Fitness studio finance, fund your boutique gym or studio start-up

Yes, though start-up finance for a brand new fitness studio requires a specific approach. Asset finance (hire purchase or finance lease for studio equipment) is the most accessible route for new businesses because the equipment itself provides security, reducing reliance on trading history. For the wider fit-out, a start-up business loan may be available depending on personal credit history and the strength of the business plan. We assess both routes and recommend the most achievable combination for your situation.

The cost of launching a fitness studio varies significantly by concept. A small yoga or Pilates studio (up to 600 sq ft) might open for £20,000–£35,000 including equipment and basic fit-out. A spin studio with 20 bikes typically costs £50,000–£80,000. A HIIT or functional training studio with a rig, flooring, and mirrors might cost £40,000–£60,000. A Pilates reformer studio (10 beds) can cost £60,000–£80,000. Finance can spread the full investment over 2–5 years.

For the equipment specifically, asset finance is usually the better option for new businesses; the equipment provides security, making approval more accessible and rates more competitive than an unsecured start-up loan. For the wider fit-out (flooring, mirrors, lighting, reception), a business loan or personal guarantee-backed finance may be required. In practice, most studio launches combine both products, with asset finance for equipment and a business loan or personal finance for the fit-out.

For asset finance on studio equipment as a new business: personal credit history and proof of identity, business plan with projected income and membership forecasts, signed lease agreement for the premises, and supplier quote or invoice for the equipment. For a business loan: the above plus 3–6 months of business or personal bank statements depending on trading history. We help you prepare everything in the right order to maximise approval prospects.

Yes. Pilates reformer beds are specialist but well-understood assets with established secondary market values. Individual reformers typically cost £2,500–£5,000; a studio set of 10 beds costs £25,000–£50,000. Hire purchase allows you to own the beds at end of term, while finance lease allows you to upgrade to newer models more easily. We have access to lenders who actively fund Pilates and specialist fitness studio equipment.