Neighbourhood gym in a small leased unit

Local residents and workers who want a cheaper, friendlier alternative to the big chains, plus people who prefer a smaller gym.

Recurring membership fees (weekly, fortnightly or monthly), plus day passes, personal training and optional classes.

• Good people skills and a welcoming manner
• Knowledge of exercise and gym equipment
• Basic budgeting and sales to keep memberships up

• Check with your local council whether the unit's zoning and approvals allow a gym, including parking and noise
• Public liability and professional indemnity insurance, and workers compensation once you hire (state schemes)
• Member contracts and cancellation terms, check Australian Consumer Law requirements and your state's fitness industry rules
• Big upfront costs and a lease commitment, so read the lease terms carefully before signing
• Staff and trainers need appropriate qualifications, first aid and CPR, and a check for working with children if you run kids' programs

Startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on the unit, your equipment and how much fit-out you need. Big upfront costs and a lease commitment are involved, so read the lease terms carefully.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your membership numbers, pricing and any classes or personal training you add. These figures are estimates only, not guaranteed income.

Things to check include council zoning and approvals for a gym (parking, noise), Australian Consumer Law and state fitness industry rules for member contracts, insurance, and staff qualifications, first aid, CPR and checks for working with children.