Opening your own gym means finding a space, clarifying zoning changes, securing financing, building, equipping the facility, pre-selling memberships, and only then opening the doors. This guide walks you through every step, covering costs, requirements, permits, financing, a timeline, and a checklist. The market figures come from the industry association DSSV and Deloitte; the legal information is based on statutory texts; and the practical insights are drawn from our project discussions with gym founders and a project partner with over 20 years of gym experience. Whenever a figure is based solely on a provider’s estimate or empirical data, this is noted directly next to it.
As of October 28, 2026. We sell studio equipment ourselves. That’s why this guide is designed so that you can verify every figure without having to buy from us. Legal and tax information is not a substitute for advice from a specialized attorney or tax advisor.
Contents: Quick Answers · Market · Prerequisites · Costs · Financing and Equity · Business Plan · Location and Lease Agreement · Permits · Equipment · Pilates Studio · Franchise and Acquisition · Staff · Timeline · Pre-Sales · Break-Even · Mistakes · Checklist · FAQ
Opening a Gym: The Short Answer
For a small boutique studio, you’ll need roughly a low- to mid-six-figure amount, depending on the size of the space; for a larger studio, you’ll need more. Industry estimates range from €50,000 to €100,000 for studios up to 150 m² and from €100,000 to €300,000 for studios between 150 and 500 m² (Virtuagym, 2026, no primary source cited). Banks typically require 20 to 30% equity; in our consultations, the figure “one-third” has also come up. Realistically, you should plan on half a year from the decision to the grand opening. To the best of our knowledge, a master craftsman’s certificate or state license is not required, but you will need a business registration, a clarified change of use, a legally sound membership agreement, and a reserve to cover at least six months of fixed costs.
| Question | Short Answer | Section |
|---|---|---|
| How much does it cost? | Depending on size and inventory, €50,000 to well over €300,000 (according to the provider); the price depends on the square footage | Costs |
| How much equity? | 20 to 30 percent according to banking practice; typically more when a company is first established | Financing |
| What kind of permit? | In most cases, a change of use under the State Building Code, along with business registration and tax office filing | Law |
| How long does it take? | About half a year from the decision to the opening; construction phase: at least 12 weeks | Schedule |
| When does a studio pay for itself? | It depends on the fixed costs; the bill is listed below | Break-even |
The Market in Numbers: Is It Worth Opening a Gym?
The industry is growing. According to the “Key Figures of the German Fitness Industry 2026” report by DSSV, Deloitte, and DHfPG (reporting year 2025), 12.36 million people worked out at 9,647 facilities, with net revenue totaling 6.25 billion euros. This represents 14.8% of the population. If users of aggregator platforms such as Wellpass, Urban Sports Club, or Hansefit are included, the total number of exercisers rises to 13.83 million, or about 16.5%. The average monthly membership fee is €48.55 gross.
There are two caveats to keep in mind. The jump in the number of facilities (up 5.7%) is partly due to methodological factors, as new data sources were included. And the figures reflect the industry as a whole, not your specific location: whether a studio is successful depends on its catchment area, not on the national average.
| Segment (DSSV Definition) | Average Gross Monthly Premium in 2025 | What's Behind It |
|---|---|---|
| Chain (5 or more units) | 40,54 € | Discount and full-assortment chains; price over size |
| Single system (up to 4 systems) | 59,24 € | Owner-Operated Studios |
| Special Interest | 80,02 € | Concept studios, such as those for women, EMS, functional training, or Pilates |
Source: DSSV/Deloitte/DHfPG, Key Figures for the German Fitness Industry 2026, press release dated March 18, 2026. The report does not provide an official breakdown into discount, premium, and boutique categories.
A key takeaway for founders: Membership fees at concept-based gyms are nearly twice as high as at chain gyms. The studies also suggest that smaller boutique gyms operate with fewer members and often partner with aggregators (Deloitte, The German Fitness Market, 2023). A gym that differentiates itself through its concept rather than square footage needs fewer members, but it must retain every one of them.
Opening a Gym: Requirements and Legal Structure
Can anyone open a gym? Essentially, yes—as long as the business is registered and the space meets building code requirements.
According to our research, the law does not require any special permit or master craftsman’s certificate to operate a fitness studio. You must register your business (Section 14 of the Trade Regulation Act [GewO]), which must be done at the trade office in the municipality where your business is located. The fee varies by municipality; secondary sources cite amounts ranging from approximately €15 to €65. Afterward, you’ll receive a tax registration questionnaire from the tax office, which you must complete via ELSTER; the deadline is one month after the business opens.
A professional certification is not required by law, but it is important in practice: The titles “fitness trainer” and “personal trainer” are not protected; industry standards include licenses such as the B-license or DSSV licenses. According to industry guidelines, trainers without certification may in some cases be unable to obtain professional liability insurance. If you want to offer preventive health courses with health insurance subsidies, additional quality criteria set by the insurance providers apply, which you should clarify in advance. The standards DIN 33961 (Requirements for Gym Equipment and Operations) and DIN EN 17229 (including supervision and staffing) are not laws, but they serve as benchmarks for the level of care an operator must provide.
Legal Structure. As a sole proprietor or in a GbR, you are personally liable. A GmbH requires at least €25,000 in share capital (Section 5 of the German Limited Liability Companies Act (GmbHG)). In practice, the limitation on liability is often negated because landlords, banks, and lessors require personal guarantees. Consult a tax advisor to clarify the legal structure before signing a lease agreement.
Value-Added Tax. Membership fees charged by a for-profit studio are subject to value-added tax. The exemption in § 4 No. 22 of the Value-Added Tax Act (UStG) applies to certain entities, such as public-law or nonprofit providers, but not to a for-profit studio. The small business exemption (§ 19 UStG) applies only to businesses with annual sales of up to €25,000 in the previous year and €100,000 in the current year. A studio with a significant number of members almost always exceeds these thresholds. Important for cash flow: The sales tax you collect through membership fees belongs to the tax office and must not be used to fund operations.
Opening a Gym: An Overview of Costs
There is no reliable figure in euros per square meter for renovation and furnishings, neither from DSSV nor from banks. The ranges found online almost always come from providers who do not cite their sources, and they sometimes contradict each other even within the same text. That’s why we’re showing you the individual items, the ranges along with their sources, and our own estimates separately here, so you can verify the numbers yourself.
| Post | Range | Origin and Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Total requirement up to 150 m² | €50,000 to €100,000 | Virtuagym 2026, information provided by the vendor without a primary source |
| Total area required: 150 to 500 m² | €100,000 to €300,000 | Virtuagym 2026, Provider Information |
| Total requirement: 500 m² or more | €300,000 to €500,000 and more | Virtuagym 2026, Provider Information |
| An example from our consulting practice | About 150,000 € for a 450-m² property in good condition | Estimated cost from our project partner (plumbing, flooring, lockers—approximately €50,000 to €55,000, plus equipment, counter, and furniture) |
| An example from our consulting practice | About 300,000 € for 600 m² of fitness space, ready for use | Based on experience from a consultation; the founder's budget was below that amount |
| Wet areas (showers, tiles, plumbing) | 30,000 to 40,000 euros, even for a small studio | Our project partner's empirical value, depending on the inventory |
| Hot Water (Water Heater) | Example: 16,000 €, including installation | Based on experience; for older buildings, the figure may be significantly higher |
| Retrofit Ventilation | For example, €6,000 to €7,000—even for a small store | Experience gained from previous work in retail |
| Architect for the change of use | For example, €7,500 net for a small studio, up to €15,000 for 1,800 m² | Insights from conversations; always get quotes in advance |
| Business Plan Prepared by a Third Party | from €3,000 to about €8,000 | Insights from conversations |
| Sports Flooring | 25 to 60 € per m² | Retailer specifications; rubber flooring in the weightlifting area must be at least 2.5 cm thick (DSSV Planning Guidelines 2018) |
| Equipment for a Midsize Studio | 30,000 to 80,000 € | Virtuagym 2026; our own offers during our discussions were around €140,000 for 300 to 400 m² |
| Studio Software | 50 to 200 € per month, plus 1,000 to 3,000 € for access hardware | Provider Information |
| Security Deposit | 3 to 6 months' rent | In line with market practice; it's better to negotiate a guarantee rather than cash |
| Pre-Opening Marketing | Example of a fitness agency: approximately €1,000 per month for 4 months, plus an advertising budget of €250 to €2,000 per week | A single agency, no market value |
| Liquidity Reserve | At least 6 months of fixed costs | Industry consensus among experts, not a study; treat this as a recommendation |
Three things stand out when crunching the numbers. First: The floor space is rarely the biggest expense; rather, it’s the technology behind it—namely, wet areas, hot water, ventilation, and electrical connections. Second: According to providers, a former studio with existing locker rooms, showers, and approved use can save between €20,000 and €30,000, but it may be a “burnt-out” location. We know of a case where a facility was taken over; at the time of bankruptcy, there were 1,100 members on the books, but only about 300 returned. Third: The DSSV estimates an average investment of €83,000 per existing facility for 2025. This represents reinvestment during ongoing operations and is not a start-up budget.
The order in which you calculate the costs
Work backward: First, the space, including rent and utilities; then the renovation needs identified in the building inspection (water, electricity, ventilation, fire safety); then the equipment, broken down by zone and area; and finally, the contingency fund and marketing. According to our project partner, the equipment is “the least of our problems”: equipment can be ordered and delivered, but the location cannot. Without a space, there’s no point in discussing equipment.
Financing, Equity, and Funding
How much equity do you need?
According to banking practice, 20 to 30% of the investment is standard (as stated by providers, which aligns with our consultations). For startups without ongoing operations, “one-third” was cited in a discussion as the current expectation; for the purchase of an existing studio, 15 to 20%. The equity should not be borrowed. Important: You usually pay for the architect, business plan, and design upfront, thereby using up equity that you’ll then lack when determining the financing amount. A practical example: With €50,000 in equity and €7,500 in architect’s fees, the feasible financing amount decreases significantly.
Grants and Loans for Entrepreneurs
KfW StartGeld Startup Loan (No. 067). Up to €200,000, of which up to €80,000 is for working capital; KfW assumes 80% of the bank’s credit risk. You apply for it through your primary bank before the project begins, and your business must have been in operation for no more than five years. You can find the current interest rate at kfw.de. The ERP Start-up and Succession Subsidized Loan (No. 077) is available for up to 500,000 €, with personal liability on the part of the borrower. Be sure to check the terms and conditions on the day you apply, as programs and maximum amounts are subject to change.
Guarantee Bank. It provides default guarantees, typically covering up to 80% of the loan; the maximum amounts vary by state. It is particularly helpful when collateral is lacking.
Start-up Grant. Pursuant to Section 93 of SGB III, this is a discretionary benefit provided by the Employment Agency. Requirements include, among other things, a remaining entitlement to Unemployment Benefit I of at least 150 days at the time of starting employment and a feasibility assessment from a competent authority.
Financing Equipment: Purchase, Lease, or Rent-to-Own
This is where the most common bottleneck lies. In our inquiries, at least half of the founders want to finance equipment, and many applications fail due to missing documentation or creditworthiness issues. Traditional leasing usually requires a company history of about three years (based on our experience), which new companies don’t meet. With rent-to-own, you spread out the sales tax over the term of the agreement instead of having to pay it upfront, which helps preserve cash flow. Only movable items such as equipment and rubber flooring can be financed; fixed installations cannot. Before making a decision, calculate the monthly payment against the number of members you’d need just to cover it: €200,000 in equipment over 60 months amounts to about €4,000 per month; at a €40 membership fee, that’s 100 members just to cover the payments. You can find more information about these options on our page about leasing and hire-purchase for studio equipment and in the article “Financing Pilates Reformers: Leasing, Purchase, and Total Costs.”
Procedure with the bank
The bank usually wants to see the lease agreement, and the landlord wants security. Resolve this by including a condition precedent in the lease agreement: it becomes effective only once financing has been approved. According to our project partner, anyone who signs contracts or begins construction before submitting the application risks having their application rejected because the project has already begun. Allow 4 to 8 weeks for the bank to process the application.
Gym Business Plan: What the Bank Wants to See
Banks will review the plan. You’ll need a three-year financial plan with a profitability forecast, a location and competitive analysis, a business concept with a unique selling proposition, a space plan, a draft lease agreement, and proof of who will manage the studio’s day-to-day operations. “You can have hundreds of members and still go bankrupt,” says our project partner: The bank looks at debt service—that is, what’s left after covering ongoing interest and principal payments. Run the numbers conservatively, assuming 70% of the projected membership, and check whether you can survive the first few months without turning a profit. Get quotes from two to three banks; in our experience, cooperative banks and savings banks are often a good first point of contact, while major banks rarely are.
Location, Square Footage, and Lease Agreement
Area and Size
Size does not equal profitability. A club with 1,800 m² that doesn’t break even until after four years is riskier than a 700 m² club that breaks even after one year. Our project partner specifies a maximum of about 1.3 members per square meter of net floor space for boutique concepts. Often, only a portion of the total area is available for training: In one planning scenario, out of a total area of 500 to 700 square meters, only 300 to 350 square meters were available for training because restrooms, hallways, and ancillary rooms took up 100 to 200 square meters.
Calculating the potential. An example from a consulting project: 13,500 residents in the surrounding area, of whom about 14% are interested in fitness—that’s roughly 1,900 people—with an existing discount club having 800 to 850 active members. For a new boutique studio in that location, the consultant considered 200 to 300 members to be a realistic target. Check out competitors within a 10- and 20-minute radius, including their prices, and be skeptical of free location analyses from third parties as long as the methodology and success rates remain unclear.
Check the floor plan before you sign. Ask for a floor plan (preferably as a DWG or PDF), base rent, utility costs, the age of the heating system, the location of water and sewer connections, ventilation, floor load capacity, fire safety, and emergency exits. Water lines on one side and planned showers on the other can make the renovation expensive. A piece of equipment like a leg press, with weights and the user, can quickly add up to around 500 kg in a small space, which is why floor load capacity should be a key consideration during every property tour. In the example of a converted old building, construction was completed first and then the change of use was applied for, and the rooms had no emergency exit.
Lease Agreement: What Matters.
| Period | Recommendation Based on Practical Experience |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 years plus a two-time 5-year option instead of a 10-year fixed term |
| Financing Clause | The contract becomes effective only if financing is approved |
| Change of Use | The landlord files the claim and bears the costs because she is attached to the property, not to the tenant |
| Rent-Free Period | Target: 6 months; landlords often offer 1 to 3; repayment can be negotiated through a subsequent graduated rent schedule |
| Construction Cost Subsidy | Always ask—even about in-kind services such as ventilation, shower panels, or tiles |
| Security Deposit | A rental deposit guarantee instead of cash—otherwise it will eat into your rent-free period |
| Commitments | Verbal commitments by the landlord (shower, ventilation, door) must be included in writing in the lease agreement or an addendum |
| Commission | Clarify the real estate agent's commission in advance and have it confirmed in writing |
Legally speaking: A lease agreement lasting more than one year that does not comply with the statutory form is deemed to have been entered into for an indefinite term under Section 550 of the German Civil Code (BGB), and commercial leases with an indefinite term may be terminated at the end of each quarter (Section 580a BGB). Have the contract reviewed by an attorney specializing in tenancy law before signing it. One-sided draft leases are not uncommon: We have seen an offer with a 10-year term, a 25% rent increase after three years, and a change in use at the tenant’s expense—which the prospective tenant rightly rejected.
Permits and Legal Matters
A business registration does not replace a building permit. The following overview shows what you can generally expect and where to check these details.
| Topic | What Applies | Where and What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Change of Use | In practice, converting a retail space into a studio usually requires a permit; this is governed by the State Building Code, which provides for 16 different options | Check with the building department before signing the lease; hire an architect to prepare the building plans. Costs and duration depend on the building department and the property. |
| Fire Safety, Escape Routes, Parking Spaces | In the event of a change of use, current fire safety regulations apply, not grandfathering provisions; parking spaces must comply with municipal regulations | Specialist planner, proof of parking space—often a nearby public parking garage is sufficient |
| Noise | TA Lärm sets guideline values, such as 60 dB(A) during the day and 45 at night in mixed-use and central areas; falling objects require additional structure-borne sound insulation | Acoustics, free-weight area in the basement or against the back wall |
| Showers and Drinking Water | § 31 TrinkwV: Legionella testing for hot water storage tanks with a capacity of 400 liters or more, or with a pipe volume of more than 3 liters plus showers; every 3 years for commercial, non-public supply; otherwise annually | Ask the public health department which classification applies to your studio |
| Equipment and Operations | DIN EN ISO 20957 for stationary exercise equipment (Classes S and I for gyms), DIN 33961 and DIN EN 17229 for gym equipment and operations | Purchase Class S or I equipment; document maintenance and training |
| Membership Agreements | § 309 No. 9 BGB: Initial term not to exceed 2 years; thereafter, renewal only for an indefinite period with a notice period of no more than one month | Have your terms and conditions reviewed by a lawyer; consumer advocacy groups found violations at many gyms in 2023 |
| Cancel Button | § 312k BGB: Anyone who allows contracts to be concluded online must provide a "Cancel contracts here" button. If this button is missing, the consumer may cancel the contract at any time without notice. | Use the studio software to check whether the button is included |
| Withdrawal | Contracts concluded in the studio: no statutory right of withdrawal. Online and door-to-door contracts: withdrawal pursuant to § 312g BGB | Add a cancellation policy to the online agreement |
| Website Accessibility | BFSG: Services in electronic commerce, excluding microenterprises (fewer than 10 employees, annual revenue or total assets not exceeding €2 million; § 3(3) and § 2 BFSG) | Check size; larger operators must ensure that their online checkout process is accessible |
| Video Surveillance | In 2022, the Ansbach Administrative Court ruled that surveillance of the training area was impermissible; it is not permitted in locker rooms and restrooms | Consult a data protection officer or attorney before installation |
| Music | A GEMA license is required; the WR-KS-F rate applies to fitness and health classes; separate rates apply to background music | Request a quote from GEMA |
| Workers' Compensation Association | Registration is required, according to sources, within one week of starting work; for gyms, sources cite the VBG | Confirm that BG has jurisdiction |
| Defibrillator | There is no general rule; the risk assessment determines the outcome (ASR A4.3). This does not impose any obligation on customers, but it does require them to ensure public safety. | Clarify with the insurer and through a risk assessment |
Our consultations have revealed three additional warnings: After incorporating, it can take up to several months for the tax office to issue a tax ID number, and then the back taxes are due all at once. Do not paint changing rooms with latex paint; in one case, the public order office required mineral-based paint. And never refer to play areas as “childcare”—that triggers regulatory requirements; if in doubt, seek legal advice.
Opening a Gym in Austria and Switzerland
Different rules apply in Austria and Switzerland: In Austria, according to the Austrian Chamber of Commerce (WKO), operating a studio is a free trade; a business facility permit may be required depending on the setup (a simplified procedure applies for spaces under 800 m²). In Switzerland, you must register sole proprietorships with a turnover of 100,000 CHF or more in the commercial register, and you are subject to value-added tax (VAT) on turnover of 100,000 CHF or more.
Planning Layout and Space
Plan the space by zones, not by equipment. In its planning guidelines (as of 2018), the DSSV recommends at least 4 m² per participant in group training and 3 m² for stationary formats such as indoor cycling, plus walkways of at least 1.50 m between equipment and areas. Our project partner sums it up this way: “Offer two or three exercises per square meter.” Ten classic machines fill a small studio, but members will soon miss having a variety of exercises and switch gyms.
Functional training instead of a machine park. In a small space, a modular rack, rig, or cable pull system is more cost-effective than individual machines. Here’s an example from a consultation: Six leg machines require at least 25 m², about one-sixth of the training area in a 150-m² studio. A 16-m² functional training area, on the other hand, can accommodate 16 trainees. For an 80 m² space, the recommendation was to opt for a modular rig plus a half-rack, a Smith machine, cable machines, and a small cardio corner. You can find suitable options under Functional Training, Cable Machines, Functional Trainers, and Plate-Loaded Machines. Our article “Planning a Gym Strength Training Area” provides an overview of space requirements, equipment, and cost-effectiveness for the strength training area.
Flooring. Rubber flooring belongs where dumbbells, kettlebells, and weight plates fall. In the free-weight area, the DSSV specifies a minimum thickness of 2.5 cm, with 4 cm being optimal. Walkways and the entrance are covered with vinyl or click laminate because rubber is harder to clean in those areas. Custom colors have minimum order quantities—manufacturers told us 800 to 1,000 m²—and custom orders require 3 to 4 weeks for production plus 3 to 4 weeks for delivery. Order the flooring early enough: one project required the order to be placed six to seven weeks before opening.
Changing rooms and showers. The wet area is the most expensive part. A cost-effective solution is a shared locker island plus 3 to 4 individually lockable changing and shower stalls instead of two separate changing rooms, because women shower less often and many arrive already changed. A counterexample: A target group coming directly from the office needs changing rooms and showers. Plan the route from changing room to shower and back: In practice, shower access points that cut through the workout area are noticeably inconvenient. A women-only gym eliminates the need for duplicate restroom facilities and can be a strong unique selling point in a location without competition; calculate the budget once with and once without male members.
Plan the zones before installing the walls. Decide on the layout of fixtures, zones, and wet areas before the renovation is complete. We know of a case where the hall and drywall were already finished, and the changing room, shower, and restrooms had to be redesigned afterward because the water connections had already been installed.
Buy, lease, or buy used. According to the depreciation table for the hospitality industry, the tax-deductible useful life of fitness equipment is 5 years; check with your tax advisor to see if this table applies to gyms. According to manufacturer specifications, the technical service life of cardio equipment is often 7 to 10 years, while strength training equipment lasts significantly longer. Cheap knockoffs can end up costing you dearly: We’ve seen cases of broken welds after just half a year and a cease-and-desist letter for patent infringement after only one month with imported reformers. Make sure the equipment is labeled as Class S or I, that replacement parts are available, and that there’s a point of contact.
Planning at no cost to you. For studio projects, we create a free 3D layout with zones and a list of equipment so you can compare the rental space and equipment plan before signing the contract. Learn more on the " Strength Training Equipment for Studios " page and in the quote form.
Pilates and Boutique Studio: Unique Features
Reformer Pilates has been the biggest trend in recent years. According to the Eversports Yoga & Pilates Report 2025, Reformer bookings on the platform rose by 240% in 2024 compared to 2023, with 93% of Pilates bookings coming from women. This is a platform analysis, not a market study, but it points in the right direction. For entrepreneurs, the key takeaway is this: Reformers are compact, but the concept is tied to space, small groups, and quality.
A Reformer measures approximately 2.45 × 0.65 m; allow for open space all around it. Examples from our projects: 6 to 7 Reformers in a 65 m² space, 8 Reformers in a 120 m² space with adjacent areas. Our project partner assumes small groups of 4 to 6 participants, while other sources mention groups of up to 12. A Pilates studio should not be located next to a noisy workout area: music, noise, and visibility into the space ruin the atmosphere, and Reformers should never be placed in the middle of the room.
In one example, a pre-launch survey yielded 35 responses in three weeks; 27 of the participants had never done Reformer Pilates before, and all of them wanted to be the first to know. That doesn’t say anything about the market, but it says a lot about the waiting list. With a mat attachment on the Reformer, you can often save yourself the need for a separate mat room.
Regarding equipment: A solid-steel Reformer set with a box and jumpboard costs €3,700 net (€4,403 gross) at our studio—the list price for the Hegren TALMA 62 as of October 28, 2026. Models made of aluminum or wood are priced differently; the key factors for you are the stability of the jumpboard, adjustability for everyday class use, and access to replacement parts. For guidance on how to select a Reformer, Cadillac, and Chair for your studio concept, see our guide to Pilates studios and the article on floor plan design. You can find the right equipment under Pilates Reformer.
Franchise or an independent gym? And what about taking over an existing business?
There are three paths to the studio, each offering very different levels of control over risk and brand.
| Franchise | Our Own Concept | Take Over an Existing Studio | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Getting Started | Sign-up fee—based on our discussions, usually between 12,000 and 20,000 euros—plus a recurring fee | No license; all marketing and advance sales are up to you | Purchase price plus any potential environmental liabilities |
| Features | Often, framework agreements between headquarters and regular suppliers, with leasing arrangements | Freely selectable | Check Current Inventory and Residual Value |
| Financing | Headquarters often helps with leases that startups can't secure on their own | The bank and the leasing company review your financials on their own | Bank expects transparent figures; 15 to 20% equity cited |
| Risk | Fees erode equity; headquarters does not always provide support | Greater In-House Efforts in Marketing | Members can't be bought |
Acquiring a Gym: Share Deal or Asset Deal
When acquiring a business, the difference between a share deal and an asset deal is crucial. When purchasing the company (share deal), contracts and memberships remain in effect, but you also inherit tax liabilities and other legacy obligations. When purchasing individual assets (asset deal), you acquire equipment, licenses, the website, and software without any legacy obligations, but memberships are not transferable: Based on our consulting experience, when there is a change in ownership, members have a special right to terminate their membership and must sign new agreements, including data protection and direct debit authorizations. A direct debit without a new authorization is legally risky. Before an acquisition, have the business analysis report, trial balance, most recent balance sheet, and membership trends reviewed. A red flag is a young company without a single set of annual financial statements.
Staff: Coaching License, Minimum Wage, and Team
Regarding staff: The statutory minimum wage has been €13.90 per hour since January 1, 2026, and will be €14.60 starting in 2027; the mini-job income limit is €603 per month, rising to €633 starting in 2027. The law does not require a trainer’s license, and the title is not protected; however, licenses such as the B license or DSSV licenses are industry standards and facilitate insurance coverage. The DIN EN 17229-2 standard outlines requirements for supervision and staff. In boutique studios, there are often one or two all-around staff members at the start who handle classes, reception, and cleaning; the door remains locked during classes, and there are clear service hours. Be sure to factor in payroll overhead costs.
If you hire instructors as freelancers, be on the lookout for bogus self-employment: The German Pension Insurance Agency reviews the actual nature of their employment, and back payments can be substantial. One example from case law involves a sum of approximately €78,000. Tax audits take place at least once every four years (Section 28p of Book IV of the Social Code). As the owner, you’ll usually run the studio yourself at first and bring in freelancers for technical support and cleaning; even with a staff-free model, you’ll still need fixed service hours and a hotline.
Timeline: From Concept to Grand Opening
Count backward from the opening date and plan for the worst-case scenario. If a studio launches its marketing campaign before it has received approval to operate, it will only lead to trouble in the end. The timeframes listed below are based on our experience from project discussions; they are not a guarantee.
| Phase | Duration (based on experience) | Dependence |
|---|---|---|
| Find a location, collect data, analyze the location | 1 to 4 months, depending on the market | Start with a property description, floor plan, and rent |
| Change of Use at the Building Department | 2 to 8 weeks, though in real-world cases it often takes longer | Architect, building permits; slower in the summer |
| Negotiating a Lease Agreement | 1 to 2 weeks concurrently | With a financing clause |
| Business Plan and Bank | 4 to 8 weeks | Draft Lease Agreement, Spatial Planning |
| Renovation | at least 12 weeks | Contractors are often fully booked; first water and electricity, then walls, painting, flooring, and finally appliances |
| Device Delivery Time | Up to about 6 weeks for Functional systems; for Pilates Reformers, about 3 weeks for manufacturing and 2 weeks for delivery | Order Only After Clarifying Intended Use |
| Floor (custom-made) | Order 6 to 8 weeks in advance | Decide on a color scheme early on |
| Advance ticket sales | Starting about 3 months before the opening | Not in July and August |
Overall, our project partner estimates it takes half a year from the decision to the grand opening. Real-world examples show that construction periods almost always take longer: One club was scheduled to open in July but opened on October 1; another was postponed from November to January. September and the fall through January are considered good months for grand openings. Another perspective: Mid-December through mid-January are considered slow periods for new openings; on the other hand, a summer opening with a strong promotional offering can stand out when all competitors are running their summer promotions.
Pre-sales and Marketing Before the Grand Opening
A gym should never open with zero members. The reasons are simple: the bank and the leasing company want to see membership fees coming in, and the rent starts accruing before the first payment is received. Based on our discussions, pre-sales begin about three months before opening. You can accept registrations even before then, start collecting membership fees only in the month you open, and collect the registration fee upfront, which helps support cash flow in the first month.
A tiered pre-sale price has proven effective: If the standard membership fee after opening is €50, membership costs €35 in the first pre-sale phase, €40 in the second, and €45 in the third (example from a fitness agency). Instead of a percentage discount, you can offer a launch perk based on value—for example, an extra month or an introductory workout session. Use the construction phase to generate content: showcase the layout and a 3D tour, let members vote on locker designs or color schemes, and launch a newsletter via the studio software. Don’t quote a price over the phone; instead, invite them to a trial workout after they’ve booked an appointment—otherwise, the trial workout will turn into a membership.
Use Pilates and wellness ideas strategically, not just as an add-on. If you’re planning recovery zones, you’ll find further insights on concept and profitability in the article “Opening a Wellness Studio.”
Profitability: Break-even and Profit
The formula is simple: Number of members needed to break even = fixed monthly costs divided by the average net membership fee per member. The fee is listed as a gross amount; you divide it by 1.19 because sales tax must be deducted. The example below is a sample calculation based on the following assumption: €12,000 in monthly fixed costs for rent, staff, utilities, insurance, software, maintenance, installments, and marketing. Variable costs are not included.
| Contribution Level (DSSV 2025, gross) | Net contribution | Members for €12,000 in fixed costs |
|---|---|---|
| Necklace: 40.54 € | 34,07 € | about 353 |
| Single investment: €59.24 | 49,78 € | about 242 |
| Special Interest: €80.02 | 67,24 € | about 179 |
The calculation shows why concept studios with higher membership fees can get by with fewer members. It also highlights the risk: If 30% of your membership base drops off after the first year—for example, if a competitor launches a grand-opening promotion—you’ll fall below the break-even point. Reports on cancellation rates vary: A 2018 study found a 42% churn rate in the first year and another 42% in the second; a provider’s blog cites about 50% in the first six months. The definitions differ, so the figures aren’t comparable. Therefore, make member retention—rather than acquiring new customers—your primary goal: “Ideally, no one should cancel at all,” says our project partner, instead of seeking 20 new members every month.
Vendors provide rough estimates for the cost structure: rent, 15 to 20% of revenue; labor, 35 to 45%. Both figures come from vendor blogs without primary data; other sources cite 25 to 35% for labor. Use them as a benchmark for your plan, not as gospel. There are no reliable industry figures for an owner’s earnings; calculate it honestly based on your plan.
Common Mistakes in the Opening
The most common mistakes we’ve seen in our consultations: Signing a lease without a financing clause and then being unable to secure financing. Starting with a space that’s too large, where high fixed costs create pressure early on. Ordering equipment before the change of use has been clarified, only to discover afterward that an emergency exit is missing. Tearing out tiles instead of covering them, which damages the subfloor. A cash security deposit instead of a guarantee. Starting without software and processes, even though access control, locker management, billing, and termination procedures must be automated. Choosing a staff-free model without service hours, which, in our experience, leads to support costs and hygiene issues that show up in Google reviews. Paying franchise fees without reviewing the system’s financials. And withdrawing profits too early instead of building up reserves.
Checklist: Opening a Gym
Phase 1: Concept and Numbers
- Define the target audience and concept (boutique, functional, Pilates, full-service).
- Identify the service area, competitors, and their prices.
- Clarify equity and reserves (at least six months of fixed costs).
- Hire a tax advisor and, if necessary, an attorney specializing in rental and contract law.
Phase 2: Location and Approval
- Review the property description, floor plan, utility costs, and any existing defects (water, electricity, ventilation, flooring, fire safety).
- Clarify the change of use with the building department; the landlord applies for the change and bears the costs.
- Lease agreement with a financing clause, options, security deposit guarantee, and written commitments.
Phase 3: Financing
- Create a business plan with a three-year financial plan, based on a scenario assuming 70% of members.
- Contact two or three banks; look into KfW StartGeld and Bürgschaftsbank.
- Determine the financing options for equipment (purchase, hire purchase, lease) and calculate the monthly payment based on the number of members.
Phase 4: Planning and Renovation
- Create a zoning plan and 3D layout; finalize the equipment plan before the renovation is complete.
- Trades in the correct order: plumbing and electrical, walls, painting, flooring, appliances.
- Order flooring and custom paint colors early; the contractors will bill you, the property owner.
Phase 5: Legal Matters and Operations
- Register your business, submit the tax registration questionnaire, and register with the workers' compensation association.
- Take out insurance (public liability insurance and others as advised), contact GEMA.
- Have a lawyer review the membership agreement and terms and conditions; include a cancellation button in the online sign-up process.
- Conduct a Legionella test and risk assessment to determine the situation.
Phase 6: Opening
- Start advance ticket sales three months before opening; set tiered prices.
- Test the studio software, access, lockers, and billing.
- Set service hours and house rules; do not announce the opening date until approval has been granted.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to open your own gym?
Depending on the size and condition of the space, costs range roughly from €50,000 to over €300,000. Providers typically quote €50,000 to €100,000 for up to 150 m², €100,000 to €300,000 for 150 to 500 m², and more for larger spaces. The wet area, hot water, and ventilation are often more critical factors than the equipment itself. Plan for a reserve covering at least six months of fixed costs.
Who is allowed to open a gym? Can anyone open a gym?
As far as we know, anyone who registers a business and meets the building code requirements can do so. There is no master craftsman’s certificate or state license required to operate the business. Licenses are standard in the industry for trainers, but they are not mandatory. For prevention courses subsidized by health insurance companies, additional requirements set by the health insurance companies apply.
What permits do I need to open a gym?
The business registration (§ 14 GewO), the questionnaire for tax registration with the tax office, typically a change of use pursuant to the state building code, as well as registrations with the workers’ compensation association and a GEMA license. The business registration does not replace a building permit.
How much equity do I need to open a gym?
Banks typically expect 20 to 30% of the total investment amount; in our discussions, we’ve also heard of a third for startups. For a €100,000 investment, that amounts to about €20,000 to €33,000. You usually pay for the architect and the business plan up front, which reduces your equity.
How long does it take to open a gym?
It takes about half a year from the decision to the grand opening. The bank needs 4 to 8 weeks, the change of use takes 2 to 8 weeks or longer, and the renovation takes at least 12 weeks. In practice, construction projects almost always take longer than planned.
How much profit does a gym make?
There are no reliable industry figures for this. All the numbers online come from provider blogs. Calculate the profit based on your plan: number of members times net membership fee minus fixed costs. The example above shows how many members you need to cover €12,000 in fixed costs.
Is it worth opening a gym?
The market is growing: According to the DSSV, 12.36 million people—14.8% of the population—were working out at gyms in 2025. Whether it’s worth it for you depends on location, concept, fixed costs, and customer loyalty. Concept-based gyms generate higher membership fees on average, but they need a clear unique selling point.
Buying, leasing, or renting gym equipment: Which is cheaper?
It depends on your cash flow. Buying is usually cheaper in the long run, but it ties up capital and requires payment of sales tax upfront. A rent-to-own arrangement spreads the sales tax over the term of the agreement. Traditional leasing often requires three years of business history, which new companies don’t have. Compare the monthly payment to the number of members you need just for that purpose.
Franchise or your own studio: which is better?
A franchise provides a brand and often financial assistance, but involves startup and ongoing fees. An independent business concept gives you the freedom to choose your own setup and positioning, but requires you to handle marketing, pre-sales, and financing on your own. If you’re considering a franchise, check the headquarters’ financials and references before paying any fees.
Do I need a trainer's license to work at a gym?
No, not by law. The titles “fitness trainer” and “personal trainer” are not protected. However, certifications such as the B-license or DSSV licenses are the industry standard, and without such qualifications, some trainers may not be able to obtain professional liability insurance. Health insurance companies have separate criteria for prevention courses that receive health insurance subsidies.
What is the minimum size a gym must be?
There is no legally mandated minimum size. For group training, the DSSV recommends at least 4 m² per participant. Even a studio of about 80 m² can be designed using modular functional systems; boutique concepts often operate in spaces ranging from 200 to 500 m².
How much does a Pilates studio cost?
A solid-steel Reformer set with a box and jump board costs €3,700 net per set (as of October 28, 2026). Additional costs include space, renovation, changing rooms, and marketing. You can find a detailed breakdown of the costs in our guide to Pilates studios.
Conclusion
A gym is a success when the order is right: first, location and intended use; then, numbers and financing; next, planning and equipment; and finally, pre-sales and the grand opening. If you double-check every number yourself, you’ll avoid the most common mistakes. If you already have a space in mind, send us the floor plan and your concept: We’ll create a 3D layout and an equipment list for you free of charge, with a dedicated contact person guiding you from planning through delivery. You can request a quote here; find out more about our gym equipment at Gym Strength Equipment.
Sources
- DSSV, Deloitte, DHfPG: Key Figures for the German Fitness Industry in 2026, press release dated March 18, 2026 (2025 data).
- Deloitte: The German Fitness Market, 20th edition, 2023 (2022 data).
- DSSV: Guidelines for Conceptual Planning in a Fitness Center, as of August 2018.
- Laws on the Internet: § 14 GewO, § 5 GmbHG, § 19 and § 4 UStG, §§ 309, 312g, 312k, 550, 578, 580a BGB, § 31 TrinkwV, §§ 2 and 3 BFSG, § 93 SGB III.
- KfW: ERP Start-up Loan "StartGeld" (067) and ERP Subsidized Loan for Start-ups and Succession (077), as of October 28, 2026.
- Consumer Advocacy Groups: Market Review of Gym Contracts, 2023.
- Eversports: Yoga & Pilates Report 2025 (Analysis of 2024 Platform Data).
- DIN: DIN EN ISO 20957-1:2025, DIN 33961, DIN EN 17229.
- Federal Government: Minimum Wage for 2026 and 2027; Vienna Chamber of Commerce (WKO): Starting or Taking Over a Gym; Federal Tax Administration (ESTV): VAT Liability.
- Virtuagym Business Blog: Costs of Opening a Gym, May 21, 2026 (Information provided by the publisher; no primary source cited).
- Real-world data: Analysis of consultations conducted by Kraftathlet with studio founders and a project partner with over 20 years of studio experience, June through October 2026. Individuals and locations have been intentionally anonymized.
Change Log: October 28, 2026, first publication. We review figures and legal references quarterly, and DSSV data annually in March.