How To Start A Gym Business

Starting your own gym business offers the benefits of being your own boss and reaping the rewards of a (hopefully) successful business. Whilst it seems attractive, we always hear of how difficult it can be, so what are the key things to remember when opening your own gym?

 

1. Identify what you want to achieve

What will be the focus of your business, is there a particular sport or discipline that you want to promote?

Is there a gap in the market in the area you targeting?

Keep this in mind throughout your planning and running of your business.

As tempting as it might be to offer all sports to all people, make sure that you provide an attractive service and get it right.

2. Location is everything

Look at a number of venues and ensure that you identify somewhere that is accessible with plenty of parking and is easy to find. Your hard work in setting up the business and advertising will be wasted if your clients can’t get to you easily!

3. Know your market

Check out your competitors, either direct competitors offering exactly the same business model or other gyms. Look at the service and facilities that they provide as well as the prices that they charge and be sure to consider this when making decisions about your own gym. There’s no point in charging twice the price of a gym nearby – you just won’t get the custom!

4. Find the right suppliers and partners

Use your knowledge and expertise to find the right people to work with. Ensure that the people you choose are trustworthy with a proven reputation. The last thing you need when you are just starting out is to be let down by a supplier.

5. Be financially savvy

​Go into your new venture being clear of and keeping track of all of the financial aspects. New business start-ups always require a degree of investment. As it can take some time to recover some of this it is essential to keep a record of everything and if you aren’t great with numbers then employ a bookkeeper to help you.

You will need to register your business or yourself depending on whether you set up a limited company or self-employed – again, best to seek advice on what is best depending on your circumstances.

6. Don’t forget the details

Ensure that you get any legal protection for any intellectual property and ensure that you have all of the relevant insurance for your business. There is a minimum requirement is buildings and contents as well as public liability. Get more information about our gym business insurance and find out the relevant insurance for your business.

As well as gym insurance we offer personal trainer liability insurance, and cover to other leisure section entities such as Sports Clubs. Get your quote today by visiting our Sports Club Insurance page.
So, keep these things in mind when starting a gym business and make your dream of being your own boss a reality!

 

*Disclaimer – This blog has been created as general information and should not be taken as advice. Make sure you have the correct level of insurance for your requirements and always review policy documentation. Information is factually accurate at the time of publishing but may have become out of date. 

Recent Blogs

How much do roofers really make? Image

Trades

How much do roofers really make?

If you’re working in the construction industry, whether as a labourer, scaffolder, or another site-based trade,

10 mins read

Tech tips for craft businesses Image

Crafters

Tech tips for craft businesses

Running a craft business is a blend of creativity, dedication, and - let’s be honest - a fair bit of admin. Whe

Startup loans for small businesses in the UK Image

Starting a business

Startup loans for small businesses in the UK

Starting a small business is an exciting and ambitious step — but for many entrepreneurs, the first major hurdl

New rules for professional dog walkers in Royal Parks 2025 Image

Pet Business

New rules for professional dog walkers in Royal Parks 2025

From April 2025, new licensing rules and conduct standards have been introduced - and if you walk dogs, they may

How to teach yourself handyman skills Image

Trades

How to teach yourself handyman skills

Have you ever fixed a leaky tap, hung a shelf, or patched a hole in the wall and thought, “I could do this for

Pet Behaviour and Psychology for Pet Care Providers Image

Pet Business

Pet Behaviour and Psychology for Pet Care Providers

Whether you're running a doggy daycare, grooming service, or a pet sitting business, one of the most valuable ski

11 mins read

Event Budgeting – Tips for Event Organisers Image

Events

Event Budgeting – Tips for Event Organisers

For small to mid-scale event organisers, getting the budget right isn’t just about balancing the books - it’s

Sourcing unique materials for your crafts Image

Business

Sourcing unique materials for your crafts

If you're a craft maker, artist or craft business owner, you'll know that the materials you use are just as impor

10 mins read

How to groom different dog breeds Image

Pet Business

How to groom different dog breeds

Every dog is unique and so is their coat. Whether you're a first-time pet parent or a seasoned dog groomer, under

10 mins read

How to Handle Last-Minute Changes in Event Planning Image

Events

How to Handle Last-Minute Changes in Event Planning

Event planning is all about precision; timelines, logistics, guest lists, and programming must all fall into plac

Simply find the insurance you need.