Opening a gym franchise is a serious financial commitment—but one that can pay off handsomely with the right strategy. If you're looking to enter the Indian fitness market, understanding the cost structure is essential. This guide breaks down the major expenses involved in opening a gym franchise, especially for cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, and Bengaluru.
1. Franchise Fee
This is your initial ticket to enter the brand’s ecosystem. Franchise fees typically range from ₹5 to ₹25 lakhs, depending on the brand's popularity, reputation, and the level of support they offer.
Some well-known gym franchises include access to training programs, branding materials, proprietary software, and territory exclusivity. Always ensure you understand what exactly the fee includes before signing.
2. Setup and Interiors
Transforming a commercial space into a functional, branded gym involves significant setup costs. Flooring, mirrors, lighting, lockers, branding, showers, reception design, and painting can easily cost ₹10 to ₹30 lakhs.
If you're planning a premium feel or want to cater to higher-income clientele, be prepared to spend on aesthetics, premium materials, and tech integrations like smart lighting or app-connected systems.
3. Gym Equipment Investment
The core of your gym. Equipment costs vary based on the brand, functionality, and whether you choose new or refurbished machines.
- Basic gym setup: ₹15–₹25 lakhs
- Mid-range with cardio + strength machines: ₹25–₹35 lakhs
- Premium or imported setup: ₹35–₹50+ lakhs
Quality matters here. Poor machines can lead to injuries, breakdowns, and customer dissatisfaction.
4. Location, Rent & Security Deposit
In cities like Mumbai or Bengaluru, rent can easily run between ₹1.5 to ₹3 lakhs per month. Most franchisors require a commercial space of at least 2000–3000 sq. ft. in a high-footfall area.
Landlords may also ask for a 3 to 6-month deposit upfront. Always calculate at least 6 months of operating capital in your cost plan to stay afloat during slow periods.
5. Salaries and Staffing
Running a gym is a people business. You’ll need:
- Certified trainers
- Front desk staff
- Cleaners
- A center manager or fitness consultant
Expect monthly staffing costs of ₹80,000 to ₹2 lakhs, depending on how many shifts you run and the experience level of your team.
6. Marketing and Promotions
Most franchises require you to spend on local marketing even if they handle national campaigns. Launch promotions, online ads, influencer marketing, hoardings, and local partnerships could cost ₹50,000 to ₹1.5 lakhs initially.
Some brands charge monthly marketing royalties or contributions—factor this into your ongoing costs.
7. Recurring Operational Costs
Here are the monthly recurring expenses many first-time gym owners forget to calculate:
- Electricity & water: ₹20,000–₹50,000
- Cleaning supplies & toiletries
- Gym software subscriptions
- Equipment maintenance contracts
- GST, insurance, licensing renewals
A safe buffer for these should be ₹1 to ₹1.5 lakhs/month.
8. Licensing & Compliance Costs
Depending on your state and city, you’ll need:
- Shop & Establishment License
- GST Registration
- Fire and Safety Clearance
- Health License
- Professional Tax Registration
These can cost between ₹25,000 to ₹1 lakh depending on the scale and how much legal help you hire.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Investment?
Opening a gym franchise in India requires an initial investment of approximately ₹40 lakhs to ₹1 crore, depending on the scale, city, and brand.
But if done right, it’s an industry with high returns, long-term brand loyalty, and growing demand.
Why Plus Fitness Gym is a Smart Choice
Plus Fitness Gym stands out for its transparent pricing, flexible business models, and robust franchise support. With minimal brand royalty, a well-recognized name, and comprehensive training programs, it’s a top-tier choice for first-time gym entrepreneurs.
So if you're serious about entering the fitness business, make sure to start strong, choose wisely, and align yourself with a partner that grows with you.