World Gym Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
World Gym was established in 1976 by renowned fitness innovator Joe Gold, starting with a single gym in Santa Monica, California. The location quickly gained iconic status as the training ground for bodybuilding greats such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno, and Dave Draper, helping cement the brand’s place in fitness culture.
Originally operating out of Los Angeles, World Gym later shifted its headquarters to Taipei, Taiwan, after being acquired in 2024 by World Fitness Services, Ltd., the parent company of World Gym Taiwan. The brand entered the franchising space in 1982, giving entrepreneurs worldwide the chance to join a fitness brand with decades of history and recognition.
Members of World Gym have access to a full-service fitness experience that includes advanced cardio and strength training equipment, group exercise programs, personal training, and additional wellness offerings.
What sets the brand apart is its dedication to serious athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Its community-driven approach emphasizes strength, conditioning, and a no-nonsense commitment to results—a philosophy reflected in its enduring motto: “Serious Fitness.”
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a World Gym franchise? It costs on average between $790,000 – $2,765,000 to start a World Gym franchised studio.
This includes expenses for construction, fitness equipment, signage, technology systems, and initial operating costs. The exact investment can vary based on factors such as the size of the gym, the chosen location, local market conditions, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 – $25,000 |
| Pre-Opening Sales Program | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Build-out and Leasehold Improvements | $250,000 – $900,000 |
| Lease Deposits | $20,000 – $60,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Equipment Costs | $250,000 – $850,000 |
| Audio/Visual Equipment | $15,000 – $300,000 |
| Furniture and Displays | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Signs and Branding | $25,000 – $90,000 |
| Food & Beverage Equipment & Supplies | $7,000 – $25,000 |
| Office Equipment and Supplies | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Insurance | $15,000 – $50,000 |
| Utilities | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Professional Fees | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Initial Training Expenses | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Licenses and Bonds | $2,500 – $25,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 – 6 Months) | $75,000 – $250,000 |
| Total | $789,500 – $2,765,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many World Gym locations are there?
As of the most recent data, World Gym operates 20 locations in the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a World Gym franchise?
The total investment required to open a World Gym franchise ranges from $790,000 to $2,765,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a World Gym franchise?
Franchisees of World Gym are required to pay a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales on an ongoing basis. In addition, they must contribute to the brand’s marketing fund, which is typically set at 2% of gross sales to support national and regional advertising efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a World Gym franchisee?
To qualify financially as a World Gym franchisee, you generally must have a net worth of at least $1,000,000 and liquid capital of at least $400,000.
Who owns World Gym?
The franchise is owned by World Fitness Services, Ltd., the parent company of World Gym Taiwan, which acquired World Gym in 2024 and moved its headquarters to Taipei, Taiwan.
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