
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted numerous aspects of our lives, including how we approach fitness. One of the most significant changes has been the rise of at-home gyms and studios, which not only provided a solution during lockdowns but have evolved to become a lucrative business opportunity. Personal trainers and fitness enthusiasts are increasingly turning their garages and spare rooms into fully equipped studios, tapping into a growing market of clients seeking convenience, personalisation, and flexibility. This shift has proven to be a game changer, both for fitness professionals and their clients.
The Changing Landscape of Fitness
Before the pandemic, the idea of training at someone’s home was often met with skepticism. Kelly Sheldrick, a fitness entrepreneur, highlighted this on the Focused Fitprenuer podcast, saying, “Prior to that training at somebody’s house was a little bit like, ‘Ew, not heard of, what’s going on here?‘”. However, the repeated lockdowns and closure of commercial fitness facilities during the pandemic forced a re-evaluation of this mindset. As Sheldrick noted, people were “aching to get fit” and were willing to explore new avenues to maintain their fitness regimes.
The Growth of At-Home Gyms
The shift to at-home gyms was not just a temporary fix but a sustainable business model. Sheldrick shared his personal experience of transforming his two-car garage into a fitness studio, which quickly attracted neighborhood clients. This organic growth was driven by the visibility of his home studio and the convenience it offered to local clients. “It brought more people in from the neighborhood that could see people coming and going from my house and they got inquisitive,” Sheldrick explained. This curiosity translated into a steady stream of new clients, showcasing the potential for growth in at-home gym businesses.
Financial Potential
The financial potential of at-home gyms is substantial. By cutting out the middleman – the commercial gym – fitness trainers can retain a larger portion of their earnings. According to a report by IBISWorld, independent personal trainers can increase their income by 25-50% compared to those working in corporate gyms. This increase in profitability is driven by lower overhead costs and the ability to charge premium rates for personalised, one-on-one training sessions.
Demand for Personalised Fitness
The demand for personalised fitness solutions has never been higher. Clients appreciate the customised workout plans and the flexibility that comes with at-home training. A study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that individuals who participated in private and virtual fitness programs reported higher levels of satisfaction and motivation compared to traditional gym-goers. This trend is reflected in the growing number of clients seeking at-home training options.
Market Statistics
The home fitness equipment market saw a significant surge during the pandemic, growing by an estimated 40% in 2020. This growth is expected to continue as people prioritise health and wellness in their daily lives. According to a survey by the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), the fitness industry lost $20.4 billion in revenue in 2020 due to pandemic-related closures, further emphasising the need for alternative fitness solutions like at-home gyms.
Inspiring Success Stories
Kelly Sheldrick’s journey is a testament to the potential of at-home gyms. Starting with a basic setup in his garage, he was able to build a thriving business. “It was almost by accident really. I wasn’t out to do that from the beginning, but it just showed that people were aching to get fit,” Sheldrick said. His success even led to upgrading to a home with a larger garage, now a dedicated fitness studio. Stories like his inspire fitness professionals to consider the benefits and opportunities of at-home gyms.
The rise of at-home gyms has been a game changer for the fitness industry. It has provided a viable alternative for both trainers and clients, offering convenience, personalisation, and increased profitability. As the demand for at-home fitness continues to grow, the potential for building a lucrative business in this space is immense. For those passionate about fitness and entrepreneurship, setting up an at-home gym could be the key to unlocking a six-figure income and beyond. Embracing this new paradigm could turn a simple garage setup into a successful fitness empire.

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