How to Open a Gym in the UK: Steps, Costs & Setup Tips

Dreaming of turning your passion for fitness into a thriving business? Opening your own gym in the UK is a rewarding venture — but it takes more than protein shakes and squat racks to make it successful.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step: from legal setup and budgeting to choosing the right equipment and growing your membership. Whether you're launching a boutique strength studio or a full-service fitness centre, here's how to make it happen.

Step 1: Define Your Gym Concept & Business Model

Before you lift your first dumbbell, get clear on what kind of gym you're opening.

• Budget gym (high volume, low cost)
  
• Boutique studio (personal training, HIIT, yoga)
  
• Specialised gym (powerlifting, CrossFit, functional fitness)
  
• Luxury wellness club (spa, sauna, classes, lounge)
  

Each model has different needs when it comes to space, staff, and equipment.

Pro tip: Start niche, master your market, then expand.

Step 2: Create a Gym Business Plan

Your business plan should include:

• Executive summary
• Target audience
  
• Competitive analysis
  
• Marketing strategy
  
• Equipment and operational budget
  
• Revenue forecasts and break-even timeline
  

You’ll need this for your own clarity — and to secure funding from investors or lenders.

Step 3: How Much Does It Cost to Open a Gym in the UK?

The total cost to open a gym in the UK can vary dramatically depending on location, size, and your overall business model — but it's safe to say you're looking at anywhere from £30,000 to over £100,000 to get up and running.

Here’s a general breakdown of where your investment might go (as an example):

Total startup range: £30K to £100K+, depending on the scale of your project.

These figures are estimates based on typical UK gym setups and can shift depending on whether you're opening a boutique studio, a budget gym, or a full-service wellness facility. Factors like property type, equipment quality, and staffing model will all play a role in shaping your budget.

And if you're unsure where to start,  it’s worth consulting with a fitness industry expert or gym startup advisor to help you plan efficiently and avoid costly missteps.

Step 4: Register Your Gym Business

To legally open a gym in the UK, you’ll need to:

• Register as a limited company via GOV.UK
  
• Choose the right business structure (sole trader, partnership, or Ltd)
  
• Register for VAT if your turnover exceeds £85,000/year
  
• Get business insurance (public liability, employer liability, equipment cover)
  

You may also need music licenses (PRS/PPL) if you’ll be playing tunes during workouts.

Step 5: Meet Health & Safety Requirements

This isn’t just red tape — it protects you and your members.
Ensure:

• Fire safety protocols and exits
  
• First aid kits and trained staff
  
• Cleanliness and sanitisation plans
  
• Equipment maintenance logs
  
• Signage for correct equipment use
  
  

The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear gym-specific guidance.

Step 6: Choose the Right Equipment (Start Lean, Expand Smart)

Here’s what you’ll actually need to start:

Essentials for Most Gym Types:

• Adjustable Dumbbells – space-saving, cost-effective
  
• Squat rack or power cage
  
• Barbells and bumper plates
  
• Benches (flat/incline)
  
• Cardio machines: treadmill, bike, rower
  
• Resistance bands, mats, kettlebells
  

Want to simplify your setup and focus on what matters

Use our Build Your Bundle tool to tailor your gym’s core equipment to your space and audience.

Step 7: Market & Launch Your Gym

Before You Open:

• Build hype on social media
  
• Offer pre-sale discounts or founding memberships
  
• Partner with local influencers or trainers
  
• Collect email signups from interest forms
  

After You Launch:

• Run referral programmes
  
• Host fitness challenges or open days
  
• Get reviews on Google & Trustpilot
  
• Send weekly tips, workouts, or member spotlights via email
  

 The first 90 days are your “make or break” window. Be visible, consistent, and responsive.

Step 8: Run Your Gym Like a Pro

Success isn’t just about reps — it’s about systems.
Track:

• Churn rate (how many members leave monthly)
  
• Customer lifetime value
  
• Class and space utilisation
  
• Trainer productivity
  
• Equipment ROI
  

Use gym management software for scheduling, billing, and member communication — it’ll save your sanity.

Bonus: How to Make Your Gym Profitable

• Upsell PT sessions, nutrition plans, or small-group classes
  
• Introduce high-retention community events
  
• Keep your costs low with modular, multi-use equipment
• Reinvent your space when needed (e.g. summer bootcamps)

TL;DR: Your Gym Startup Checklist

• Nail your concept & business plan
• Secure funding & register your business
• Budget for startup costs (£30k–£100k+)
• Follow health & safety regulations
• Buy essential gym equipment
• Build your member base early
• Use software + smart marketing to grow

Ready to lift your dream off the ground?

Let BrainGain Be Your Gym Startup Partner

From versatile Adjustable Dumbbells to curated Product Bundles, we help new gyms launch with confidence and control.

Use our Build Your Bundle Tool to design a setup that fits your space, your budget, and your goals.