

KEY FRANCHISE STATS
?
?
?
?
$185,000
Starting Strength is a fitness franchise that specializes in strength training and personal coaching. Founded in 2007 in Austin, Texas, by Mark Rippetoe, Starting Strength has established itself as a leading name in the fitness industry. The franchise is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and began its franchising operations in 2019.
Starting Strength offers a unique approach to fitness, focusing primarily on strength training through its signature barbell-based programs. The franchise provides comprehensive training programs that are designed to cater to individuals of all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes.
Its proprietary methodology emphasizes foundational barbell lifts and personalized coaching, setting it apart from traditional gym models that may offer a broader range of fitness services.
The franchise differentiates itself through its commitment to high-quality, evidence-based strength training, guided by experienced coaches who are certified in the Starting Strength method.
Here's what you would need to invest if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Create an account to access 2,500+ franchises financial data and unlimited FDDs. For more information see our plans here.
Upgrade to Pro to access more data and download FDDs. For more information see our plans here.
Create an account to access and download this FDD. For more information, see our plans here.
For new franchisees, Starting Strength provides a comprehensive training program designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to operate a successful franchise. Here’s a breakdown of the training provided:
Starting Strength franchise offers territory protection to its franchisees to help ensure that each location has a defined and exclusive market area.
This protection means that no other Starting Strength franchises will be established within the designated territory, allowing franchisees to build and grow their client base without direct competition from other franchise units.
This strategy is designed to enhance each franchisee's potential for success by minimizing market overlap and protecting their investment.
Below are some of
Starting Strength
key competitors in the
Fitness Studios
sector.

17
$39,950
$235,000
$699,000
n.a.
$185,000
$xxx,xxx
n.a.
n.a.
n.a.
n.a.

Strive 11 Fitness is a boutique gym franchise offering strength, conditioning, and functional training programs, serving adults seeking coached small-group workouts, and known for structured training systems, supportive communities, and personalized coaching focused on sustainable performance and everyday athleticism.
?
?

inLIFE Wellness is a pilates and wellness franchise offering reformer pilates and group fitness classes, serving adults seeking low-impact, holistic training, and known for welcoming communities, diverse class formats, and flexible memberships across locations in Australia and the United States.
?
?

Fly Dance Fitness is a boutique fitness franchise offering high-energy dance, strength, and conditioning classes, serving primarily women seeking empowering group workouts, and known for its Throw Down® format, vibrant community, choreographed classes, and strong brand-driven studio experience.
?
?

EMS To You is a mobile fitness franchise offering whole-body EMS personal training sessions, serving busy professionals, seniors, athletes, and postpartum clients, and known for in-home 20-minute workouts, science-backed technology, and highly personalized programs guided by certified trainers.
?
?

Oxygen Yoga & Fitness is a boutique fitness franchise offering infrared-heated yoga, barre, and functional training classes, serving primarily women seeking low-impact yet challenging workouts, and known for heated studios, diverse class formats, flexible memberships, and supportive, community-driven environments.
?
?
Choosing a franchise goes beyond reviewing fees and financials — it requires an honest assessment of your goals, skills, and risk tolerance. This article outlines the key questions prospective owners should ask before committing. It helps clarify whether the opportunity aligns with your lifestyle, long-term plans, and operational preferences.
Speaking with current and former franchisees is one of the most reliable ways to understand how a franchise really operates. This guide explains how to conduct validation calls, what questions to ask, and how to identify patterns in feedback. It provides a practical framework for uncovering real performance expectations and support quality.
Not all franchise opportunities offer the same potential. This article breaks down how to evaluate a brand’s industry, financial health, support systems, and competitive positioning. It helps prospective buyers compare options and identify franchises with strong long-term viability.
A clear, well-structured business plan is essential for securing financing and preparing for the realities of franchise ownership. This article explains how to build a plan that covers market analysis, operations, staffing, and local marketing. It also outlines how to create realistic pro forma financials, including revenue projections, startup costs, and break-even analysis. Readers gain a practical framework they can use when applying for loans or planning their first years of operations.