Neighbourhood boxing gym

Adults wanting a tough workout, beginners, teens and youth, and a smaller group of keen amateur boxers.

Monthly memberships, drop-in and class packs, private coaching sessions, youth programs and extras like gloves and wraps.

• Boxing coaching experience
• Running safe, well-organized classes
• Friendly, motivating personality
• Basic business and money management

• Commercial general liability insurance that specifically covers combat sports, and accident cover for members
• Signed waivers and clear sparring rules, ask a lawyer or your insurer to review them
• Coaching certification and sanctioning rules for competitions, which vary by province, check with your provincial association
• Lease terms, zoning and municipal business licence requirements
• Whether you need to charge GST/HST once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire coaches as employees
• Higher rent and heating costs through winter, plus a quieter summer for some clubs

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on the unit you rent, how you fit it out, and your equipment such as bags and a ring or sparring area. Lease terms also affect costs.

Check for commercial general liability insurance that specifically covers combat sports, plus signed waivers and clear sparring rules. Also check coaching certification and sanctioning rules in your province, lease and zoning terms, municipal licensing, GST/HST and WCB/WSIB requirements.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on your membership numbers, class timetable and pricing. Higher rent and heating costs through winter, and a quieter summer for some clubs, are worth planning for.