Do you need a degree to open a gym?
Do you need a degree to open a gym? The short answer is no, a degree is not listed among gym ownership requirements. However, if you have a degree, it will be a huge asset in opening and running your new gym. Check out this guide to learn more about gym degree requirements and gym legal requirements.
- For better or worse, you absolutely do not need to have a degree to open a gym.
- However, a degree will help equip you with the education you need to overcome any hurdles your new gym may face.
- In addition, many certifications will help boost your expertise and your credibility.
Do you need a degree to open a gym? It already takes a lot of time and money to open a gym. Spending thousands of dollars and 2-4 years chasing a degree almost sounds like a waste. After all, that’s time and money that could be going towards your new gym, right?
In reality, opening a new gym is a big undertaking, and it’s not something that should be rushed into. You’ll need to arm yourself with the right knowledge and the right tools (like the best gym business management software) to succeed.
The right software is essential to your new gym’s operations. Book a demo to learn more!
What qualifications do you need to open a gym?
For better or worse, you absolutely do not need to have a degree to open a gym. In fact, you don’t technically need any qualifications at all. If you can obtain the financing, business licenses, and permits, nothing legally stops you from opening a gym.
Should you get a degree before opening a gym?
Even though you don’t need to get a degree before opening a gym, and there are a ton of things you should know before opening a gym, it’s not a bad idea. According to the IHRSA, 81 percent of new fitness businesses fail within their first year.
There are many reasons why gyms fail, and a degree will help equip you with the education you need to face these hurdles. Classes focused on business, accounting, marketing, administration, and health and fitness will all be extremely useful to the future gym owner.
Not only will having a degree help prepare you for a career as a gym owner, but it can also make it easier to get financing. Banks and other financial institutions will have an easier time trusting you with their money when you have a degree that shows you know what you’re doing.
Read More: How to Start a Fitness Business
What else should you know before opening a gym?
Beyond a formal degree, many certifications will help boost your expertise and your credibility.
You and your staff will likely be required to obtain certifications in basic life support and first aid. Any personal trainers, athletic trainers, or nutritionists you hire should have an accompanying license and/or certification. And finally, specialized certifications (such as obesity management or pre-natal fitness) will add validity to any additional classes or programs you decide to offer.
The Bottom Line: Do you need a degree to open a gym?
You absolutely do not need to have a degree to open a gym. However, experience with business, accounting, marketing, administration, and health and fitness will help give your new gym the best chance of succeeding. Take the time to learn what you need before opening your gym.
Start your new gym off on the right foot with Exercise.com. Book a demo to find out more!
