UK Commercial Gym Start-Up Costs: Equipment, Space & Strategy

Opening a commercial gym in the UK is an exciting venture, but it comes with big questions: How much does it cost? Where should I spend my budget? What strategy ensures long-term success?

Whether you’re launching a large facility or building a boutique PT studio, understanding start-up costs and planning ahead is the key to avoiding mistakes and maximising return on investment.

At REP Fitness UK, we’ve helped fitness professionals worldwide create spaces that last. Here’s our breakdown of UK commercial gym start-up costs - from equipment and space to strategy.

1. How Much Does It Cost to Open a Gym in the UK?

Start-up costs vary widely depending on location, size, and equipment.

• Boutique PT Studio: £5,000-£20,000

• Small Independent Gym: £30,000-£70,000

• Full Commercial Facility: £80,000-£150,000+

These figures include equipment, space, utilities, and initial marketing. Large gyms with premium fit-outs can easily exceed £200,000.

The good news? Careful planning - and choosing the right supplier - helps you stretch your budget further without compromising on quality.

2. Equipment Costs

Equipment is typically the largest upfront investment in a gym start-up. A balanced setup includes:

Strength Equipment

• Power racks & benches (£3,000-£10,000 depending on quantity)

• Dumbbells & storage (£2,500-£8,000)

• Barbells & bumper plates (£1,500-£4,000)

Functional Training

• Cable machines & rigs (£3,000-£15,000)

• Kettlebells, medicine balls, plyo boxes (£1,000-£3,000)

Cardio Equipment

• Treadmills (£2,000-£5,000 each)

• Rowers & air bikes (£800-£2,000 each)

• Cross-trainers or bikes (£1,500-£4,000 each)

Recovery & Extras

• Mats, bands, foam rollers (£500-£2,000)

• Specialty equipment (sleds, strongman kit, mobility tools)

💡 Tip for PTs: If you’re opening a small studio, focus on versatile, multi-functional kit like adjustable dumbbells, cable systems, and racks with storage to keep costs low and space efficient.

3. Space & Facility Costs

Your location has a huge impact on start-up costs.

• Lease/Rent: Varies widely (£10-£30 per sq ft annually in most UK cities).

• Fit-Out & Flooring: Expect £5,000-£50,000 depending on size and style.

• Utilities & Insurance: £500-£2,000+ per month.

For PTs, converting a garage, studio, or small rented unit can drastically reduce overheads while still delivering a professional experience.

4. Staffing & Operational Costs

• Staffing: In larger gyms, payroll can account for 30-50% of monthly expenses. PTs running solo studios can eliminate this cost initially.

• Software: Membership management, booking, and payment systems (£50-£300/month).

• Cleaning & Maintenance: £200-£1,000/month depending on scale.

5. Strategy: Beyond the Equipment

Having great equipment and a good space is only part of the equation. Long-term success relies on strategy:

• Define Your Target Audience: General fitness, strength training, group classes, or premium PT?

• Plan Your Member Journey: What makes your space stand out? Recovery zones, PT-led programming, or 24/7 access?

• Invest in Marketing: Budget for launch campaigns, local SEO, and ongoing community engagement.

Conclusion

Opening a gym in the UK requires a significant investment, but the rewards can be life-changing if you plan correctly. By balancing equipment, space, and strategy, you can create a facility that attracts members, delivers results, and generates long-term growth.

Whether you’re setting up your first PT studio or launching a full commercial gym, REP Fitness UK is here to support your journey from planning to installation.

FAQs

1. How much does it cost to open a small PT studio in the UK?
Typically between £5,000 and £20,000, depending on space and equipment.

2. What’s the biggest expense when opening a gym?
Equipment is usually the largest upfront cost, followed by rent and fit-out.

3. Do I need commercial-grade equipment if I’m only training a handful of clients?
Yes - durability and safety are crucial. Commercial-grade kit ensures longevity and gives clients a professional experience.

4. How can I reduce start-up costs?
Start small, prioritise versatile equipment, and consider financing options. Many PTs begin with a compact setup and scale up as revenue grows.

5. How long until a UK gym becomes profitable?
Most gyms aim to break even within 12-18 months, but this depends on membership numbers, pricing, and overheads.