Start a Small Personal Training Studio

Local clients who want a private, personal alternative to a big gym, often on monthly memberships or session packs.

Monthly memberships, session packs and small group classes. Rent and kit costs mean you need a steady client base before the numbers work, and you can add other trainers later.

• Recognised fitness qualification
• Coaching one to one and in groups
• Budgeting and managing rent
• Sales and local marketing

• Lease terms, rent reviews and how long you are tied in, so get advice before signing
• Check planning use class and whether the unit is suitable for fitness use, and talk to your local council
• Public liability, professional indemnity and contents insurance, plus employer's liability if you hire
• Check any music licensing needed if you play music in your studio
• Fixed costs continue in quiet months, so keep a cash buffer

Startup costs are typically around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on the unit, the rent deposit and how much equipment you buy. These are estimates only, so build your own budget from real quotes before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically around £2,000 to £10,000, depending on client numbers, your pricing and whether you run small group sessions. These are estimates, and fixed costs such as rent continue in quiet months, so keep a cash buffer.

Check your lease terms, rent reviews and how long you are tied in. Ask your local council about the planning use class and fitness suitability. Also check insurance, including employer's liability if you hire, and any music licensing you need.