How to Start an Exercise Business

The fitness industry is very large and still growing

According to many of the world's greatest teachers of success, including Napoleon Hill and Michael E. Gerber, a down economy is the best time to start a business. An exercise business may do particularly well because people need physical activity to relieve the great stress they are under when times are bad. With proper planning, a business in the exercise field can thrive in a bad economy.

Things You'll Need

• A plan
• Materials specific to your business type
• A business license

Instructions

1. Decide what kind of exercise business you want to start. There are many choices, ranging from exercise equipment or supplement sales to personal trainers and nutritionists. Take a personal inventory and decide what type of business suits you best.

2. Study others in your chosen field. Find out what they're doing, what they aren't, and what works in that specific field. Consider the size of the market and how many other people are doing what you want to do. If you have a small market and lots of other people doing what you want to do, you may not get much business because it's already taken. Establish if there is enough of a market for you to get a piece of the pie.

3. Get all your paperwork in order. This includes any certifications you need, a business license, a business name (if you choose to use one), and anything else your state requires of you. This information can easily be found by looking at your local city government's website. It also might be prudent to call one of the companies or persons who has done what you are looking to do and ask them what it will take to open your business.

4. Obtain the necessary materials. Make a list of the specific materials you need for your business. If you are seeking to do personal training or group classes, you may be able to use the resources of a local gym, so you don't have to purchase them yourself.

5. Once everything is in place, begin to advertise your services using business cards, flyers, and word of mouth. Offer specials to bring in business and always deliver what you advertise.

Tips & Warnings

• Do everything you can do to minimize cost while starting out. The less overhead you have, the greater your chances for success.

• Always be sure to comply with your states laws and set aside extra money for taxes.

References

• The Most Successful Small Business in The World; Michael E. Gerber; 2010
• The Law of Success; Napoleon Hill; 1928

Resources

• U.S. Small Business Association