Do you want to work on the fitness market, but you know that building your own brand takes a lot of time? Are you considering investing in one of the gym or fitness franchise brands? So you’re probably looking to invest in a fast-growing gym franchise that offers high returns?
With the fitness industry booming and consumer interest in wellness at an all-time high, certain franchises stand out for their rapid growth, innovative models, and profitability. Brands like Orangetheory Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and Burn Boot Camp have mastered scalable, membership-driven models that meet diverse fitness demands—from high-intensity group classes to 24-7 gym access.
This article explores the top gym franchises to consider, highlighting key financial metrics and unique market appeals to help investors choose a winning brand in today’s thriving fitness landscape.
Key Takeaways
- To work in the fitness industry and not wait to build a brand, it is worth considering purchasing a fitness franchise.
- There are pros and cons to running a franchise: on the one hand, a proven business model, top-down advertising that attracts customers, and ready-made procedures, but on the other: franchise disclosure document, limited creativity, high initial costs, and long-term commitments.
- A potential investor must evaluate which fitness franchise brand to choose based on their style and financial capabilities.
- As of 2024, the top five fastest-growing gym franchises are Anytime Fitness, Orangetheory Fitness, Planet Fitness, Snap Fitness and Gold’s Gym.
- Introducing gym management software and its many useful functionalities can help in running a fitness franchise branch.
20 Top Fitness Franchises in 2024
Here’s a list of top, high-growth, and profitable fitness franchises as of 2024, including specific financial and growth details.
These franchises stand out due to their unique market positions, rapid growth trajectories, and scalable models with a strong focus on recurring revenue through memberships and supplementary services.
Franchises like Orangetheory and Anytime Fitness have broad recognition and growth potential globally, while brands like StretchLab and Row House appeal to niche markets with a wellness-centered focus.
This diversity provides potential franchisees with options tailored to various investment levels and market demographics.
1. Orangetheory Fitness
Source: bolderboulder.com
- Founded: 2010
- Locations: 1,300+
- Initial Investment: $613,000–$1.6 million
- Description: Combines cardio and strength training through heart rate-monitored interval workouts designed for optimized metabolism and calorie burning. Members rotate between treadmill, rowing, and strength stations.
- Target Market: Individuals seeking measurable fitness results through structured, 1-hour workouts.
- Interesting Fact: Its data-driven, results-focused approach has made it a leader in boutique fitness franchises.
Source: otfpolska.pl
2. Anytime Fitness
Source: 1000logos.net
- Founded: 2002
- Locations: 5,000+ globally
- Initial Investment: $388,966–$970,097
- Description: Offers 24 hours gyms with a low-staff, low-cost model. Known for affordability and accessibility in diverse locations.
- Target Market: Individuals who value flexible gym hours and cost-effective memberships.
- Interesting Fact: Rapid international growth with a strong presence in smaller communities lacking 24/7 gym options.
- Read more about Anytime Fitness in our another article: Anytime Fitness Franchise.
Source: gymnation.com
3. Planet Fitness
Source: 1000logos.net
- Founded: 1992
- Locations: 2,300+
- Initial Investment: $1 million–$4 million
- Description: Offers affordable “Judgment Free Zone” gyms aimed at new gym-goers, with low-cost memberships.
- Target Market: Budget-conscious gym-goers, particularly beginners.
- Interesting Fact: Its friendly, no-judgment environment has fostered significant growth and appeal.
- Read more about Planet Fitness in our another article: Planet Fitness Business Model.
Source: stylemagazine.com
4. Crunch Fitness
Source: seeklogo.com
- Founded: 1989
- Locations: 440 worldwide
- Initial Investment: $255,500–$2.3 million
- Description: Crunch Fitness provides a variety of affordable classes in a no-judgment environment, blending gym equipment with unique classes like Zumba and HIIT.
- Target Market: Younger individuals who enjoy variety and community-based fitness.
- Interesting Fact: Emphasis on inclusivity and fun has fueled its popularity across markets.
Source: shop.mvg-frankfurt.de
5. Burn Boot Camp
Source: burnbootcamp.com
- Founded: 2012
- Locations: 232
- Initial Investment: $284,000–$715,000
- Description: Offers HIIT group training in 45-minute “camps” led by trainers, with modifications for all fitness levels.
- Target Market: Young families and suburban communities.
- Interesting Fact: Highly appealing to families, with rapid national expansion.
Source: burnbootcamp.com
6. StretchLab
Source: stretchlab.com
- Founded: 2015
- Locations: 248
- Initial Investment: $100,000–$203,000
- Description: Wellness franchise that specializes in one-on-one or group assisted stretching sessions.
- Target Market: People focused on recovery, flexibility, and injury prevention.
- Interesting Fact: StretchLab uses certified Flexologists to guide clients through stretches.
Source: stretchlab.com
7. Club Pilates
Source: wallpapers.com
- Founded: 2007
- Locations: 600+
- Initial Investment: $150,000–$300,000
- Description: Accessible Pilates studios offering classes focused on core strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Target Market: Beginners to seasoned Pilates enthusiasts.
- Interesting Fact: As part of Xponential Fitness’s portfolio, Club Pilates offers flexibility-focused classes that retain members well.
Source: capitolviewnashville.com
8. F45 Training
Source: f45training.com
- Founded: 2012
- Locations: 1,750+
- Initial Investment: $315,000–$565,000
- The initial franchise fee for an F45 Training gym is $50,000.
- Description: Functional group training with diverse daily workouts based on strength, cardio, and interval training.
- Target Market: Busy professionals and fitness enthusiasts.
- Interesting Fact: “45-minute” sessions that focus on community and variety in workouts.
Source: wellhub.com
9. Row House
Source: Row House Facebook.
- Founded: 2014
- Locations: 96
- Startup Cost: $143,000–$271,000
- Description: Offers rowing-based classes that provide a low-impact, full-body workout.
- Target Market: Individuals looking for an intense, low-impact cardio alternative.
- Interesting Fact: 1. The founders created Row House as a joint workout option for couples. 2. Row House is also known as one of the best boutique fitness studios.
Source: therowhouse.com
10. CycleBar
Source: campus757.com
- Founded: 2004
- Locations: 200+
- Initial Investment: $319,150–$497,200
- The initial franchise fee for a CycleBar franchise is approximately $60,000.
- Description: Provides a high-energy, music-driven indoor cycling experience.
- Target Market: Cyclists and cardio enthusiasts.
- Interesting Fact: Its music-driven, community-oriented classes keep memberships strong.
Source: cyclebar.com
11. Pure Barre
Source: Pure Barre Facebook.
- Founded: 2001
- Locations: 550+
- Initial Investment: $178,350–$437,000
- Description: Barre workouts that focus on low-impact, high-intensity toning.
- Target Market: Women seeking low-impact, core-strengthening exercises.
- Interesting Fact: Also part of the Xponential Fitness portfolio.
Source: purebarre.com
12. SPENGA
Source: Spenga Facebook.
- Founded: 2014
- Locations: 300+
- Initial Investment: $287,000–$861,000
- Description: Combines spin, strength, and yoga into 60-minute classes.
- Target Market: Fitness seekers looking for variety in one class.
- Interesting Fact: Provides 20 minutes of each activity in every class, creating a unique balanced workout.
Source: spenga.com
13. Workout Anytime
Source: Workout Anytime Facebook.
- Founded: 1999
- Locations: 179
- Initial Investment: $785,000–$2 million
- Description: 24/7 access, low-cost gyms with flexibility and accessibility.
- Target Market: Suburban and rural customers.
- Interesting Fact: Serves markets with limited affordable gym options.
Source: Workout Anytime Instagram.
14. The Barre Code
Source: camp-casey.org
- Founded: 2010
- Locations: 60+
- Initial Investment: $175,000–$400,000
- The Barre Code’s initial franchise fee is $49,500.
- Description: Barre workouts that integrate strength, cardio, and flexibility training with a focus on empowerment.
- Target Market: Women focused on holistic fitness.
- Interesting Fact: Body-positive philosophy draws a wide audience.
Source: thebarrecode.com
15. Snap Fitness
Source: apollo3d.co.uk
- Founded: 2003
- Locations: 2,000+
- Startup Cost: $147,771–$455,325
- Requires an initial franchise fee of $39,500.
- Description: Affordable, 24/7 gyms with options for personal training and flexibility.
- Target Market: Accessible to all fitness levels.
- Interesting Fact: Operates in over 48 countries.
Source: commercial.wattbike.com
16. UFC Gym
Source: logowik.com
- Founded: 2009
- Locations: 150+
- Initial Investment: $350,000–$4 million
- Description: Fitness centers with MMA-based training including boxing and kickboxing.
- Target Market: MMA and martial arts fitness enthusiasts.
- Interesting Fact: Known for bringing MMA training to mainstream fitness.
Source: ufcgym.com
17. Gold’s Gym
Source: wikipedia
- Founded: 1965
- Locations: 700+
- Startup Cost: $2 million–$5 million
- The initial franchise fee for a Gold’s Gym franchise is $40,000.
- Description: Traditional gym with weight training and bodybuilding heritage.
- Target Market: Bodybuilders and strength training enthusiasts.
- Interesting Fact: One of the first gym franchises, known for its bodybuilding culture.
Source: goldsgym.com.au
18. TITLE Boxing Club
Source: Title Boxing Club Facebook.
- Founded: 2008
- Locations: 130+
- Startup Cost: $193,825–$466,625
- The initial franchise fee for Title Boxing Club is approximately $49,500.
- Description: Boxing-inspired HIIT workouts designed for all fitness levels.
- Target Market: Cardio and HIIT enthusiasts.
- Interesting Fact: Focuses on boxing classes that are accessible to beginners.
Source: Title Boxing Club LinkedIn.
19. Jazzercise
Source: logos-download.com
- Founded: 1969
- Locations: 8,300+
- Initial Investment: $3,700–$32,750
- Description: Dance-focused classes blending cardio and strength.
- Target Market: Women who enjoy music-based workouts.
- Interesting Fact: One of the longest-standing fitness franchises.
Source: eu.democratandchronicle.com
20. 9Round
Source: 9Round Facebook.
- Founded: 2008
- Locations: 800+
- Startup Cost: $94,175–$221,525
- Initial franchise fee for a 9Round gym ranges from $5,000 to $19,900, depending on the specific requirements of the location.
- Description: A kickboxing-themed gym franchise that offers 30-minute circuit workouts with nine stations for a full-body workout.
- Target Market: Those seeking an intense workout in a shorter timeframe, especially busy professionals.
- Interesting Fact: 9Round’s quick, efficient model suits members who want effective training and reaching their fitness goals without needing a full hour, making it highly appealing to fast-paced lifestyles.
Source: 9round.com
Pros and Cons of Investing in a Fitness Franchise
Thinking of investing in a gym franchise? This opportunity offers advantages like brand recognition and proven systems but also presents challenges, including costs and market competition.
Weighing these pros and cons is essential to decide if this fitness investment aligns with your goals.
Pros | Cons |
Proven Business Model: Many gym franchises operate on a proven business model, which helps minimize risks and increase the likelihood of success. | High Initial Investment: Entering the fitness franchise industry often requires significant capital for startup costs, including franchise fees and equipment. |
Gym Franchise Opportunity: Investing in a gym franchise provides an excellent opportunity to engage with a growing market of fitness enthusiasts looking to improve their health and wellness. | Market Saturation: The fitness franchise industry is highly competitive, with many brands vying for the same clientele, which can lead to saturation in popular markets. |
Diverse Fitness Programs: Franchise brands typically offer a range of fitness programs, appealing to different demographics and helping to retain members. | Ongoing Costs: Franchisees must consider ongoing expenses, such as royalties and marketing fees, which can impact profitability over time. |
Growing Fitness Franchise Industry: The increasing focus on health and wellness has spurred growth in the fitness franchise industry, creating ample opportunities for new and existing franchises. | Dependence on Location: The success of a gym franchise is often highly dependent on its location, which affects foot traffic and membership growth potential. |
Profitability and Growth of Top Fitness Franchises
Here’s a table summarizing the profitability and growth rates of the 20 fitness franchise brands mentioned earlier.
Please note:
- Some revenue figures for specific brands were not publicly available but can be indicative of trends in the franchise.
- The growth rates, revenues, and number of locations are based on the most recent data available. For detailed insights, further research is advisable.
For more in-depth information about individual franchises, consider visiting specific franchise-related websites or industry reports that analyze performance trends, such as Franchise Direct and IBISWorld.
| Franchise Brand | Estimated Revenue | Number of Locations | Growth Rate (Last 3 Years) | Key Highlights |
| Anytime Fitness | $1.5 billion | ~5,000 | Steady, approx. 3% annually | 24/7 access, strong member retention |
| Planet Fitness | $936.8 million | >3,000 | 20.1% | Affordable, “Judgement Free Zone,” high growth potential |
| F45 Training | N/A | ~500 | 66.3% | HIIT focus, rapid international expansion |
| Orangetheory Fitness | N/A | >1,000 | N/A | Science-driven workouts, premium brand |
| Crunch Fitness | N/A | ~400 | Consistent growth | Inclusive, diverse fitness offerings |
| 9Round | N/A | >500 | N/A | Kickboxing circuit training, low overhead |
| Pure Barre | N/A | >1,000 | N/A | Community-oriented, barre-focused workouts |
| The Camp Transformation | N/A | ~200 | 13.3% | Focus on body transformation and high-energy training |
| Barry’s Bootcamp | N/A | ~70 | N/A | High-intensity interval training |
| Gold’s Gym | $580 million | >700 | N/A | Established brand, diverse fitness programs |
| CycleBar | N/A | ~200 | N/A | Premium indoor cycling experience |
| Title Boxing Club | N/A | ~150 | N/A | Boxing-based workouts, community focus |
| Barre Code | N/A | ~100 | N/A | Diverse class offerings combining strength and cardio |
| Club Pilates | N/A | ~600 | N/A | Pilates-focused franchise, growing popularity |
| Snap Fitness | N/A | ~2,000 | N/A | 24/7 access, affordable model |
| The Exercise Coach | N/A | ~100 | N/A | One-on-one training sessions, unique equipment |
| Burn Boot Camp | N/A | ~100 | N/A | Family-oriented, community focus |
| Fit Body Boot Camp | N/A | ~300 | N/A | HIIT-focused, flexible business model |
| O2 Fitness | N/A | ~20 | N/A | Strong community focus, diversified offerings |
| Pure Gym | $607 million | ~300 | N/A | Affordable model, flexible access |
How to Improve the Work of a Franchise Branch?
So you’ve made up your mind. You know which brand best suits your style and budget. You’re going to invest in opening a franchise gym.
Improving the operations of a franchise branch, particularly in the fitness industry, can significantly enhance member satisfaction and drive profitability.
Here are some tips on how to effectively manage and run your fitness facility on a daily basis.
A streamlined check-in process can reduce wait times and improve member experience. Automated systems that use mobile check-ins or biometric scans can facilitate quicker access while also providing valuable data on member attendance patterns.
Regular Staff Training
Ongoing training for staff on customer service, equipment usage, and fitness trends ensures they are knowledgeable and engaged. Well-trained staff can provide better support, fostering a positive environment that encourages member loyalty.
A dedicated app can offer members a convenient platform to manage their accounts, track workouts, and access exclusive content. Features like virtual class scheduling, payment processing, and personalized workout plans can enhance engagement and retention.
Encourage Member Feedback and Engagement
Actively seeking feedback through asking adequate gym surveys questions or providing suggestion boxes can help identify areas for improvement. Regularly engaging with members through events or community initiatives can strengthen relationships and enhance the overall experience.
Efficient booking systems allow members to reserve spots for classes, personal training sessions, or special events. This helps manage capacity, reduces no-shows, and ensures a smoother operation during peak times.
Want to know more about gym management software with its all useful features? Try here, initially free of charge, and afterwards only at a maximum of 149 $ monthly!
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Offer Incentives and Promotions
Implement loyalty programs or referral incentives to encourage members to bring friends and family. These can increase membership and create a community-focused atmosphere.
Leverage Social Media
Utilize your gym social media platforms to promote classes, share success stories, and engage with the community. A strong online presence can attract new members and keep current ones informed and motivated.
Personalize Your Fitness Services
Tailoring fitness programs to meet individual member goals and preferences can improve satisfaction and retention. Utilizing data analytics can help identify trends and personalize offerings effectively.
Focus on Cleanliness and Safety
Maintaining a clean and safe environment is crucial, especially in the fitness industry. Regular sanitization of equipment and facilities can reassure members and promote a positive image. Read more about a gym health and safety checklist.
Community Building
Organizing events, workshops, or gym challenges can foster a sense of community among members. Building relationships through shared experiences can enhance member loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.
FAQ
The largest gym franchise in the world is Anytime Fitness, which operates over 5,200 locations globally. Founded in 2001 and beginning its franchising journey in 2002, Anytime Fitness provides members with 24/7 access to its gyms. It assumes a strict business model, offering a convenient and flexible fitness experience. The brand has seen consistent growth, recently increasing its number of locations from 5,072 to 5,196.
Anytime Fitness is well-regarded not only for its extensive reach but also for its strong franchisee support and innovative fitness programs, making it a top choice for fitness enthusiasts and potential investors alike.
As of 2024, the top five fastest-growing gym franchises in the fitness industry are:
- Anytime Fitness boasts over 5,200 locations and continues to grow at a rate of 3% year-over-year. Known for its 24/7 access, it provides flexibility and a global presence, making it a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts.
- Orangetheory Fitness has seen impressive growth, with a staggering 30% increase year-over-year and more than 1,300 locations. Its high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes appeal to a broad demographic, enhancing its attractiveness as a franchise opportunity.
- Planet Fitness operates over 2,300 gyms and maintains a growth rate of 12% year-over-year. With its affordable membership model and focus on creating a “Judgment Free Zone,” it has established a solid foothold in the industry.
- Snap Fitness has over 520 locations and a growth rate of 12% year-over-year. This franchise also offers 24/7 access, along with personal training options, catering to members looking for convenience and individualized support.
- Gold’s Gym has 740 locations and has experienced a growth rate of 9% year-over-year. As an iconic brand, it offers diverse fitness programs and a strong community presence, making it a recognizable name in the fitness industry.
The most profitable gym chain as of 2024 is Planet Fitness, recognized for its low-cost membership model and expansive growth. It operates over 2,472 locations, focusing on creating a non-intimidating, judgment-free environment that appeals to a wide demographic, particularly fitness newcomers.
Anytime Fitness and Orangetheory Fitness also rank highly in terms of profitability. Anytime Fitness boasts more than 5,000 locations worldwide and provides 24/7 access for its members, enhancing convenience and attracting a diverse clientele. Meanwhile, Orangetheory Fitness has carved out a niche with its heart-rate-based workout system, supporting its loyal customer base with approximately 1,527 locations.
