Fencing club in a rented gym or hall

Parents of kids and teens, college students and adults who want to try a sport that's not offered at most local gyms.

Monthly or per-term membership fees, drop-in and trial class fees, plus extras like private lessons, gear rental, camps and small local tournaments.

• Fencing coaching experience or a coaching qualification
• Teaching beginners safely and patiently
• Organizing schedules, sign-ups and payments
• Talking with parents and members

• General liability insurance and a signed waiver for every member; check whether USA Fencing membership includes coverage and what it covers
• Safety rules for working with minors, such as background checks and SafeSport training; check what USA Fencing and your venue require
• Use properly rated protective gear and keep it maintained
• Venue contracts that can be cancelled or have price changes; check the terms and have a backup space
• Check with your city or county about a local business license

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how much loaner gear you buy, venue deposits and insurance. These are estimates only, so check venue terms and your own gear needs.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many members you have, class prices and how many hours you rent. This is revenue before hall rental and other costs, and the figures are estimates only.

Check general liability insurance and signed waivers, and what USA Fencing membership covers. Check safety rules for working with minors, such as background checks and SafeSport training, plus venue contract terms and any local business license.