Best Gym Franchise Opportunities for 2025

As fitness trends continue to evolve, 2025 promises unique opportunities for gym franchise investors. With a focus on health and wellness stronger than ever, finding the right franchise can be both lucrative and fulfilling. This article highlights some of the top gym franchises poised for success in the upcoming year.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or new to the fitness industry, this guide will offer insights into the best options for profitable and sustainable investments. By exploring each franchise’s strengths and market position, you’ll be better equipped to make a well-informed decision.

What is a gym franchise?

Gym franchises, what we refer to as fitness franchises, refers to the sector of business that encompasses various activities, products, services, and facilities related to physical fitness, health, and wellness. It encompasses a wide range of businesses, organizations, and professionals dedicated to promoting and facilitating physical activity, exercise, and overall well-being. The fitness industry plays a significant role in helping individuals achieve their fitness goals, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and improve their overall quality of life.

Opening a gym franchise provides a structured approach to entering the fitness industry. Key steps typically include researching the franchise model that best suits your interests, meeting financial and legal requirements, and completing training offered by the franchisor. For detailed guidance, explore resources on franchise requirements, fitness industry insights, and franchise regulations to ensure a successful launch in this dynamic sector.

Gym franchise market industry statistics

Fitness franchises and gym franchises are some of the fastest-growing parts of the franchising world. Over the past few years, the gym and fitness industry has benefited from multiple public health initiatives that have proved the importance of fitness in overall health and wellness. Due to this health-conscious social climate, the number of gym memberships has been growing steadily.

Gym and fitness franchises in the United States account for a $4 billion annual revenue, and the overall Gym health and fitness sector accounts for an estimated $34 billion.

According to SBA franchise loan data, the industry has a 30.6% Paid-in-Full Rate. The Paid-in-Full Rate is when the SBA loan is fully paid off by the franchisee including interest, indicating financial strength. Also, the industry has a 3.6% Charged Off Rate. The Charged Off Rate is the SBA loan default rate where loans have no confidence in being paid off by the franchisee. Finally, this industry has an 8:1 SBA loan success ratio.

• Royalty Fees: 6.4%
• Marketing Fees: 1.8%
• Standard Industry Investment: $293K

Gym franchise segments

Fitness Center

Fitness centers, also known as gyms or health clubs, are establishments that provide facilities, equipment, and services to support individuals in achieving their fitness and wellness goals. Fitness centers offer a wide range of amenities and resources for physical exercise, strength training, cardiovascular workouts, and overall fitness training. Click here to learn more about the fitness franchise industry.

Sports

The sports category within the fitness industry refers to the segment that focuses on organized sports activities, sports training, and athletic development. It encompasses various sports-related businesses, organizations, and services that cater to individuals and groups engaged in sports for recreational purposes, competitive endeavors, or overall physical fitness.

Boutique

The boutique fitness category refers to a segment within the fitness industry that focuses on specialized, niche, and often personalized fitness experiences. Unlike traditional gym settings, boutique fitness establishments typically offer smaller, specialized fitness studios or facilities that concentrate on specific types of workouts or fitness approaches.

Personal Training Studios

These studios focus on one-on-one or small-group training sessions, offering highly personalized workout plans tailored to clients’ unique fitness goals and providing dedicated, professional guidance.

Cycle Studios

Indoor cycling-focused spaces that provide high-energy, music-driven classes, creating a motivational atmosphere to improve cardiovascular health, endurance, and overall fitness in a group setting.

15 best gym franchises

In this guide, we’ve ranked a diverse range of gym franchises, based on their 3-year growth. From specialized studios to comprehensive fitness centers, these top choices offer unique models that cater to various fitness needs, helping you identify ideal investment opportunities in the industry.

1. Send Me a Pro

Send Me a Pro is a dynamic franchise connecting clients with local professionals for various services, including fitness training, pet care, and tutoring. With 54 U.S. locations, all franchised, Send Me a Pro provides a convenient app-based platform for seamless access to trusted in-home services, creating a unique multi-service model.

The franchise has achieved impressive growth, with a 3-year unit expansion rate of 5,300%, demonstrating strong market traction. The initial franchise fee is $34,999, with an estimated total investment ranging from $49,000 to $95,000, and a 6% royalty fee. Send Me a Pro’s scalable, low-overhead model offers an attractive option for investors seeking a versatile and service-driven franchise.

2. BFT (Body Fit Training)

Body Fit Training (BFT) is a rapidly expanding fitness franchise specializing in science-based group strength and functional training. With 32 franchised locations across the U.S., BFT offers members 50-minute sessions that combine cardio and resistance training, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment to deliver effective workouts.

Over the past three years, BFT has achieved a remarkable 3,100% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $60,000, with an estimated total investment ranging from $329,000 to $520,000, and an 8% royalty fee. BFT provides comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

3. Alloy Personal Training

Body Fit Training (BFT) is a rapidly expanding fitness franchise specializing in science-based group strength and functional training. With 32 franchised locations across the U.S., BFT offers members 50-minute sessions that combine cardio and resistance training, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment to deliver effective workouts.

Over the past three years, BFT has achieved a remarkable 3,100% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $60,000, with an estimated total investment ranging from $329,000 to $520,000, and an 8% royalty fee. BFT provides comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

4. Stride

Stride is a treadmill-based interval training franchise offering total-body workouts designed for all fitness levels. With 18 U.S. locations, 17 of which are franchised, STRIDE provides dynamic classes led by certified run coaches, utilizing state-of-the-art treadmills to deliver engaging and effective fitness experiences.

Over the past three years, STRIDE has achieved a 1,600% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $60,000, with an estimated total investment ranging from $379,900 to $554,690, and a 7% royalty fee. STRIDE offers comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

5. ISI Elite Training

ISI Elite Training is a boutique fitness franchise specializing in athletic-based group training sessions. With 42 U.S. locations, 40 of which are franchised, ISI offers 50-minute, high-intensity workouts led by certified coaches, focusing on strength and conditioning to cater to various fitness levels.

Over the past three years, ISI Elite Training has achieved a 900% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $60,000, with an estimated total investment ranging from $396,600 to $681,900, and a 7% royalty fee. ISI provides comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

6. Tapout Fitness

Tapout Fitness is a martial arts-infused fitness franchise offering a unique blend of boxing, kickboxing, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. With 14 U.S. locations, 9 of which are franchised, Tapout Fitness caters to individuals of all ages and fitness levels, providing dynamic workouts that combine traditional martial arts techniques with modern fitness training.

Over the past three years, Tapout Fitness has achieved an 800% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $32,500, with an estimated total investment ranging from $140,000 to $696,000, and a 6% royalty fee. Tapout Fitness offers comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

7. AKT

AKT is a boutique fitness franchise specializing in dance-based cardio workouts that blend toning, interval, circuit, and dance routines. With 31 U.S. locations, 26 of which are franchised, AKT offers dynamic classes designed to engage members of all fitness levels.

Over the past three years, AKT has achieved a 767% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $60,000, with an estimated total investment ranging from $399,695 to $495,895, and a 7% royalty fee. Read a more comprehensive review of the AKT franchise, including financial performance and franchisee insights.

8. Basecamp Fitness

Basecamp Fitness is a boutique fitness franchise offering high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts designed for efficiency and effectiveness. With 21 U.S. locations, 16 of which are franchised, Basecamp provides 35-minute classes that alternate between cardio and strength training, catering to individuals seeking quick yet impactful workouts.

Over the past three years, Basecamp Fitness has achieved a 700% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $42,500, with an estimated total investment ranging from $536,000 to $853,000, and an 8% royalty fee. Basecamp offers comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

9. Body20 Studio

Basecamp Fitness is a boutique fitness franchise offering high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts designed for efficiency and effectiveness. With 21 U.S. locations, 16 of which are franchised, Basecamp provides 35-minute classes that alternate between cardio and strength training, catering to individuals seeking quick yet impactful workouts.

Over the past three years, Basecamp Fitness has achieved a 700% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $42,500, with an estimated total investment ranging from $536,000 to $853,000, and an 8% royalty fee. Basecamp offers comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

10. Rush Cycle

Rush Cycle is a high-energy indoor cycling franchise that focuses on delivering intense cardio workouts within a community-driven setting. With 22 locations across the U.S., including 20 franchised units, Rush Cycle offers a unique experience where fitness enthusiasts can enjoy expertly crafted classes led by passionate instructors.

Backed by a 567% growth rate over three years, Rush Cycle has established a strong foothold in the boutique fitness market. The franchise requires an initial fee of $45,000, with total investment estimates ranging from $427,000 to $551,000 and a 6% royalty fee. Prospective franchisees receive comprehensive support in marketing, operations, and training to ensure success.

11. Bodybar Pilates Studio

Bodybar Pilates Studio stands out in the boutique fitness scene, focusing on a modern take on Reformer Pilates. With 25 U.S. locations, all franchised, Bodybar combines luxury and functionality, offering a refined atmosphere and high-quality equipment for a full-body, low-impact workout experience.

Having experienced a remarkable 525% growth rate in the past three years, Bodybar Pilates demonstrates the appeal of its unique model. Franchisees can expect an initial fee of $49,500, with a total investment between $282,000 and $815,000, alongside an 8% royalty fee. Bodybar’s comprehensive support structure equips franchisees with everything from training to marketing tools, creating an accessible pathway for those ready to tap into the Pilates market.

12. Shoot 360

Shoot 360 brings innovation to basketball training, merging technology with hands-on coaching to elevate athletes’ game. Across 32 U.S. locations, with 30 franchised, this brand offers a unique training environment where players use proprietary software to track skills and development.

With a remarkable 500% growth rate over three years, Shoot 360 appeals to those passionate about sports and tech-driven training. The franchise requires an initial fee of $60,000, with an estimated investment between $637,000 and $2.21 million. Franchisees benefit from robust support, including marketing resources and operational guidance, making Shoot 360 an enticing option in the sports fitness franchise market.

13. R3VIVE

R3VIVE is a wellness-focused franchise offering a range of anti-aging and health optimization services, from hormone therapy to vitamin IV infusions. With 10 U.S. locations—6 of them franchised—R3VIVE provides clients with targeted solutions for healthier, rejuvenated lifestyles.

Experiencing a 500% growth rate in the last three years, R3VIVE has quickly expanded its footprint in the wellness sector. Franchisees pay an initial fee of $75,000, with the total investment ranging from $262,000 to $669,000, and a 6% royalty fee. This model equips franchisees with extensive resources, including training and marketing support, to thrive in the growing wellness industry.

14. Starting Strength

Starting Strength is a fitness franchise specializing in strength training, emphasizing barbell exercises to build foundational strength. With 22 franchised locations across the U.S., it offers structured programs led by certified coaches, catering to individuals seeking effective strength development.

Over the past three years, Starting Strength has achieved a 450% unit growth rate, reflecting its strong market demand and successful franchise model. The initial franchise fee is $39,950, with an estimated total investment ranging from $227,000 to $692,000, and an 8% royalty fee. Starting Strength provides comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing, and operational assistance, making it an attractive opportunity for investors in the fitness industry.

15. Trufusion

TruFusion offers a dynamic fitness experience, combining multiple workout styles like yoga, Pilates, kettlebell, and bootcamp in one comprehensive studio. With 11 U.S. locations—9 of them franchised—TruFusion provides an environment where members can explore various heated and non-heated classes to suit their fitness goals.

Experiencing 350% growth in the past three years, TruFusion has gained strong traction in the fitness industry. The franchise requires an initial fee of $65,000, with a total investment ranging from $900,000 to $3.06 million and an 8% royalty fee. Franchisees are supported through extensive training and operational resources, making TruFusion an appealing choice for fitness-focused investors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the gym franchise landscape for 2025 is filled with diverse opportunities, offering something for nearly every type of investor. With a steadily growing fitness industry and a heightened awareness of health and wellness, the demand for gym franchises remains strong. This guide has provided insights into a variety of franchise models, from traditional gyms to innovative tech-driven fitness concepts, helping potential franchisees navigate which options align best with their financial and operational goals.

Investing in a gym franchise can be a fulfilling venture, especially with flexible models like Send Me a Pro, which lowers entry costs and expands accessibility to potential franchisees. Meanwhile, high-growth franchises such as Body Fit Training and ISI Elite Training cater to the rising demand for specialized, science-based fitness approaches. With their solid expansion rates, these brands demonstrate how industry trends lean towards unique fitness experiences that prioritize customer engagement and targeted results.

As with any franchise decision, careful consideration of financial requirements, growth potential, and franchise support is essential. By understanding each franchise’s distinct model, cost range, and support structure, prospective investors can make well-informed decisions that align with their personal and financial ambitions. The fitness industry’s expanding scope and adaptable franchise offerings continue to make it an attractive field for both new and seasoned entrepreneurs.