Top 5 Fitness Franchises to Buy

When COVID-19 forced many gyms across the U.S. to close, many fitness brands began offering online classes and workouts to keep members active while on stay-at-home orders. Now, as more gyms are beginning to reopen and follow new safety guidelines, prospective franchisees are exploring opportunities to partner with these brands. According to Fundera, a website that offers business and financial expertise, “Franchises typically see higher profits than non-franchise businesses, as there is a loyal customer base and formula for success. While the initial investment to open a gym franchise can be high, you'll likely turn a profit more quickly.”

If you have been looking to invest in an exercise and fitness franchise, but were not sure where to start, here are five brands to consider.

Anytime Fitness

Anytime Fitness is the biggest franchise in the fitness and gym industry and offers both express and standard models. It has more than 2,398 locations in the United States and 1,645 locations globally. The company also owns 38 facilities. Total start-up costs vary by region, and the initial investment ranges from $107,500 to $722,800. This fast-growing brand added about 430 units in 2018 alone.

GYMGUYZ

GYMGUYZ is a popular gym concept because it offers in-home personal training, group sessions and one-on-one fitness classes, as well as programs for corporate clients. With GYMGUYZ, no physical gym location is needed, as a van holds all the exercise equipment needed. The franchise offers a wide variety of services including post-natal exercise, kickboxing, obstacle course training, senior fitness, weight training, body sculpting, and weight loss. GYMGUYZ’s initial upfront investment starts at $56,072 to $122,482. 

Burn Boot Camp

Burn Boot Camp offers  a 45-minute exercise and workout program for those looking to stay fit and healthy. In under an hour, clients can expect to burn up to 700 calories. The brand’s focus is on motivational and strength training and as well as on mindset exercises to achieve better results. Currently, the company has more than 100 units in the U.S. The initial upfront investment for the brand is between $142,330 to $349,150.

Orangetheory Fitness

Orangetheory Fitness offers fitness classes and provides health equipment, including free weights, rowing machines and treadmills. The company is best known for its heart rate-monitored training, which is designed to help boost metabolism and increase energy. Orangetheory Fitness currently has 511 units. For those looking to invest, the initial upfront investment is between $488,405 to $994,360.

Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness is a gym that aims to provide a judgement-free experience so that all members feel comfortable working out. The locations are open 24/7 and services include free fitness training with certified trainers. Currently, there are about 1,400 franchise locations across the country. An initial investment to become a Planet Fitness franchisee is between $969,600 and $4,242,500.