What kind of operation you are running.
WHAT FORMS EXIST
Gyms and fitness centres Personal training Group classes and studios Sports academies and coaching Sports facilities for hire Swimming pools Recreation centres Sports equipment retail
WHY THE DISTINCTION MATTERS
Capital, revenue models and risk differ substantially.
WHAT A GYM IS ECONOMICALLY
High fixed costs, recurring revenue, and dependence on member retention.
WHAT PERSONAL TRAINING IS
A time-based service business with almost no fixed cost.
WHAT A FACILITY FOR HIRE IS
An asset utilisation business.
WHAT ALL SHARE
Physical risk to participants Dependence on space Revenue tied to attendance or membership Seasonal and cyclical demand
WHY PHYSICAL RISK DESERVES EMPHASIS
People are injured in these businesses, and the operator carries responsibility.
WHAT DETERMINES GYM PROFITABILITY
Member numbers against capacity Retention Revenue per member Fixed costs, particularly rent and power
WHY RETENTION DOMINATES
Acquiring a member costs far more than keeping one, and most leave within months.
WHAT MOST OPERATORS DO NOT MEASURE
How long members actually stay.
WHAT TO ESTABLISH FIRST
Your break-even membership.
WHAT TO TREAT THIS CATEGORY AS
Business operations guidance, with health, medical and coaching matters from qualified professionals.
