Many people have been yearning to get out of the house and get active again.
As such, many gyms and fitness companies have recently experienced sharp rises in new members, sales revenue, and net income.
The most profitable fitness franchises are the leaders in their respective fitness category. Anytime Fitness, Orange Theory, Pure Barre and 9 Round have led the industry recently with very profitable years as stated in their Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD).
Some of the biggest winners during this time were fitness franchises, most specifically gyms.
So, in this article we will be breaking down the most profitable fitness franchises by 2020 net income. All financial Information in this article is as reported by each firm’s 2021 official franchise disclosure document and other facts as cited.
Here are 7 of the most well known fitness franchises and their net income values, as stated in their Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD). It is important to note, that all these companies are leaders in their respective niche and each company has different accounting systems, varying operating goals and procedures, and a different vision for what they want their organization to become.
These numbers do not tell the whole story about the respective company, so it is suggested that you do your own research about each organization if you are doing your due diligence.
7. Crunch Fitness
2018 Net Income: $2,927,000
2019 Net Income: $5,193,000
2020 Net Income: ($15,931,000)
Starting this list off with a company that took a very large loss in 2020 with Crunch Fitness. Crunch Fitness is a smaller, international franchise with around 400 locations across the globe, with the majority of these franchises being in the US. As you can see by the numbers, Crunch was doing quite well pre-pandemic, but had a very rough 2020. Things are lookin bright for the future though!
Per current CEO, Ben Midgley, Crunch saw a 128% in overall membership in 2021 (1). If the 2021 official financial results were available at time of writing, Crunch would most likely be much higher on this list.
6. Snap Fitness
2018 Net Income: $1,661,000
2019 Net Income: $560,000
2020 Net Income: ($4,236,000)
Next up is another company that took a large loss in 2020, Snap Fitness.
At time of writing, Snap has around 2,000 gyms worldwide in almost 20 countries with over one million members.
Despite the low revenue pre-pandemic, Snap is one of the most established, and one of the largest, fitness franchises on this list. That said, Snap is also a young brand founded in 2003 (2), so its best days are probably still ahead.
5. Jazzercise
2018 Net Income: $1,458,018
2019 Net Income: $1,952,786
2020 Net Income: $2,072,158
Now we move into truly profitable franchises with Jazzercise.
You have most likely heard of Jazzercise from their many references in popular media over the last 30 or so years including How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), The Golden Girls, Glee, Futurama, and Stranger Things.
At time of writing, Jazzercise boasts more than 8,300 franchises in more than 32 countries. Jazzercise has remained popular, and profitable, through both its double-sided Owner Franchisee and Instructor Franchisee system (3). This unique system allows people who want to teach classes, but not worry about the business side of things, to be franchisees.
4. 9Round
2019 Net Income: $5,295,925
2020 Net Income: $3,990,192
Next up is a more niche franchise in 9Round.
9Round’s fitness model is based around quick, HIIT and kickboxing training exercises with a heavy focus in one-on-one training sessions.
9Round currently has more than 700 locations in more than 20 countries. 9Round is another very young franchise on this list, being founded in 2008, and it is growing fast (4).
Check back in just a few more years and 9Round may even be number one on this list.
3. Pure Barre
2019 Net Income: ($9,137,171)
2020 Net Income: $10,895,101
Pure Barre is the largest barre franchise in the United States with almost 550 locations across the country and over 76,000 active members (5).
Barre workouts are group fitness classes with a heavy focus on one’s self through small, but consistent, effort.
These specialty studios have been gaining traction and taking off in recent years and seem poised to keep growing. What really separates Pure Barre from the pack is their online classes. “Pure Barre Go” has been giving people access to unlimited fitness classes from their own homes.
With this amazing service, Pure Barre will continue to be on the top of the pack for a long time.
2. Orange Theory Fitness
2019 Net Income: $44,703,021
2020 Net Income: $24,846,690
Another firm that took a hit in 2020, but remains near the top of this list is Orange Theory Fitness.
Similar to Pure Barre, Orange Theory’s business model is based on group fitness classes from home or in-studio with certified instructors. Each class consists of a full body, HIIT workout and Orange Theory recommends taking 2-4 classes per week.
To date, Orange Theory boasts more than 1,400 studio locations in 27 different countries. As shown by Orange Theory, and several others on this list, the ‘group class’ business model remains extremely profitable due to its flexibility and overall popularity with consumers.
- Anytime Fitness
2018 Net Income: $38,111,768
2019 Net Income: $43,346,200
2020 Net Income: $45,635,007
Last on this list, the most profitable fitness franchise is Anytime Fitness.
At time of writing, Anytime has more than 4,500 franchises in 50 countries, also making it the largest franchise on this list. Unlike the group fitness classes business model, Anytime Fitness is closer to a traditional gym that is known for being open 24/7, 365 days per year.
While not their primary focus, Anytime does still offer one-on-one personal training, group classes, and consultations (7).
Check out Anytime’s website to see the full list of amenities that an average club offers and it will be clear why Anytime Fitness is the largest and most profitable fitness franchise.
To sum up all of this information in a simple chart:
| Rank | Name | 2020 Net Income |
| 1 | Anytime Fitness | $45,635,007 |
| 2 | Orange Theory Fitness | $24,846,690 |
| 3 | Pure Barre | $10,895,101 |
| 4 | 9Round | $3,990,192 |
| 5 | Jazzercise | $2,072,158 |
| 6 | Snap Fitness | ($4,236,000) |
| 7 | Couch Fitness | ($15,931,000) |
Fitness franchises have been, and will continue to be, very profitable when managed correctly. Consumers want to be active and gyms are quickly responding to the market’s demands. While 2020 was a rough year for gyms and franchises, and “rough” is an understatement, they are rebounding quickly. We will have to wait until all the 2021 financial results are released later this year to see the full scope of the reopening. But make no mistake, these franchises seem to be solid and aren’t going anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions related to What is the most profitable fitness franchise?
Question 1: What are the start-up costs associated with a profitable fitness franchise?
Starting a fitness franchise can be a profitable venture, but it does require significant capital investments. The start-up costs associated with a successful fitness franchise vary depending on the size and scope of the business, but there are some common expenses that are necessary for the business to get off the ground. The most important start-up costs include a franchise fee, the purchase of equipment and inventory, and operating expenses related to the business.
The franchise fee is usually the most expensive start-up cost associated with a fitness franchise and can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars. This fee is typically paid to the franchisor and covers the cost of licensing the business and the marketing materials that come with it. Additionally, the franchisee will need to purchase the necessary equipment and inventory needed to operate the business. This can include anything from exercise equipment to apparel, depending on the type of business. Lastly, there are the operating expenses associated with the business, such as rent, utilities, insurance, and payroll.
Overall, the start-up costs associated with a profitable fitness franchise can be significant, but with proper planning and budgeting, the business can be profitable.
Question 2: What are the most successful fitness franchise models?
When considering opening a fitness franchise, it is important to consider the most successful fitness franchise models. The most successful and popular fitness franchise models are typically those that offer a comprehensive program that includes a variety of services and activities. Fitness franchises that focus on providing comprehensive programs and comprehensive services are usually the most successful, as they are able to appeal to a broader range of customers.
One of the most successful fitness franchise models is the one-stop-shop model, which offers a variety of services, such as personal training, group classes, nutrition coaching, and other services. This model is popular because it allows customers to get everything they need in one place, which saves them time and money. Additionally, this model is also popular because it allows customers to customize their fitness program to fit their individual needs and goals.
Other popular and successful fitness franchise models include those that offer specialized services, such as 24-hour gyms, boot camps, and yoga studios. These models are popular because they cater to a specific customer base and offer services that are tailored to meet their needs.
Question 3: What are the benefits of owning a profitable fitness franchise?
Owning a profitable fitness franchise can provide many benefits to the franchisee. One of the main benefits of owning a profitable fitness franchise is the potential for high profits. Fitness franchises are typically lucrative businesses, as they are typically in high demand and can generate significant revenue. Additionally, owning a fitness franchise can provide the franchisee with a steady stream of income, as customers typically remain loyal and committed to the business.
Owning a successful fitness franchise can also provide the franchisee with a sense of job security. As the business grows and expands, the franchisee will be able to rely on the franchise for a steady income and can feel secure in their job. Additionally, owning a successful fitness franchise can provide the franchisee with the opportunity to expand their business and grow their customer base. This can provide the franchisee with the ability to increase their profits and grow their business.
Overall, owning a profitable fitness franchise can provide many benefits to the franchisee, including the potential for high profits, a steady stream of income, job security, and the opportunity to expand their business.
For more helpful information and resources about fitness franchises, visit:
References
1. https://cheddar.com/media/how-crunch-fitness-grew-its-membership-despite-the-pandemic
3. https://www.jazzercise.com/Teach/Details
5. https://www.purebarre.com/about