A growing market for fitness entrepreneurs

Fitness has become a major industry across Europe, and the demand for high-quality gyms and fitness centers continues to grow. For entrepreneurs seeking a business opportunity in this thriving market, gym franchises offer an appealing, scalable model. Rather than starting from scratch, franchisees benefit from established brands, proven business models, and the support of franchisors, making the fitness sector a prime candidate for franchising.

Gym franchises have exploded in popularity in Europe, particularly as consumers become more health-conscious and focused on physical wellness. From budget gyms to boutique fitness studios, these franchises provide a range of options, catering to diverse market segments. Whether it's a low-cost, 24-hour gym or a high-end, personalized fitness experience, there's a franchise opportunity to suit nearly every type of fitness business dream.

Leading gym franchise brands in Europe

Several international gym franchise brands are expanding rapidly across Europe. Anytime Fitness, an American-based franchise, is one of the most popular gym chains on the continent, with over 1,000 locations in Europe. Known for its 24/7 access and no-frills approach, Anytime Fitness requires an initial investment of between €250,000 to €400,000. This amount covers the franchise fee, equipment, training, and other startup costs. Franchisees benefit from comprehensive training and ongoing support, as well as a strong global brand reputation.

Another major player in the European market is Basic-Fit, a Dutch-based low-cost fitness chain with over 1,100 locations throughout Europe, particularly strong in Belgium, France, and Spain. The initial investment for a Basic-Fit franchise is typically around €500,000 to €1 million, depending on location and size. Although Basic-Fit is currently operated as a corporate chain, there are plans to expand their franchise offerings, particularly in emerging markets where the brand seeks to grow.

For those seeking a boutique fitness experience, F45 Training, originally from Australia, has taken Europe by storm, with a presence in the UK, France, and Germany. The franchise offers high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in a group setting, focusing on personalized training. The initial investment to open an F45 Training studio ranges from €100,000 to €300,000, depending on the location and size. Franchisees are offered complete support, including marketing, fitness training programs, and access to cutting-edge fitness technology.

Investment and startup costs

The costs associated with starting a gym franchise vary greatly depending on the brand, location, and type of gym you want to open. Low-cost gyms, such as Anytime Fitness or Snap Fitness, typically require an investment of between €150,000 to €400,000, while boutique fitness studios like F45 Training may have lower startup costs but require higher fees for specialized equipment and marketing.

Larger, full-service gyms, like Basic-Fit or Fitness First, can require upwards of €500,000 to €1 million to get started. These costs typically cover everything from the franchise fee to gym equipment, rent, training, and marketing materials. Most franchises also require ongoing royalty fees, which range from 5% to 10% of gross revenue, as well as marketing fees.

In terms of facilities, most gym franchises require a space of at least 500 to 1,500 square meters, with modern gym equipment, showers, locker rooms, and possibly additional amenities like saunas or cafes. The location of the gym is critical to its success, with high-traffic urban areas or suburban shopping centers often being prime choices.

Starting a gym franchise begins with choosing the right brand for your goals and target market. Prospective franchisees should research different franchise opportunities, comparing startup costs, brand reputation, and support systems. Most gym franchise brands offer detailed information on their websites about financial requirements, franchise terms, and available territories.

Once you’ve chosen a franchise, securing financing is the next step. Most franchisees finance their initial investment through a combination of personal savings, loans, and possibly assistance from the franchisor. Many gym franchises also offer financing options or partnerships with local banks to help cover startup costs.

After financing is secured, franchisees typically undergo extensive training in both fitness operations and business management. This includes learning about fitness programs, customer service, marketing strategies, and how to manage the day-to-day operations of the gym. Additionally, franchisees receive ongoing support from the franchisor, including marketing assistance, access to proprietary fitness technology, and operational guidance.

Future trends in the gym franchise market

The fitness industry in Europe is evolving, with more consumers seeking flexible, technology-driven, and personalized fitness experiences. Franchise gyms are adapting to these changes by incorporating digital platforms, fitness apps, and on-demand workouts to meet the needs of busy clients. F45 Training, for example, integrates fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring into its classes, providing real-time feedback to clients and enhancing their fitness journey.

There is also a growing trend toward eco-friendly gyms, which prioritize sustainability by using energy-efficient equipment, reducing plastic waste, and incorporating renewable energy sources. Franchise gyms that can tap into these trends will likely see strong growth in the coming years as consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact.

Moreover, as remote working becomes more popular, gyms are offering hybrid membership models that include both in-gym and online workouts. This flexibility allows gyms to retain customers who may no longer commute to city centers but still want access to fitness services.

Gym franchises offer a lucrative opportunity for fitness entrepreneurs across Europe, providing a ready-made business model in a growing market. Brands like Anytime Fitness, Basic-Fit, and F45 Training are leading the charge, offering flexible, scalable franchise opportunities with comprehensive support and training.