I have always wanted to open a gym/fitness center. I was doing some research when I came across this site and now I'm hooked. There appears to be a ton of valuable advice offered on this site and I was just wondering if anyone has ever owned/or considered starting a gym? This is something I feel that I would really enjoy as well as be sucessful at once I get the ball rolling. I am a little hesitant due to the number of large scale gyms (chains such as Worlds Gym, Bally's etc) opening. I am also and animal lover and I am trying to formulate a business plan that not only involves a fitness center/gym, but also allows members to bring their dogs to an attached section of the gym where there would be obstacle courses, agility etc (a safe and supervised place for exercise) for the dogs. I know this may sound odd, but I really think it could work. Overall, I would really like to start a gym that caters to both people and their dogs. There would be an additional "membership" for the dog and people could belong to the gym without a pet or their pet could belong without them being a member. Any advice/ constructive criticism would be appreciated.
Thanks, Bryan

Bryan:

Your dog workout area may be the seling point that allows you to compete with the "big players."
You won't know until you have completed your business plan.

I have never opened a gym, but I know a bit about business plans and financing. If you would like to talk about your business plan E-mail me at TROSE75063@AOL.COM

TOM ROSE

I have a cousin who owns her own gym more along the lines of a Curves only its coed. I also have another friend who owns his own Martial Arts Studio.

I would recommend doing some market research in the area you are planning on doing this. See what the demand is like and put the question about the dogs in your research and see what the response is like. Having a simple survey printed up and then asking people to fill it out around your city/town shouldn't be too hard.

In terms of the Gym itself for financing. I know from my cousin that there are gym equipment manufacterers out there who are willing to lease you the equipment on very favorable terms, shop around. I would suggest looking at the Curves and the new Cuts franchise and seeing if you could take their concept and build on your idea.

Best of Luck!!

I own a small gym in the Los Angeles area and would be happy to be a sounding board for you. You can email me at jonathan@arenafitness.com

Good luck,

Jonathan Aluzas
www.arenafitness.com

What are the steps needd to take in order to start a new gym?
Are there any specific requirements/ For example, does one needs to be a cert. trainer, insurance, liabilities, what goverment agency oversees this type of business...
Can you refer me to someone for guidance?

Thanks

easy mate i wanted to know what has to be done to open a gym and the stuff needed and info pls

To Whom This May Concern:
The reason I wanted to write to you, is to find out how I go about getting started to open my own gym. I am a certified personal trainer and I have always wanted to open my own gym. I do not know how to get a loan, where to open the gym, and what to do? I have this ambition to open my own gym, but do not have anyone to support my dream. So I was wondering maybe you can give me some input. I thank you kindly.

I've been contemplating this all my life. There has always been obsticles in my way. I love to work out and I've got some equipment already. I'm not looking to be an upscale club, just an iron pit. I don't have a trainers degree or anything, but I really want to do this now. I don't want to waste anymore of my life thinking about it. I know how I want the gym to look, who my target customers will be, hours of operation, possible employees, several locations in mind. I would charge a little less than some of the other clubs, because where I'm at, the cheapest club dues are $75.00 per month. I know, I know. So I know where some of my customers are going to come from. Any input to get the ball rolling would be great.

Any tips and ideas to get me started? I have always been an athlete and worked out... now I want to help the world get in shape! Please advise.
Thanks,
Melissa

Hey hows it going my name is Jerrel. I also want to start my own gym so if you want to help me out i can do the same for you so email back with your response

hey there boss,
trying to get an idea of start-up costs, and 0 dollar start-up financing. any possibilities?
trying to start in the san diego area.
thnx in advance,
JD

Hello Mr. Jonathan,
My name is Luckens and I live in New Jersey. I am emailing you
because I was reading about your comments about openning up
my own gym. I would like to know if you can email me and give
me some advice about the different steps to take. currently I
just graduated from college with a Health and Physical Education
degree and I am working at a local school as a teacher. Again I
would like to know if you can give me some pointers in opening
up my own gym

Where are you in New Jersey. I have a women's gym here in South Jersey 10 minutes from Philly.
2 years young and looking for a partner/investor.
Booming area.
Betty Anne

would you know to get in contact with the manufacturers plus how to get a loan for the gym space

I am opening a co-ed circuit gym and need serious help with marketing.
desperate dr.
John

My company specializes in marketing for Health Clubs. I have personally worked with over 200 Clubs in the past 2 years and can help you build your Memberships.

Check out http://HealthClubLeads.com

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Scott Steers
Director of Marketing
HealthClubLeads.com

the answer to starting a gym is simple.
but it takes a lot of desire.
CROSSFIT.
get on the site, read it, try it.

I know a lot of you are looking for help with your new/existing health club. I urge everyone to be careful if you consider one of the "promotion-style" companies in our industry. If you already have a club, you know who I'm talking about. You probably receive a postcard from them once a week. If you are considering opening a gym, please know that you will be giving up a sizeable percentage of your profits to these shark-like companies. I am a little biased as I own a consulting/marketing company for the gym industry, but nothing bothers me more than hearing how these companies and their empty promises are destroying gyms.

Did you know that 8 out of every 10 new gyms fail? That's not to say you shouldn't start one, but it is to warn you that you already have enough stacked against you. I am not here to promote my marketing business. We are already too busy as is. I just want to warn potential gym owners about these so-called promotion companies who over-promise and under-deliver, often times causing a gym to go out of business. I too own a couple of health clubs and I know how difficult it is to break even, much less profit. But I also know how rewarding it is to help so many members at your club.

I would be more than happy to help answer any questions you have about your gym or your future gym. Best of luck to everyone!

Sincerely,
Curtis Mock
cmock@vmgfitness.com

Hi. just wanted to know if you could give me an idea on the costs would be like equipment. I'm in Canada so the dollar may be a little different.

Thank you so much jamie

You have a friend who has their own martial arts studio? That's what I'm considering. I want to start just out of my house with my friends and I know there's a good market in metro-detroit, especially with young athletes. But I don't know the regulations and laws. Any advice?

About 20 years ago I taught and trained with a guy who went around to churches and synogogs and paid them to use their space twice a week. He had 2 classes a night (kids then adults. He paid about $20 a night for the space and they gave him a closet to store the equipmetn. I'm not sure if he had any insurance but the buildings had insurance.

Good Luck

I am also interested in starting my own gym. I too am overwhelmed by all of areas in which one needs to research. I think your idea of a pet friendly gym is a huge selling point. I for me it would be some sort of child gym or child suporvision. A former member of the gym I belong to left due to the fact that the gym stopped the child suporvison. Maybe we could give feedback to each other and come up with a winning idea.

Hi there. Very good idea. Now all you need is a plan. Don't feel overwhelmed. Start with the basics of location, location, location. Research your geography and demography thoroughly. Research all competition in the area. You must have the basic facts to start. Then you can begin writing a business plan along with a marketing plan. You can't leave anything to chance.
Good luck
Michele
http://motherofallmarketing.com
support@motherofallmarketing.com

If anyone is in the Denver area, I know of a gym for sale. It is a World Gym in Brighton, and with some marketing, it could really grow - the old owners did not do a good job of really catering to it's members.

I own a supplement store and plan/hope to partner with the new owner(s) to put in a small shop inside the gym. If I had the money or backing, I would buy it myself!

Micah
msjewell@maxmusclethornton.com

The problem with World's Gym is that it's a franchise. As such, it's expensive to purchase and I've never been a fan of the franchise requirement of adhering to franchise policies and procedures. I don't know anything about the specific implementation plan for World's, but remember that when you buy a franchise you are buying SOMEONE ELSE'S business and are subject to adhering to THEIR vision. Too limited, too costly. You can do better.

Best regards,

Jonathan Aluzas
www.arenafitness.com

That is very true and I agree to a point. There are definitely both positives and negatives when purchasing a franchise. Another option though, is to make it an asset only purchase, and then change the name to your own. Then you still have some established customers, and it is your own company.

Micah

msjewell@maxmusclethornton.com

Healthy Lifestyle Marketing, LLC. (HLM) is a health and fitness club marketing company that specializes in sales, marketing, and advertising for the health club industry.

The purpose of our business is to increase membership and sales for health clubs and fitness centers through out the USA.

We would be happy to provide our services to any co-ed club that is a minimum of 5,000 sqft. We "front" the entire investment and pay for all advertising, including direct mail so there is zero risk and zero liability to the club. We have worked with over 1200 clubs in the USA and have been in business for over 10+ yrs.

Check out our website at www.hlmpromo.com

Hi,

I am also looking to open a gym but I am hesitant for the same reasons. I guess a few people who have good ideas must come together and collectively come up with the ULTIMATE GYM. I have ideas too but I am trying to figure out how to approach this.

>I agree with you...

>I am also looking to open a
>gym but I am hesitant for
>the same reasons. I guess
>a few people who have good
>ideas must come together and collectively
>come up with the ULTIMATE GYM.
> I have ideas too but
>I am trying to figure out
>how to approach this.

I would also like to start a new gym. but in my community there is not a lot of health/fitness demand being so far south noone really cares about health and health issues. i want to open a gym with a lot of self defense and martial arts training along with aerobics and weight training and boxing/kickboxing. what should i do to find the demand in this area for such a facility

I would appreciate anyone who can help me with advice how to finalize location and find the right facility for small gym.

Alright, we all know that location is very crucial in starting up a gym. But, if we're only beginning to write a business plan and not yet invest or hold space, how will we guarantee ourself that same location by the time our business plan, including financing, marketing, etc, is done? For instance, let's say I chose to have my gym at Location A, it takes me a couple of months to a year to finish a perfect business plan and get financing, how will I know if there will be space in Location A?

Am looking to start a gym too... the only thing is that this is a small town here and there are already enough gyms...even one with a tennis court! None of them have a place for children supervision though. I have been a teacher for 10 years and am ready to make a career change... don't have any fitness credentials, do I need some?

I think we all need to come together and brainstorm a few ideas and who knows we may be able to come up with something fantastic and something workable for all of us. We can have a telephone conference

I might purchase an existing gym with a popular brand name (Golds). Will not keep as a franchise. I would like to name it to fit more for family but have a catchy yet powerful name so people would want to wear our shirts. Any ideas?

>I might purchase an existing gym with
>a popular brand name (Golds).
>Will not keep as a franchise.
> I would like to name
>it to fit more for family
>but have a catchy yet powerful
>name so people would want to
>wear our shirts. Any ideas?

If choosing a name for your baby (your gym)is too difficult to handle on your own, maybe you should reconsider.

hello!
i am reading over these posts & am getting more &
more excited about my fitness facility venture as well.

I have ONE very important bit of advice.

I have been in the fitness industry for 10 years... front
desk, member sales, personal trainer, and aerobic
instructor.... i lift regularly, so i consider myself a
member too.

PLEASE DONT go into business unless you have the
gym member experience. like, been on the other side of
the desk & paid attention! I work for all these owners
who are in business for the financial gain. what it has
left me is angry. (most of all, motivation to do it right &
open my own facility) far too many owners have
thoroughly pissed me & all of my instructor-friends &
members off by cutting corners concerning equipment,
pay, maintenance (or lack there-of) Details details
details!!!! its soooo important to treat your employees
right. & know what it means to be a member. if you are
in it to provide an awesome atmosphere for people to
workout, get healthy, meet friends... go for it. but if you
are thinking about the money money money. I suggest
getting into another business.

GOOD LUCK!

I have a marketing degree and a finance degree and I will tell you that in my experience one of the main reasons that businesses fail is that the owner makes decisions that are not based on the bottom line, they do it because they like the thought of whatever they are deciding to do. I agree that cutting corners may not be ideal, but I disagree that one should not get into it for the money, because if you ignore the money you won't be open long.

Im in high school and we are doing a project for business management on starting up your own business. I was wondering if any one could help me out with a business plan or what steps i should take, and a financial plan. thanks-b.j.
email me at bjcrocker@cox.net

I am about to send a different approach, I own a fitness gym in Canada and own a separate franchise of sport nutrition called "Naturally Fit" and have gone through the whole business plan scenerio and my feedback is that for the most part it was a waste of time. For one, I was 25 when I opened and had a sound business plan that took 5-6 months to create, every bank I approached I was turned down due to it is a high risk industry next to restaurants and bars. My funding came strictly from people I know who have already made their money and were looking for an investment such as 10-12% ROI (return on investment). They are the people who understand risk and who see an opportunity when there is one. Talk to a mentor that you may have, get their approach instead of sitting in front of a computer. Yes, absorb your competition, be different so people will have a reason to transfer or to try you out, then it is just up to you to keep them.
I can say that the start up costs a fortune due to prices of equipment, once you are established then you aim for financing. Little higher rates but a tax write off and float around 7-9.9% return. You will need a min of $200,000-$250,000 CAN or $160,000-$200,000 US just in equipment then comes the reno's! You are looking at mirrors 4'x8'min, carpet or rubberized flooring, 2 changerooms "spacious", showers and waterfountains meaning massive plumbing, extensive lightening resulting in electricians, accessories such as straps, belts, gloves, nutrition etc... contract forms, lawyers, business insurance, initial advertising, now for the staff with qualifications...catch my drift.
I love what I do and would not change it for the world but as with my franchise, I bought it for a small down payment and a small monthly fee of a few hundred dollars. You will need money to start a gym, a good sense of business skills as I hold a background diploma in business management and people skills, people must like to deal with you.
Email me if you like if you would like a place to start in opening a gym, take out all the rubbish of wasting time and make it happen, just don't be afraid of taking risk! Supply and demand, "if you build it they will come!"

Sean
sean@bodyevolution.ca

I have recently put together an idea for the perfect(in my opinion) health and fitness facility. I have a working business plan that combines my fitness facility with two other well known companies(one maybe to this area, the other known nationwide). The research on the areas of interest have shown that the demand is there just not the facility. I live in a part of Florida that is growing exponentially,with a lack of focus on the health and fitness industry. My plan will possibly create the trifecta in our idustry. I have put alot of thought and research into starting this venture to make sure that all the risks are well calculated. Currently the mini-plan I am building will be presented to the directors of regional marketing and development of the foresaid companies(not interested is not an option I will leave an open door to). Once I have incorporated their participation and commitment in this endeavor, my plan will become a "plan of presentation" for the right investor or investors. You might think I sound a bit arrogant in my own idea, but really it is just certainty that this type of facility truly does not exist(yet!). The reason I am posting this message is am currently seeking indivduals who have expierence in the field to lend me their feedback, positive or negative, on this matter.One man can have an idea, a team can make it reality. Thanks for listening. David na4me22@aol.com

Hi Sean, I read about your advice about starting a gym and seems very interesting. I presently live in Montreal and thinking about opening my own gym. I presently work for a commercial bank and deal with loans for businesses, so I know how to get financing and have many contacts.
I love going to the gym ,but I find there is lack of good music and fun atmosphere at the gyms. I would really appreciate if you can e-mail me so we can discuss exactly how you opened your gym.

Thanks

I read on one of your posts that their is a lack of good
music and fun atmosphere at the gym. Well I think your
completely right! I have been a memeber at a few gyms in
my time and the one I am at now is particularily bad.

They need it to be more of a social, more open, more fun
staff and open seminars and classes, instead of closed off
and line ups for machines.

I think the key to starting your business would be to get a
awesome corporate identity (logo and letterhead materials)
along with a working web site. I would not open up under a
umbrella brach gym corporation.. your just likely to have
the same old boring gym.

I do run a graphic design company:
http://www.syntricdesign.com

I would be willling to provide discounts if you ordered
multiple services from our company?

Anyhow, I do wish you all the best in your vision! I think, if
you do it right, it could be very benificial to everyone!

Tamara

Sean--
Thanks for the helpful information. I would appreciate more of your knowledge via e-mail. I am 20 years old and just about to receive my personal training cert. I am interested in starting a gym in the Maryland/Washington DC area (any investors?) What are the steps that I need to do aministrtatively? How do I go about finding a location? Where do I find investors? Can you please drop me a line at jksimon@wam.umd.edu Thanks

-Justin

>Hi Keren, I read your post "Gym in Canada".
I also live in Montreal and thinking to open my own gym.I work as a personal trainer and have good knowlege in fitness industry, but I don't know much about financing and how to get it.
I would appreciate if you e-mail me slav28@yahoo.ca or call at (514)668-9577 so we can discuss how to open own gym.
Thanks,
Slava

I would like to know approx. how much it costs to get insurance on a medium size gym. That may be a common question, im just curious. I have a prime location to open up a gym facility, i just have to run the survey to see if the people in this local are interested in having a gym, then comes the questions like how do i go about getting the money to build, advertise, get equipment. Well if you could help me with any of the questions above i would apprecciate it alot. Thanks!!!!

Dear Sean,
A friend of mine plays football, and works out.
He needs direction and solid advice. He's 375lbs.He needs to own his own gym.He doesn't do well with bosses, he needs to be the boss. He says he has money put away, how much I don't know. He's 27,and has business man written all over him.Please call me back at 585-356-2395, or email me at atoal1@genesee.edu.We live in new york.He's in rochester.
Looking forward to hearing
from you,
Alicia Toal

I've read the posts and I've seen some terrific ideas. I have been thinking of opening a gym in the Baltimore/Washington Area and based on what I've seen, I think its definitely worth exploring. I'm working on getting my fitness certs and I already have a strong business background. What I'm looking for is input on the business plan as well as fresh ideas (like the pet area, that's truly original). I can be reached by email @ daayummt@yahoo.com.

thanks.

I too am interested in starting my own gym. I've been looking into it and it seems that you could start one for very little initial investment unless I am missing something. You can lease all of the equipment that you would need to start out with, with no down payment. You can also lease the space to have your gym. If you started out small with a unique idea, you could do this without alot of capital and without taking on investors. Seeking investors is pretty much a dead end street, especially if the idea is at all unique. You would need to have enough money to pay the first couple of months lease payments, some money for insurance and other bills, some money for advertising and some money to pay a couple of employees for a few months. Hopefully after a few months it would be paying for itself, if not then it would be time to do something else. If you charged people $20/month and had 500 people, that would be $10,000 per month. Hopefully that would be enough to cover those bills and pay yourself something. Let me know if I'm missing something here.

I don't know your area man, but charge more than $20/mo. You gotta plan for those tough times and when people see such a cheap rate they think there is something wrong....

I AM MOVING FROM MIAMI TO OCALA. I LOVE EVERYTHING THAT HAS TO DO WITH THE ATMOSPHERE OF A GYM. I HAVE NO EXPERIENCE WITH A GYM BUSINESS OTHER THAN AN ON-GOING GYM MEMBER FOR 4 YEARS. MY BUSINESS NOW IS A 24-HOUR BUSINESS. I AM READY TO COMMIT.

hello ,I have been working out for a long time now me and a few other bodybuilders are looking to start uor own gym .There is two in our town .
neither are anthing special the town we live in is sierra vista Az , It is growing QUICK we would like to be able to open a gym that can help the youth and single parents like a day care and programs for young people to have things to do besides drugs and trouble .There is nothing here to keep the youth from staying out of trouble .
I have worked here for most of my life in the restruants as a waiter and cook as well as a manager I know a lot of people that think my Ideas
are good and would love for me to start my own gym .I am one of the people that most of time every one come to for fitness help . I have worked with a lot of young people to help but that only goes so far in the gyms we have !

Hello, my name is Melissa Haskins. I will be gradutating this December with a degree in Kinesiolgy. I have someone to finance a gym for me, my mother. She is willing to pay the up front cost as long as I help her run it. However, I was curious, I want to continue on into Physical Theraphy School, and was wondering how I open a gym and pursue my other ambition? The gym would be the only one within a 50 mile radius. The town she resides in is located in Arizona. Please email me with futher imput.

Building Gym and retreat center in Arizona area....

contact me directly please at : ladybeyconsulting@hotmail.com

Thanks
Jamillah

I am in the process of deciding whether to franchise a gym or purchase and existing gym. What are the benefits of purchasing an existing gym and how much would I need for an initial investment? Thank you.

hello sean
i have read your article about opening a gym.
can you send some info about equipment, cost , insurance. i beleive i have the market but just wanted to a starting point.hope you can direct me to the right direction.
thanks neb

I read your message and would like to chat with you sometime, if at all possible. I am going to open a gym and would like to do it as soon as possible and just dont know where to begin. I have all my thoughts down on paper and just want to know a step by step how to go about it. I have been looking for the right amount of space with the possibly of growth and my dad is willing to take on some big jobs of electrical and any construction needed to help me. We used to have a gym here but it closed, and I worked there and saw what he was doing wrong. I have wanted to do this for some time but keeping letting my job come in the way, and its time for a change for the better. Please get back to me.

I'm interested in hearing more about your idea.
I also am very eager to start a gym. I am in the process of finishing a business plan and possibly giving it to some venture capitalist, through an ebtrepreneurial program at Central Michigan University. My concept is comparable to that of 24 hour fitness, yet very different, I liked your animal concept i would like to know more about it, perhaps we could exchange or share ideas.

I've been involved in many new gym start-ups and I can honestly say that it is not for those with weak hearts or stomachs. Health Clubs do not fall into the category of "If you build it, they will come". Location is the most important factor. Do your research! Once you have your plan and your financing, then the fun begins. How do you get people through the door? How many members will it take to break even? How long will it take to get enough members to break even? What other ways are there to bring in additional revenue? I have seen time and time again gyms fail because they did not have the right marketing mix. Perhaps this is a shameless plug for the consulting services we offer, but I wanted to let everyone know that if you do decide to take the leap and open your gym, keep me in mind. Take a look at www.vmgfitness.com to see the types of services we offer. On a side note, even if you're not interested, I am VERY interested in sharing my knowledge with any of you. I love the fitness industry and I love small health clubs. They offer the perfect alternative to the larger corporate chains and I always hate to see bullies come in and steal business from the smaller clubs. I wish all of you the best of luck with your plans! I also have worked with a gym owner that is looking for people interested in partnering to open a few 24 hour gyms around the country. He is currently in Minnesota but wants to spread out. Let me know if you are at all interested! My personal email is curtismock@gmail.com . Let me know if you need any advice or resources!
-Curtis

I am a senior in high school student and I have been really thinking about going into business and I think that opening a gym would be really something I would want to do. If anybody out there can help me with starting a business plan for a gym.. pleaseee email me at YUYADAB@SIO.MIDCO.NET

Like everyone here I would love to eventually own and manage my own gym.

I've read every1's comments but I want to know -to run a gym do I NEED to be certified? & in what exactly?

Personally I would want to teach a fitness class (which I'll train to do).However if I hire the right staff, do I personally need to be certified to start my gym?

P.s its great to find others here, to bounce ideas with.

Thanks in advance y'all.

My husband and I are Certified Trainers and have been in the fitness insdustry for about 15 years. We are opening our door to our first studio in 2007 we currently Train at other gyms building our clientelle. I have taught aerobics for 12 years. We feel that you should be Certified in your field. The industry for fitness is changing due to obesity being a medical disease. Though we do not have business degrees we have worked for numerous gyms from the mom and pop types to the franchise. I have cleaned showers, equipment and toilets, sold and signed up members with contracts, order equipment, fixed equipment, and yes trained in addition to help with advertising and marjketing. We have learned what to do and yes what NOT to do. We have seen them fail anf succeed. You have to ask yourself what kind of support do you need. If you have no Certification who is going to train the gyms clients when your hired trainers do not show up. Who is going to teach your aerobics classes if the people you hire do not show up. You can't let your PAID members down. They will go elsewhere. If you want to start an Iron Gym. Hardcore free weight type workout only. You do not need much but you better have a good member only plan. Theses type gyms work great fot trainer in competition word of mouth works great here to. You do not need to make it look pretty but you need members to make this gym profitable.
I can tell you more just from what I have learned. If you really want to profit from your gym and are starting off with limited cash you really should learn the sport of fitness. That way you can work for yourself until you can afford to hire others. Owning a gym or being a personal trainer is no glamour job when you work for yourself you work harder than you would working fo rsomeone else. Be creative we have started an online training system on the net and we do seminars for marketing. Unlimited potential. Training in the gym well you could only train but so many people in a day thus you end up limiting your income. Think out the box there is money to be made in fitness and we are limited only by our minds. Remember when you lease space lease equipment, hire employees well that equals debt every month. Ask your self what will set you apart from the others in you area. I guess I have said enough. I could only share with what I know. I am still learning. Aways something to learn in this business and others. The best advise I can give any of you is make sure you work in a gym before you open one.

Hi, I just saw your advice and it seems like you've really got a
great idea of things in this field..which is why I would love it if
you could help me out.
I'm living in the States and will be moving overseas in a few
months. I'm hoping to start my own gym there. I'm really
interested in it, and there are only a few gyms in the whole city,
so I figure I have a good shot at doing well.
Anyways, I'm trying to get an idea of the things that I will be
requiring for starting up, and what the best places are to get it
(equipment) since I'm going to have to take it from the States
with me. Also, I'm trying to get information on flooring,
dimensions, space etc. What I need etc.

I'm hoping to start off on a small scale and working my way up
to a proper gym. I'm getting certified soon. I'm planning to start
of by giving group exercise classes, and then as funds become
available add machinery and other things.

So could you advise me on what sort of things I'm looking at in
terms of equipment, costs, where I would find the best deals,
things I need to know in terms of flooring, space, facilities and
any other vital information.

Thanks so much.

Your idea to do something overseas sounds good. There are a few things to consider when deciding to do aerobics only. Who else around you offers aerobics and more? What are the fees they charge? How long have they been in business?
See you are the new guy. If there has been bad business in the area with a fitness center it makes it harder for the new guy comming in. I will have to talk to you later this evening if you would like. Email me at fitfx@msn.com and I will email you back with my nummber we can talk more.
>Hi, I just saw your advice and
>it seems like you've really got
>a great idea of things in
>this field..which is why I would
>love it if you could
> help me out.I'm living in
>the States and will be moving
>overseas in a few months. I'm
>hoping to start my own gym
>there. I'm really interested in it,
>and there are only a few
>gyms in the whole city, so
>I figure I have a good
>shot at doing well. Anyways, I'm
>trying to get an idea of
>the things that I will be
>requiring for starting up, and what
>the best places are to get
>it (equipment) since I'm going to
>have to take it from the
>States with me. Also, I'm
>trying to get information on flooring,
>dimensions, space etc. What I
>need etc.

>I'm hoping to start off on a
>small scale and working my way
>up to a proper gym. I'm
>getting certified soon. I'm planning
>to start of by giving group
>exercise classes, and then as funds
>become available add machinery and other
>things.

>So could you advise me on what
>sort of things I'm looking at
>in terms of equipment, costs, where
>I would find the best deals,
>things I need to know in
>terms of flooring, space, facilities and
>any other vital information.

>Thanks so much.

Hello, I am responding to your message. I have a desire to start a small gym. Just really trying to get everything out of my head and onto paper. Any advice you can provide will be appreciated.

hello
i am in the process of buying a place to open a gym
tried to access you website but was impossible
please inform me of your new web adress
thank you

The website is www.vmgfitness.com. Good luck with everything!
-Curtis

http://www.AmericaOneUnsecured.com/?AID=10054

check them out... I did... They are real and are listed with no complaints with the bbb... google them and you still will find nothing bad...Good luck... its alot less headache =)
Angela

hi... i'm interested to know if you have persued your dream of owning a gym since you first wrote on here last year... i also have a lot of fun ideas for gym ownership.. i am just learning the ropes.. so i hope to have something started within the next couple of years..

I have all the basic questions on starting up a small town fitness center. HAving a couple classes a week and weights, tread mills, etc. Where do I begin, money, certification, etc. Do you have to be certified yourself to own/operate? What kind of insurance to you need and what would be approximate costs? Thanks to anyone who gives me advice.

I read your message and it appeared to be the same one I would have posted. I too am interested in starting a and would like to know how to go about doing this. If not too much trouble, please let me know what advice you have received thus far. Thanks!

Do gym owners earn tons of money? I actually think one of the managers at my gym drives a Hummer.

Are you in the Los Angeles area? I have done the research and remain excited about a small gym/spa. Looking for partner(s).

Hello,

Are yo ustill going to start a gym?

Are you still going to open a gym?

Hello,

Where are you located???

starting up a gym was the biggest mistake of my life. i too had the same vision, ideas, dreams like you - but these were not fulfilled. the business was a failure - making a loss of $65,000 in the opening year of operation, i was financially ruined, declared bankrupt, lost support of family and friends. starting up a gym has wrecked my life forever. the industry has become saturated - demand is falling rapidly year on year - cheap gym equipment available on the internet and an influx of celebrity fitness videos are mainly accountable. take it from someone who knows - someone who has been there and done it and is regretting it everyday of his life - do not start up a gym - you cannot compete with the big boys - it will only end in tears
please take my advice and get out while you still can!

starting up a gym was the biggest mistake of my life. i too had the same vision, ideas, dreams like you - but these were not fulfilled. the business was a failure - making a loss of $65,000 in the opening year of operation, i was financially ruined, declared bankrupt, lost support of family and friends. starting up a gym has wrecked my life forever. the industry has become saturated - demand is falling rapidly year on year - cheap gym equipment available on the internet and an influx of celebrity fitness videos are mainly accountable. take it from someone who knows - someone who has been there and done it and is regretting it everyday of his life - do not start up a gym - you cannot compete with the big boys - it will only end in tears
please take my advice and get out while you still can!

RE: dwight yorke
i was planning to start up a gym before i read your message. now iam having serious doubts. iam afraid that the business will fail and i will end up like you (sorry!). can you give me more information before i totally abandon the idea, please.

thank you

I agree that opening a membership-based facility is asking for trouble. After working for a number of years in management for a commercial gym I can tell you that, from a customer service standpoint, they simply don't work, and from a financial standpoint they require a ton of working capital and are subject to a high failure rate.

However, I opened a small (2,200 sq. feet) Personal Training and Group Class Training facility 3 years ago and am planning the opening of a second facility. I'm not pulling in Kennedy-like money, but have operated in the black since opening while stocking my facility with great equipment and maintaining high standards of customer service. Self-financed, by the way. This isn't a testament to my intelligence, but a testament to the feasibility of a specialized training center that doesn't require volume sales but rather focuses on the development of a small clientele in order to be lucrative.

My recommendation to you all is to start small, on a shoestring, and create a specialty facility that charges more per client for specialized services. Don't open a membership gym. Since I first posted last year I've received upwards of 60 requests for advice, most of which I haven't been able to respond to. In short, my advice is to keep it simple, small and specialized. I'm no genius, so if I can make it work, you can.

Best regards,

Jonathan Aluzas
www.arenafitness.com

There are many ways to start a gym with little money. The single most important thing is, DON'T LEASE YOUR EQUIPMENT! It'll cost a great deal of money to pay for a gym full of equipment, and you will never own it. If you have a bad month or two, you run the risk of losing the most important aspect of a gym...THE EQUIPMENT. If you own your equipment, you have assets and no monthly payments. We own two gyms, and we own every single peice of equipment and everything else that furnishes a gym.

It took a lot of hard work and determination, but
we started with one gym in a rural downtown area on Main St. We had only a handful of used gym equipment, and maybe one peice of used cardio. We got the money to pay for the equipment by having yard sales, selling one of our vehicles and various other personal items. We searched out commercial property in a highly visible area with low rent. The property was rough, but after we knocked down a few walls, cleaned, and painted, it was good enough to open. We did all of the painting, remodeling, and basic maintenance ourselves. We were able to pay the rent every month by offering personalized training to our handful of members.

It's been five years since we opened our first gym. Now, we have just opened our second. We have so much commercial equipment that we have every sqaure inch of our warehouse full. We are now able to sell the equipment to future gym owners.

I think future gym owners believe that the gym equipment MUST be brand new to attract members.
Also, some people think that you MUST have rubber flooring, and wall to wall mirrors. We started with none of these things. We didn't have showers, changing rooms, hell...we didn't even have a front desk! Believe it or not, we STILL DON'T have any of these things! Well, we did install a front desk.

Not ONE of our hundreds of members has complained about what our gyms lack. Absolutely NO ONE has complained about our used equipment and carpeted (rather than rubber) floors.

If you are serious about opening a gym, you can do it if you're determined. Think smart!
-Stay out of debt. Purchase used commercial gym equipment. You don't have to open with 15 treadmills and a never ending supply of strength equipment. Start with the key peices of equipment, then add more as you go. Make sure the equipment isn't junk, but a scratch here and there isn't going to be noticed. After all, brand new equipment, quickly becomes used equipment, but you will still owe a fortune for it.

-BE CREATIVE! Not every gym has to be a Bally's or Gold's. Some gym's don't have mirrors on every wall, but they still look nice and inviting. You can add all sorts of details with out spending all your money.

I wish all of you good luck in your endeavors!

Carolyn
www.babybullgym.com

To Carolyn w/ BabyBullGym, I have one 24 hour facility now, and am opening a second this year. Can you find a full line of used FreeMotion?

And for all of the startups, get to know your banker(s). Your relationship with them is as strong as your credit. You CAN start up w/ very little, trust me - I had absolutely nothing. You don't have to get lucky, or come up with a great idea. And it's not rocket science, you don't have to sell your soul, or find some lending loophole. It's about dilligence, and building rapport and relationships. Anyone can do those things.

If I can help anyone with any advice, or anything else, feel free to email. I'm always up to talk about this stuff!

Nick
rnberry4@yahoo.com

Hi Nick.
Finding used FreeMotion is rare, especially a whole line of it. If we find it, we will let you know.

Good luck with the opening of your second gym! Let us know if we can help with providing any of the equipment.

Best wishes!

Carolyn
www.babybullgym.com

Carolyn or Nick,

Who sells used equipment in pretty good condtition? Buying used sounds like a great idea...but who can you trust?

Brandi
reedba@umich.edu

Hi!

We sell used commercial gym equipment. You can check it out at www.babybullgym.com

Thanks!
Carolyn
www.babybullgym.com

I totally agree with the babybullgym lady.

I started a gym 3 months ago with ALL used equipment, hardly any mirrors, no tv's, used carpet on the floor etc etc.

I'm already making money and my costs are so low it's not funny.

I have no classes just cardio (12 pieces) and strength (22 pieces).

Find a niche and go for it but expect long hours!

>I totally agree with the babybullgym lady.
>

>I started a gym 3 months ago
>with ALL used equipment, hardly any
>mirrors, no tv's, used carpet on
>the floor etc etc.

>I'm already making money and my costs
>are so low it's not funny.
>

>I have no classes just cardio (12
>pieces) and strength (22 pieces).

>Find a niche and go for it
>but expect long hours!

You hit it right on the head! getting started is easier than most people think..you don't need to be a competitor for the large franchises, there are many people who are turned off by upfront and high monthly fees that seem to be the norm at these gyms..
I've been weight lifting for 20 years now, and have gone to quite a few gyms in my area...the ones that have old carpet & old equipment seem to do as well as the state-of-the-art types! my favorite gym is an old building, with 30 yr old equipment, and it has over 400 members and still growing!
people love it..

Rob,
I like your idea, keep it simple.
Could you advise as to the steps you took from beginning to end to get yours up and running?

Would really appreciate it.
Delores

Delores,
I have opened a club with new equipment and am about to open my second, with all used equipment. The overhead is the obvious reason, but also because we do a lot of personal training, and don't need a lot of equipment, we need equipment with multiple uses. We look for smaller spaces, used equipment, and try to keep the lowest overhead possible. We have an information website, www.fitnessconsultinggroup.com, where we have a ton of free information, articles, links, and a "Fitness Riches" Newsletter. It's kind of a Health Club/Personal Trainer Information hub. I'm sure that you can find some helpful information there.
Let me know if I can help you more.

Nick Berry
rnberry4@yahoo.com

I just found this site and yes I agree with you. People like quality and honesty. No need to add all these expensive thrills. Your here to build a rep and profit from that rep. Stay away from debt I totally agree. There some months when it won't feel like Christmas but the employess still have to get paid and the rent is still due. Keeping you overhead low allows you to save for later growth or hard hard times. We are trainers and opening our studio in 2007 we have seen gyms come and go. I respect your input it was right on point.

thanks for your article,that gave me the motivation to pursue my dream. You said everything I was thinking. Small gym own your own equipment ,be good to your clients

I have just qualified in a bachlor of science and am a qualified sports therpaist and would love to set up my own gym. To make my gym different from other gyms I would like to incorporate a body massage/sports massage into it. I have been thinking that this would be a great addition to a gym for athletes and regular gym members. If anyone has any helpfull advice it would be greatly appreciated thank you.

I think massage is a great idea, depending on where you are located. It is very regional. I have a personal training company in Kentucky, where we do no massage at all. However, my partner in Florida is doing 60% massage, 40% personal training. Another factor is how you sell your service. Free massage/session with membership, 10 session packages, tiered discounts or added value incentives? All very important decisions.

I will try to help more if you have any specific concerns.

Nick Berry
nickberry@anytimefitness.com

Hi I am looking to open a Anytime Fitness soon. I am looking for financing at this time. I have 50 k but I am looking to open a rather large Gym about 10.000 ft, and I am going to need more funds than I have. Do you have any ideas where to look to get start up capital? Thanks for your time.. Tim

Tim,
I have a list of things you can do to get the money together. 10,000 is pretty big for an Anytime, but I'm thinking about doing the same thing on my next one. If you've got that much cash together, you should be able to get the rest. That's a lot more that I started my first one up with. If you would email me at nickberry@anytimefitness, I'll be more than happy to give you a couple of names of some people that can help, and some ideas you can explore.

Myself and another partner are reseaching and investigating on what we will need to start a gym with at least 50k.
We live in Hemet CA

Please be careful with the idea that "bigger is better" when it comes to 24 hour gyms.

With $50,000, you could buy all of your equipment, add a bit of atmosphere, hire an employee, and put a deposit on a 5000 sq ft building.

With a 10,000 sq ft gym, you will have to furnish it, heat it, air-condition it, clean it, man it, and worst of all, pay for it.

Franchises have benefits, but there are also so many limitations. You will be limited by the franchise rules like what type of equipment you can use, how many sq. ft. the facility must be, what it looks like, etc. Not to mention the money you will put out for a franchise (they have to get their money some how).

Consider a 24 hour gym half the size with your own name on it. The more you own, the better you will do. The less overhead you have, the more profit you will make. If you start out small, you have the opportunity to expand.

People will be interested in your 24 hour gym because it IS a 24 hour gym, not because it is 10,000 sq. ft. brand name.

Almost every well-known well-established gym or health club out there started off small, and many privately owned health clubs that started off big, have folded because they owe so much, and they own nothing.

I believe that you can be successful doing it on your own. Find a niche, maybe a cool logo and go for it!

Good luck!!
http://www.babybullgym.com
http://www.ebizsiteshop.com

Hi Bryan,

I love the idea of incorporating pets with a gym. My only caution to you is that you are essentially dealing with two different businesses--a gym and a doggie daycare--and probably need two business plans to better understand how your operations will work. You will need a separate staff and facilities to oversee the dogs. And you will need to do some screening of the dogs (make sure vaccinations are up to date) before you should accept them into the program.

Here are some resources for you:

Start a Health & Fitness business: http://www.businessinfoguide.com/health.htm

Start a Pet-Related Business:
http://www.businessinfoguide.com/pets.htm

I hope this helps! Best of luck to you!

-Stephanie Chandler
Author of “The Business Startup Checklist and Planning Guide: Seize Your Entrepreneurial Dreams!” and founder of http://www.BusinessInfoGuide.com, a directory of resources for entrepreneurs.

I like the concept but the logistics would be tough.

Generally you lease a single building when you start a gym or even a floor of a building. There may be some parking onsite (hopefully) but rarely will there be an outside area like you'd need for the dog training.

Forget about putting the dog and the gym area under the same roof. Imagine the smell and the noise. People wouldn't train there no way!

I live with a Personal Trainer who used to own a facility. He has a huge rep in Sacramento, Ca and one of his clients want to finance a gym for him (us). I used to own two coffee shops, so I have the biz side experience.

We are hoping to open something here that resembles a Gold's/24 hour but caters more to the economicaly minded families and older demographic that is turned off by the muscle places. As well he will have his private clintelle there, so we are positive we can generate a cash flow of $20,000 - $30,000 K per month just on classes.

If anyone would like to talk and brainstorm, please let's chat.

yahoo: benjaminwilson1979

what is the site you found the info at

Just wondering how much money do you need for opening up a small gym?

I owned a gym in So. Cal and was thrown out by my landlord. I'm in the process of suing them, but in the mean time I have all the equipment you need for a 13000 sq. ft. gym for sale. I'd like to sell it as a bulk purchase. I have an inventory list availible - please email me at if you are interested. I will sell for less than the refurbishers and a fraction of the new stuff. Everything is in good working order and is ready to roll.

>Just wondering how much money do you
>need for opening up a small
>gym?

it really depends on what you are going to offer. Small gyms need to be unique to seprate from the big guys. it can be any where from 6k for a small studio. Our gym will be 1800 sq. ft. and everything is running aprox. 11k startup. est monthly running is 2900 include space rent. We will train ourselves and have a spinning room to add in 1 yr. the spinning room will run us about 2700 this is with equipment of 8 spin bikes and stereo equipment. It is all about what you want in a gym. How much sweat of your own your putting in and how much you want or willing to spend. Go to your local gymms and look around pick what you need and what you can do without then research prices and space and DO IT.

I'm starting a gym in Late January, and I'm leasing a 2,400 sq ft space for $3600. Is this a lot and will this be a enough space to put minimum equipment? I'm also buying used equipment instead of leasing, because I don't want the extra payments each month. I'm going to be offering tanning beds and athletic massages, and I'm working something out with a Management team to run my billing and they also offer keyless entry to keep track of my members. Does anyone have any comments or advise for me? I want to keep my cost down, but I'm just worried about the lease, because it's a new building and they are asking for a lot. Right now I'm averaging $7500 per month for my costs. Is this about average or is this a lot. Again, please e-mail me if anyone has any advice for me. Thank you.

>I'm starting a gym in Late January,
>and I'm leasing a 2,400 sq
>ft space for $3600. Is this
>a lot and will this be
>a enough space to put minimum
>equipment? I'm also buying used equipment
>instead of leasing, because I don't
>want the extra payments each month.
>I'm going to be offering tanning
>beds and athletic massages, and I'm
>working something out with a Management
>team to run my billing and
>they also offer keyless entry to
>keep track of my members. Does
>anyone have any comments or advise
>for me? I want to keep
>my cost down, but I'm just
>worried about the lease, because it's
>a new building and they are
>asking for a lot. Right now
>I'm averaging $7500 per month for
>my costs. Is this about average
>or is this a lot. Again,
>please e-mail me if anyone has
>any advice for me. Thank you.
>
Start marketing and advertising now. Offer discount packages for tanning to get some intrest in the club. Get the word out. Jan is a big planning time for weddings and Brides want to be tanned and in shape. See if there are any bridal shows comming up in your area. $7500 is not bad but you need to look at what your cost per month is going to. If the space is in another building owned by the person leasing from see if you can get a discount on leasing by offering the building a discount on membership. Sometimes this works depending on the situation. I do not want to be long but you can email me and I can share more with you on marketing and creative advertising. Remeber you want to open your doors with instant profit.

FX,
I'm open to suggestions for marketing. I'm getting ready to print up some flyers, getting a news paper ad, and news paper inserts. And for my grand opening I'm getting a radio DJ to come. Please email me erickonov1978 at aol dot com

Are you, or do you know someone looking to start a gym? Up for sale are the entire contents of a what used to be a 13000 sq. ft. gym. Unless otherwise describe, everything is used, but well maintained and 100% working condition. All of the upholstery on the strength training, circuit training and benches are less than 6 months old, and have no wear. I was forced out on short notice by my landlord, and everything is now in self storage in Pomona, CA. Unfortunately, I do not have pictures of every individual item, so I have inserted pictures of the gym shortly before closing to give you a good representation. You are invited, and more than welcome to email me to schedule an appointment to view the equipment in person. If you are not in Southern CA, I will pick you up at the local airport of your choice. An inventory list is below:

Entry/Front

Dixie-Narco Vending Machine, Health-O-Meter scale,
table, 2 benches, clothing rack, 4 statues of animals, kenmore chest freezer, Haier refrigerator, 5 anti-slip mats

Front Desk Area

computer/monitor, hypercom credit card terminal, helium tank, chair, 2 silk plants, misc. office supplies

Main Floor

Triton Mako ATM, 2 desks w/chairs, display case w/storage, 3 silk plants, 7 TV's w/ remotes

Cardio Area

4 Star Trac 4400 recumbent bicycles, 4 Life Fitness 9500 recumbent bicycles, 4 Life Fitness 9500 upright bicycles, 4 Tectrix Climbmax steppers, 2 Precor 544 elliptical trainers, 2 LifeFitness total-body elliptical trainers, 2 LifeFitness lower body elliptical trainers, 7 Star Trac 3900 treadmills, 2 Star Trac 4000 treadmills, 4 LifeFitness 9100 treadmills, set of rubber hex Hampton free weights (5-50 lbs.) w/ stand

Circuit Training

Magnum incline ab bench, LifeFitness shoulder press, LifeFitness lateral raise, Camstar rotray twist, Ab Bench, Concept 2 rowing machine, Maxicam incline ab bench, LifeFitness leg curl, Magnum back raise, LifeFitness shoulder press, Magnum knee raise, Hammer Strength 4 station ab/tricep/pull-up, Flex hamflexor, Flex leg extension, Flex leg curl, LifeFitness arm curl, LifeFitness arm extension, LifeFitness ab crumch, LifeFitness chest press, LifeFitness seated row, LifeFitness dip assist/chin assist, LifeFitness glute, LifeFitness seated leg curl, LifeFitness leg extension, LifeFitness hip adductor, LifeFitness hip abductor, LifeFitness leg press, LifeFitness pectoral fly, LifeFitness rear deloid/pec fly, Hammer Strength row-low, Hammer Strength iso-lateral high row, Hammer Strength 4 way neck, Hammer Strength iso-lateral behind the neck press, Hammer Strength military press, Magnum low-row/dead lift, approimately 150 pieces of weight plates – 2.5-45 lbs., Magnum 8 stack multi-gym w/ pull-up & cable crossover, Bodymasters – power squat, Icarian decline leg press, Magnum incline leg press, Hammer Strength iso-leg press, horizontal, 3 AFS Smith Machines
Magnum knee press, Magnum knee lift, LifeFitness smith machine, Magnum seated bench press, Magnum incline bench press, 2 Magnum decline bench press
2 Magnum flat bench press, Hammer Strength iso-lateral decline press, Hammer Strength iso-lateral incline press, 8 assorted free weight apparatus, 4 racks with steel and rubber free weights (5-150 lbs.), 7 weight plate trees, 10 easy bars (10-100 lb.) w/ rack, 10 straight bars (10-100 lb.) w/ rack, wavemaster bag, double end bag, 4 heavy bags, speed bag w/ stand, uppercut bag, 3 floor fans, 1 floor drying high speed fan, 1 metal A frame sign

Aerobics Room

12 balance and capsule balls, 7 floor mats, 1 incline mat, 32 aerobic steps, approximately 150 risers, assorted class supplies – small dumbbells, latex bands, etc., cardio room audio cabinet, CD player, tape player, amplifier, mixer, wireless headset, speakers with mounts, balance beam

Babysitting

1 TV w/mount, 6 chairs, 2 toy houses, 2 tables, assorted toys & videos

Locker Rooms

88 lockers, 4 benches, 2 hand dryers, massage table, feminine product vending machine

Janitorial

2 vacuums, carpet steam cleaner, miscellaneous cleaning supplies and equipment

Tanning and Steam Room

Hapro ProSun tanning bed, AromaSpa steam chamber

Storage, back room and equipment used for parts

2 LifeFitness 9500 recumbent bikes, old water fountain, 10 chairs, desks, audio cabinet, Stairmaster StepMill 9000, Star Trac 3900 treadmill, 2 scales, audio rack on table, in-store announcement machine, CD changer, mixer, equalizer, 2 Yamaha P1500 amplifiers, 7 heavy bags, approimately 15 speakers, storage cabinet, miscellaneous office furniture, miscellaneous repair parts, 12' fiberglass ladder, approimately 200 t-shirts, drink inventory

Manager's Office

computer w/monitor, minolta color printer, office desk and chairs, microwave, toaster, 2 tables, file cabinet, storage cabinet, miscellaneous office supplies

This equipment, except for the 8 station crossover machine, is fully assembled, and can fit through a standard double door. Everything is commercial grade, and 100% functional unless listed under the "used for parts" category. I took very good care of my equipment, and maintained everything rigorously. This is a great opportunity to save a lot of money off of new, and even a lot of money from a refurbisher. I am willing to break up the assets, but I will not go hunting for 1-2 items. If you are interested in a substantial amount of the gym inventory, I am willing to talk. All of the equipment is in approximately 1000 sq. ft. of personal storage space in Pomona, CA. If you do not have a home for this equipment immediately, you may assume my monthly rent of approximately $1095 per month. All equipment is sold as is, where is - I am willing to open up the units for your inspection, and if you decide to buy, at the conveinence of your movers. The entire contents can fit in approximately 2 1/2 53' trailers, so even if you don't live in the area, this is still a good deal. It cost me $4400 to unbolt, load, move, and unload all of the equipment, just to give you an idea of those costs.

This is a fantastic opportunity, because you have EVERYTHING you need for an entire operation, not just the big stuff.

This inventory is suitable for a 6000-14000 square foot area, depending on floor plan (e.g. if you have locker rooms, and how big they are, if you have a babysitting room, if you have an aerobics room, etc.).

If you have any questions, feel free to shoot an email, and thanks for looking!

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Are you willing only sell the stuff in the aerobics room. I'll only
need the equipment and not the audio stuff.

Let me know what your thoughts are and the total price of
everything.

Thanks!

Hi there

I am interested in starting up my own gym but the only suitable space I have seen is an empty piece of land so if I am successful in obtaining it, I would have to start from scratch. Can you send your contact info in case you still have your stuff to sell???

Hello:

I am opening a 2nd gym in Alaska and in need of equipment. The space I am getting is only 1500 square feet. Do you still have the equipment? Would you be willing to break it up?

Please email me.
Debbie

Eric email me and I can give you my number. Hope all is well
>FX,I'm open to suggestions for marketing. I'm
>getting ready to print up some
>flyers, getting a news paper ad,
>and news paper inserts. And for
>my grand opening I'm getting a
>radio DJ to come. Please email
>me erickonov1978 at aol dot com
>

Opening A Mixed Martial Arts Facility in San Diego. I am looking for investors to present my idea and expose my specific plans for the gym. The business outline is currently in process. If interested in more info, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Philip John Quinto Jr.
QUINTO & Co.
619.358.3727
pjquin2@yahoo.com

Hi,i was wondering if anyone could give me any advice or opinions on opening a ladies only gym. It will be particulary aimed at asain women, cuz i myslef am asian and i am aware of the lack of facilities for women in the community especially for health and fitness. I also want to provide a facility where i can educate asian women about nutritional information and suggest changes to their lifestyles, so that they can become healthier.
I've also thought about running fitness classes on odd occasions and eventually maybe having a creche for their children, but that'l probably be at later stages if the gym is a sucess.
I dont have any formal qualifications in anything health and fitness related,just a big interest init, but i'm looking into it.
If anyone has any ideas about how i can go about starting a gym n how to make it a success that would be great.
Thank you

Message posted long time ago see if i get a reply...I am a dog trainer and also work at a fitness center for retired adults. Im in south florida...everyone is retired and everyone has dogs. I have been thinking about ways to incorporate dogs and fitness. Just as your idea suggests. would love to talk to you or anyone in the buissness that can help...thanx

Hi.
My and my partner are on our way to opening our gym. I just wanted to know where we can get business forms of all kind that are specific to the fitness industry.

Any help would be apprecited.

Hi every one! If you're looking to buy used commercial gym equipment, there is a live auction coming up on March 9th in Washington, Pa, just south of Pittsburgh. You can get some really good stuff for little money. Here's the link to all the info for the auction

http://www.rasmus.com/auction_detail.php?ID=87174
(click on the purple link that says 'online bidding and registration' to see the pics)

There's going to be cardio, selectorized, plate loaded, free weights, etc...

Good Luck!!

http://www.babybullgym.com

Hello all,

There is a gym in my area (massachusetts) for about 2 mil (I know i know), but it has amazing potential its not even funny. I would love to get into it and revive it, but am a bit low on the funds, compared, to the asking price anyway. I have thought about using investors and such, but am a but fuzzy about the whole process it takes to find them. It has a strong member list, including myself, and I know I can make it grow. Does anyone have any ideas for finding the capital needed for starting a buisness like this? How do you develope a monatary value to a gym in order to bargin the price? Please let me know and feel free to e-mail me. Thanks a lot.

Justin

I, too, would love to start a gym but haven't a clue on where to start. Anyone with experience, please e-mail me. It would be a dream come true.

Nathan,
You can email me at rnberry4@yahoo.com and I can help you out some. I am about to open my second club and also have a personal training business in a couple of locations. You can also go to my website www.fitnessconsultinggroup.com and read some of the articles just to get some information to start with.

Looking forward to talking to you.

Nick Berry

Justin, I am in MA as well looking to get into the gym industry. Where in MA is your opportunity.

Justin and Ryan, I am also in MA and very intersted in moving into this field. Let me know where you are - possibly there's a way to share the financial burden??

Justin and Ryan, I am also in MA and very intersted in moving into this field. Let me know where you are - possibly there's a way to share the financial burden??

I bounce between the springfield area and worcester area...email me directly @
buzzmurphy@gmail.com so we chan chat.

I would love that, I would bring my dog all the time, she loves doggy day care, thats a good idea!

Look into www.colecircuitsolutions.com if you are considering
something like Curves. They manufacture hydraulic fitness
equipment, but unlike Curves, the Cole Equipment is heavier and
the resistance is adjustable. Also you aren't locked into Curves'
contracts. You can set up your own gym and Cole will help you
get started.

well just gettin out the military i think im ready to start researching starting up a gym in the columbia sc area. i have a very uique idea and ideas for my gym. i wanted to start out as a personal trainer and anm currently studyin for the nasm cert. but the more and more i think about it i think i would rather actually run the gym instead of just being the trainer. like i said i have unique ideas that are not here in the columbia sc area and as a veteran i can get the buisness loan no problem through the VA. well i guess what im tryin to say is where do i even begin with this and is any one willin to help me out? my email is dejay181@yahoo.com so holla at me

Wow i could keep on reading all day.. The Best advice i could ive everyone is to partner up with a good friend thats also willing to help out or has knowledge on whats planning on to be done. So much better to partner up with someone and after that come up with how the gym should look and what u want in it.. Plan it out now cause you will find new ideas in your journey, then comes changes.. I also suggest if you dont have one get a lawyer. Me and my friend started investing and researching lots of businesses unfortunalty i decided i wanted to open a gym while he's in Iraq fighting War. But at the time being im not gonna just sit around get ideas talk to other owners, this forum was great on information but as you read along everyone still asking for help. The Main thing everyone wanna do is open a Gym. I'll say write your plan, show your plan to others and ask them for help or what could be better, partner up with someone, and leave all the extra work for a lawyer or someone that already knowledable in research and marketing etc.. Cause if you dont have a total understand by the time you've dont your research you probably will feel like the Business plan will fail..

Im here in NY.. and i'll be comeing up with a successful plan by the time my partner comes back .. GOOD LUCK TO YOU ALL