How to Choose the Right Fitness Studio for You

The first step when looking for a fitness studio is determining what you want from your workout routine. Do you want to do cardio, weights, or something else? You may have several different needs, so choose a studio that offers several options.

Negotiate the renovation/picturization period

If you’re considering a fitness studio to lease, you’ll need to negotiate a renovation/picturization period. It is a time during which your tenant will not be allowed to operate. It would be best to haggle this well so your business can open on time. You can also arrange a renewal fee. As a result, you’ll want to know all the details of the renovation/picturization period so you can plan accordingly.

Your picturization period should allow sufficient time for your business to complete its build-out. For instance, it takes 45-60 days to obtain building permits and install fixtures and signage. In addition, it might take longer to install plumbing and other institutions.

Find a gym with people you don’t mind being around.

Finding the best fitness studio in San Jose with people you get along with is one of the best things you can do if you want to get in shape. These exercise partners can make working out enjoyable and help you stay motivated to go to the gym. Your gym mates may teach you a lot, and you can develop close friendships with them with time.

You can also take group training classes at your gym. These classes can be a great way to meet new people and learn new exercises. When you’re in a class, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with other members and have an energetic instructor lead you through your workout. It will make you more excited to attend the gym each day.

Many gyms offer events for their members. These can be fundraisers for organizations that help raise awareness for heart disease or can help you meet people in your community. They’re also a great way to support your local gym.

You can also find a fitness studio with people you want to avoid being around by going to the gym during less busy hours. An excellent way to determine this is by asking the front desk at the gym when their peak hours are.

Services and Amenities

If you need instruction or structure, look for a personal trainer or a class to throw into your workout mix. Locker rooms, showers, saunas, and such can be luxuries at some gyms. If any of these things make your must-have list, confirm their availability and cost (if any) before you sign on the dotted line.

Is the front desk staff customer-focused?

Being sales- and service-oriented is two different things.

If they are sales-oriented, you can feel forced to buy from them, but if they are service-oriented, doing business with them is a pleasure.

Just remember that YOU pay for their wages every time you purchase a membership, renew a membership, or buy add-ons.

It means that you anticipate receiving top-notch service.

The dialogue with the staff members should focus on you rather than what you should purchase.

Budget facility studio expenses

Choosing a suitable facility for your fitness business is essential to the success of your new venture. You need a location that appeals to your clients and is easy to do business in. Whether you rent or buy, there are a few things to consider.

Choosing the type of gym you want is the first step. It will help you to budget your expenses. A small, dedicated fitness studio will cost about $10,000, while a full-scale, multi-level fitness complex with amenities will require around $50,000. Besides the actual space, you’ll need to consider various other costs, including equipment and maintenance.

If you decide to buy a gym, you should also ensure that the equipment you choose is up to snuff. There’s no need to go overboard, though, since you’ll likely be covered by warranty. And remember the obvious, like purchasing a commercial-grade heating and air conditioning (HVAC) system. Spending thousands of dollars on a new HVAC system is not uncommon.

Other costs you may encounter include lease payments, insurance, phone deposits, and furniture. Make sure you find a location that satisfies your needs and that you can get a fair price on the space you choose.

Value in Summary

Remember, not every $10/month gym is created equal. Think about the value you’re getting and at what cost. Does the staff put care and effort into developing a community, creating a clean and safe space, and providing many options and amenities? You can still enjoy quality equipment, a spacious environment, and unbeatable perks without paying an arm and a leg.

The bottom line? When figuring out how to find a gym, it is essential that you feel right at home — and ready to work out. As usual, seek medical advice before starting any workout regimen.

Avoid Extras

Secondly, when you have found a gym you feel comfortable with, avoid succumbing to some of the pressures the salespeople will try to get you to buy into. They are professionals at what they do and are trained to make you think you need things you don’t.

You may find yourself paying for extra privileges that you won’t ever use or might use only on a few occasions. It’s crucial when you are sitting down before signing the contract to have someone thoroughly go through the entire membership, explaining all the terms (ex., guest fees, payment methods—some gyms have payment plan options available, membership renewals, etc.).