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How to open a gym without money?

By 
Corey Loehr
 / 
February 7, 2023
 / 
How to open a gym with no money

You have the skills, knowledge, dedication, and expertise to open a gym, and you're ready to begin this process as soon as possible. But one thing is missing – money. As you may know, opening a gym can be pretty expensive. Large sums must go toward the facility, the equipment, and keeping the business running. Ready to open a gym but short on funds? Don't worry; we've got you covered with these savvy tips on how to open a gym with no money. From leveraging gym marketing to word of mouth, we'll help you get started without breaking the bank.

Opening a gym without money sounds close to impossible. However, it may come as a surprise to you to find out that it can happen. Only some have the funds and resources to open a gym, but you should follow your dream.

The key to opening a successful gym business is being hard-working, dedicated, and willing to offer your customers the best service ever. If you do not want to wait until you save more money for the gym, you can open it with a limited budget.

Here’s a guide on how you can open a gym without money.

1. Select the right gym business type

There's more than one type of gym business. Some of them are pricier, while others require smaller savings. If you want to open a gym without money, you must choose between two categories: fitness exercise or powerlifting.

Powerlifting gyms are the most expensive because, aside from the facility, you must invest in equipment. You could buy some equipment, but members will likely stick around and seek better alternatives to fit their goals if your gym needs to be completed.

If you don't have the money, you should choose a fitness exercise gym instead. What's great is that you can also offer different types of exercise in these establishments. Some people will be looking for Zumba classes, yoga training, dance classes, and similar sessions. So, only some people are interested in heavy lifting.

As time goes by, you can let your business grow slowly.

2. Consider free marketing

Contrary to popular belief, you can spend a little money promoting your new business. There is such a thing as free marketing, and it's easy to do.
With the help of social media, you can promote your business and catch the eye of potential customers. What's even better is that social media lets you cross-promote with other companies, boosting your potential.

Another thing you can do is give out free trials to people interested in a healthy lifestyle. This way, they can test your services, and if they like what you offer, they may even get a full membership.

3. Know your competitors

Even if you open a smaller fitness gym, your area will probably have some competitors. Around 41 million Americans have health club memberships, with half of the clubs being commercial, for-profit facilities. The rest are going to nonprofit clubs.

For this reason, you must know your competitors before entering the gym business – especially when your budget is limited. Doing some research will make you notice which areas you should improve to make your gym successful despite the low funding.

4. Get the right training

Do you know who the first trainer in your gym will be? You!


When you're just getting started, you'll be the only employee, and since you're opening the business without money, hiring fitness coaches will not be possible. However, despite your dedication, you might need to be certified as a fitness trainer. But you can become one.

Before establishing your gym business, you must train to become certified. Find your ideal niche and locate a good trainer or institute to prepare you for your career so that you can help your members.

5. Plan your budget

While you can open a gym without money, you will need some cash to keep it afloat. You should save enough money to keep the fitness center alive for at least 12 months. Getting enough members and gaining a profit may take between 6 and 12 months. So, careful financial planning is critical before setting up your new gym.

6. Take advantage of word of mouth

What does a customer do when they're happy about a service? They tell others about it and probably encourage them to try it out.

Word of mouth is one of the best resources you can use when you have no money for a gym. As your gym members notice results, they will tell others about it too. It's essential to work hard and help your clients with anything they need. It will bring you more customers along the way and keep your business running despite the low costs.

A snapshot of gym options across the US

Planet Fitness is a popular gym chain, but there are several other gyms that fitness enthusiasts might consider. For instance, All Hours Fitness in Pineville, LA, on Pinehurst Dr, and Anytime Fitness in Palm Coast, both offer the convenience of being open 24 hours, similar to Hours Fitness in Pineville. Additionally, Blink Fitness in Virginia Beach and Crunch Fitness in Newport have received mixed reviews but offer a variety of amenities including free weights and, at some locations, tanning. Another options to consider are EOS in Fort Worth and Esporta Fitness in Cleveland, which offer competitive one-time fees and a variety of fitness equipment similar to other gyms.

The bottom line

You can open a gym without money, but this requires careful planning. Still, if you want to become a gym owner, don't let the lack of funds stop you. We hope our article has helped you find the best ways to make your dream come true.