Gym Equipment Financing Programs Explained

Starting or expanding a gym takes more than great trainers and motivation — it requires serious investment in fitness equipment.

From treadmills and squat racks to smart fitness tech and sound systems, gym setup costs can easily reach $50,000 to $250,000 or more.
Instead of draining your savings, gym equipment financing programs can help you get the gear you need now and pay for it over time.

This guide explains how gym equipment financing works, which options are best, and how to qualify for funding in 2025.

Why Gyms Should Finance Equipment

Buying equipment outright can put huge pressure on your cash flow. Financing allows gyms to:

✅ Preserve working capital for rent, payroll, and marketing
✅ Access top-tier commercial-grade machines immediately
✅ Spread payments across several years
✅ Build business credit for future expansion
✅ Deduct payments or depreciation for tax purposes

In short — your equipment earns revenue while you pay it off.

1. SBA 7(a) Loans – Best Overall Option for Gym Financing

The SBA 7(a) Loan Program is one of the most flexible and affordable financing options for gyms and fitness studios.

Program highlights:

• Loan amounts up to $5 million

• Terms up to 10 years for equipment

• Interest rates around 8%–11%

• Down payments typically 10%–20%

Funds can be used for:

• Buying or upgrading gym equipment

• Leasing or remodeling facilities

• Hiring and payroll

• Working capital

Best for: Established gyms or franchise fitness centers with at least two years of operations.

Example:
A CrossFit studio secures an SBA 7(a) loan to finance $150,000 in new machines and flooring while keeping monthly payments under $2,000.

2. SBA Microloans – Ideal for New or Boutique Studios

If you’re just starting your fitness business or own a small training space, the SBA Microloan Program offers smaller, more flexible loans.

Program details:

• Loan amounts up to $50,000

• Average loan: $14,000

• Interest rates: 8%–13%

• Terms up to 6 years

Microloans are provided through nonprofit intermediaries that often offer business coaching and mentorship, perfect for first-time gym owners.

Best for: Personal trainers, small group studios, or startups opening their first fitness space.

3. Equipment Financing – Fast and Easy Access to Fitness Gear

Equipment financing is one of the fastest and simplest ways to fund gym equipment purchases.

How it works:

• The equipment serves as collateral (no extra assets needed)

• Fixed monthly payments

• Terms usually 2–7 years

• Finance up to 100% of the cost

Advantages:
✅ Quick approvals (1–3 business days)
✅ No large down payment required
✅ Includes delivery, installation, and setup costs

Examples of eligible items:

• Treadmills, ellipticals, rowers, and bikes

• Weightlifting machines and free weights

• Functional training rigs

• Locker room and sound system upgrades

Best for: New or existing gyms needing quick equipment upgrades.

4. Equipment Leasing – Stay Flexible and Up-to-Date

Leasing gives you access to high-end fitness equipment without committing to full ownership.

Types of leases:

• Operating lease: Rent equipment and return or upgrade after the term.

• Capital lease: Lease with the intent to own after final payment.

Benefits:
✅ Lower monthly payments
✅ Option to upgrade every few years
✅ Lease payments are 100% tax-deductible
✅ Easy qualification for small or new gyms

Example:
A new spin studio leases 20 bikes for 48 months, keeping upfront costs low and upgrading to the latest model when the lease ends.

5. Vendor and Manufacturer Financing Programs

Many fitness equipment brands offer in-house or partner financing, allowing you to buy directly through the manufacturer.

Top brands offering financing include:

• Life Fitness

• Precor

• Matrix Fitness

• Cybex

• Technogym

Advantages:
✅ Streamlined purchase and financing process
✅ Promotional rates or deferred payments
✅ Equipment-specific expertise

Drawbacks:

• Limited flexibility (you must buy their equipment)

• Interest rates can be higher after promo periods

Best for: Gyms loyal to one brand or opening multiple franchise locations.

6. Business Line of Credit – Flexible Funding for Ongoing Upgrades

A business line of credit provides ongoing access to cash for recurring needs.

How it works:

• Borrow up to a limit (e.g., $100K–$250K)

• Withdraw funds as needed

• Pay interest only on what you use

Use funds for:

• Replacing broken machines

• Upgrading small items (benches, mats, cables)

• Covering seasonal cash flow dips

Best for: Established gyms managing steady membership revenue.

7. Alternative Lenders – Fast Funding for Urgent Needs

If you need quick financing and can’t wait for SBA approval, online lenders provide fast turnaround times.

Examples:

• OnDeck – Term loans and lines of credit.

• National Funding – Equipment and working capital loans.

• Credibly – Medium-term loans for fitness centers.

These lenders often fund within 24–72 hours, though rates are higher.

Best for: Short-term needs or gyms with moderate credit.

Featured Snippet: Gym Equipment Financing Programs Explained

1. SBA 7(a) Loans – Best overall for established gyms

2. SBA Microloans – Perfect for startups and boutique studios

3. Equipment Financing – Fast approvals and ownership

4. Leasing Programs – Low payments and upgrade flexibility

5. Vendor Financing – Easy purchase directly from manufacturers

Example: Gym Expands With Equipment Financing

Business: Elevate Fitness Studio – Miami, FL
Financing Type: Equipment Loan
Amount: $120,000

Elevate Fitness wanted to add a new functional training area and upgrade cardio machines. They secured an equipment loan with a 5-year term at 8.25% interest.

Results:

• Added 25 new machines

• Memberships increased 30%

• Broke even on the investment in 8 months

Owner’s Quote:

“Equipment financing made it possible to grow without sacrificing cash flow. The new space practically paid for itself.”

How to Qualify for Gym Equipment Financing

Most lenders will review your financial stability, revenue, and credit history.

✅ Credit score: 650+ preferred
✅ Time in business: At least 6–12 months
✅ Revenue: $100K+ annually (or projections for startups)
✅ Financial documents: Tax returns, bank statements, and equipment quote

Tip: New gyms should prepare a strong business plan highlighting membership growth and revenue projections to boost approval odds.

Final Thoughts: Build a Stronger Gym Without Financial Strain

Modern equipment is essential to attract members and compete in today’s fitness industry — but you don’t need to pay for it all upfront.

With SBA loans, equipment financing, leasing programs, and manufacturer financing, you can upgrade your gym while keeping your business lean and profitable.

Whether you’re opening your first studio or scaling into a franchise, the right financing plan ensures your gym stays equipped, efficient, and ready to grow.

To explore options, visit
👉 sba.gov/funding-programs/loans
or contact a fitness equipment financing specialist for tailored advice.