Top 11 Best Gym Franchise for Startup Businesses

Top 11 Best Gym Franchise for Startup Businesses 1
An inspiring wellness writer, coach, speaker, and athlete.

After conducting extensive research on gym franchises for startup businesses, I found out that Yanre Fitness is the best option for entrepreneurs looking to create an all-inclusive fitness center.

However, with other franchise options available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for potential gym owners.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the top 11 gym franchises that cater to different business models and preferences, making the decision process easier for you.

So, keep reading to uncover the ideal franchise opportunity, including insights on the best gym franchise to own, for your startup business and make a well-informed choice that sets you on the path to success.

Table of Contents

1. Orange Theory Fitness – Best for High-End Brand

Country & City: Boca Raton, Florida, USA

Established Date: 2010

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Orange Theory Fitness is a global leader in innovative heart rate-based interval training. Their mission is to lead, support, and inspire their franchise partners to achieve superior results, while ensuring a diversified, equitable, and inclusive culture. They have recently partnered with Yardstick Management to advance their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Key Product Line: Heart rate-based interval training classes and boutique-style gym facilities

Take Away Note:

Orange Theory Fitness is perfect for businesses aiming to provide high-end boutique gym experiences to their clients. They offer unique, science-backed workouts with a strong focus on customer satisfaction. However, their franchise fees and startup costs can be relatively high.

2. Planet Fitness – Best for Innovative Brand

Country & City: Hampton, New Hampshire, USA

Established Date: 1992

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Planet Fitness is known for its innovative approach to fitness, providing a non-intimidating and welcoming environment for gym-goers. They offer unlimited access to their home club and friendly, knowledgeable staff support, with over 2,400 locations worldwide.

Key Product Line: Affordable gym memberships and inclusive gym environment

Take Away Note:

Planet Fitness is ideal for businesses targeting a wide range of clients looking for an affordable and inclusive gym experience. They offer a unique Judgement Free Zone, which caters to people of all fitness levels. Keep in mind that their focus is on cardio and strength equipment rather than specialized classes or training.

3. Yanre Fitness – Best Overall

Country & City: Wuhu, Anhui, China

Established Date: 1997

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Yanre Fitness is a top manufacturer of high-quality commercial gym equipment, offering a cost-effective solution for startup gym businesses. With the ability to compete with big brands in terms of quality, Yanre Fitness provides equipment at half the price or less, making it the best overall choice.

Key Product Line: Full range of commercial gym equipment and functional training equipment

Take Away Note:

Yanre Fitness is the perfect choice for startup businesses looking for a cost-effective gym franchise that doesn’t compromise on quality. Personally, I would prefer their comprehensive range of gym equipment caters to various training needs, and their exceptional value for money sets them apart from competitors. They have extensive expertise in the field and can offer high-quality equipment, in addition to the support provided by franchise-focused companies

4. GymGuyz – Best for In-Home Mobile Personal Training

Country & City: Plainview, New York, USA

Established Date: 2008

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GymGuyz is the first in-home mobile personal training and fitness franchise company, redefining physical fitness by bringing the workout to you at your convenience. Their certified trainers provide customized workouts, incorporating their philosophy of convenience, customization, and creativity into every fitness plan.

Key Product Line: In-home personal training and mobile fitness services

Take Away Note:

GymGuyz is an excellent choice for businesses looking to provide in-home mobile personal training services to clients. Their unique approach to fitness is perfect for those targeting clients with busy schedules or those who prefer working out in the comfort of their own homes. However, it may not be the best fit for businesses focused on traditional gym facilities.

5. Club Pilates – Best for Pilates Instruction

Country & City: San Diego, California, USA

Established Date: 2007

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Club Pilates, founded in San Diego, offers high-quality Pilates training at an affordable price. They stay true to Joseph Pilates’ original Reformer-based Contrology Method, modernized with group practice and expanded state-of-the-art equipment.

Key Product Line: Pilates group classes and Reformer-based Contrology Method

Take Away Note:

Club Pilates is ideal for businesses looking to specialize in Pilates instruction. They offer a modernized approach to the traditional Pilates method, catering to a wide range of clients. However, their focus on Pilates may not appeal to businesses looking for a more comprehensive fitness offering.

6. Anytime Fitness – Best for 24/7 Accessibility

Country & City: Woodbury, Minnesota, USA

Established Date: 2001.

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Anytime Fitness offers convenience and flexibility to clients with 24/7 access to gym facilities. Their unique security system allows members to access the gym during unstaffed hours, enabling a 24-hour operation without additional staff. They provide fitness consultations, group training, and personal training services.

Key Product Line: fitness consultations and group and personal training

Take Away Note:

Anytime Fitness is an excellent choice for businesses looking to provide 24/7 gym accessibility to clients. Their unique model caters to those with busy lifestyles, offering convenience and flexibility. However, their focus on traditional gym facilities may not appeal to businesses looking to specialize in specific fitness niches.

7. F45 Training – Best for High-Intensity Functional Workouts

Country & City: Paddington, New South Wales, Australia

Established Date: 2010

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F45 Training offers class-based, high-intensity functional workouts in a 45-minute format. Their classes are designed for everyday functional movement, with personal heart rate monitors and performance metrics displayed on multiple TVs during the sessions.

Key Product Line: High-intensity workouts and functional training

Take Away Note:

F45 Training is perfect for businesses aiming to provide high-intensity functional workouts in a class-based format. I truly adore their innovative use of technology and performance metrics appeals to clients seeking a results-driven experience. However, their high-intensity focus may not cater to all fitness levels or preferences.

8. Crunch Fitness – Best for Diverse Community and Culture

Country & City: New York City, New York, USA

Established Date: 1989

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Crunch Fitness is a diverse, judgment-free community that aims to encourage, empower, and entertain. With a culture of fun, they cater to all kinds of people with various goals, offering a welcoming environment for clients to get fit.

Key Product Line: Group classes and Personal training

Take Away Note:

Crunch Fitness is an excellent option for businesses looking to build a diverse community and culture within their gym. Their judgment-free approach and variety of fitness options make them an inclusive choice for clients with different goals. However, businesses seeking specialization in a particular fitness niche may want to explore other options.

9. UFC Gym – Best for Martial Arts-Based Interval Training

Country & City: Santa Ana, California, USA

Established Date: 2009

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UFC Gym offers a variety of martial arts-based interval training classes and coaching, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, TRX suspension training, kickboxing, spin, yoga, and youth training. Their facilities are equipped with training areas, heavy bags, cardio and strength equipment, and a retail section.

Key Product Line: Martial arts-based training and strength and cardio equipment

Take Away Note:

UFC Gym is ideal for businesses looking to focus on martial arts-based interval training. They offer a diverse range of classes and extensive facilities, but the large investment required and focus on martial arts may not suit all businesses.

10. Burn Boot Camp – Best for Women’s Empowerment and Community

Country & City: Huntersville, North Carolina, USA

Established Date: 2012

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Burn Boot Camp aims to build confidence, happiness, and discipline in women, creating mentally, emotionally, and physically strong communities. Founded by Devan and Morgan Kline, Burn Boot Camp focuses on transforming fitness culture and fostering a supportive environment.

Key Product Line: Women’s fitness and wellness programs

Take Away Note:

Burn Boot Camp is perfect for businesses seeking to empower women and create strong communities through fitness. Their mission-driven approach and supportive environment are appealing, but their focus on women’s fitness may limit the potential client base.

11. Snap Fitness – Best for Flexible, Inclusive Fitness Experience

Country & City: Chanhassen, Minnesota, USA

Established Date: 2003

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Snap Fitness believes that exercise should be for feeling, promoting the mental health benefits of physical activity. They offer a flexible, inclusive fitness experience with personal goal setting, progress tracking, and a welcoming environment for all.

Key Product Line: group classes and personal training

Take Away Note:

Snap Fitness is an excellent option for businesses looking to provide a flexible, inclusive fitness experience. Their focus on the mental health benefits of exercise and personalized support caters to a wide range of clients. However, businesses seeking specialization in a particular fitness niche may want to explore other options.

6 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Gym Franchise for Startup Business

Understanding the significance of selecting the ideal franchise for your startup business in the fitness industry is very crucial. According to Fitness Software, most gym franchises require a very high number and a very long-term investment in the business that can have a net worth of over $250,000.

In the table below, we outline the six factors to consider when choosing the best gym franchise for a startup business and rate the importance of each factor. The ratings are categorized as “High,” “Moderate,” or “Low” to indicate the significance of each factor. Here’s a breakdown of the importance of each factor:

Factors to ConsiderImportance
Brand Recognition and ReputationHigh
Initial Investment and Ongoing FeesHigh
Training and SupportHigh
Target Market and DemographicsHigh
Flexibility and CustomizationModerate
Growth Potential and ScalabilityHigh

Here are the top factors to consider when selecting the perfect franchise opportunity for your new venture:

#1 Brand Recognition and Reputation

When choosing the right franchise for your gym, it’s crucial to consider the brand recognition and reputation of the potential franchises. A well-known and respected brand can help attract customers and instill trust in your gym. High brand recognition also typically indicates a proven track record of success and growth, ensuring that your investment is in a solid and reliable business model.

#2 Initial Investment and Ongoing Fees

Another important factor to consider is the initial investment and ongoing fees associated with the franchise. These costs can vary greatly between franchises, and it’s essential to carefully analyze the financial requirements to ensure they align with your budget and expectations.

And the interesting part is to make sure to account for royalties, advertising fees, and any other expenses that may be part of the franchise agreement.

#3 Training and Support

Franchises often provide training and support to help franchisees succeed. When evaluating potential gym franchises, consider the level and quality of training and support they offer. This can include ongoing education, marketing assistance, and access to resources and tools that will help you effectively run your gym. Strong training and support systems can make a significant difference in the success and growth of your business.

#4 Target Market and Demographics

Understanding the target market and demographics of each franchise is essential in determining if their offerings align with your business goals and the needs of your community. Evaluate the franchise’s offerings and the type of clientele they cater to, ensuring that their services and classes will be appealing to your target market.

#5 Flexibility and Customization

Some franchises may offer more flexibility and customization in their business models, allowing you to adapt your gym to better serve your clientele and meet your personal goals. When opening a gym and evaluating potential franchises, consider Yanre Fitness’ level of autonomy offer and whether their approach allows you to make adjustments to fit your specific needs and market conditions.

#6 Growth Potential and Scalability

Consider the growth potential and scalability of each franchise. A successful gym franchise should have a proven track record of growth and a model that can be easily scaled to accommodate expansion. That’s when I realized that this factor is essential if you plan to open multiple locations or expand your services in the future.

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Conclusion

After diving deep into the world of gym franchises, I’ve come to the conclusion that Yanre Fitness truly stands out as the best choice for startup businesses. Their exceptional support system, state-of-the-art equipment, and proven track record of success set them apart from the rest, making them an ideal choice for aspiring gym owners.

If you’re looking to make your mark in the fitness industry and create a thriving business, don’t hesitate to explore further. If you are ready and still have questions, reach out to us and our team of experts will help you to know in equipping yourself in this new venture. The journey towards a successful fitness business starts with choosing the right partner. Contact us today!

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