Fitness and Gym Opportunities in the United States of America

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Fitness and Gym Franchise Industry Overview

Although the Covid-19 pandemic seriously affected the health and fitness industry in the US, there’s been a strong bout of recovery as people of all ages and from all walks of life pursue their health and fitness goals. 

With the pursuit of healthy lifestyles, the industry’s value was estimated to be in the region of $36 billion as at 2022. Of this amount, franchises account for between $3 billion and $6 billion, contributing to the wider economy. In fact, the industry is expected to be growing at 8.7% globally and this number is close to what is taking place in the US. 

In fact, over the past 20 years, apart from the pandemic, there’s been impressive industry growth as 64 million Americans had memberships for fitness centers or health clubs in 2019. This is nearly double the number of memberships from the year 2000. 

As for the number of health and fitness clubs, there were 41,000 of these in the country in 2021 with an annual growth rate of 8.4%. It is interesting to note that pre-pandemic growth was around 4.5%, signaling a strong return and boost of the industry. 

As for gym franchises, which account for around 10,400 clubs around the US, franchised fitness facilities continue to perform well and employ over 155,000 people. Looking at the future, it is estimated that the fitness industry will reach $147 billion by 2024 alone. 

This is expected to be driven by the fact that more men, women, children, and seniors are visiting gyms in the pursuit of healthier lifestyles, offering aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to purchase fitness franchises for sale and avail of the ample profit opportunities this business niche offers. 

Now may just be the perfect time to look into gym franchises for sale as fitness franchises are nicely filling in a market gap through their attractive business models, home-based personal training, and a series of other benefits that come with this type of business ownership. 

Fitness and Gym Industry Trends in 2023

Gym franchises that cater to their active customers’ needs in a proactive way are more likely to succeed than competitors who follow stagnating business models. As such, it’s essential to consider some of the trends in terms of fitness franchises that are expected to burgeon over the coming years. In fact, in the next two years until 2025, the following trends in fitness centers are expected to become a staple of many gym businesses and different gym franchise opportunities:

  • The active population seeking to meet their health and fitness goals is likely to rise
  • Fitness customers are time-strapped and will be looking at convenient establishments with round-the-clock services
  • Up-to-date fitness technology will be an essential element of a fitness franchise’s offering
  • Fitness centers that offer additional services will thrive. Examples of these include meal planning, goal tracking, online personal training, and user forums
  • Strengthening of long-term customer relationships through exceptional customer care will be essential to boost loyalty
  • Creation of online content that is engaging and comes at a lower price point will offer more convenience and is likely to be more attractive
  • New workouts requiring lots of costly equipment are unlikely to be big hits over the next year
  • Catering to different demographics can be a powerful way to stand out
  • Once an outlet is up and running, it’s important to pay attention to which exercises are proving popular, and to adjust your offering accordingly
  • Success in this sector depends a lot on the skills and charisma of gym staff, therefore, recruiting and retaining skilled staff needs to be high on a franchise owner’s list of things to focus on, and
  • The gym business can be seasonal and rolling with these fluctuations and tailoring one’s offering accordingly will be another important trend to look out for.

Why you should consider a fitness center franchise opportunity

There are many reasons why you should consider gym franchises for sale. It’s so much more than offering strength training or personal training to your clientele. It’s also about enriching your life with flexibility and getting a strong return on your investment. And that’s exactly what fitness franchises for sale offer. Here are just a few of the reasons why you should consider this opportunity:

  • Gym franchises are part of an industry that is seeing increasing growth as people become more health-conscious. 
  • Buying a fitness franchise enables you to be your own boss and run your own business while benefiting from a strong support system.
  • If you opt for a fitness franchise for sale, you will be working with a proven business model that has been tried and tested during economic upturns and downturns. 
  • You’ll be able to take advantage of a turnkey business model where all the groundwork has already been laid down for you. 
  • You will also be able to enjoy immense levels of support and mentorship from your franchisor and the wider franchisee network. 
  • Training is provided so you know exactly how to run your business from day one.
  • You can get help with your business plan as well as marketing strategy and materials. 
  • The return on investment is attractive and can provide you with several revenue streams including membership fees, group training, personal coaching, selling supplements and fitness apparel, etc. 
  • Gym franchise businesses don’t require a lot of employees to be hired resulting in cost savings
  • You are not required to have special knowledge and experience to get started
  • Benefit from brand recognition and an already established customer base
  • Some franchise systems offer real estate support to find the right location for your unit, while others even help with lease negotiation

How much does it cost to open a fitness franchise business?

Looking at the industry average for the total initial investment for a gym franchise can range anywhere from $100,000 to $5 million. However, every franchisor will charge different royalty fees and the capital requirements will therefore differ and vary from franchisor to franchisor. Examples of factors that will influence the cost of your initial investment include the business concept, brand name, business model, global spread, real estate, space of the actual gym, equipment and its maintenance, etc. In addition, other costs to consider include the franchise fee, training expenses, grand opening marketing costs, and more. On average though, you are looking at a cost of around $350,000. However, there are also low-cost gym franchises that can be started for under $20,000 in cash.

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Action Karate offers a turnkey business solution, comprehensive and ongoing support for franchisees, and a steadfast commitment to best practices both within and beyond the industry.

Min. Investment

$136,750

The Little Gym International is a leading franchisor specializing in fitness gyms tailored for infants and children, adhering to the standards established by USA Gymnastics.

Min. Investment

$181,449

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Crunch Fitness

When you become a member of Crunch Fitness, you’re not just joining a gym; you’re embracing a transformative fitness experience.

Min. Investment

$304,500

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Skyhawks Sports Academy

The Skyhawks Sports Academy provides a comprehensive range of sports programs and camps designed to enrich the lives of children and youth through engaging and skill-building activities.

Min. Investment

$30,800

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Soccer Shots

Since they began franchising in 2005, Soccer Shots has consistently set the benchmark in youth soccer education.

Min. Investment

$42,950

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British Swim School

The British Swim School is not just about swim lessons – they’re about providing children with essential life skills and peace of mind.

Min. Investment

$100,000