Planet Fitness
Financial Plan
Liquid capital
The amount you need to secure the necessary loans.
Total investment
Total Investment to launch the business, including initial fees (Not disclosed)
The Concept
Planet Fitness is one of the largest fitness franchisors in the U.S., operating under its “Judgement Free Zone” positioning. Founded in 1992, the brand focuses on affordable memberships, large gyms, cardio and strength equipment, and a welcoming environment designed to appeal to a broad range of consumers rather than traditional hardcore gym users. As of June 30, 2026, Planet Fitness had 2,930 clubs and approximately 21.5 million members across its global system. About 90% of the clubs are independently owned and operated.
The franchise model is highly scalable, but Planet Fitness has become considerably more selective about new franchise candidates. Its current application requires candidates to have prior multi-unit, customer-facing business ownership, real-estate and construction experience, strong local market knowledge and at least $33 million in non-borrowed liquid assets to be considered for up to 10 locations.
This makes Planet Fitness a very different proposition from a typical first-time franchise. The company is currently targeting experienced multi-unit operators and large investment groups, particularly for area development agreements. In August 2026, for example, Planet Fitness announced three new development agreements in Florida covering the west coast of the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
. How much does it cost to open a Planet Fitness franchise?
The current 2026 FDD estimates the initial investment at approximately $1.28 million to $5.39 million. The standard initial franchise fee is $40,000, while the remainder of the investment consists primarily of real estate, construction, equipment and other startup costs.
However, the financial requirement goes far beyond the cost of a single club. Planet Fitness’ current franchise application requires $33 million in non-borrowed liquid assets for candidates seeking consideration for up to 10 locations.
What financial requirements does Planet Fitness have?
Planet Fitness currently requires $33 million in non-borrowed liquid assets for candidates being considered for up to 10 locations. It also requires prior or current ownership of a multi-unit brick-and-mortar customer-facing business, plus real-estate and construction experience in a franchise environment.
This makes Planet Fitness primarily an opportunity for experienced multi-unit operators, franchise groups and well-capitalized investors, rather than first-time franchisees.
What are Planet Fitness' royalty and advertising fees?
What are Planet Fitness’ royalty and advertising fees?
The current royalty is 7% of gross monthly and annual membership fees. The National Advertising Fund contribution increased from 2% to 3% in 2026, while franchisees are also required to spend 7% on local advertising.
The exact financial impact depends on the franchise agreement and the revenue base to which each fee applies. Prospective franchisees should therefore review the current FDD rather than simply treating the percentages as one combined fee.
How much revenue does a Planet Fitness franchise generate?
Planet Fitness’ 2026 FDD reports median annual EFT membership revenue of approximately $1.863 million for qualifying clubs. This is a membership-revenue metric and should not be confused with franchisee profit.
The company’s broader system continues to expand: Planet Fitness had 2,930 clubs and approximately 21.5 million members at June 30, 2026, and expects to open approximately 180–190 new clubs during 2026.
Is Planet Fitness suitable for first-time franchisees?
Is Planet Fitness suitable for first-time franchisees?
No, not under the current franchise qualification criteria. Planet Fitness requires new candidates to have multi-unit business ownership experience, real-estate and construction experience and substantial available capital.
The current qualification threshold is $33 million in non-borrowed liquid assets for consideration of up to 10 locations. The brand is therefore best suited to established multi-unit operators and investment groups capable of developing multiple large-format gyms.
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