.

Management Team

Both Robert Sinclair and Arnold Hess holds MBA degrees in finance from State University. Robert Sinclair has held executive positions with two of Monroe’s top athletic clubs. Robert managed the Decathlon Athletic Club, with a membership base of 1,500, for five years prior to opening the Mountain Brook Fitness Center. He also served as Assistant Manager of the Downtown Athletic Club for three years before joining the Decathlon Athletic Club.

Arnold Hess’ experience is in accounting. He has been a member of both Johnson, Billings, and Konig and Johnson and Associates over the past ten years.

Personnel Table

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

Key assumptions.

• Increasing overall demand for gyms and fitness continues 
• Increasing overall demand for healthy organic food continues
• No big changes in general view on gyms vs. outside activities
• No major push from chain competition

Revenue by Month

Expenses by month, net profit (or loss) by year, financing needed.

Projected Profit & Loss

Projected Balance Sheet

Projected Cash Flow Statement

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software

• Hispanoamérica
• Work at ArchDaily
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Sports Architecture

Smena Fitness Club / Za Bor Architects

• Curated by ArchDaily
• Architects: Za Bor Architects
• Area Area of this architecture project Area:  1291 m²
• Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2014
• Architects In Charge:  Pyotr Zaytsev, Arseniy Borisenko
• Furniture In The Lounge Zone:  chairs Arper, sofas Luxy
• Work Chairs:  Interstuhl, Movyis3, Everyis1, Solo Interiors
• Exercise Machines:  Lifefitness, Hammer Strength
• Flooring:  Swiff-Train
• City:  Moscow
• Country:  Russia
• Did you collaborate on this project?

Text description provided by the architects. Smena fitness center in the za bor architects portfolio is the third sports-related project and the first realize object of this type. A private client who turned to the bureau with this project, wanted to create a large stylish club with high quality equipment and original design. Reasonable prices, due to refusing from many side services offered by network clubs, were to become the main competitive advantage. Thus, an expressional dynamic design created by za bor architects, was meant to become one of the client-attracting factors, a kind of competitive edge of this club.

The client started to look for premises for the future club after the meeting and the project discussion. It took nearly half a year, since a large premises with high ceilings and good insulation was needed. As a result the choice was made in favor of the fourth floor of the Streletskaya Sloboda business center located in the reconstructed building of the former plant.

Time spent on search wasn't spent in vain – during this period the client managed to get a brand book which was developed by a well-known Russian design studio. Its recommendations preconditioned the color choice as well as the format of information and navigation signs in the club.

When designing the premises, the project architects Peter Zaytsev and Arseniy Borisenko, proceeded first of all from functional zoning. In general the fitness center is designed as a laconic space which is the background for dynamic broken volumes that symbolize in this project «dynamics» and «movement» as the quintessence of all sports and healthy lifestyle.

The functionality of various red volumes presupposes placing of locker rooms, coach rooms and other isolated spaces inside, as well as the division of zones according to noise level: in the two largest volumes located are a «silent» office block and a «noisy» hall with fitness cycles with a powerful audio system and constantly played rhythmic music.

One more feature of the club is cardiovascular machines zone. It is lifted 60 cm up in relation to the floor, so that the visitors, while working out, could see the street through the panoramic windows. Passers-by, in their turn, can see silhouettes in the fourth floor windows – thus the issue of the club promotion among the citizens is solved in a peculiar way.

Project gallery

Project location

Address: moscow, russia.

Materials and Tags

• Sustainability

世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!

想浏览archdaily中国吗, you've started following your first account, did you know.

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.

Check the latest Swimming Pools

Check the latest Fitness Equipment

• 408 S Main, Downtown Moscow

(208) 882-7884

[email protected]

• Merchandise

Train Smart. Play Hard.

We are Moscow's full service, hometown gym with something for everyone. Our friendly staff are on site and ready to answer your questions.

become a stronger you

At the gym that brings community and fitness   together.

NIAC fosters a friendly and supportive environment. Go at your own pace, participate in a class or work with a personal trainer. We will meet you wherever you are and help you reach YOUR next fitness level.

From Spin to Yoga to Step, we offer a little of everything! GroupX classes are included with your membership.

personal training

An orientation session with a personal trainer comes with each new membership! Let us show you around.

We have stand-up and lay-down beds available at competitive rates. Membership not required.

What makes us different

GPP is a specialized strength and conditioning group class available with Premium Membership.

We offer supervised free play in a fun and safe environment for your child(ren) while you workout!

local partners

These local independent businesses offer special discounts to NIAC members. Use them!

PERSONAL TRAINING… is one of the things we do best

Each of our trainers will be able to help you identify your individual goals. Our trainers come with vast experience in weight-loss, athletic development, strength development, body building and physique competitions.

PERSONAL TRAINING

Member Comments

We think NIAC is a great place to be. But don’t just take our word for it, check out what some of our members have to say.

Everyday I have the opportunity to step into NIAC, I find myself thankful for Amy Paul and her vision. The quintessential gym to free the mind of trouble, fill the soul, and build a muscle or two, NIAC is my medicine away from the mountains. The friendly staff, the multitude of classes and the access to professional advice offers something for everyone. As a healthcare provider, this year more than any, I have been overly impressed with the amount of care the team spends on cleanliness; the place sparkles. At half a century old, my health, like so many gym goers, is dear to me in order to do the the things I love: skiing, backpacking, climbing, rafting, and whatever other crazy adventure my grown children take me on. At 102 years of age, a man named George Jedenoff still skis, and my friends and I just missed meeting him last year at Snowbird, Utah. He’ll turn 103 this next July. George started his daily training regiment at 70 years of age (you can check George out on YouTube); it’s never too late to start. A special thanks to Amy for keeping the dream alive for all of us. Me? Well, according to Mr. Jedenoff’s philosophy: I’ve got another 50+ years to ski (my favorite pastime) – nothing left to do but get on with the workout . . . 🙂

scott nelson

Skier, Community Member, Healthcare Provider

408 S Main Moscow, Idaho 83843

Monday - Thursday:

Saturday - Sunday:

5:00 am - 10:00 pm

5:00 am - 8:00 pm 

7:00 am - 6:00 pm  

• Submit News
• Purchase Webinar Listing

ArchShowcase

• Submit New Showcase
• Submit New Event
• Submit New Video
• Submit New YouTube Video
• AECCafe Media Kit
• Banner Ad Specifications
• eMail Blast Specifications

Back to 'AECCafe Blogs'

Subscribe to aeccafe.

Submit Your Project

Recent posts.

• Livadi Konacik Houses in Bodrum Turkey by GOOA Architects
• CBRE Global Workplace Solutions, London
• AS Barcelona Home Renovation Project, Spain by C & Arquitectura
• Huanggang Skyscraper Redefines the Shenzhen Urban Landscape by Aedas-designed
• Hamdan Bin Rashid Cancer Hospital, Dubai at UAE by Stantec
• Entries RSS