1851 Franchise

LAST UPDATED: August 2026 FRANCHISE WEBSITE: NUMBER OF LOCATIONS: 2,700+ REPORTED COST TO GET IN: $1,282,500 - $5,386,000 REPORTED ROI (Item 19): $2,705,811 (average EFT revenue for the top third of franchised locations in 2025)

Planet Fitness started as a small gym in 1992 and has since become a major name in fitness, with more than 2,700 locations worldwide. Known for its low prices and laid-back atmosphere, the brand attracts members who might feel out of place at a traditional gym. For franchisees, it offers a proven concept that’s easy to replicate and backed by nationwide brand recognition.

Planet Fitness started in 1992 in Dover, New Hampshire, when brothers Michael and Marc Grondahl acquired a struggling gym. They introduced low pricing and a welcoming environment to attract casual gym-goers. Chris Rondeau , a longtime employee, later became CEO and helped lead the brand’s national expansion. In 2024, Colleen Keating stepped in as CEO.

Mission: To provide a high-quality fitness experience in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment.

Brand mission

Vision: To become the most inclusive health club in the world, where anyone can feel comfortable working out, regardless of their fitness level.

• Planet Fitness offers a welcoming, non-intimidating environment built around its “Judgement Free Zone.”

• The gym appeals to first-time members who want a comfortable place to start their fitness journey.

• Memberships are affordable, making it easy for customers to stick with a routine.

• Facilities are consistently clean and well-maintained for a reliable experience.

• The brand creates an inclusive community where people of all fitness levels feel supported.

• Planet Fitness provides a proven, decades-refined playbook for franchisees.

• The brand offers hands-on support from site selection through grand opening.

• Franchisees receive marketing guidance to build awareness and drive early membership growth.

• Operational support helps ensure each gym launches smoothly and stays on track.

Initial costs

Initial Costs: The estimated initial investment required to begin operation of a Planet Fitness franchise ranges from $1,282,500 to $5,386,000. The 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document breaks these costs down as follows:

Initial Franchise Fee: Franchisees will pay a lump-sum nonrefundable initial franchise fee of $40,000 when they sign the franchise agreement.

Ongoing Fees: According to the 2026 FDD, Planet Fitness franchisees are responsible for the following ongoing payments and fees:

ROI Potential: According to the 2026 FDD, the 2,291 franchised clubs operating for the entirety of 2025 reported the following EFT revenue:

Planet Fitness supports its franchisees every step of the way, from real estate selection to ongoing operations. New franchisees begin with training at the company’s corporate office. This includes classroom instruction and hands-on practice. Franchisees also gain access to the brand’s online learning platform.

Operational support includes help with site selection, build-out coordination, vendor relationships and staff training. Once open, franchisees receive guidance on running efficient operations and growing their membership base through national and local marketing programs.

Planet Fitness also equips its franchisees with technology to manage member data, track performance and streamline operations. The company’s proprietary systems handle billing, reporting and promotions, helping franchisees stay on top of performance.

• Liquid Assets: $1,500,000

While prior experience in fitness or franchising is helpful, it isn’t required. What matters most is operational readiness and a commitment to the brand’s values.

This is not a semi-absentee or absentee model. Planet Fitness expects owners to be directly involved or to hire qualified managers who uphold its standards and culture.

Planet Fitness doesn’t offer direct or indirect financing for franchisees.

Market trends

The U.S. fitness market was valued at over $90 billion in 2025 . More than 60 million Americans now hold gym memberships, and trends show growing interest in health and wellness, particularly among younger demographics and retirees.

Planet Fitness competes primarily with other low-cost gym chains, including Anytime Fitness , Crunch and EOS Fitness. What helps Planet Fitness stand apart is its national scale, brand consistency and clear niche: a welcoming space for people who don’t typically feel comfortable in traditional gyms.

• Submit Inquiry: Fill out the franchise interest form on the Planet Fitness franchise website.

• Application Review: The corporate team reviews your application and qualifications.

• Receive FDD: If approved, you'll receive the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) for review.

• Background Check: Complete a financial and background screening.

• Discovery Day: If you meet the qualifications, you'll be invited to visit Planet Fitness headquarters, meet the team and tour existing locations.

• Franchise Agreement: Once approved, you’ll sign the franchise agreement and pay the initial franchise fee.

• Real Estate and Development: Begin the site selection, construction and pre-opening process with corporate support.

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