Any Time Fitness Franchise USA: Your Ultimate Guide to Opportunities, Costs & Success in 2025

2. What Makes Any Time Fitness Stand Out in the Crowded Gym Market?
3. The History of Any Time Fitness: From One Gym to Global Brand
4. Franchise Overview: Is Any Time Fitness the Right Fit for You?
5. Top Benefits of Owning an Any Time Fitness Franchise in the USA
6. How Much Does It Cost to Start an Anytime Fitness Franchise in 2025?
7. Breaking Down the Franchise Fees & Royalties You Should Expect
8. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for an Any Time Fitness Franchise
9. Franchise Support: What Kind of Help Will You Get from Headquarters?
10. Real Franchisee Stories: What Owners Are Saying in 2025
11. Location, Location, Location: Where to Open for Maximum Profit
12. Revenue Potential: How Much Can You Really Earn in the First Year?
13. Hidden Costs You Should Know Before You Invest
14. Marketing Tools & Brand Power: How the Franchise Helps You Grow
15. Fitness Trends in the USA: Why Now Is the Best Time to Invest
16. Comparing Any Time Fitness to Other Gym Franchises: Who Wins?
17. Mistakes First-Time Franchisees Make (and How to Avoid Them)
18. How Technology Powers the Any Time Fitness Franchise Model
19. Is It Semi-Passive? Managing the Business While Working a Job
20. Your 2025 Success Plan: Turning an Any Time Fitness Franchise Into a Thriving Business
1. Why Any Time Fitness Is Booming in the USA: A Franchisee's Dream?
A Trusted Name with 24/7 Value and Flexibility
In the US, exercise in Any Field is one of the best and fastest-growing exercise facilities. This fitness company, which has more than 5,000 facilities worldwide and a significant presence in the US, provides what contemporary Americans require: accessibility, ease of use, and tangible outcomes.
Its 24-hour access strategy, which accommodates both early risers and night owls, is what makes it unique. Members are not subject to the typical gym limits and can work out anytime they choose. This creates a high retention rate and maintains members' attention.
From the standpoint of a franchisee, the company is semi-passive and system-driven. The business offers a wide range of support, effective marketing resources, and low staffing requirements. Both full-time business owners and investors seeking a profitable side project will find it suitable.
📊 Figure: Growth of Anytime Fitness Locations in the USA by Year
The quantity of places
2015
More than 2,000
2020
3,500+
2023
4,500+
2025, roughly
5,200+
2. What Makes Any Time Fitness Stand Out in the Crowded Gym Market?

A Distinct Method of Exercise That Encourages Returning Members
By concentrating on three key pillars—innovation, community, and convenience—Anytime Fitness has established a solid name in the cutthroat fitness sector. Unlike traditional gyms, it gives members the flexibility of 24/7 access, personalized fitness coaching, and global club access—all under a single membership.
Its operational model is one of its main sets of distinctions. With smaller footprints of about 3,000–5,000 sq. ft., Anytime Fitness clubs provide a complete gym experience while keeping overhead costs low. This makes them easier and more affordable to operate compared to larger, traditional gyms.
At its heart, Anytime Fitness fosters a welcoming environment where members of all fitness levels feel supported and encouraged. For franchisees, the business model offers strong brand recognition, recurring revenue, and scalable growth potential. It’s a formula that has consistently allowed the company to outpace its rivals across the U.S.
📊 Comparison of Gym Franchises (2025)
Feature: Anytime | e Fitness | t, Fitness Crunch, LA | LA Fitness | |
---|---|---|---|---|
24/7 Access | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Global Access w/ Membership | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Franchise Investment (Avg.) | $150K – $700K | $1M+ | $300K+ | $2M+ |
Staff Required | Low | Medium | Medium | High |
Club Size | Small–Medium | Large | Medium | Large |
Personalized Coaching | ✅ Included | ❌ Extra | ✅ Some | ✅ Some |
3. The History of Any Time Fitness: From One Gym to Global Brand
An Adventure Driven by Ingenuity, Vision, and Member-Centric Principles
In 2002, Chuck Runyon, Dave Mortensen, and Jeff Klinger established Anytime Fitness in Cambridge, Minnesota, with the simple yet powerful notion of creating a club that accommodates people's lives instead of forcing people to fit into the gym’s schedule. Their solution was a 24/7 fitness model, eliminating time as a barrier to health.
By 2005, the first franchises were opening across the U.S., and by 2010, Anytime Fitness had gone international, expanding into Canada and Australia. It was impossible to resist the appeal of price, accessibility, and ease.
Fast forward to 2025, and the brand operates over 5,200 clubs in more than 30 countries. Alongside its rapid expansion, the mission has evolved to embrace personal coaching, digital health tools, and community-driven fitness. With features like mobile app tracking, virtual workouts, and tailored support, Anytime Fitness today is far more than a gym—it’s a complete lifestyle solution.
📈 Timeline of Major Milestones
Year | Milestone |
---|---|
2002 | The first club opened in Cambridge, Minnesota |
2005 | Franchise model launched |
2010 | Expanded to Canada and Australia |
2015 | Surpassed 3,000 locations worldwide |
2020 | Introduced digital fitness and mobile coaching |
2025 | Operates 5,200+ clubs globally |
4. Franchise Overview: Is Any Time Fitness the Right Fit for You?

What to Know Before Becoming a Franchise Owner
Starting an Anytime Fitness franchise means becoming part of a trusted global fitness brand — but it’s not the same fit for everyone. Understanding how the model works, what’s expected, and what day-to-day operations look like will help you decide if this path is right for you.
The business strategy used by Anytime Fitness is semi-passive. That means you don’t need to be in the gym every day. Many franchisees hire a manager or a small team to handle daily tasks. This makes the franchise appealing to investors, fitness lovers, and professionals who want to build an income stream without being tied to a full-time schedule.
Flexibility is another factor; a large property is not necessary to begin. The major advantage. With clubs ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 sq. ft., you don't need a big property to begin with, only a little area. On top of that, corporate support is strong — covering site selection, training, marketing, and member management systems.
Who is this best for? Anyone passionate about health and wellness, who wants a steady long-term income, and who’s interested in joining a growing industry that helps people live healthier lives.
📊 Is This Franchise Right for You?
Factor | Ideal For |
---|---|
Time Commitment | Part-time or full-time investors |
Fitness Background | Not required (but helpful) |
Budget Needed | $150K – $700K |
Ownership Style | Hands-on or semi-passive |
Goal | Community impact + recurring revenue |
5. Top Benefits of Owning an Any Time Fitness Franchise in the USA
Principal Benefits of Anytime Fitness Franchise Ownership in the United States.
Owning an Anytime Fitness franchise isn’t just about opening a gym — it’s about building a purpose-driven business with lasting value. Whether you want semi-passive income or a full-time operation, this model offers unique advantages that many other franchises can’t match.
One of the biggest benefits is recurring revenue. With a subscription-based model, members pay automatically each month, creating a predictable and scalable income.
Another major perk is the 24/7 access model, which allows you to keep staffing needs low. Many locations run smoothly with just one to three employees, keeping overhead manageable and operations streamlined.
Franchisees also gain exclusive territories, access to a global brand, ongoing training, national marketing campaigns, and technology-driven member experiences — including mobile coaching and secure real-time club entry.
In short, Anytime Fitness combines financial opportunity with meaningful impact — all backed by a brand that has over 20 years of success in the fitness industry.
✅ Key Benefits of Anytime Fitness Ownership
Benefit | Why It Matters |
---|---|
Recurring Revenue | Reliable, subscription-based income |
Low Staffing | Fewer HR challenges and lower overhead |
24/7 Access | Convenience for members, better retention |
Semi-Passive Model | Flexible for entrepreneurs and investors |
Global Brand Recognition | Easier marketing, faster trust locally |
Comprehensive Support | Guidance with operations and growth |
6. How Much Does It Cost to Start an Anytime Fitness Franchise in 2025?

Comprehending Startup Fees, Expenses, and Requirements
Starting an Any Time Fitness franchise in 2025 is more affordable compared
to many traditional gyms, making it attractive to both new entrepreneurs and
experienced investors.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
· Franchise
Fee: $42,500 (one-time)
·
·
· Marketing
& Branding: $15,000 – $25,000 (includes grand opening)
·
Depending on location, leasing rates, gym size, and owner involvement, the overall cost for an Anytime Fitness franchise can range from $150,000 to $700,000.
The good news? Through flexible equipment leasing programs, fitness-specific financing alternatives, or SBA-backed loans, many new franchisees may defray these initial expenses. Additionally, the franchisor helps with budgeting and planning.
📊 Table: Estimated Startup Costs (2025)
Expense
Category |
Estimated Cost
Range |
Franchise Fee |
$42,500 |
Build-Out & Renovation |
$100,000 – $250,000 |
Equipment |
$75,000 – $150,000 |
Branding & Marketing |
$15,000 – $25,000 |
Working Capital |
$25,000 – $50,000 |
Total Investment |
$150,000 – $700,000 |
7. Breaking Down the Franchise Fees & Royalties You Should Expect
What You’ll Pay as a Franchisee — And What You Get in Return
When you join the Any Time Fitness franchise network, you’re not just buying
equipment and signage — you’re buying into a system of support,
branding, tools, and proven success. But like any franchise,
there are ongoing fees you need to
budget for in 2025.
Here’s what to expect:
· Franchise
Fee: A one-time $42,500
payment when you first sign your agreement.
· Royalty
Fee: An ongoing $549/month,
regardless of how much revenue you make. This fixed fee model makes budgeting
easier.
· National
Advertising Fund: A monthly marketing fee
of $300–$600, which supports national ad campaigns, digital
tools, and brand development.
Unlike many franchises that charge a percentage of your gross revenue, Any Time Fitness uses a flat-rate model, which is rare and highly beneficial. This means as your revenue grows, your royalty fees stay the same — helping you increase profit margins over time.
📊 Table: Monthly Fee Breakdown (2025)
Fee Type |
Cost (Per
Month) |
Purpose |
Royalty Fee |
$549 |
Brand access & franchise support |
Advertising Fee |
$300 – $600 |
National & local marketing efforts |
Technology Fee |
Included in royalty |
App, CRM, & club systems |
Total Monthly Outlay |
~$849 – $1,149 |
Typical ongoing operational fees |
🧠 Quick Tip:
You’ll also receive help with member acquisition, staff training, and operational tools through these fees — so it's an investment, not just a payment.
8. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for an Any Time Fitness Franchise

🛠️ How 2025 Anytime Fitness Franchise Applications Are Processed
Starting your own Anytime Fitness club is a thorough yet simple procedure. The brand has a clear plan to get you up and running and is seeking dedicated partners who are enthusiastic about both business and fitness.
Here’s what the journey looks like in 2025:
✅ Your Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Franchisee
Step | What to Expect |
---|---|
1. Submit an Inquiry | Fill out the official interest form on the Anytime Fitness franchise website to get started. |
2. Introductory Call | A franchise representative will reach out to learn about your background, goals, and preferred location. |
3. Review the FDD | You’ll receive the Franchise Disclosure Document, which outlines all fees, obligations, and operational expectations. |
4. Background & Financial Review | The brand will evaluate your financial readiness and background to ensure a strong partnership fit. |
5. Sign the Franchise Agreement | Once approved, you'll finalize your commitment, sign the contract, and pay the franchise fee. |
6. Choose & Develop Your Site | Corporate will assist you in selecting a location, negotiating a lease, and building out the facility. |
7. Train & Launch | You’ll attend onboarding training, build your team, launch marketing efforts — and open your gym doors! 🎉 |
9. Franchise Support: What Kind of Help Will You Get from Headquarters?
You’re Never Alone — Anytime Fitness Is with You Every Step of the Way
The outstanding franchise support system at Any Time Fitness is one of the main factors influencing business owners' decisions. The corporate team helps you succeed by offering practical support from the time you sign the contract until your grand opening and beyond.
Here’s what you’ll receive:
🧩 Core Areas of Franchisee Support
Support
Category |
What You Get |
Pre-Opening Support |
Site selection, lease negotiation, gym design, build-out |
Training |
2-week onboarding program covering operations, marketing,
and member service |
Technology |
Custom CRM system, access control tech, mobile member app |
Marketing Help |
National campaigns, local strategy guides, social media
kits |
Ongoing Coaching |
Dedicated Franchise Performance Coach (FPC) for guidance |
Community Networking |
Access to other owners through the franchisee portal |
🧠 Quick Fact:
Over 90% of franchisees say that support from Anytime Fitness HQ played a major role in their long-term success.
10. Real Franchisee Stories: What Owners Are Saying in 2025

From First-Time Entrepreneurs to Multi-Unit Owners — Here’s What Success Looks Like
Speaking with franchise owners is the greatest approach to understanding their potential. Owners of Anytime Fitness locations around the United States are sharing inspiring tales of expansion, self-reliance, and influence in 2025.
For instance, in 2021, Michelle B., a former nurse from Austin, Texas, founded her first club. She desired a career that would provide her greater freedom and align with her love of health. "At first, I was anxious, but the support I got was amazing," she adds. It took my gym less than a year to turn a profit.
Then there is the Ohio couple, Tom and Rachel, who are husband and wife. "We started with just one location and now operate four," Tom explains. We were able to grow more quickly than we ever anticipated, thanks to the flat-fee royalties arrangement.
🧠 Quick Insight:
87% of franchisees said they would reinvest, according to internal polls, which is a clear indication of their contentment and faith in the business concept.
11. Location, Location, Location: Where to Open for Maximum Profit
The Right Address Can Make or Break Your Gym — Here's How to Choose Wisely
When it comes to gym ownership, one thing is certain: location is just as important as business strategy. Membership growth, retention, and overall profitability may all be directly impacted by the location you choose for your Anytime Fitness franchise..
So, what makes a great location?
You can get assistance from franchise headquarters with real estate studies, including demographics, market research, lease negotiations, and club design tailored to a certain site.
📍 Top Traits of a Profitable Location
Factor |
Why It Matters |
Population Density |
More potential members within 3 miles |
Low Competition |
Increases member acquisition potential |
Easy Accessibility |
Visibility + Parking = More walk-ins |
Nearby Residential Areas |
Members like gyms close to home/work |
Community Fitness Interest |
Areas with active lifestyles perform well |
12. Revenue Potential: How Much Can You Really Earn in the First Year?

Breaking Down Realistic Income Expectations for Franchise Owners in 2025
The beauty of the model lies in the recurring monthly income. With membership rates averaging $35–$50/month and 500–800 members, you could be generating $20,000–$40,000/month in revenue.
💸 Estimated First-Year Revenue Breakdown
Revenue Source |
Monthly Average |
Annual Total |
Membership Fees |
$25,000 |
$300,000 |
Personal Training |
$3,000 |
$36,000 |
Supplements/Merchandise |
$1,000 |
$12,000 |
Estimated Total |
$29,000 |
$348,000 |
13. Hidden Costs You Should Know Before You Invest
The Expenses Most First-Time Franchisees Don’t See Coming
Let’s break them down so you’re better prepared:
⚠️ Commonly Overlooked Costs
Hidden Cost |
What It Covers |
Permit & Inspection
Fees |
Local business licensing, occupancy permits |
Utility Upgrades |
Power, HVAC, or water improvements for equipment |
Insurance Premiums |
Liability, property, and business interruption |
Maintenance & Repairs |
Wear and tear of gym equipment |
Software Subscriptions |
POS systems, analytics tools, website domains |
Staff Training &
Payroll Gaps |
Early training hours before the full club opens |
For instance, if electricity capacity is insufficient to fulfill gym demands, utility renovations in older retail locations might cost up to $10,000. The cost of repairs and preventative maintenance, such as AC units or treadmill belts, can range from $300 to $2,000 every year.
These aren't essential, but they are crucial for cash flow planning. Astute franchisees set aside money in their working capital to cover unforeseen expenses.
14. Marketing Tools & Brand Power: How the Franchise Helps You Grow

You’re Not Just Selling a Gym — You’re Selling a Globally Recognized Brand
The inherent marketing potential of the Any Time Fitness brand is one of the main benefits of purchasing a franchise. You're debuting with a marketing staff, digital tools, and nationwide visibility rather than beginning from zero.
Anytime Fitness's corporate-level advertising is what really makes the company stand out. To keep the brand in front of millions of potential members, they undertake national advertising campaigns on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google, and TV. That traffic helps your club without costing you more.
🧰 Table: Franchise Marketing Toolkit
Tool/Service |
What It Does |
Grand Opening Kit |
Launch strategy + physical/digital materials |
Social Media Templates |
Ready-to-use branded posts and stories |
CRM & Email Marketing |
Manage member engagement and outreach |
National Ad Fund Campaigns |
TV, YouTube, & digital ads for brand awareness |
Local SEO Optimization |
Help with Google Maps, reviews, and keywords |
15. Fitness Trends in the USA: Why Now Is the Best Time to Invest
The Fitness Franchise Sector Is Being Driven by the 2025 Wellness Boom
Are you considering starting a franchise at Anytime Fitness? You're becoming a part of a rapidly expanding trend. Due to changes in lifestyle, digital involvement, and a national emphasis on preventative health, the fitness industry in the United States is stronger than ever in 2025.
The main trends influencing the sector are shown below, along with the reasons why now is a great time to invest:
Nowadays, maintaining good health is viewed as a lifestyle need rather than a luxury. Green smoothies and working out at the gym are becoming more popular than going to the movies or shopping.
As more Americans realize how convenient regular access is, the number of fitness memberships is rising.
Virtual coaching and smartphone applications are examples of fitness technology that are becoming necessary rather than elective, and Anytime Fitness is satisfying this need.
Leading the way in hybrid fitness programs, Anytime Fitness skillfully combines online and in-person instruction to provide the most flexibility.
📊 Table: Top U.S. Fitness Trends in 2025
Trend |
Why It Matters
for Franchisees |
24/7 Access Demand |
More value = better retention & acquisition |
Wearable Fitness Tech |
Supports app-based coaching & engagement |
Mental Wellness Focus |
Gyms are seen as holistic health centers |
Corporate Wellness Deals |
Opportunity for bulk membership contracts |
Boutique Fitness Growth |
Smaller gyms like AF outperform big-box gyms |
16. Comparing Any Time Fitness to Other Gym Franchises: Who Wins?

Crunch, Planet Fitness, and LA Fitness against Anytime Fitness
You've undoubtedly researched the leading gym franchises if you're thinking about getting one. How do Crunch, Planet Fitness, and LA Fitness stack up against Anytime Fitness in 2025?
The response is that Anytime Fitness is very good at being flexible, scalable, and supported. With a fixed monthly royalty, less space requirements, and a reduced upfront investment, this franchisee-friendly model is well-known for making it simpler to start and expand a profitable fitness company.
Unlike other rivals who only concentrate on extremely low membership rates or expansive gym facilities, Anytime Fitness seeks a balance between affordability for members and simplicity of management for owners. Additionally, franchisees have benefits that many other businesses do not, such as semi-passive ownership, great worldwide brand awareness, and 24/7 gym access.
🥊 Table: Franchise Showdown – 2025
Feature |
Any Time Fitness |
Planet Fitness |
Crunch |
LA Fitness |
Startup Cost |
$150K – $700K |
$1M+ |
$300K+ |
$2M+ |
Franchise Fee |
$42,500 |
$20,000 |
$25,000 |
$40,000+ |
Royalty Fee Type |
Flat: $549/mo |
% of revenue |
% of revenue |
% of revenue |
24/7 Member Access |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
Space Required |
3,000–5,000 sq. ft. |
20,000+ sq. ft. |
Medium |
Very Large |
Semi-Passive Ownership |
✅ Yes |
❌ Limited |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
Global Club Access |
✅ Yes |
❌ No |
❌ No |
❌ No |
17. Mistakes First-Time Franchisees Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Smart Moves That Separate Successful Gym Owners from Struggling Ones
It is thrilling to launch a franchise for Any Time Fitness, but opening your doors is not enough to ensure success. Numerous novice franchisees commit preventable errors that can harm long-term viability, growth, and revenue.
The following are the most frequent errors made by new franchisees, along with advice on how to avoid them right away :
Common Mistakes + Pro Solutions
Mistake |
How to Avoid It |
Choosing the Wrong Location |
Use the franchise’s real estate support & data |
Underestimating Operating
Capital |
Budget 3–6 months of working capital in advance |
Hiring Too Late or Too Fast |
Take time to train and hire motivated staff |
Neglecting Local Marketing |
Pair national ads with local community outreach |
Micromanaging or Being
Hands-Off |
Balance your involvement — be strategic, not absent |
Ignoring Member Feedback |
Use feedback tools and surveys to improve early |
Franchisees who treat the club like a business, lean into the support system, and focus on community-building tend to see faster and more sustainable success.
18. How Technology Powers the Any Time Fitness Franchise Model

Smart Tools That Make Owning a Gym Easier, Smoother, and More Profitable
Any Time workout is a tech-enabled workout experience rather than just a gym. By 2025, franchise owners will have access to a number of intelligent technologies that will improve member engagement, expedite operations, and save them a significant amount of time.
The brand’s tech infrastructure includes:
· 24/7 Digital Access System: No personnel are required; members may access the gym using a secure key fob or smartphone app.
· Club OS CRM: Utilize a single dashboard to manage leads, memberships, communications, and analytics.
· AF App: Members receive virtual fitness routines, workout monitoring, and individualized coaching, which helps with retention.
· Security & Surveillance Tools: Without constant supervision, safety is improved with smart cameras and emergency monitoring.
· Integrated Payment & Billing: This system manages point-of-sale, reporting, and recurring dues automatically.
All this tech adds up to less manual work and more consistent service — ideal for semi-passive ownership.
🧰 Table: Key Tech Tools & Benefits
Tool |
Function &
Benefit |
Anytime Fitness App |
Tracks workouts, books sessions, and offers coaching |
24/7 Access System |
Reduces staffing needs, improves convenience |
Club OS CRM Platform |
Manages leads, sales, and retention |
Smart Surveillance & Alerts |
Keeps the club secure around the clock |
Auto-Pay Billing Integration |
Simplifies revenue tracking and member billing |
19. Is It Semi-Passive? Managing the Business While Working a Job
Yes — You Can Own a Gym Without Quitting Your 9-to-5 (If You Do It Right)
In the meantime, you may use technologies like Club OS, surveillance applications, sales dashboards, and performance reports to keep an eye on the company from a distance.
🔑 Keys to a Successful Semi-Passive Model
Key Element |
Description |
Hire the Right Manager |
Someone with gym, retail, or leadership experience |
Use the Technology |
Automate billing, access, and CRM communications |
Check-In Weekly |
Use reports to track revenue, members, and feedback |
Stay Involved Strategically |
Attend milestone events, marketing pushes, and renewals |
20. Your 2025 Success Plan: Turning an Any Time Fitness Franchise Into a Thriving Business
From Strategy to Revenue: Your Handbook for Successful Fitness Franchises"
This is a seven-step plan to help you realize your vision:
🚀 7-Step Franchise Success Plan
Step |
Action |
Description |
1 |
Research & Compare |
Learn what makes Anytime Fitness stand out |
2 |
Apply & Interview |
Submit a franchise inquiry and meet the team |
3 |
Secure Financing |
Use savings, SBA loans, or investor capital |
4 |
Choose a Winning Location |
Leverage real estate experts from AF’s team |
5 |
Complete Training |
Get coached on operations, hiring, and marketing |
6 |
Open with a Bang |
Launch with a strong grand opening strategy |
7 |
Manage, Scale, Repeat |
Grow your membership and consider more clubs |
When you follow this plan — backed by Anytime Fitness’s support — you’re not just opening a gym. You’re creating a community, generating passive income, and building a business that aligns with America’s unstoppable fitness wave.
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