How to Build a Commercial Gym That Attracts & Retains Members

Updated On 29 March 2025.

1 in every 5 Americans owns a gym membership, which is 20% of the total United States population, the highest of any country. By state, California has the most health and fitness gyms (9,787) in the United States. Without question, the present time is favorable for building commercial gyms but also implies entrepreneurs facing dense competition in this billion-dollar market.

Opening a gym business takes a lot more than just installing exercise equipment. From layout design and equipment arrangement to safety requirements and indoor environment, building a commercial gym demands consideration of several critical aspects influenced by the evolving trends of the fitness industry.

Partnering with a commercial general contractor ensures your fitness facility will be built in accordance with your business goals, staying within budget and delivering on time.

In this blog, we will explain to you how to plan and design a commercial gym facility that attracts customers and retains them. Furthermore, discover the 2025 trends in the commercial gym industry which you can embrace in your new fitness facility.

What is a Commercial Gym? 

A commercial gym is a specifically designed space where members access a variety of fitness equipment, workouts, and a trainer’s guidance in exchange for a fee.

Commercial gyms offer a wide range of fitness services, including diverse equipment, various classes, and specialized facilities to cater to different fitness needs and preferences.

Also known as public gyms, fitness centers, studios, or health clubs, commercial gyms offer monthly or yearly subscription plans to customers interested in achieving their health goals. For example, losing weight, gaining lean muscles, or undertaking cardiovascular or strength training.

Besides commercial-grade fitness equipment, some gyms provide additional amenities such as lockers, showers, sauna rooms, swimming pools, massage, and sports courts. Overall, the demand for gym businesses can be credited to the accessibility of specialized fitness facilities that the general public cannot typically access at their homes.

The United States is home to 55,000 gyms. On average, each gym generates an annual revenue of $846,827.05.

Key Differences Between Commercial Gym Vs Private Gym

Commercial gyms are different from private gyms in multiple ways.

What is a Private Gym? 

Private gyms are a tight-knit community offering personal training and direct supervision to a limited number of members and helping them reach particular results. Powerlifting and CrossFit gyms are good examples of private gyms.

What is a Commercial Gym? 

Commercial gyms, on the other hand, are most frequently found where anyone can sign up to become a member. They may be a franchise or privately owned. Some of the prominent examples are 24-hour access gyms, big box gyms, and boot camp/circuit cardio facilities. Commercial gyms cater to individuals at different stages of their fitness journey.

Here is a detailed overview of the key differences between a private gym vs. commercial gym:

Cost of Membership Fees 

Private Gym: Private gyms, or training studios, typically charge higher membership fees due to personal training services and limited members. They focus on individual attention and customized workout plans, which contribute to higher costs. 

Some of the world’s most expensive private gym memberships include EXOS in Phoenix, Arizona, costing $30,000 per year and E by Equinox, in Madison Avenue, New York City, at a $26,000 membership fee annually.

Commercial Gyms: Commercial gyms offer various pricing tiers based on usage and membership plans. They are generally more affordable than private gyms as they accommodate a larger number of members, spreading the operational costs. 

After analyzing the prices of 16 popular U.S. gym chains, research by RunRepeat found that the average monthly cost of a gym membership was $37.71, with prices ranging from $31.00 for lower-tier memberships to $44.42 for higher-tier ones.

Commercial Gym Equipment and Amenities

Private Gym: Home gyms or private gyms offer a limited range of high-quality equipment. Members benefit from reserved access, ensuring no waiting times. Amenities are usually basic, focusing on specialized facilities like martial arts, dance, yoga, Pilates, or other personal training exercises.

Commercial Gym: Commercial gyms boast a wide array of equipment, including weight machines, treadmills, free weights, and group fitness classes. They provide a wide range of amenities, such as swimming pools, sauna rooms, showers, locker rooms, and even childcare services. However, during peak hours, gym members may face waiting times for equipment.

Environment and Community

Private Gym: Private gyms offer a more intimate and supportive environment with smaller groups of like-minded individuals. This fosters a sense of community, reducing intimidation, especially for beginners. 

Commercial Gyms: Commercial gyms provide a vibrant, high-energy atmosphere with a diverse clientele. While motivating, this environment can feel overwhelming for beginners due to the busy and crowded nature of the space.

Accessibility and Convenience

Private Gym: Private gyms are less accessible due to their exclusivity and higher costs. They often have limited memberships to ensure personalized service and a focused training environment. 

Commercial Gym: Most commercial gyms are accessible, often operating 24/7 to accommodate various schedules. They usually have multiple locations, making it convenient for members to find a gym nearby.

Accountability and Personal Training Services

Private Gym: Private gyms emphasize accountability with dedicated personal trainers who customize workout programs and provide continuous support. This one-on-one focus helps members stay on track with their physical fitness goals. 

Commercial Gyms: Commercial gyms offer access to a personal trainer and group fitness classes, such as yoga, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and Zumba. But these services typically come at an additional cost. The large membership base can result in less personalized attention and accountability.

Cleanliness and Hygiene Protocols 

Private Gym: With fewer members and scheduled sessions, cleaning protocols in a private gym are easier to enforce. Many private fitness clubs disinfect equipment after each use, and some even follow strict hygiene routines (hospital-grade disinfectants and HEPA air filtration systems) to ensure a cleaner and safer workout space.

Commercial Gym: Commercial gyms, due to their high foot traffic, often struggle with maintaining cleanliness. Since shared spaces are used by hundreds of members daily, it increases the risk of germ transmission. Reportedly, more than 70% of gym-goers said unclean locker rooms, showers, and workout spaces were enough of a reason to cancel their gym memberships altogether. 

Final Verdict:

Choosing a commercial or private gym depends on individual preferences, fitness journey, and lifestyle. Private gyms offer personal training sessions and experiences at a higher cost, focusing on specific fitness goals with direct supervision. Commercial gyms provide diverse equipment, extensive amenities, and greater accessibility at more affordable rates, making them suitable for a broader audience.

Since you have understood what a commercial gym is, let’s find out how to establish a thriving fitness hub with skillful planning and designing. 

Planning Your Commercial Gym: Key Considerations

1. Choosing the Right Location 

Before creating a gym business, it’s important to determine a suitable location for attracting and retaining members. Consider factors such as proximity to the target market, high visibility, ample parking, and transport access when selecting your gym’s location. 

Research a location where there’s a large concentration of your target demographics. Evaluate the local competition and ensure your fitness facility fills the market gap and appeals to the customers. 

For example, your commercial gym would mostly attract young professionals in their twenties or thirties if located in a business district. 

2. Space Planning 

Commercial gyms should be spacious as they accommodate a diverse range of exercise equipment and cater to workout programs for numerous clients. So how much space do you require to build a commercial gym? 

Well, according to the Association of Fitness Studios, the average size for a gym space is 3,813 square feet. Experts advise planning 36 square feet per member and 45-75 square feet per equipment, so you will need at least 1,000 square feet to open a basic gym. 

Section the space into different zones, for example, cardio equipment in one area, strength training in another, and the remaining rooms for specialized fitness classes. Also, if your commercial gym is just starting, leave extra space for future expansion. 

3. Ensuring Regulatory Compliance 

Familiarizing yourself with local building regulations that differ by state or county is extremely important, as non-compliance with these guidelines may lead to fines or demolition of work. A business license would be enough to legally launch a commercial gym. 

Commercial gyms are subject to various regulations, including building codes, zoning requirements, health and safety standards, and ADA standards. However, for additional services including childcare, food and drinks, spa treatments, professional dieticians, or pool/showers, you will need to comply with special permitting requirements. 

The commercial construction company you will be hiring will work closely with relevant authorities to obtain necessary permits for your gym building and see if it meets all regulatory compliances. 

4. Buying the Right Gym Equipment 

Choose the right type of gym equipment based on your target audience, the services you choose to offer, and the overall theme of the facility. If you are in a traditional fitness gym, go for treadmills, dumbbells, stability balls, and step platforms. For a Pilates studio, Pilates reformer machines and non-slip mats will be more suitable. 

Selection and purchase of fitness equipment require extensive supplier research, product comparison, and timely order placement for gym construction. Remember always to prioritize quality and durability to reduce maintenance and replacement costs in the long run. Are they safe for users? Will staff members be able to use them properly? Ascertain the functionality of each piece. 

The following are the top fitness equipment to purchase for a traditional gym arrangement: 

• Free weights (dumbbells, barbells, or kettlebells) 
• Cardio machines (treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes)
• Strength training equipment (leg press, bench press) 
• Rowing machines 
• Smith machines 
• Battle ropes
• Power racks and squat racks 
• Suspension trainers 
• Gym accessories (resistance bands, stability balls, mats, etc.) 

The cardio equipment market (expanding at a CAGR of 4.7%) including machines such as treadmills, ellipticals, and recumbent bikes, is estimated to grow to $9.46 billion by 2030. 

Have a balanced mix of everything that can cater to varying fitness needs. While buying new equipment may come with the latest features and warranties, it could add up to your upfront costs. Instead, consider leasing or buying used commercial gym equipment from reliable sellers. 

Designing a Functional and Inspiring Gym

1. Creating a Functional Gym Layout  

Best commercial gyms are known for not necessarily owning the most numbers of square feet, but for effectively utilizing their available space. When designing the layout of a commercial gym, prioritize functionality over aesthetics. 

Zoning Gym Areas

You can arrange the equipment into different zones like:

• Cardio machines 
• Weightlifting 
• Functional training
• Stretching and flexibility
• Circuit training zone 
• Cable machines
• Group fitness studio
• Boxing area 
• Personal training area 

Use visual cues like floor markings, signage, varied textures, and lighting to clearly separate exercise zones while maintaining the theme. 

Allocate Space Smartly

Efficient use of space is crucial. As a general guide:

• 30% for strength training
• 15% for functional training
• 10–15% for amenities like lockers and lounges

Space equipment 3–5 feet apart for comfort and movement, and include 1-meter safety zones behind treadmills. Ensure there’s sufficient clearance around free weights and multi-use machines. Keep pathways wide and unobstructed, especially around high-traffic zones like cardio areas, entrances, or restrooms.

To reduce bottlenecks, place popular machines and stations closer to the entrance.

Traffic Flow and Organization 

Make sure there’s enough space for equipment use without overcrowding and allow for easy movement. Ideally, traffic management in a gym setup must be according to the users’ fitness routine. One may warm up in the cardio zone, heading over to free weights and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) as major chunks of their workout, and finish their day in the stretching area. 

Another expert way to maximize floor space is using vertical storage solutions to efficiently organize your commercial fitness equipment and reduce trip hazards. Design sufficient space for bathrooms, showers, lockers, and changing rooms. Install mirrors for form checks. 

Leverage 3D gym design software for better visualization and test configurations, adjust flow, and fine-tune equipment placements before launch. All in all, users’ comfort and functionality should be on top of your mind when planning a commercial gym layout. 

2. Selection of Flooring 

The ideal gym flooring must be durable, slip-resistant, and able to absorb the impact of various workouts. Different gym areas may require different flooring types. For example, anti-bacterial flooring with fall cushioning qualities is compatible with yoga, Pilates, and aerobics studios. While heavy duty free weight flooring can absorb the impact of dumbbells in the weight training area. 

Buy high-quality flooring from a reputable company as a long-term investment. The cost of flooring will vary depending on your specifications; if the gym facility calls for soundproofing or insulation, it will lead to higher material expenses.

Flooring options range from rubber, hardwood, and foam to grass turf and luxury vinyl. According to Flooring Inc, rubber flooring with ⅜” thickness and gym turf of ¾” thickness are the best options for a commercial gym setup. The selected commercial gym flooring should also enhance your gym interiors. 

3. Considering HVAC Needs 

One of the essential aspects to consider while designing a commercial gym is the HVAC (heating, cooling, and air conditioning) system which helps create a suitable atmosphere for gym-goers to exercise. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends temperatures between 68 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit, alongside proper humidity and air circulation in general. 

Commercial contractors should strategically position high-capacity vents and air ducts in populated areas of the gym, nearby exercise equipment, and changing rooms and restrooms without hindering the flow of people. This results in heat dispersion throughout the facility and prevents any odor from spreading. 

Using programmable thermostats, you can tailor temperature settings for different workout zones.  

4. Lighting and Energy Systems 

Good illumination besides enhancing the overall appearance of commercial gyms, creates the best possible results for user safety and performance. Multifunction commercial gyms require specific lighting considerations for each zone; for example, brighter lights for functional training areas while adjustable dimming controls are ideal for wellness zones (yoga, meditation). 

Mindful of the rising awareness of sustainability and energy efficiency, gym owners should consider installing solar panels, LED lighting, and low-flow water fixtures. Building contractors can use environmentally friendly materials during gym construction. It will help reduce the facility’s carbon footprint and energy costs in the long run. 

Also, check if there are adequate power outlets with the correct equipment voltage distributed throughout the space. 

5. Providing Storage Solutions 

Storage is a vital component in commercial gym planning and designing as it protects equipment from damage, keeps everything organized, and helps maximize the available space. Install wall-mounted shelves for storing fitness equipment like dumbbells, kettlebells, and medicine balls. 

Provide individual lockers for gym members so that they can securely store their belongings. Utilize vertical storage solutions with hooks to hang exercise ropes, resistance bands, or other accessories, optimizing floor space. 

Apart from these, equipment racks and shoe racks are useful storage solutions to keep stuff arranged. If possible, choose modular storage systems as they offer flexibility to adapt to users’ evolving needs. 

6. Paying Attention to Safety Considerations 

Like any other commercial building, safety is foremost in gym design. Paying attention to safety considerations not only makes your gym code-compliant but also increases users’ confidence in the facility. This means –

• Maintaining barrier-free walkways 
• Putting clear signage and instructions for emergency exits, fire suppression systems, and equipment use 
• Installing slip-resistant flooring 
• Avoiding malfunctions by conducting timely inspections of exercise equipment 
• Designing a layout that allows the correct spacing between gym machines to prevent accidents
• Ensuring staff members have First Aid and CPR certifications 
• Implementing anti-theft features like CCTV cameras and security access control 

Additionally, it’s wise to own property insurance, general liability insurance, and workers’ compensation for protection against legal repercussions in case of injuries or mishaps. 

Gym owners can further guarantee the safety of their facilities by complying with local, state, and federal regulations. 

7. Inspiring Aesthetics for Fitness Motivation 

Visual elements play an instrumental role in giving serious fitness motivation to gym-goers. While designing the aesthetics of commercial gyms, ensure the design reinforces the brand and its values to resonate strongly with the clientele.

Welcome natural light as much as possible by placing large or full-length windows. Especially in smaller rooms, use light or neutral colors for a spacious look. To communicate your brand identity more directly, consider incorporating eye-catching artwork, branding elements, brand colors, or graphic designs as focal points. 

Plan a dependable acoustic system, including sound-absorbing materials, wall and flooring treatments for reducing noise transfer between different gym zones. This will create a more focused atmosphere for members to reach their personal fitness goals. Install floor-to-ceiling mirrors so that fitness enthusiasts can check their form when exercising. 

Greenery is a great mood booster. Add plants here and there to freshen up the space and color the environment. 

Brainstorm ideas with your commercial general contractor and interior designer to implement these design strategies successfully. 

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Commercial Gym?

Gym owners must identify potential costs and plan a comprehensive budget so that they can make informed decisions and sustainably operate their fitness facilities. Startup costs to build a commercial gym vary depending on the square footage, type of gym and its location. 

For example, a basic studio gym could cost $65,000, a mid-size gym needs a minimum of $115,000, while a big-box gym may cost a whopping $1,000,000 with all amenities. 

• Upfront Investment: Building most commercial gyms involves significant upfront and ongoing investments, typically starting from $50,000 and potentially exceeding $100,000.
• Buying a Physical Location: Securing a physical location is a major expense, with costs for purchasing beginning at $50,000 and monthly rent ranging between $7,500 and $12,000. 
• Trainer Certification: Trainer certifications are another essential cost, averaging $500 to $800 per certification.
• Gym Equipment: Investing in gym equipment is critical, with expenses ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the quality and quantity needed.
• Renovation/Build-Out Costs: Renovation and setup, or build-out costs, can range from $60 to $300 per square foot, depending on the extent of the modifications. 
• Hiring Staff: Hiring employees and professional trainers also adds to the expenses, typically costing between $50,000 and $100,000. 
• Permits and Licensing: Legal fees for permits and licenses can range from $750 to $9,000, ensuring the business complies with all regulations. 
• Annual Insurance: Insurance, crucial for protecting the commercial gym business, costs about $12,000 annually.
• Gym Management Software: Another budget consideration is gym management software, costing $50 to $200 per month which helps to manage daily operations in an efficient manner. 
• Marketing Expenses: Initial marketing efforts, both online and offline, will require around $5,000 to attract members. Beyond these core costs, consider additional expenses such as creating a responsive website, which can range from $200 to $10,000. 
• Operating and Maintenance Costs: Monthly operating costs start at a minimum of $1,000, with additional building maintenance expenses between $1,000 and $2,000. It is advisable to maintain a cash buffer for at least three to six months of operating expenses to handle unforeseen financial issues. 
• Contingency Fund: Remember, it’s important to set aside 10% of the total budget for unexpected expenses.

Small business owners can secure financing for their venture through a business loan. Visit the US Small Business Administration website for information about tailoring business plans before applying for loans to a bank or private lender. 

Hence, proper planning and budgeting for these expenses are crucial to successfully launching and sustaining a commercial gym.

2025 Trends in Commercial Gym Design and Construction in the Fitness Industry

Incorporating modern design trends into gym layouts can amp up the fitness journey and attract new clients. Here are the top trends shaping contemporary gym design in 2025:

1. Open Floor Plans: An increasing number of gym owners are designing open layouts for their commercial gyms. Open layouts foster a sense of space and community, allowing for easy movement and reducing crowding​.
2. Functional Training Areas: Dedicated spaces for HIIT, suspension training, and agility drills cater to the rising popularity of functional fitness​ in commercial gyms.
3. Technology Integration: From touchscreen workout kiosks to AI-driven virtual training, integrating technology offers personalized workouts to gym members and real-time feedback to the trainers, enhancing engagement and motivation​.
4. Holistic Spaces: Including exclusive areas for yoga, meditation, and stretching meets the growing demand for holistic fitness approaches, promoting overall well-being​.
5. Recovery and Wellness Zones: Many commercial gyms are providing members with steam rooms, foam rolling stations, massage chairs, and cryotherapy chambers to encourage post-workout recovery and holistic health​.
6. Community-Inspired Spaces: Group fitness is booming—about 40% of gym members in the U.S. engage in group classes to stay motivated. From spin classes and boot camps to Zumba and yoga, communal workouts promote accountability and fun. Modern fitness centers now allocate square footage to open, multifunctional studios with high ceilings, soundproofing, mood lighting, and ventilation optimized for group activity.  
7. Sustainably Built Gyms: Sustainability is now a priority, with 76% of U.S. millennials favoring eco-conscious brands. Gyms are adopting LED lighting, solar panels, and recycled materials. Some even convert kinetic energy from workouts into electricity.

These design and construction trends will help create a motivating environment that aligns with the evolving demands of fitness enthusiasts.

Case Study – FitZone Gym 

Background

Fitness enthusiasts Emily and Chris Johnson aspire to bring the luxurious ambiance of urban boutique gyms to the tranquil suburbs of Santa Monica through their pioneering venture, “FitZone Gym”. The 8,000-square-foot commercial gym will involve a cardio, strength and functional training area, a juice bar, spa and wellness area, locker rooms, and group fitness classes.

Intending to seek expert planning and execution, the owners hired a seasoned gym design and construction contractor to bring their vision to reality. 

Objective 

The owners’ primary objective was to create a public gym that combines functionality and aesthetics. The commercial gym should cater to a wide range of fitness workouts, from weightlifting to group exercises, all while ensuring a visually appealing environment. 

Solution

The commercial general contractor provided a comprehensive package, from gym layout design to construction and equipment sourcing. In order to meet the FitZone Gym’s diverse fitness needs, the builder and its team implemented the following solutions: 

Layout 

They transformed the existing building’s layout to create distinct fitness zones and maximize space. 

• For instance, the cardio area was located near large windows for gym members to enjoy natural light and air. 
• The strength training area was strategically placed in the center with functional training equipment and free weights on its sides. 
• The group fitness studio was designed as a separate space with mirrored walls.
• A relaxation zone including a juice bar sat adjacent to the entrance with lockers. 
• A dedicated space was planned for the wellness and spa services that aimed to provide enough privacy. 

Flooring 

The contractor installed versatile flooring solutions, including rubber flooring for the weightlifting area, shock-absorbing flooring for the group exercise spaces, and specialized flooring for the cardio zones. For the wellness area, the team decided to soundproof the flooring and walls. 

Lighting and Color Schemes 

The interior designer in the team advised installing dynamic LED lighting suitable for various workout areas. Adjustable illumination meant gym users could control the lighting as per their preferences. They utilized ample natural light for the cardio zone and relaxation lounge to boost members’ moods. 

FitZone Gym’s color scheme included slate grey, vibrant blue, and moss green. Hence, the project team incorporated these colors into the design elements like walls, equipment, accessories, motivational quotes, and plants. 

Gym Equipment 

With design and construction services, the commercial contractor helped owners purchase state-of-the-art fitness equipment and accessories such as treadmills, free weights, yoga mats, and stability balls from their trusted suppliers. 

Results 

FitZone Gym successfully designed an efficient and functional layout, premium flooring, and a wide range of equipment that caters to all fitness requirements. The commercial gym facility not only met the client’s expectations but also became an attractive destination for community members in the region.

Conclusion 

Building an ideal fitness hub requires strategic selection of location and designing a functional layout efficiently so that every workout area serves its intended purpose. Considering budget planning, safety/code compliance, sourcing high-quality equipment, and focusing on aesthetics and building systems will create a space that delivers a comprehensive fitness experience to gym-goers. 

So, whether you are constructing a new commercial gym ground up or renovating an existing one, thoughtful planning and design are the keys to fitness and business excellence.

Ready to boost fitness levels with an inspiring gym? Get in touch with Constructive Solutions, Inc. today for reliable gym design and construction services. 

FAQs

What is gym management software? 

Gym management software is a system designed to streamline administrative tasks, membership management, scheduling, attendance tracking, billing, and invoicing.

How long will it take to build my commercial gym? 

Depending on the size and complexity, it could take several months to build a commercial gym. Consult your commercial contractor to get a more accurate estimate for the timeline. 

What qualifications should I look for in a gym construction company? 

Hire a licensed company with recognized contracting expertise in gymnasium design and construction. They should be well-versed in the unique requirements of commercial gyms, such as equipment spacing, layout, and safety regulations. Ask them for a project plan that aligns with your gym business goals and training style. 

What is the difference between a garage gym and a commercial gym? 

A garage gym is a private gym set up in a residential space with basic equipment, whereas a commercial gym is a public facility offering different equipment, classes, and services.

What is the difference between a commercial gym and a powerlifting gym?

​A powerlifting gym focuses on strength training with specialized training equipment and a supportive community, whereas a commercial gym offers a variety of fitness options aimed at general health and aesthetics.

Are gyms profitable?

It may take months or years for commercial gyms to start earning profits if equipped with the right investment, marketing efforts, and services. On average, traditional gyms have around a 10-15% profit margin.

Relevant Resources:

• Interior Construction Contractors: Experts in Design and Functionality
• Commercial Remodeling Contractors: 10 Expert Hiring Tips