Anytime Fitness has grown from a single club in Woodbury, Minnesota in 2002 into one of the most recognized fitness brands in the world. With more than 5,000 locations across the globe and a consistent ranking in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500, the brand's purple signage and 24/7 access model have become synonymous with convenient, community-driven fitness. For entrepreneurs who want to tap into the booming health and wellness sector, owning an Anytime Fitness franchise is a compelling opportunity backed by a proven system.
The challenge, as with any major business venture, is capital. The anytime fitness franchise cost ranges from $78,400 to $677,800 depending on your market, location size, and build-out requirements. That is a substantial investment, and most prospective franchisees need financing to bridge the gap between their available cash and the total project cost. Securing the right Anytime Fitness franchise loan can be the difference between opening your doors in six months or getting stuck in limbo for years.
This guide covers every aspect of Anytime Fitness franchise financing: what it costs, which loan types work best, how to qualify, and how Crestmont Capital helps gym entrepreneurs get funded fast. Whether you are a first-time franchisee or an experienced operator adding a new location, this is the resource you need.
In This Article
Anytime Fitness was founded in 2002 by Chuck Runyon and Dave Mortensen in Woodbury, Minnesota. Their original vision was simple: create a gym that was affordable, accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and small enough to fit comfortably into neighborhood strip malls and suburban communities rather than large urban fitness complexes. That model proved to be enormously scalable.
Today, Anytime Fitness operates more than 5,000 clubs in 30+ countries, making it one of the largest fitness franchise networks in the world. The brand's distinctive purple color scheme and "Running Man" logo appear in communities across the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and dozens of other markets. Members receive a key fob that grants them 24/7 access not just to their home gym, but to any Anytime Fitness location worldwide -- a feature that significantly enhances member retention and perceived value.
The franchise model is built around small-footprint clubs typically ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 square feet. This compact size keeps real estate costs manageable compared to larger chain gyms and allows franchisees to locate in high-traffic retail corridors that would be too expensive for a full-scale facility. The brand has appeared in Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 ranking consistently for over a decade, a testament to the strength of its franchisee support system, brand recognition, and operational infrastructure.
For entrepreneurs, Anytime Fitness offers a balance of brand prestige and unit-level economics that is difficult to match in the fitness industry. Member dues provide recurring monthly revenue, and the 24/7 model keeps overhead lean by eliminating the need for a large full-time staff. If you are evaluating franchise opportunities in health and wellness, Anytime Fitness belongs at the top of your list.
Key Fact: Anytime Fitness members can access all 5,000+ global club locations with a single key fob -- a powerful retention tool that differentiates the brand from independent gyms and smaller fitness franchises.
Understanding the full cost picture is the first step toward structuring a realistic loan request. The Anytime Fitness Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) outlines startup investment ranges based on the most recent data available to prospective franchisees. According to the FDD, the total estimated initial investment ranges from $78,400 to $677,800, with a required initial franchise fee of $42,500.
That wide range reflects the significant variability in real estate costs, build-out requirements, and market conditions across different geographies. Here is a breakdown of the primary cost categories:
| Cost Category | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $42,500 (fixed) |
| Real Estate / Leasehold Improvements | $0 - $400,000 |
| Fitness Equipment | $40,000 - $150,000 |
| Technology and Security Systems | $10,000 - $35,000 |
| Signage | $3,000 - $20,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $5,000 - $15,000 |
| Working Capital (3 months) | $10,000 - $50,000 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $78,400 - $677,800 |
Beyond the initial investment, Anytime Fitness franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee structured as a flat monthly fee rather than a percentage of gross revenue. This is a notable advantage: your royalty does not scale up as your membership grows, which means more of your incremental revenue flows directly to your bottom line. There is also an ongoing marketing fund contribution that supports national and regional advertising campaigns.
Anytime Fitness requires prospective franchisees to demonstrate a minimum net worth of $300,000 and liquid assets of at least $100,000. These thresholds are separate from -- and in addition to -- what your lender will require. Confirming that you meet the franchisor's financial qualifications before beginning the loan process will save significant time and effort.
Key Fact: According to U.S. Census Bureau data, there are more than 33 million small businesses in the United States. Franchise businesses benefit from a proven system, brand recognition, and institutional support that independent startups rarely have -- factors that make lenders more comfortable extending franchise financing.
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Apply Now →There is no single loan product that fits every franchisee. The right financing solution depends on your credit profile, available capital, timeline, and the total cost of your specific project. Below are the primary options available to Anytime Fitness franchisees.
SBA loans are frequently the best fit for franchise financing because the government guarantee reduces lender risk, which results in favorable terms for borrowers. Anytime Fitness is listed in the SBA Franchise Directory, meaning the franchisor's agreement has already been reviewed and approved -- a step that significantly accelerates the underwriting process.
The SBA 7(a) loan is the most versatile option. It can fund the franchise fee, equipment, leasehold improvements, and working capital in a single loan package with terms up to 10 years (25 years for real estate). Loan amounts go up to $5 million. Down payment requirements are typically 10 to 20 percent, lower than most conventional loans. The SBA 504 program is an alternative for franchisees purchasing real estate or undertaking large construction projects, pairing a conventional lender with a Certified Development Company (CDC) to fund fixed assets at below-market fixed rates.
The tradeoff with SBA-backed financing is timeline. Full application-to-funding can take 45 to 90 days or more when working through a traditional bank. Specialized lenders like Crestmont Capital who are experienced in SBA franchise loans can shorten that window considerably.
Small business loans from alternative lenders provide flexible funding without the documentation burden of SBA programs. These term loans can be used for nearly any legitimate business purpose -- franchise fees, renovations, equipment, or working capital -- and typically fund in days rather than months. For franchisees who need to move quickly to secure a lease or meet a franchisor deadline, a fast business term loan is often the practical solution.
If you are also researching other fitness franchise opportunities, you may find our guides on the Crunch Fitness franchise loan and F45 franchise loan useful for comparison purposes.
Gym equipment is one of the largest line items in the Anytime Fitness startup budget, often totaling $40,000 to $150,000 or more. Equipment financing structures a loan specifically around these assets, using the equipment itself as collateral. This approach has several advantages: approval is typically faster than SBA or conventional term loans, the collateralization reduces lender risk and often eases qualification criteria, and it preserves working capital for operations and build-out costs.
Many franchisees use equipment financing alongside an SBA or term loan rather than attempting to bundle everything into one facility. This hybrid approach can optimize both rate and speed.
A business line of credit is a revolving credit facility that provides access to capital as you need it. Unlike a term loan that delivers a lump sum upfront, a line of credit lets you draw funds, repay, and draw again. For Anytime Fitness franchisees, a line of credit is most useful as a working capital buffer during the ramp-up period before membership revenue stabilizes, or to cover unexpected renovation costs and marketing spend.
When timing is critical -- for instance, when another franchisee prospect is eyeing the same location -- fast business loans from alternative lenders can provide funding within 24 to 48 hours of approval. These loans typically have a higher cost of capital than SBA products, but in competitive franchise markets, the speed premium is often worth it.
Crestmont Capital is a top-rated U.S. business lender with deep expertise in franchise financing. We have helped fitness franchise owners across the country secure the capital they need to open new locations, expand existing clubs, and refinance higher-cost debt. Here is what sets our approach apart for Anytime Fitness franchisees specifically.
We understand the Anytime Fitness business model, FDD structure, and unit-level economics. Our underwriters do not need a primer on how the franchise operates -- they have seen dozens of applications like yours and know what a strong Anytime Fitness deal looks like. This familiarity accelerates our review process and reduces the back-and-forth that often delays conventional lenders.
Rather than sending you to three different lenders for your franchise fee, equipment, and working capital needs, we can structure a comprehensive financing package that addresses the full project. Whether the right fit is an SBA 7(a), a term loan, an equipment financing facility, or a combination, we identify and execute the optimal structure for your situation.
We also work with existing franchise owners looking to leverage their business equity for expansion. If you already own one Anytime Fitness location and want to open a second or third, our multi-unit financing experience means we know how to underwrite the consolidated cash flow picture rather than evaluating each location in isolation.
We know that franchise development timelines are often driven by real estate availability, franchisor approval schedules, and competitive market dynamics. Our streamlined application process means you can receive a pre-qualification decision quickly, without waiting weeks for a first response. We communicate clearly at every stage so you know exactly where your application stands and what to expect next.
Our focus is on finding solutions, not identifying reasons to decline. If your application has weaknesses -- a credit score below the ideal threshold, limited liquidity, or no prior franchise ownership experience -- we work with you to structure the strongest possible package rather than immediately saying no. Our approval rates reflect this commitment to finding a path forward for qualified entrepreneurs.
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Apply Now →Knowing what to expect at each stage of the loan process helps you prepare thoroughly and avoid delays. Here is the typical step-by-step workflow for an Anytime Fitness franchise loan through Crestmont Capital.
Step 1: Pre-Qualification. Submit basic information about your project -- total estimated cost, available cash for a down payment, credit score range, and any existing business experience. We provide a preliminary assessment of which loan products you likely qualify for and the approximate terms you can expect. This step takes minutes and creates no impact on your credit.
Step 2: Document Gathering. Once you decide to move forward, you will need to assemble your application package. Standard documents include two to three years of personal tax returns, personal financial statement, bank statements (three to six months), your signed franchise agreement or letter of intent, a detailed project cost breakdown, and your resume or business background summary. If you have an existing business, business tax returns and profit-and-loss statements will also be required.
Step 3: Application Submission. Our online application portal allows you to submit documents securely and track your application status in real time. A dedicated loan specialist is assigned to your file from submission through funding.
Step 4: Underwriting. Our underwriting team reviews your application, verifies financial information, and assesses the viability of your project. They may request additional documentation or clarification. Prompt responses to any follow-up requests are the single most effective way to keep your application moving quickly.
Step 5: Approval and Term Sheet. Upon approval, you receive a term sheet outlining the loan amount, interest rate, repayment term, fees, and any conditions that must be satisfied prior to closing. Review this document carefully with your attorney or financial advisor before signing.
Step 6: Closing and Funding. After you accept the terms and satisfy any pre-closing conditions (such as executing your lease or providing proof of insurance), the loan closes and funds are disbursed. Depending on the loan type, funds may go directly to you, to the franchisor, to equipment vendors, or to a combination of payees according to a disbursement schedule.
By the Numbers
Anytime Fitness Franchise -- Key Statistics
5,000+
Global Locations
$42,500
Franchise Fee
$677K+
Max Investment
33M+
U.S. Small Businesses
Lenders evaluate franchise loan applicants across several dimensions. Understanding these criteria before you apply allows you to assess your readiness and address any weaknesses in your profile proactively.
Personal Credit Score. Most lenders prefer a FICO score of 680 or higher for franchise loans. SBA lenders typically look for scores of 680 to 720 as a baseline. Alternative lenders may consider applicants with scores in the 620 to 650 range when other factors in the application are strong. If your score is below target, spend three to six months paying down revolving balances and clearing any errors on your credit report before applying.
Liquid Capital and Down Payment. You will be expected to contribute 10 to 20 percent of the total project cost as a cash injection. This demonstrates personal commitment to the venture and ensures you have working capital reserves post-closing. Liquid assets can include personal savings, a brokerage account, or proceeds from a retirement account rollover (commonly structured as a Rollover for Business Startups, or ROBS). Anytime Fitness itself requires at least $100,000 in liquid assets at the franchisor level before granting a franchise agreement.
Business Plan and Financial Projections. A thorough, well-researched business plan is not just a lender requirement -- it is your operating blueprint. Include a market analysis of your target territory, a competitive landscape review, a membership pricing and growth model, and three-year financial projections. Lenders will scrutinize your assumptions, so ground your projections in data from the FDD's Item 19 financial performance representations and realistic local market research.
Relevant Experience. Direct fitness industry experience is a plus but not a requirement. Lenders and franchisors are primarily looking for demonstrated business management skills: experience hiring and leading a team, managing a budget, customer acquisition, and operational oversight. If you lack direct business ownership experience, a strong business plan and a capable general manager hire can compensate.
Collateral. Business assets, including fitness equipment and any real estate, serve as primary collateral for most franchise loans. For larger loan amounts, personal collateral such as home equity may also be considered. Being forthcoming about your collateral position during the pre-qualification process helps your lender structure the most appropriate loan for your profile.
The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of the primary financing options available to Anytime Fitness franchisees. Use this as a starting point, then discuss your specific situation with a Crestmont Capital specialist to identify the best fit.
| Factor | SBA 7(a) Loan | Equipment Financing | Alternative Term Loan | Line of Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Full project financing | Gym equipment only | Speed and flexibility | Working capital buffer |
| Funding Speed | 45-90+ days | 2-5 business days | 1-5 business days | 1-7 business days |
| Down Payment | 10-20% | $0-20% | 10-25% | N/A (revolving) |
| Loan Term | Up to 10-25 years | 2-7 years | 1-5 years | 12-24 months (renewing) |
| Credit Minimum | 680+ | 620+ | 620+ | 640+ |
| Use of Funds | Broad (most project costs) | Equipment only | Broad | Operational expenses |
Many Anytime Fitness franchisees use a combination of two or more products. For example: an SBA 7(a) loan to cover the franchise fee, build-out, and working capital, paired with a separate equipment financing facility for the gym gear. This hybrid structure maximizes the advantages of each product type while minimizing cost and preserving flexibility.
Abstract financing advice is useful, but concrete examples bring the decision-making process into focus. Here are four representative profiles and how Crestmont Capital would approach each.
Scenario 1: The Career-Changer with Strong Credit. Maria is a former regional manager at a national retail chain with a 740 credit score and $130,000 in savings. She has no prior franchise ownership experience but has managed teams of 20+ people and overseen multi-million dollar budgets. Her target location has a total project cost of $420,000. Best fit: SBA 7(a) loan covering $378,000 (90 percent of project cost) with a $42,000 down payment. Her management track record and strong personal financials offset the lack of franchise experience. Estimated funding timeline: 45 to 60 days.
Scenario 2: The Fitness Professional Going Independent. James has been a certified personal trainer and gym manager for 12 years. He knows the fitness business inside and out but only has $75,000 in liquid assets. His total project cost is $350,000. Best fit: An alternative term loan combined with equipment financing. The term loan covers the franchise fee, build-out, and initial working capital. A separate equipment financing facility funds the gym gear with the equipment as its own collateral. His industry expertise is weighted heavily in underwriting. Estimated funding timeline: 5 to 10 business days.
Scenario 3: The Multi-Unit Operator Expanding. David already owns two profitable Anytime Fitness locations. He wants to open a third in a high-traffic suburban corridor and needs to move fast because another prospect is in talks for the same space. Total project cost: $550,000. Best fit: A fast business loan to secure the lease and begin build-out immediately, bridged by an SBA 7(a) loan to take out the bridge and provide permanent financing at a lower rate. His proven operating history with two existing clubs makes underwriting straightforward. Estimated initial funding timeline: 48 to 72 hours for the bridge.
Scenario 4: The Couple Opening Their First Franchise Together. Lisa and Tom are combining their savings ($95,000 liquid) and plan to co-sign on a loan for a new Anytime Fitness in a mid-size market. Combined credit score average is 690. Total project cost: $280,000. Best fit: SBA 7(a) with an $84,000 down payment (30 percent, which they split from their combined savings and a modest ROBS from Tom's 401(k)). Their combined income, solid credit, and community roots in the target market support approval. Estimated funding timeline: 45 to 60 days.
The Anytime Fitness FDD lists total initial investment ranging from $78,400 to $677,800, including the $42,500 franchise fee. Your specific number will depend on your market, real estate costs, and size of the club. Build a detailed project budget using FDD estimates and contractor quotes before submitting a loan application.
Most lenders look for a credit score of 680 or higher, liquid capital sufficient for a 10 to 20 percent down payment, a comprehensive business plan with financial projections, and relevant management or business experience. Anytime Fitness itself requires a minimum net worth of $300,000 and $100,000 in liquid assets.
The SBA guarantees a portion of loans made by approved lenders, reducing lender risk and enabling more favorable terms -- lower down payments, longer repayment terms, and competitive rates. Anytime Fitness is listed in the SBA Franchise Directory, which means the brand's franchise agreement has been pre-approved, accelerating the underwriting process. SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million can fund nearly all project costs.
Timeline varies by loan type. SBA loans through traditional banks typically take 45 to 90 days from application to funding. Alternative lenders like Crestmont Capital can often fund term loans and equipment financing within 2 to 10 business days. Having all your documentation prepared before applying is the most effective way to shorten your funding timeline regardless of the loan type.
Typical requirements include two to three years of personal tax returns, a personal financial statement, three to six months of bank statements, your signed franchise agreement or letter of intent, a detailed project cost breakdown, a business plan with financial projections, and a resume summarizing your relevant experience. If you have an existing business, business tax returns and profit-and-loss statements will also be needed.
Most lenders target a minimum FICO score of 680. SBA lenders typically want 680 to 720 or higher. Alternative and equipment lenders may work with scores as low as 620 if other aspects of your application are strong -- such as substantial liquidity, significant industry experience, or a proven track record as a business owner.
Yes, and it is often the smart move. Equipment financing uses the gym equipment itself as collateral, which speeds approval, reduces credit requirements, and can fund 100 percent of the equipment cost with no down payment. Running a separate equipment facility alongside an SBA or term loan for the rest of your project is a common and effective strategy for Anytime Fitness franchisees.
Crestmont Capital offers SBA 7(a) loans, small business term loans, equipment financing, business lines of credit, and fast business loans. For most Anytime Fitness projects we structure a combination -- for instance, an SBA loan for build-out and working capital paired with equipment financing for the gym gear -- to optimize both cost and timeline.
The franchise fee ($42,500) is a one-time, upfront payment made when you sign the franchise agreement. It grants you the license to operate under the Anytime Fitness brand. The royalty fee is an ongoing monthly payment made throughout the term of your franchise agreement in exchange for continued access to the brand, systems, and support. Anytime Fitness uses a flat monthly royalty structure rather than a percentage of revenue, which is a meaningful financial advantage as your club scales.
With Crestmont Capital, fast business loans and equipment financing can fund within 2 to 5 business days of a complete application. SBA loans we process typically close in 30 to 60 days. The single biggest factor influencing timeline is document readiness -- franchisees who submit complete, organized application packages consistently fund faster than those who submit piecemeal.
Yes. Multi-unit financing is available for qualified franchisees with a proven operating track record. If you already own one or more profitable Anytime Fitness locations, lenders can underwrite your expansion using the consolidated cash flow of your existing portfolio. Contact Crestmont Capital to discuss a multi-unit financing strategy tailored to your growth plan.
Plan for at least three to six months of operating expenses, including rent, payroll, utilities, insurance, and marketing costs. Undercapitalization is one of the leading causes of new business failure. The Anytime Fitness FDD provides estimates for ongoing operational costs; use those figures as a baseline and adjust for your specific market. Including adequate working capital in your loan request from the start is far easier than going back to a lender for a second draw later.
A decline from one lender is not the end of the road. Different lenders have different appetites for risk, and a profile that does not fit one institution's criteria may be a strong fit for another. Ask for specific feedback on the reason for the decline, then work to address those weaknesses -- whether that means improving your credit score, increasing your cash injection, strengthening your business plan, or applying through a lender with more flexible criteria.
Yes. Refinancing is a legitimate strategy for franchisees who secured high-rate emergency financing at startup and now have 12 to 24 months of operating history demonstrating stable revenue. It is also worth exploring if market interest rates have declined substantially since you originally borrowed. Crestmont Capital works with existing franchise owners on refinance transactions in addition to new franchise startups.
The fastest way to get started is to complete our online application at offers.crestmontcapital.com/apply-now. The application takes a few minutes and allows us to provide a pre-qualification assessment quickly. From there, a dedicated franchise financing specialist will contact you to discuss your project in detail and outline the next steps toward funding.
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Apply Now →The anytime fitness franchise cost is a real but manageable hurdle for entrepreneurs who approach it with a clear financing strategy. With a total investment range of $78,400 to $677,800 and a $42,500 franchise fee, the capital requirement is significant -- but it is well within reach for qualified applicants who work with the right lending partner. From SBA loans that maximize term length and minimize down payment, to fast business loans that keep your project timeline on track, there are financing solutions available at every stage of the franchise development process.
Anytime Fitness offers one of the most proven and scalable fitness franchise models in the world, backed by 5,000+ global locations, a flat-fee royalty structure, and a 24/7 access model that drives member retention. The brand's inclusion in the SBA Franchise Directory further streamlines the loan process for franchisees seeking government-backed financing.
Crestmont Capital brings franchise-specific expertise, a full suite of loan products, and a genuine commitment to helping entrepreneurs succeed. Whether you are funding your first location or expanding a multi-unit portfolio, our team is ready to help you build the right financing structure from day one. Apply online today and take the first step toward opening your Anytime Fitness franchise.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Loan terms, eligibility requirements, interest rates, and product availability vary by lender and are subject to change without notice. Crestmont Capital does not guarantee loan approval or specific outcomes. Consult a qualified financial advisor or attorney for guidance specific to your situation.