Small Neighbourhood Gym

Local adults who want a simple, less crowded alternative to big chain gyms, including shift workers, students and people new to training.

Monthly or annual memberships, day passes and optional extras like personal training referrals, classes or locker rentals.

• Customer service
• Basic fitness knowledge
• Budgeting and lease negotiation
• Local marketing

• Check zoning and building permits with your municipality before signing a lease
• Commercial general liability insurance, and ask about cover for member injuries
• Check your province's consumer rules on membership contracts, cancellations and prepaid fees
• WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire staff (rules differ by province)
• Slow winter-to-spring cycles and January sign-up spikes can make cash flow uneven, so keep a buffer
• Check whether trainers need certification and insurance of their own

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $40,000 to $200,000, depending on your unit, how much equipment you buy and whether you staff it or use key-fob access. Lease terms also affect your total.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $5,000 to $25,000, depending on how many members you sign and your pricing. January sign-up spikes and slower winter-to-spring periods can make cash flow uneven, so keep a buffer.

Check zoning and building permits with your municipality before signing a lease. Also check your province's consumer rules on membership contracts and prepaid fees, insurance for member injuries, WCB/WSIB coverage if you hire, and trainer certification and insurance.