So you’re serious about opening a gym in 2025, but not sure how to organize the business side of things?
Here’s what most new gym owners do: guess a budget, sign a lease, buy some gear—and pray it works out.
I’ve been there. The truth? Without a lean and realistic business plan, you’re setting yourself up to bleed cash fast.
That’s why I put together this super-practical business plan structure you can actually use—whether you’re pitching to investors, applying for a loan, or just trying to figure out if your gym will even make money.
What Should a Gym Business Plan Include?
Your plan doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to be clear. At minimum, include:
- Executive Summary: Who you are, what your gym is, who you serve
- Market Analysis: Local fitness demand, competitor analysis, pricing norms
- Services and Revenue Streams: Memberships, classes, PT, retail, online
- Operations Plan: Staff structure, hours, tech, customer flow
- Financial Forecast: Budget breakdown, income projections, breakeven point
Free Gym Business Plan Template (Download)
You can vist this free editable template here.
Use it to plug in your numbers and map out your strategy in a format banks and investors actually want to see.
3 Tips for Writing a Gym Plan That Doesn’t Suck
- Don’t fake your numbers: Guessing low costs or overestimating revenue is a recipe for disaster.
- Focus on value, not features: What problem do you solve for your members? It’s not just “we have treadmills.”
- Test your model in real life: Run a pop-up or a 2-week trial if possible. Get feedback before going big.
Real Example: A Lean $45K Gym Startup Plan
One client I worked with opened a small functional studio with basic functional trainers, a turf strip, dumbbells, and racks. That’s it.
Total startup cost was just under $45,000. He pre-sold 78 memberships before launch and hit breakeven in month three. That’s what planning does.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget to open a gym?
It depends on location and size, but most lean startups range from $30K to $75K. You can get financing or lease equipment to lower the upfront hit.
Do I need a business plan to get a loan?
Yes. Banks, investors, and even equipment lease companies often require a clear business plan with projections and market research.
What software can help me write a gym business plan?
Use Google Docs, Notion, or Excel. You don’t need fancy tools. Just clarity. Want help? Start with our plug-and-play template here.
Let’s Build It Right
Your gym is a business first, brand second, and passion project last. That’s how you stay profitable.
So if you’re serious about building something sustainable, don’t skip this step. Download the template, map your numbers, and plan like you mean it.
Want gear that matches your startup budget? See our budget-smart bundles here.
