
India's fitness market is experiencing a massive positive change. More and more people in India are thinking about their health. After the pandemic, staying fit has become really important, not just something nice to have, but a part of everyday life. Plus, with more people moving into the middle class, they have more money to spend on wellness.
For those dreaming of starting their own business, fitness might seem like a smart choice. But there's one big concern: “How do I get into this growing industry without spending too much money?” That’s the challenge for new entrepreneurs today.
The solution is low-cost fitness studio and home gym franchises. These formats are low-cost, scalable, and backed by strong brands, ideal for tapping into India's health-conscious marketplace.
Why a Fitness Franchise?
Let's consider why franchising is an intelligent step before exploring the options :
- Brand Recognition: Tap into the popularity and trust of familiar names.
- Proven Business Model: Bypass the test-and-fail process with tried-and-true systems.
- Training & Support: Assistance with setup, marketing, and operations.
- Flexible Formats: Boutique studios, home-based setups, or hybrid models to choose from.
Top Low-Cost Fitness Studio & Home Workout Franchises in India
Here's a handpicked list of low-cost franchises that offer high growth potential:
1. WTF Gyms (Work That Fits)
- Initial Investment: ₹5–10 lakh
- Franchise Fee: Part of setup
- Royalty: Revenue sharing model
- Space Required: 2,000–5,000 sq. ft
- USP: AI tools, co-management model, and flexible formats
WTF Gyms is revolutionizing fitness franchising through a focus on operational effectiveness and technology integration. Suitable for existing gym owners or business owners with underperforming assets looking to revive the space.
2. Gym99 (by Body Building India)
- Initial Investment: ₹15 lakh–₹1.5 crore
- Franchise Fee: Integrated
- Space Required: 250–3,100 sq. ft
- USP: Multi-format options, supplement retail, and flexible payment models
Gym99 is ideal for micro-locations and price-sensitive markets. It has a lean setup with high ROI potential.
3. O2 Gym
- Initial Investment: ₹30 lakh–₹1.2 crore
- Franchise Fee: ₹5 lakh
- Royalty: None
- Space Required: 3,000–7,000 sq. ft
- USP: Spa-gym combo, visual branding, and no royalty fees
O2 Gym combines luxury and affordability and is an excellent option for urban markets seeking high-end fitness experiences.
4. FitnessOne
- Initial Investment: ₹51 lakh–₹1.2 crore
- Space Required: 2,000–5,000+ sq. ft
- USP: Corporate wellness programs and multi-format studios
FitnessOne is well-established in South India and has flexible formats for various demographics.
5. Burn Out Unisex Fitness Studio
- Initial Investment: ₹30–₹75 lakh
- Franchise Fee: ₹8 lakh
- Royalty: 8% of monthly revenue
- Space Required: ~4,000 sq. ft
- USP: HR hiring support, layout design, and marketing assets
Burn Out is suitable for Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities with increasing fitness demand.
6. Plus Fitness 24/7
- Initial Investment: ₹1–₹1.5 crore
- Franchise Fee: ₹15 lakh
- Royalty: None
- Space Required: ~3,000 sq. ft
- USP: 24/7 access, turnkey setup, and no royalty fees
An Australian brand well-established in India, Plus Fitness is perfect for tech parks and corporate professionals.
7. Cult.fit (Home & Studio Model)
- Initial Investment: ₹1–₹1.2 crore
- Space Required: 3,000–5,000 sq. ft
- USP: Online classes, celebrity-endorsed brand, and hybrid formats
Cult.fit has both physical studios as well as home workout subscriptions, thereby making it a good pick for today's consumers with changing lifestyles.
8. Snap Fitness 24/7
- Initial Investment: ₹1.3–₹2.5 crore
- Royalty: ₹85,000/month
- USP: International brand, sustainable business, and small formats
Snap Fitness is perfect for entrepreneurs seeking global appeal with local flexibility.
Home Workout Franchise Models
Home workout franchises are meant for the modern, busy, high-tech lifestyle. They enable individuals to work out whenever and wherever they want with their phones, laptops, or smart TV. Here's how they function:
Online Fitness Classes: Consumers can stream live or on-demand yoga, cardio, dance, or strength training sessions.
Personal Coaching Platforms: Franchise owners or licensed coaches provide personalized plans, monitor progress, and offer recommendations remotely.
Subscription Services: Clients pay a monthly or annual fee to use workouts, diet plans, and even wellness advice.
Affiliate Opportunities: The franchisee can make money by referring customers, selling exercise equipment, or providing diet products.
These models take up little to no real estate and negligible investment. They are ideal for those who desire freedom and simple scalability.
Advantages of Home Workout Franchises
- Low Overhead Costs
- Scalable Subscription Models
- Digital Integration
- Flexible Scheduling
Examples
Cult.fit Live: Provides yoga, HIIT, and dance classes through app
Fittr: Fitness coaching led by a community
HealthifyMe: AI-based nutrition and fitness plans
These sites enable franchisees to become certified coaches or resellers and gain income through referrals, subscriptions, and merchandise.
Cost Comparison Table
Franchise Name | Investment Range | Royalty Fee | Format Type | Ideal For |
---|---|---|---|---|
WTF Gyms | ₹5–10 lakh | Revenue share | Studio/Home Hybrid | Existing gym owners |
Gym99 | ₹15L–₹1.5Cr | Not disclosed | Multi-format | Price-sensitive markets |
O2 Gym | ₹30L–₹1.2Cr | None | Spa-Gym Combo | Premium urban areas |
FitnessOne | ₹51L–₹1.2Cr | Not disclosed | Multi-format | South Indian cities |
Burn Out Fitness | ₹30L–₹75L | 8% monthly revenue | Studio | Tier 2/3 cities |
Plus Fitness 24/7 | ₹1Cr–₹1.5Cr | None | 24/7 Studio | Tech parks, urban professionals |
Cult.fit | ₹1Cr–₹1.2Cr | Not Disclosed | Studio + Online | Hybrid fitness seekers |
Snap Fitness | ₹1.3Cr–₹2.5Cr | ₹85,000/month | Compact Studio | Metro cities |
How to Select the Perfect Franchise
- Check Your Budget: Begin small with modular installations and expand as demand increases.
- Understand Your People: Select a brand that resonates with your neighborhood crowd.
- Assess Support Infrastructure: Select franchises that provide training, promotion, and technology aids.
- Review ROI & Fees: Find clear royalty models and stable revenue streams.
Conclusion
You don't need to fork out tons of cash to open a fitness company. With affordable fitness franchises, you're getting pre-formulated plans, brand name, and established reputation. From brick-and-mortar centers to in-home exercise services, everyone can afford one and live whatever life they want.
In-home exercise models are especially popular today, with people wanting to stay healthy at home. These franchises are not just about generating revenue, they're about better health across India. So, if you’re ready to start a meaningful and rewarding business, consider choosing a fitness franchise that fits your goals and your pocket.
FAQ
1. Can I run a fitness franchise part-time or alongside another job?
Yes, many home workout and boutique studio franchises offer flexible models that allow semi-absentee ownership. You can hire certified trainers and managers to handle daily operations while you focus on strategy or marketing.
2. Do I need a fitness certification to own a franchise?
Not necessarily. While having a background in fitness can help, most franchises provide training and operational support. Your role as an owner is more about business management than coaching.
3. What kind of marketing support do franchises offer?
Affordable fitness franchises often include digital marketing kits, social media templates, local SEO guidance, and promotional campaigns. Some even offer centralized ad support or influencer tie-ups.