I am a personal trainer: this is how I set up my own training center

If you are a personal trainer dreaming of having your own space, this article is for you. We explain how to set up a gym for personal trainers from scratch, with practical advice, a budget guide, and mistakes to avoid. At Fitness Tech we help fitness professionals create functional, profitable studios tailored to their clients.

1. The starting point: a clear vision

Every successful project starts with a solid idea. In my case, the dream was simple: to offer a personalized training space, without the limitations of conventional gyms. I wanted freedom to apply my methods, control schedules, and create a closer, more professional experience.

That's how my studio was born. But before investing the first euro, I had to answer a key question: what type of gym for personal trainers did I want to build?

• A functional training studio, with versatile equipment and open space.
• A boutique center focused on premium clients, with individualized attention.
• A hybrid space that combines personal training and small group classes.

Defining the business model will help you estimate the budget, choose the equipment, and design the space efficiently.

2. Finding the right space

I chose a 100 m² space with good lighting and easy street access. In a personal training studio you don't need a huge space, but it should be functional and well laid out. My tips:

• Visible and accessible location: better in residential or high-traffic areas.
• Minimum height of 3 m: essential for racks, pull-ups, and pulleys.
• Technical floors: the professional rubber from Fitness Tech reduced noise and improved safety.
• Good ventilation and natural lighting: improves the client experience.

Investing in the environment is key. A clean, organized, and well-equipped space conveys professionalism and attracts more clients.

3. Essential equipment

When I decided to set up my personal training studio, I prioritized versatility. It’s not about having many machines, but the right ones. These were my initial choices:

• Muscle rack with pulley: the base for strength exercises, pull-ups, and functional training.
• Adjustable bench: essential for press, curl, and multi-angle exercises.
• Set of dumbbells and Olympic plates: wide weight range to work with different levels.
• Kettlebells and bars: versatile, perfect for strength, power, and coordination.
• Rubber flooring: cushions impacts and protects equipment.

At Fitness Tech I found the balance between professional quality and competitive price. They also offer complete packages for personal trainer gyms and flexible financing for new projects.

4. Estimated budget

Setting up a personal training studio is much more affordable than opening a conventional gym. Here is an indicative breakdown:

In total, you can set up a complete personal training studio from about €15,000, depending on the size and level of equipment you want.

5. Legality and licenses

Don't forget to comply with local regulations. Depending on your municipality, you will need:

• Activity and opening license.
• Electrical and safety installation certificate.
• Liability insurance.
• Registration as self-employed and with the Tax Agency.

Good legal management will prevent delays and penalties. In my case, I hired a technician who handled all the paperwork while I prepared the premises.

6. Branding and local marketing

The next step was to create a solid identity: name, logo, and digital presence. My advice: don't underestimate the power of marketing. Social media, Google Maps, and an optimized website will help you fill your schedule from the first month.

• Post real workouts on social media.
• Offer free trial sessions.
• Ask your first satisfied clients for reviews.
• Use local Google Ads campaigns.

On the Fitness Tech website, you will find inspiration on how to communicate professionalism and trust, two essential values in the personal training sector.

7. Key tips for personal trainers who want to start a business

• Don't start too big: a small, well-optimized space can be more profitable.
• Invest in quality equipment: your clients will notice it in safety and performance.
• Differentiated by your methodology: create a unique experience that justifies your price.
• Control fixed expenses: avoid excessive debt in the first months.
• Keep yourself constantly updated: training, nutrition, and new trends.

Conclusion

Becoming the owner of a gym for personal trainers is a bold step, but very rewarding. With vision, planning, and the right tools, you can build a profitable and motivating space for both you and your clients.

At Fitness Tech we support professionals like you throughout the entire process: from choosing the equipment to the complete design of the studio. Discover our packs of multi-stations, racks, and professional floors to bring your own personal training studio to life.