Next, consider the cost to open a gym, which ranges significantly depending on location, size, if you will employ other people, and the amount of equipment your style of training requires. Many experts agree that the cost to open a gym tends to range between $10,000-$50,000 on average, but do not let those numbers scare you. If you do not have an extra $10k+ laying around and are wondering how to open a gym with little to no money, there are plenty of options to consider. In order to secure the money you’ll want to line up investors or a small business loan. Head to The U.S. Small Business Administration website, which offers a free service to help out with business plans and loan advice.

To help you raise the money you’ll need and plan for your future as a gym owner, you’ll want to put together a gym ownership business plan. Within this plan you should outline in detail who your target market is, identify your fitness facility niche (how you will be different from competitors), the best city to open your gym, the best location to open your gym, all costs required to open your gym and anything else you think potential investors will want to know in order to take the plunge. Put together your new business plan and start getting your money lined up.

Once you have your gym startup costs and business plan together, you need to select the perfect location for your gym. Consider the cities and areas your identified target market spends time and look for open lease opportunities in those areas. It typically helps to be near complimentary business-like chiropractors and health food stores where your target market is more likely to see you.