THE BEST GYM FRANCHISES

What are  gym franchises ? Are they profitable? A franchise is a business model in which an established company grants rights to another company or person to exploit its trademark and products. Normally, the right to operate the franchise is granted to carry out the activity in a specific area and in exchange for an entry payment and then a monthly fee.

The conditions to become the manager of a franchise vary depending on the company that owns it. In the case of larger and more powerful companies, they may require the administrator to have previous experience in managing large companies or for the franchise to be in a town with a certain number of inhabitants.

It must be made clear that  fitness franchises are not economical nor are they available to everyone. The initial investment is important; Furthermore, depending on the company, it may even be necessary for the person to find a location to carry out the activity. Of course, the franchise owner usually provides all the material. Examples of businesses that work with the franchise model are  McDonald's hamburger restaurants or Dia supermarkets. Of course, due to the popularity of body care, large gym franchises have already appeared. As we explained, they are not cheap! There may also be inexpensive fitness franchises , but they will not be for setting up a conventional gym itself, but rather a CrossFit training box or equipment for personal trainers, for example.

Are you interested?:

Crossfit Franchise

Advantages and disadvantages of gym franchises 

Opening a franchise has advantages and disadvantages compared to your own traditional business. Let's see the most intuitive ones.

Advantages

• Franchises are well-established and well-known brands, so marketing and footfall are usually guaranteed.
• The franchise provides you with innovative and top-quality gym equipment.
• If the location is good, the benefits usually arrive quickly and it takes little time to amortize the investment.
• Some franchises are aware of repairs, material renewals, hiring of personnel, etc. in each location, so you wouldn't have to take care of that.

Disadvantages

• The business is never yours and neither is the brand. You will only be able to manage the business as long as you pay the fee.
• The initial investment is usually high. You have to be a person with enough resources.
• There are no customization options or own innovation, as you must stick to what the brand decides to do.
• You have to pay the fee for using the franchise.

The reality of what is the price of setting up gym franchises...

Typically, you'll need at least €23,300 ($25,000) to set up a franchise gym. The amount can go up to €466,000 ($500,000) or even more for high-end gyms. For example, franchises like EOS Fitness require between €23,300 ($25,000) and €46,000 ($50,000) entry fee. Gyms like  Anytime Fitness require a payment of €233,000 ($250,000) up front. A  gym franchise  can be a profitable and satisfying business opportunity, but it is very important to understand the costs and financial requirements involved. The financial investment required to successfully franchise a gym is high. We want you to understand the truth about budgeting, financing, and the potential benefits of opening your own gym franchise. 

What gym franchises exist? Which are the best known? We explore the fastest-growing gym fitness franchises, the ones that offer the best deals, and their entry requirements in case you're interested in this topic. 

Are you interested?:

Gym budget

The best gym franchises in Europe

Gym franchises are booming across Europe, offering fitness entrepreneurs established brands and proven business models. The benefits of managing a sports center under a famous brand go beyond the recognition of the firm; Also included is access to effective business practices and marketing strategies designed for success. Starting your gym business through a franchise reduces the risks normally associated with independent entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs gain immediate access to a support network, have greater bargaining power with suppliers, and can use a wealth of industry knowledge to make their operations more efficient.

Therefore, the return on investment is often faster compared to independent gyms. Today's fitness world is very competitive, but gym franchises constantly demonstrate their ability to outperform traditional gyms. Established brands and proven operating strategies form a solid foundation for business growth and profitability.

Why invest in a gym franchise? Because it is a strategic and potentially lucrative option for those looking to make a fortune in the world of fitness. The most successful gym franchises in Europe  are companies that have managed to grow and expand to set industry standards. Additionally, they provide valuable information to gym owners, personal trainers, and potential investors.

McFIT

McFIT is a German fitness chain that operates in several European countries. For example, it is one of the best-known  gym franchises in Spain . The company was founded by Rainer Schaller in 1996. The goal of this company was to make fitness accessible to everyone with a low monthly price. McFIT has become the largest gym chain in Germany in terms of price for customers. McFIT is in more than 250 European countries, including Germany, Austria, Italy and Spain. It is one of the  best-known low-cost gym franchises .

Membership prices start at €19.90 per month, a cost-effective solution for people who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without the high cost.

The McFIT facilities feature a wide variety of state-of-the-art equipment, cardiovascular and strength training areas, as well as areas for functional training. This chain also offers group exercise classes and personal training services at select locations.

McFIT's success is its extensive network with hundreds of European gyms serving a wide demographic. McFIT's innovative training concepts keep users engaged and excited about the sport. McFIT promotes customer loyalty and retention.

Are you interested?:

What is the McFIT gym like?

The Gym Group

This franchise was founded in the United Kingdom in 2007. The Gym Group has become a popular gym for those looking for a simple and affordable training experience. The firm has more than 180 locations across the UK. This company's mission is to make fitness easily accessible and affordable with a low-cost, contract-free membership.

Membership prices are very competitive (from around £16.99 per month). The Gym Group franchise provides an affordable fitness solution for many people. Like McFIT, Gym Group provides a range of state-of-the-art fitness equipment, gyms are open 24/7. Additionally, there are group exercise classes and personal fitness services. The gym environment is very simple and down to earth.

Cheap, contract-free membership is the main draw of The Gym Group. This low-cost franchise is available to anyone who wants to get in shape. Furthermore, thanks to its 24-hour schedule, it adapts to people with different availability, so it covers a very wide audience of users. The simplified and easy-to-use gym environment, combined with efficient use of technology and seamless membership management, ensure a satisfying customer experience and stable growth for the brand.

Fitness First

This company is also very well known. It was founded in 1993 and has positioned itself very well in the sector throughout the world.  Fitness First has a wide network of gyms for all its members. In this case, prices start from £29.95 per month, but the company strives to provide a top quality service.

Each gym is equipped with innovative fitness equipment, numerous group activities and personal training are offered. Wellness services are also provided to ensure a complete fitness experience.

Fitness First has an international presence, a wide range of fitness services and a focus on customer satisfaction. That's why Fitness First is one of the most popular options among fitness enthusiasts.

Basic Fit

Basic Fit is headquartered in the Netherlands, and this gym company has quickly grown to become one of the largest fitness franchises in Europe. . It has centers open mainly in Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, France and Spain. The mantra of this low-cost gym chain is simplicity. Its goal is to make fitness accessible to all audiences. Various demographic groups have expressed positive opinions about Basic-Fit, which positions itself as an affordable yet high-quality fitness solution.

Membership fees start at a modest price of €19.99 per month, although there are more membership options to meet the needs of various clients. For example, there are off-season memberships, premium memberships, and day passes.

The specific services offered may vary from club to club. However, all Basic Fit clubs are well equipped with the latest fitness machines. In addition, the company has its own application with a virtual trainer, live collective classes and more than 200 virtual classes. This serves to keep members active both in and out of the gym.

The success of Basic Fit is its extensive network of clubs, which are mainly located in France. Basic Fit has over 1000 clubs open! The franchise has generated millions of euros and continues to grow. It continued to increase profits even in the covid pandemic! This company's formula works, making it a good option as a franchise business.

Technical innovations also contribute significantly to the success of Basic-Fit. The virtual trainer and live group classes, through the brand's app, play an important role in keeping members engaged and encouraging engagement in fitness.

Basic Fit puts efforts into effective marketing campaigns, community outreach activities, and strategic partnerships. Therefore, the Basic-Fit franchise offers you a solid brand that attracts its target audience. Basic-Fit's excellent service and customer experience are very important. The company has achieved this with impeccable, well-equipped facilities, as well as continued investment in staff development.

The franchise has strategically collaborated with partners in the health and wellness industry to expand its service offering, which is appreciated. Basic Fit combines the great expansion of its network, affordable and competitive prices, technological innovation and the relentless pursuit of satisfying members. For this reason, this  low-cost gym franchise is one of the most important in Europe and continues to grow.

JD Gyms

JD Gyms entered the fitness niche in the mid-2010s. Their centers combine the aesthetics of a modern, stylish gym with an affordable pricing structure. This firm operates in the United Kingdom to offer a premium fitness experience. JD Gyms ensures a good balance between cost and quality.

All JD Gyms franchise gyms feature state-of-the-art equipment, a wide variety of group classes and personal trainers. The training environment is luxurious.

What makes JD Gyms successful? Its luxury and affordable fitness proposition, which has resonated well with its diverse user groups and has fueled its rapid growth in the market. In addition, the brand has opted to convert many of its centers into 24-hour gym franchises . This, added to the fact that the gyms are modern and elegant, makes more and more people sign up and return. The wide range of fitness options is also a plus.

PureGym

This low-cost gym chain was founded in Great Britain in 2008. This is another franchise whose goal is to make fitness flexible, easy and accessible to everyone. Since its founding, PureGym  has become the  gym franchise largest in the United Kingdom and the second largest in Europe. Operates in more than 500 locations!

Membership fees start at around £19.99 per month to suit a wide range of clients looking for a cheap option for training. PureGym franchise gyms are equipped with a wide range of fitness machines, offer 24-hour access, group exercise classes and personal training. No-contract membership offers great flexibility to users.

Accessibility is the most notable thing about PureGym gyms, since 24/7 gym franchises adapt to people with different time availability. The no-contract payment model attracts people looking for flexible gyms. Additionally, PureGym is continually expanding to be accessible to people across the UK and even other countries. The company has installed the most modern technologies to streamline user management and exercise monitoring. The firm has focused heavily on improving the overall client experience and building a supportive community to build member loyalty and satisfaction. For this reason, it is currently one of the most important fitness franchises in the United Kingdom.

Virgin Active

Since Virgin Active was created in 1999, it has established itself as a major fitness brand throughout Europe. It has taken its innovative approach to more than 240 locations around the world, in countries such as Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom and even South Africa and Thailand. The franchise offers several membership options with prices starting at £20 per month, making it a cheap and affordable gym for many people. The wide range of services includes state-of-the-art gym equipment, group exercise classes, personal training, swimming pools and wellness services to enhance the training experience.

What stands out about Virgin Active is its innovation, work ethic focused on its user community and a total commitment to providing an excellent member experience. The firm cooperates with the world-renowned Virgin Group, which strengthens its position in the market by increasing people's trust and loyalty.

Viva Gym

The VivaGym franchise  was created in the early 2010s. Viva Gym has presented itself as a modern and affordable low-cost gym chain in Europe. This gym attracts people looking for a simple exercise environment. Viva Gym tries to reach the widest possible audience with its memberships. Prices start at €28 per month in Europe. Viva Gym gyms are basic but modern. There are group exercise classes and personal training services.

Viva Gym's success is its simple and affordable fitness solutions. They highlight its modern and simple approach to fitness and the unique experience it provides to users through the mobile application. The Viva Gym franchise is for people looking for a simple workout environment.

This company has developed a solid marketing strategy on social media and has even used influencer marketing to improve its visibility and grow as a business.

David Lloyd Clubs

David Lloyd Clubs  is another of the  UK's best gym franchises . The company was founded in 1982 and has become a respected name in the European fitness scene. The firm is known for its sophisticated family-oriented fitness and leisure services. It has over 100 locations in the UK, Ireland, Spain and Belgium. This brand has strived to provide an excellent fitness experience with high-quality facilities and personalized service. Membership dues vary by location and type. However, this gym does have a higher price to reflect the wide variety of facilities and services offered. Prices start at around £85 per month, higher than other fitness franchises we've seen.

In terms of amenities, David Lloyd Clubs is renowned for its wide variety: state-of-the-art gym equipment, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, spa services and a diverse range of group classes. There are also family services such as children's clubs and family activities.

David Lloyd Clubs succeeds and prospers thanks to its strong ability to offer a unique, family-friendly atmosphere and a wide range of high-quality services. The emphasis of this company is to create a community-focused atmosphere where members can participate in physical, leisure and social activities. That's why David Lloyd Clubs stands out in the competitive fitness market. In addition, the firm continues to invest in premium equipment and innovative fitness programs to build customer loyalty and position itself in the market.

Holmes Place

Holmes Place  was born in 1980 and has been successful in several European countries such as Germany, Spain, Portugal and Switzerland. It also has centers in areas such as Israel. Holmes Place prices start at €99 per month because they are a premium service company. People can register online at more than 70 centers throughout Europe. Holmes Place's amenities are state-of-the-art, with modern fitness equipment, a variety of group classes, personal training, swimming pools, and spa and wellness services. Everything is designed to provide a comprehensive fitness and wellness experience.

Holmes Place's success comes from its superior service offering. This can be reflected in the high-quality facilities and personalized service. The brand has an unwavering commitment to health and well-being, as well as an ambitious expansion strategy throughout Europe. It already has a real customer base and aims to increase its market share, making it an excellent option as a franchise business.

Life Fit Group

Among the best gym franchises is Life Fit Group , which was born in Germany in 2012 with a selection of brands that serve different segments of the fitness market. We can find this chain in more than 70 locations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Life Fit Group takes a holistic approach to fitness offering a wide range of fitness, wellness and therapy services.

Membership rates vary between brands managed by Life Fit Group to accommodate different budgets and needs. The prices for this franchise start at €19.90 per month!

Life Fit Group offers the options of a traditional gym as well as group classes and even therapy and wellness services. The company covers several market segments, from low-cost gyms to premium wellness centers. The firm has integrated fitness, wellness and therapy under one roof to reach a broader customer base, encourage loyalty and promote a holistic approach to health and wellness. Life Fit continually adapts to market trends, emphasizing high-quality services for all its brands. This strengthens your position in the competitive fitness environment.

Clever Fit

The Clever Fit franchise was founded in 2004 and has established itself as a trusted fitness brand in Europe. This firm is primarily known for its value-based gym offerings. The brand has more than 800 fitness centers in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands to make fitness simple and accessible.

Their low-cost membership model starts at €19.90 per month, quite affordable and in line with the prices of other low-cost gym franchises . The range of services offered for the price is basic but very complete. There's the typical gym equipment, group classes, and personal training services in a comfortable training environment.

Clever Fit's success is based on its value proposition for those who watch their budget without compromising quality. The brand places an emphasis on comfort, something evident in its 24-hour gym. Its aggressive expansion throughout Europe continues to attract loyal members and increase its market share.

RSG Group

This group was born in the early 2000s. Now, it has expanded its horizons in the field of fitness by diversifying its offer with different brands. RSG Group 's unique business model has made this brand stand out in the fitness industry.

RSG Group's multi-brand range has prices to suit many budget preferences and needs. Prices start at €19.90 per month, which is in line with other low-cost franchises on the market. Services range from traditional fitness machines to wellness and therapy offerings depending on the specific brand and location.

RSG Group's success lies in its versatility and its ability to attract different market segments. The approach of combining fitness and wellness increases the attractiveness of this company and therefore the franchise offers a broader customer base with various fitness solutions.

L'Orange Bleue

L'Orange Bleue  is another important fitness and wellness center on the European scene. The brand was founded in 1996 and has more than 400 centers in France, Belgium and Spain. Their mission is to ensure accessibility and affordability for fitness.

It's another cheap option for fitness enthusiasts, starting at €19.90 per month. This  low-cost gym franchise  has a wide range of amenities including gyms, group exercise classes, personal trainers and wellness services. L'Orange Bleue is successful because of its unique fitness philosophy, its commitment to building community, and its relentless focus on delivering value. The affordable price and welcoming atmosphere have fostered a large and loyal customer base, which is further strengthened by European expansion projects.

Énergie Fitness

This company was founded in 2003. Énergie Fitness strives to provide an attractive training environment in the UK and beyond. The main attraction of their gyms is an affordable but energetic fitness environment, which aims to achieve affordable fitness. The lowest price is  £19.99 per month. The gyms are  equipped with the latest fitness equipment, offer various group exercise classes, personalized workouts and a lively, fun training environment.

The cornerstone of Énergie Fitness's success is its attractive price, combined with a very lively training environment. The brand strives to foster a sense of community among members and ensures lasting interest in its training centers.

Best gym franchises in the United States

If you are considering buying a gym franchise , you are probably wondering what businesses are operating right now. If you love the topic of health and wellness, a fitness franchise could be the ideal business option for you. Franchises are not just limited to conventional bodybuilding gyms, but there are all kinds: high-intensity interval training, barre workouts, Pilates and Jazzercise... Let's look at the best fitness franchises in the US, a country with great business opportunities in all areas.

Crunch

This franchise has an initial fee of $25,000 to $50,000 and an initial investment of $398,500 to $6,986,000. It has 287 franchise locations in the US.

The firm is a gym franchise that encourages customers to exercise in a fun environment. This company has welcomed many groups since it opened in 2010. The group exercise sessions combine fun and effort in equal parts. It is a gym that people of all genders, ages or ethnicities will enjoy. The franchise strives to create an empowering atmosphere for people to feel good and fit.

Anytime Fitness

This franchise has an initial fee of $42,500 and an initial investment of $381,575 to $783,897. It has 2,327 franchise locations in the US.

If we talk about profitable gym franchises, Anytime Fitness cannot be missed. The price of the Anytime Fitness franchise is high, but the company's reputation is unquestionable. It was founded 20 years ago and provides a 24/7 gym. Each user has their own "gym card" so they can work out at any time (and Anytime gyms around the world, as this brand has expanded internationally).

Planet Fitness

This franchise has an initial fee of $20,000 and an initial investment of $1,625,600 to $4,921,000. It has 2,010 locations in the US.

Planet Fitness offers fitness services and facilities, as well as opportunities for new locations. This company offers a high-quality experience in a welcoming environment. Clients will enjoy an unparalleled training experience without being judged.

The Exercise Coach

This franchise has an initial fee of $49,500 and an initial investment of $148,356 to $381,763. It has 157 stores in the US.

The Exercise Coach now has over 140 locations and is committed to providing an amazing gym experience with customized programs to meet fitness needs. The franchise has a program called Strength Changes Everything™ , which offers personalized workouts to save time and help people lose fat, build muscle mass, and achieve an overall healthy look and body.

F45 Training

This franchise has an initial fee of  $50,000 and an initial investment of $350,200 to $565,100. It has 643 stores in the US.

The F45 Training franchise combines two of the most effective training systems in the industry to help people burn fat and build muscle. Cardio interval training and strength training are combined with a highly functional group program. F45 Training is committed to providing its members with high quality training. The company wants to maintain a good reputation by making people have fun.

Gold´s Gym

This franchise has an initial fee of $40,000 and an initial investment of $1,483,000 to $3,602,000. It has 164 stores in the US.

The Golds Gym franchise is one of the most famous and oldest. Bodybuilders training outdoors at Muscle Beach were among the first customers when the original Gold's Gym opened in Venice, California in 1965. The Arnold Schwarzenegger film, Pumping Iron , focused on Gold's Gym and put this gym in the spotlight in 1975. Purchasing a Gold's Gym franchise not only gives you the right to operate the gym's facilities, but you will also be able to sell the official licensed clothing of this brand. It is very popular and its t-shirts are sold all over the world.

Orangetheory Fitness

This franchise has an initial fee of $59,950 and an initial investment of $589,129 to $1,621,269. It has 1,277 stores in the US.

Orangetheory Fitness uses a scientifically proven formula that combines technology with science and training to achieve good results. This franchise undoubtedly offers a unique experience. Additionally, registered customers receive a heart rate monitor from the moment they sign up for group classes. Every workout is different!

Pure Barre

This franchise has an initial fee of $60,000 and an initial investment of $214,287 to $457,337. It has 613 stores in the US.

Pure Barre is the largest brand of Barre (a form of group activities). The company presents friendly, supportive and energetic training centers. Pure Barre offers a series of effective, low-impact, high-intensity full-body exercises that improve strength, agility and flexibility for people of all levels.

Jazzercise

This franchise has an initial fee of $1,250 and an initial investment of $2,445 to $21,775. It has 5,836 stores in the US.

Since 1969, Jazzercise  has offered fun experiences through exercise. This is one of the cheapest fitness franchises for the entrepreneur. The company offers about five different classes that combine cardio, strength, Pilates, hip hop, yoga and kickboxing . Instructors teach 60-minute lessons in which students burn an impressive 800 calories per class.

Club Pilates

This franchise has an initial fee of $60,000 and an initial investment of $185,800 to $388,200. It has 714 stores in the US.

We are facing one of the most important brands of Pilates, a form of gymnastics. Club Pilates  believes that Pilates exercise is for everyone and welcomes people of all ages and fitness levels. Various equipment such as mats, balls and weights are available at Club Pilates facilities. They also have Pilates Reformer machines, EXO chairs and trampolines.

RockBox Fitness

This franchise has an initial fee of $49,900 and an initial investment of $252,292 to $588,206. It has 40 stores in the US.

They are boxing studios . The Rock Box Fitness franchise  is dedicated to helping its customers get fit, healthy, and work out until they break a sweat. Classes combine boxing, kickboxing and functional strength training for all experience levels.

Burn Boot Camp

This franchise has an initial fee of $50,000 and an initial investment of $200,308 to $486,262. It has 310 stores in the US.

Burn Boot Camp started as a group training class in the gym parking lot. It is considered a gym for women . The goal of this franchise is to inspire and change the lives of its clients. Burn Boot Camp strives to be part of the global health shift and helps clients achieve their goals in many ways.

CycleBar

This franchise has an initial fee of $60,000 and an initial investment of $346,910 to $487,910. It has 248 stores in the US.

CycleBar offers an immersive, multi-sensory and community-focused experience. Classes take place in modern "CycleTheaters". All workouts are led by specially trained instructors and complemented by "CycleBeats" playlists. Performance can be tracked using "CycleStat" meters. The concept offers a variety of "indoor cycle" workouts workouts , which are suitable for all fitness levels. 

D1 Training

This franchise has an initial fee of $59,500 and an initial investment of $127,450 to $634,868. It has 77 stores in the US.

The D1 Training company was founded in 2001 and began franchising in 2015. D1 Training offers special training for school athletes, as well as fitness for adults. The goal of this brand is to provide training opportunities in city neighborhoods. This franchise is pleased to help athletes achieve their main goal: to develop their full potential both physically and mentally.

Workout Anytime 24/7

This franchise has an initial fee of $35,000 and an initial investment of $967,350 to $2,071,550. It has 178 stores in the US.

The company was founded in 1999. Workout Anytime 24/7  seeks to differentiate itself from its competitors by empowering its clients to work on their goals and routines 24/7. Workout Anytime 24/7 strives to offer solutions that work for everyone, including seniors. 24/7 availability, small group training, and comprehensive facilities give this gym a competitive advantage as a fitness franchise.

List of fitness franchises with minimal investment costs

Finally, we have compiled some lists of recognized fitness franchises with the prices of the initial capital required. You may find it interesting to know how much you have to invest to open a gym from the main companies.

List of franchises with investment costs

List of franchises with investment costs in the UK

Gym franchises give you the opportunity to open an established branded fitness business. However, the trade-off is that the investment is high. You may be able to find a franchise for a small gym such as a Crossfit box or a personal trainer company. Take a look at the list of franchises we have provided to find the perfect business opportunity. All are brands that have been around for a while. Remember that there are always financing options to make the dream of opening a branded fitness business a reality.