F45 Training franchise startup costs run $350K–$700K. The Australian-origin functional 45-minute group fitness concept has a strong global presence with a distinctive team-training model.
F45 Training is an Australian-origin fitness franchise built around 45-minute functional group training sessions that rotate daily, combining cardio and strength in a format designed to prevent plateaus. The 'F' stands for 'functional training' and '45' for the workout duration. The brand has grown rapidly from its 2012 Sydney launch to operations in more than 60 countries. F45's model uses proprietary programming delivered via screens in each studio, reducing dependence on any single coach's expertise. This guide is for prospective F45 franchisees at the capital planning stage.
Per F45's current FDD, total estimated initial investment runs approximately $350K–$700K. Studio size, local construction costs, and equipment package tier drive most of the variance. Major cost categories include:
F45's royalty structure can be structured as a flat $3,950/month or 7% of gross sales depending on the specific franchise agreement in your market. The advertising fee is 2% of gross sales. Confirm the exact royalty structure applicable to your agreement in the current FDD. The flat-fee option provides cost predictability at lower revenue levels; the percentage structure becomes relevant as studios scale.
F45 requires prospective franchisees to demonstrate a net worth of $500K+. Lenders will typically require an equity injection of 10–20% of project cost — at the $350K–$700K range, that is $35K–$140K from personal funds. Strong personal credit (680+ FICO) and business management experience improve approval outcomes on franchise financing.
F45 Training appears on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan processing. SBA 7(a) program details and current rate caps are published on SBA.gov. Key financing paths include:
F45 is on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA 7(a) eligibility. At $350K–$700K, SBA 7(a) is the standard financing path. Here is what underwriters evaluate:
F45 deal structure typically: SBA 7(a) up to $5M covering 80–90% of project cost; borrower contributes 10–20% equity injection from personal funds; SBA guarantee fee applies. F45 is SBA Franchise Directory-eligible, which reduces lender underwriting time. ClearValue Lending routes applications to one matched lender.
ClearValue Lending works with fitness franchise operators from first studio to multi-unit expansion. Apply at Find my match. Your file routes to one matched lender. See our business loan calculator to estimate payments before you commit.
Comparing functional training franchise options? See Anytime Fitness franchise costs and Orangetheory Fitness franchise costs — both are SBA-eligible at similar investment ranges.
Per the current FDD, total estimated initial investment runs $350K–$700K. Studio size, local construction costs, and market determine where in that range a specific project lands.
F45's royalty is structured as a flat $3,950/month or 7% of gross sales depending on your specific franchise agreement. The advertising fee is 2% of gross sales. Confirm the structure that applies to your agreement in the current FDD.
F45 Training was founded in Sydney, Australia in 2012. The brand has since expanded to operations in more than 60 countries. It is headquartered in Austin, Texas as of recent years following its public listing and subsequent restructuring.
Yes. F45 is on the SBA Franchise Directory, making franchisees eligible for SBA 7(a) financing. The $350K–$700K investment range is well within SBA 7(a) lending parameters.
SBA SOP 50 10 7 sets the minimum DSCR at 1.15×; participating SBA lenders for boutique fitness franchise startups typically underwrite to 1.25×–1.35×. The pro forma is built from FDD Item 19 average gross revenue for comparable F45 studios, net of royalty/ad fees (up to 9%), lease, payroll, and loan payments. The membership ramp period (typically 6–12 months to reach stabilized occupancy) is modeled conservatively. A strong pre-sale or founding member launch can improve the ramp projection.
SBA SOP 50 10 7 requires borrowers to contribute equity from personal funds not borrowed for this purpose — typically 10–20% of total project cost. At $350K–$700K, that runs approximately $35K–$140K depending on project scope. Equipment-heavy builds near the top of the range typically require the higher 20% injection. Equity can come from personal savings, home equity (if not used as collateral for this loan), or a ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups) transaction using retirement funds.