How to Start an Online Fitness Business (+ 25 Proven Success Strategies) in 2025

Posted by Tyler Spraul, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®) on January 31, 2024 — Updated on March 12, 2025

To learn how to start an online fitness business you need to identify your niche, build your brand, create engaging content, and cultivate a supportive community.

Starting an online fitness business opens a world of opportunities for online fitness entrepreneurs passionate about health and wellness. With the rise of online fitness business management software like Exercise.com and an increasing interest in maintaining fitness from the comfort of home, launching an online fitness platform has never been more timely.

I sold a workout program and matched my yearly salary of in-person training within two weeks of selling to my community!

Paul Fabritz

Founder and BS, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, ACE, FMS, PJF Performance

Yes, this is YOUR wake up call to start making money from fitness by learning how to start a fitness business—and this guide will show you how to build an online fitness business and give you everything you need to create online fitness business success that will result in cold, hard cash in your bank account, not just vanity metrics like followers, shares, and likes.

First, let’s get started by checking out all of the different types of online fitness businesses you can start (many more ideas below too), and how Exercise.com can help:

Online Fitness Business Type	What It Involves	How Exercise.com Helps
Online Personal Training Business	Providing 1-on-1 personal training, customized workout plans, and virtual coaching.	Manages online training programs, virtual coaching, and client tracking.
Online Group Fitness Classes	Teaching live or recorded fitness classes through online platforms.	Hosts and schedules live and recorded online fitness classes.
Fitness Membership & Subscription Business	Offering a membership-based fitness program with exclusive online content.	Automates subscriptions, billing, and exclusive membership content.
Virtual Fitness Studio	Building a digital-only fitness studio experience with live-streamed workouts.	Provides a platform for streaming workouts and managing digital memberships.
Online Fitness Coaching & Nutrition Business	Selling online fitness coaching services, nutrition plans, and meal tracking.	Offers an all-in-one system for fitness coaching, meal tracking, and progress monitoring.
Corporate Online Fitness & Wellness	Creating wellness programs and virtual fitness solutions for corporate clients.	Integrates with corporate wellness programs for streamlined online fitness delivery.
Fitness App & Program Sales	Developing and selling fitness apps, pre-designed programs, or workout plans.	Enables fitness professionals to sell workout programs and digital products easily.
Online Fitness Content Creator (YouTube, Blog, Podcast)	Producing fitness-related content on YouTube, blogs, and social media for monetization.	Supports monetization through paid content, premium memberships, and engagement tools.
Fitness eCommerce Store (Apparel, Supplements, Gear)	Selling fitness apparel, supplements, and accessories through an online store.	Integrates with eCommerce for seamless fitness product and merchandise sales.
Hybrid Gym & Online Training Business	Combining a physical gym with an online fitness business for hybrid revenue streams.	Combines in-person gym management with digital fitness coaching solutions.

If you’re wondering how to start an online fitness business, then having the right tools and strategy is essential for success. Whether you’re looking to build an online fitness coaching business, grow your online personal training business, or create an online fitness community, having a structured approach is key. Get access to all the free fitness templates you need, including a fitness business plan template, a fitness marketing template, an online fitness coaching business plan template, an online fitness coaching contract template, and online fitness program templates to help you launch and scale your online fitness business.

So, how do you start a fitness business online? Whether you’re launching an online gym, offering virtual group fitness, or learning how to sell fitness programs online, having the right platform is crucial. Steps include choosing your online fitness business model, building a fitness website, and selecting the best online fitness business software. If you’re looking for how to start an online fitness business with no capital, focusing on social media marketing, online coaching, and digital product sales is a great way to get started. With Exercise.com, you can build an online fitness business, automate member subscriptions, and grow your brand efficiently. Get a demo now and see how our platform helps fitness professionals create, manage, and scale their online fitness business.

#1 Ranked Fitness Business Software: Exercise.com

From learning how to build an online fitness business to understanding how to create an online personal training business, Exercise.com provides the best fitness business management software for fitness entrepreneurs. Whether you’re setting up an online fitness coaching business, running online fitness subscriptions, or launching a fitness brand online, our platform helps you automate and grow your business. Get a demo now.

From offering personalized workout plans to hosting live fitness classes and engaging in one-on-one fitness coaching, the scope is vast and promising. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to start and grow an online fitness business (and you can even start an online fitness business from home), emphasizing why platforms like Exercise.com are your go-to solution for a seamless, cost-effective, and comprehensive online fitness business setup. Whether you want to learn how to become an online fitness coach, or start an online personal training business, or sell workout plans online for money, there are many ways to make money from fitness online.

Using a platform like Exercise.com can significantly enhance your ability to create and grow a profitable online fitness business, thanks to its comprehensive suite of features tailored specifically for fitness professionals. See why using the best online fitness coaching software and the best apps for online fitness coaches can add rocket fuel to your online fitness business income.

From running online fitness challenges, to creating one of the best fitness influencer apps (check out the best white label fitness app software), to selling workout of the day memberships, to learning how to create a fitness app, to much more, there are many ways to make money with fitness, and with the Exercise.com platform you have the best online fitness coaching software and the best software for fitness influencers all in one! (Not to mention the best gym software and the best personal training software).

Sell workout plans online.

Run online fitness challenges.

Create and sell fitness memberships, products, and digital offers.

Manage, message, and market to your leads and followers.

All from your very own custom branded fitness apps.

Our overall experience with Exercise.com is a breeze. We love how easy it is to integrate this app with our current workflow while providing great fitness programs for our customers and save us time in the process.

Julie Ledbetter

Owner, Ledbetter Fitness

Get a demo now!

Step #1 – Identify Your Fitness Niche

Before diving into the digital fitness world, it’s crucial to pinpoint your niche. Whether it’s high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, Pilates, or specialized training like CrossFit, identifying your niche helps tailor your offerings and attract a dedicated clientele. Consider what you’re passionate about, your qualifications, and what unique angle you can bring to the online fitness market.

Research current fitness trends to see what’s in demand.
Analyze your competition to find a gap you can fill.
Understand your target audience to tailor your services to their preferences.

Choosing a fitness niche isn’t just about following your passion; it’s about combining what you love with what’s viable in the market. Once you’ve honed in on your niche, you can start creating content and programs that resonate with your target audience, setting the foundation for a loyal online community.

Step #2 – Develop Your Brand and Online Presence

Your brand is your fitness business’s identity; it’s what sets you apart in the bustling online fitness space. Developing a strong, relatable brand involves choosing a memorable name, a striking logo, and a consistent aesthetic that reflects your business’s ethos and appeals to your target audience.

Create a compelling brand story that connects with your audience on a personal level.
Design a professional website that showcases your services, credentials, and success stories.
Leverage social media to build a community and engage with potential clients.

A robust online presence is non-negotiable in the digital fitness industry. It’s your primary tool for marketing, engagement, and client retention. Utilizing platforms like Exercise.com, which allows for complete brand customization, ensures that every aspect of your online presence, from your website to your custom-branded fitness app, aligns with your brand identity.

Step #3 – Choose the Right Platform to Host Your Services

Selecting the right platform to host your online fitness business is pivotal. While the idea of building a fitness app from scratch might seem appealing, it’s often time-consuming, expensive, and technically challenging. This is where Exercise.com stands out as the optimal choice for fitness professionals.

Custom-branded fitness app: Exercise.com offers a fully custom-branded fitness app that reflects your brand, providing a seamless experience for your clients.
Comprehensive business management tools: From selling workout plans and fitness memberships to scheduling classes and managing client interactions, everything is integrated into one platform.
Cost and time efficiency: Compared to developing an app from scratch or hiring a development company, Exercise.com is a more affordable and quicker solution.

While you may not be able to learn how to start an online fitness business for free, using Exercise.com, you can focus on what you do best—delivering exceptional fitness training—while the platform handles the technical complexities. It’s designed specifically for fitness businesses, incorporating industry-specific features like workout logging, fitness challenges, and a gym studio POS system, making it a comprehensive solution for starting and growing your online fitness business.

“My custom-branded apps have made my life easier and helped streamline my online training, which in turn has transformed into a pretty awesome additional revenue stream for me and my family.”

Tony Gentilcore

Founder, Core Online

Get a demo now!

Step #4 – Create and Market Your Fitness Content

Content is king in the online fitness world. High-quality, engaging fitness content not only attracts clients but also retains them. Develop a mix of pre-recorded workout videos, live classes, fitness blogs, and nutrition guides that reflect your expertise and your brand’s unique voice.

Diversify your content to cater to different fitness levels and interests.
Use SEO best practices to improve your website’s visibility on search engines.
Engage with your audience through newsletters, social media, and personalized fitness challenges.

Marketing your online fitness business effectively requires a strategic approach. Utilize social media advertising, email marketing, and partnerships with influencers in your niche to broaden your reach. Platforms like Exercise.com come equipped with marketing tools that allow you to target leads, send out promotions, and track the effectiveness of your campaigns, ensuring your marketing efforts drive results.

I sold a workout program and matched my yearly salary of in-person training within two weeks of selling to my community!

Paul Fabritz

Founder and BS, CSCS, NSCA-CPT, ACE, FMS, PJF Performance

Get a demo now!

Step #5 – Foster Community and Client Engagement

Building a community around your online fitness business can significantly enhance client retention and word-of-mouth referrals. An engaged community not only supports each other but also motivates members to stay consistent with their fitness goals.

Host live Q&A sessions to interact with your clients in real-time.
Create online workout groups for clients to share their progress and challenges.
Offer personalized feedback and modifications to foster a sense of individual attention.

Using a platform like Exercise.com, you can easily message clients, run fitness challenges, and offer personalized workout programming, all of which contribute to a vibrant, engaged online fitness community. It’s about creating an inclusive environment where every member feels valued and supported in their fitness journey.

How to Grow an Online Fitness Business Successfully

✔ Define your niche—Decide if you’re focusing on personal training, nutrition, group classes, or digital fitness programs.
✔ Build a website and social presence—Use platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and blogs to drive traffic.
✔ Create digital products—Sell workout plans, fitness subscriptions, and coaching programs online.
✔ Use the best fitness business software—Automate billing, coaching, and memberships with Exercise.com.

Why Use Exercise.com to Start & Grow Your Online Fitness Business?

📢 Exercise.com is the best software for fitness entrepreneurs looking to scale their online fitness business.

✅ Sell online coaching, workout programs, and fitness subscriptions.
✅ Manage client progress, coaching plans, and virtual training seamlessly.
✅ Monetize digital content, from workout videos to premium memberships.
✅ Run an eCommerce store for fitness apparel, supplements, and online programs.
✅ Automate client communication, engagement, and lead generation.

📢 Want to launch and grow your online fitness business? Request a demo of Exercise.com today! 🚀

Exercise.com makes my life easier by providing an all-in-one solution and the opportunity to help those who otherwise would never have access to my programming!

Tony Gentilcore

Founder, Core Online

Get a demo now!

Online Fitness Business Model Ideas

Starting an online fitness business is a great way to scale your expertise and reach a global audience without the limitations of a physical location. Whether you’re looking to sell fitness programs online, start online personal training, or launch a virtual fitness studio, having the right fitness business software is crucial for growth and automation.

Starting an online fitness business offers numerous opportunities for fitness professionals to grow their brand and reach a wider audience. Whether you’re a personal trainer, yoga instructor, or CrossFit coach, the shift toward digital fitness opens doors to scalable business models that can be run from anywhere. In this guide, we’ll explore 25 different online fitness business model ideas, each with a brief description to help you determine which one might be the best fit for your business (then go here for even more online fitness business ideas). When relevant, we’ll also show how Exercise.com can help you build an online fitness business and manage it efficiently.

1. Online Personal Training

Offer one-on-one coaching virtually through video calls, customized programs, and ongoing support. Using Exercise.com’s online fitness coach platform, you can easily deliver workout programs, track progress, and communicate with clients.

2. Group Fitness Classes Online

Host virtual fitness classes through live or pre-recorded sessions. Exercise.com is the best platform for online fitness classes, allowing you to schedule, manage, and stream sessions seamlessly.

3. Subscription-Based Fitness Program

Create a monthly subscription model where users pay for access to a library of workouts, challenges, and nutrition guides. This is a scalable online fitness business model that can generate recurring revenue.

4. Fitness Challenges

Run time-based challenges, such as 30-day fitness challenges, where participants sign up for a specific goal. You can use Exercise.com to manage and track these challenges easily.

5. Online Fitness Club

Launch an online fitness club where members get exclusive content, group challenges, and community support. Exercise.com’s all-in-one platform is perfect for managing memberships and engagement.

6. Pre-Recorded Workout Library

Build a library of pre-recorded workouts that clients can access on-demand. This is an ideal model for trainers looking to offer flexibility and scalability.

7. Nutrition Coaching

Offer personalized meal plans and nutrition coaching services alongside fitness training. Combine this with Exercise.com’s tools to track client progress.

8. Corporate Wellness Programs

Offer virtual fitness and wellness programs tailored for corporate clients. This can include live classes, wellness challenges, and team-building exercises.

9. One-on-One Virtual Coaching

Provide tailored training plans and coaching for individual clients through video calls and messaging. With Exercise.com, you can manage sessions, track progress, and stay connected with clients.

10. Build Your Own Fitness App

Create your own custom fitness app to deliver workouts, track client progress, and foster community. Exercise.com makes it easy to build your own fitness app with integrated features.

11. Online Fitness Coaching Certification

Offer certifications for fitness trainers through an online course. You can create modules, quizzes, and exams to certify participants remotely.

12. Remote Fitness Jobs Marketplace

Create a marketplace connecting fitness professionals with clients looking for virtual coaching or group classes. This provides remote fitness jobs for trainers and expands your business reach.

13. Online Weight Loss Coaching

Specialize in weight loss programs that include exercise, nutrition, and behavioral coaching. Track client progress through Exercise.com and keep them accountable.

14. Fitness Subscription Box

Pair a monthly subscription with a fitness box that includes workout gear, supplements, and access to virtual classes.

15. Online Yoga Studio

Offer virtual yoga classes for clients at different skill levels. Using Exercise.com’s platform, you can manage scheduling, memberships, and live sessions.

16. Hybrid Online and In-Person Training

Offer a hybrid model where clients have the option of training virtually or in person. This creates flexibility and can appeal to a broader audience.

17. Custom Workout Plan Sales

Sell customized workout plans tailored to each client’s needs and fitness goals. Exercise.com makes it easy to deliver these plans, track progress, and provide feedback.

18. Fitness Ebooks and Guides

Write and sell ebooks or digital guides covering fitness topics like strength training, flexibility, or bodyweight exercises. Pair this with online coaching to boost your credibility and revenue.

19. Corporate Fitness Challenges

Run fitness challenges for businesses to promote team building and wellness. Use Exercise.com’s platform to manage sign-ups, track progress, and deliver results to corporate clients.

20. Online Fitness Class Membership

Offer unlimited access to live and on-demand virtual classes through a membership model. This online fitness business plan allows for recurring income and scalability.

21. Fitness Workshops and Webinars

Host virtual fitness workshops or webinars on specialized topics like injury prevention, strength training, or nutrition.

22. Live Streaming Fitness Events

Organize and host live-streamed fitness events, such as charity workouts or fitness competitions, to attract a wider audience.

23. Affiliate Marketing for Fitness Products

Create content around fitness products and earn commissions through affiliate marketing. This can be paired with your fitness blog or website.

24. Online Fitness Marketplace

Create an online marketplace where trainers and coaches can offer their services, classes, or programs to clients looking for virtual fitness options.

25. Sell Pre-Made Fitness Programs

Develop and sell pre-made fitness programs for specific goals, such as muscle building or fat loss. Use Exercise.com to manage purchases and delivery of the programs.

Comprehensive Analysis of Online Fitness Businesses: Pros, Cons, and Best Fit for Fitness Entrepreneurs

The rise of digital platforms has made starting a fitness business from home easier than ever, but choosing the right online fitness business ideas can be challenging. Whether you’re looking to start a fitness brand, sell online fitness programming, or provide corporate fitness online, understanding the pros and cons of different online fitness coaching business models is crucial.

Key Considerations for Choosing an Online Fitness Business Model

Before jumping into how to start an online fitness business, consider the following factors:

Capital Requirements – Do you need upfront investment for software, equipment, or marketing?
Expertise & Credentials – Are certifications required, or can you build credibility through experience?
Scalability – Can the business be expanded over time, or does it require constant hands-on work?
Revenue Potential – Is it a better fitness business model for passive income or active coaching?

Using Exercise.com, fitness professionals can build, manage, and grow their online fitness business through custom-branded fitness apps, automated client management, and seamless e-commerce integrations. Below, we explore different online fitness entrepreneur ideas, their benefits, challenges, and how Exercise.com helps maximize success.

Comparison of Online Fitness Business Models

1. Online Personal Training & Coaching

Best For:

Certified trainers, coaches, or fitness professionals who want to work directly with clients.
Those looking to build an online fitness coaching business with personalized programming.

Pros:

✔ High revenue potential with premium one-on-one coaching.
✔ Clients seek personal accountability, making retention strong.
✔ Ability to sell fitness programs online and charge for custom plans.

Cons:

✖ Requires significant time investment.
✖ Limited scalability unless automated.

How Exercise.com Helps:

✔ How to start a personal training business online – Create and automate coaching programs.
✔ How to grow your online personal training business – Manage clients in one platform.
✔ How to run a successful online personal training business – Use online fitness trainer software for tracking and payments.

2. Subscription-Based Online Fitness Memberships

Best For:

Coaches looking to scale by offering pre-recorded workouts and online group fitness classes.
Trainers interested in how to run online fitness subscriptions with minimal ongoing work.

Pros:

✔ Scalable income model—no need for individual coaching sessions.
✔ Low maintenance once set up—clients follow pre-recorded content.
✔ Works well with fitness online marketing and social media.

Cons:

✖ Requires strong branding and marketing to attract members.
✖ High competition—must differentiate your offering.

How Exercise.com Helps:

✔ How to set up an online fitness coaching business – Sell memberships with automated billing.
✔ How to create an online fitness community – Engage members through challenges and progress tracking.

3. Selling Pre-Made Fitness Programs

Best For:

Trainers who want passive income by selling digital fitness plans.
Those looking for how to start an online fitness program without ongoing client interaction.

Pros:

✔ Minimal ongoing effort once programs are created.
✔ Great for targeting niche markets like weight loss, strength, or mobility.
✔ Clients get structured guidance without the cost of personal coaching.

Cons:

✖ Lower engagement than live coaching.
✖ Must build a brand to establish credibility.

How Exercise.com Helps:

✔ How to create a fitness program online – Design structured plans with automated delivery.
✔ How to make an online fitness program – Sell digital workout guides and challenges.
✔ How to build a successful online personal training business – Integrate with e-commerce fitness tools.

4. Virtual Fitness Classes & Online Gyms

Best For:

Group instructors looking to offer online gym software-based training.
Those who enjoy teaching live or pre-recorded classes.

Pros:

✔ Higher engagement than pre-recorded content.
✔ Clients enjoy real-time motivation and accountability.
✔ Works well for corporate fitness online and virtual gym training.

Cons:

✖ Requires regular time commitment for live classes.
✖ May have tech issues with streaming and engagement.

How Exercise.com Helps:

✔ How to run online fitness classes – Stream live sessions from a custom-branded app.
✔ Online group fitness classes – Offer memberships with recurring revenue.

5. Starting a Fitness Clothing or Supplement Brand

Best For:

Entrepreneurs interested in ecommerce fitness and how to create a fitness brand.
Those looking for passive income through merchandise sales.

Pros:

✔ Scalability—no time-based income limitations.
✔ Wide audience potential with proper marketing.

Cons:

✖ Requires inventory and fulfillment setup.
✖ High competition—branding is crucial.

How Exercise.com Helps:

✔ How to create my own gym clothing line – Sell fitness apparel directly from your website.
✔ How to start a fitness brand – Create an integrated platform for workouts + product sales.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Fitness Business

Business Type	Capital Needed	Required Expertise	Scalability	Best for…
Online Personal Training	Low	High (Certifications recommended)	Medium	Coaches who want client interaction
Subscription-Based Memberships	Low to Medium	Medium	High	Passive income seekers
Selling Pre-Made Fitness Programs	Low	Medium	High	Trainers looking for passive income
Virtual Group Fitness	Low	High	Medium	Instructors who enjoy live engagement
Fitness Apparel or Supplements	Medium to High	Low	High	Entrepreneurs looking for branding opportunities

Why Exercise.com is the Best Platform for Any Online Fitness Business

No matter which online fitness business ideas you choose, Exercise.com provides the tools you need to launch, manage, and scale your business.

✔ How to start online fitness business – Create a custom-branded fitness website and mobile app.
✔ How to build an online fitness business – Sell memberships, training plans, and coaching services.
✔ How to grow an online fitness business – Use built-in marketing tools, email campaigns, and automation.
✔ How to create an online fitness coaching business – Provide structured workout programs and client tracking.
✔ How to set up online fitness coaching – Offer live classes, on-demand workouts, and progress tracking.

Choosing the Best Online Fitness Business for YOU

The best online fitness business to own depends on your skills, goals, and preferred level of client interaction. Whether you want to become an online fitness coach, sell fitness programs online, or create an online fitness community, the right software is essential for success.

With Exercise.com, you can build a profitable fitness business online, streamline client management, and scale your services effortlessly. If you’re ready to start, grow, and monetize your online fitness brand, Exercise.com is the ultimate solution to power your success.

“Our experience working with Exercise.com to develop a custom leaderboard for the Gold’s Gym Fitness Competition was excellent. The software allowed us to efficiently register participants across 150+ locations nationwide, gathering valuable insights on participation. The real-time score updates encouraged healthy competition and boosted engagement, fostering a strong sense of community. The Exercise team was flexible and efficient, ensuring that the software incorporated all the necessary features to make our competition a success.”

Gold’s Gym

Gold’s Gym HQ

Get a demo now!

Start Creating Your Online Fitness Business

There are countless ways to start an online fitness business, whether through personal training, group classes, or corporate wellness programs. The key is choosing the right online fitness business model that suits your skills and audience. Exercise.com offers the best platform for building an online fitness business, making it easy to manage clients, deliver content, and scale your business efficiently. Whether you’re looking to start online fitness business ventures or become an online fitness coach and launch an online fitness coaching business, Exercise.com provides all the tools you need.

Building an online fitness business opens up numerous opportunities for fitness professionals to expand their reach and grow their client base. Whether you’re looking to start an online personal training business or explore other fitness business online models, it’s important to choose the right platform. With Exercise.com, you can easily manage everything from workout delivery to client tracking, making it the ideal online fitness coach platform. It’s also great for trainers looking for online fitness coach jobs, as it provides the tools needed to scale your services and offer coaching to clients remotely.

If you’re looking to start online fitness business ventures or work with corporate clients, Exercise.com also supports corporate fitness apps and corporate fitness challenge apps, allowing you to create programs tailored to business environments. Additionally, for trainers who need to set up a professional online presence, Exercise.com serves as the best website builder for fitness business, offering customizable features to fit your brand’s unique needs.

Starting an online fitness business is a rewarding venture for those passionate about health and wellness. By following these steps and leveraging a platform like Exercise.com, you can streamline the process, ensuring a professional, branded experience for your clients. Exercise.com not only simplifies the technical aspects of running an online fitness business but also provides the tools you need to scale, from workout programming to comprehensive business management. Embrace the opportunity to transform your fitness passion into a thriving online business, reaching clients worldwide and making a significant impact on their health and well-being.

I am grateful to have been able to create an app for my online family to grow with, and be able to support a business that I believe in.

Desiree Pfeifer

CEO, DBFT LLC

Get a demo now!

How to Start an Online Fitness Business From Scratch in 7 Steps

Starting an online fitness business from scratch is an exciting venture that can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned fitness professional or just passionate about fitness, taking your skills online can open up numerous opportunities. This 7-step guide offers a clear path to establish your online fitness business: identifying your fitness niche, developing your services, creating a gym business plan, setting up your online presence, promoting your business, delivering your services, and evaluating and growing your business. Leveraging tools like Exercise.com can streamline this process, helping you create a fitness app and automate many business processes, ultimately setting your fitness business up for success.

1. Identify Your Fitness Niche

Your first step is to determine what kind of fitness business you want to start. This will depend on your skills, interests, and the market demand. You could specialize in weight loss, strength training, yoga, Pilates, or high-intensity interval training, among others.

2. Develop Your Fitness Services

Once you’ve identified your niche, the next step is to develop your fitness services. This could include online personal training, group classes, workout plans, nutrition coaching, or a combination of these. Determine what services will best meet the needs of your target audience.

3. Create a Business Plan

Next, create a business plan outlining your business’s structure, goals, target market, and strategies for reaching your target audience. This plan will serve as your roadmap as you start and grow your business.

4. Set Up Your Online Presence

Set up your website and social media profiles. These will serve as your online storefront, where potential clients can learn more about your services, sign up for classes or training, and contact you for more information.

5. Promote Your Business

Start promoting your business to attract clients. You can do this through social media marketing, content marketing, email marketing, and collaborations with other fitness influencers.

6. Deliver Your Services

Once you have clients, it’s time to deliver your services. Use live video for classes or one-on-one training sessions. For workout plans, you could deliver them via email or through a platform like Exercise.com.

7. Evaluate and Grow

Finally, regularly evaluate your business’s performance and look for ways to grow. You could expand your services, target new markets, or use a platform like Exercise.com to create a custom-branded app and streamline your business processes.

Starting an online fitness business from scratch requires a lot of hard work and dedication, but by following these steps and using tools like Exercise.com, you can set yourself up for success.

Julie Ledbetter

Owner, Ledbetter Fitness

Get a demo now!

Understanding the online fitness industry

The online fitness industry has been growing rapidly over the past few years. With the current global pandemic, more and more people are turning to online fitness services to stay healthy and fit. In this article, we’ll explore the market trends and opportunities, as well as how to identify your target audience and niche selection.

Market trends and opportunities

The online fitness market has seen a surge in demand due to the pandemic. People are looking for ways to stay active and healthy while staying safe at home. With the convenience of online fitness services, it’s no surprise that the industry is expected to reach $59.2 billion by 2027.

One of the significant trends in the online fitness industry is the rise of personalization. People are looking for customized workout plans and one-on-one coaching to help them achieve their fitness goals. This presents an opportunity for fitness professionals to offer personalized services to their clients.

Another trend is the integration of technology into fitness services. From wearable fitness trackers to virtual reality workouts, technology is playing a significant role in shaping the future of the online fitness industry.

Target audience and niche selection

When starting an online fitness business, it’s essential to identify your target audience. Who are you trying to reach? Are you targeting beginners or experienced athletes? What age group are you catering to?

Once you’ve identified your target audience, it’s time to narrow down your focus to a specific niche. For example, if you’re targeting beginners, you may want to focus on creating workout videos that are easy to follow and require minimal equipment. If you’re targeting experienced athletes, you may want to offer personalized coaching and advanced workout plans.

Another way to narrow down your niche is to focus on a specific fitness category. For example, if you’re passionate about yoga, you may want to create a yoga-specific online fitness business. Alternatively, if you’re interested in strength training, you may want to offer strength training workouts and coaching.

In conclusion, the online fitness industry presents a significant opportunity for fitness professionals to offer personalized and convenient services to clients. By understanding the market trends and opportunities and identifying your target audience and niche selection, you can create a successful online fitness business.

Creating your business plan

Starting your own online fitness business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, it’s important to have a clear and comprehensive business plan in place before launching your business. This will help you stay focused, organized, and on track towards achieving your goals.

Setting clear goals and objectives

One of the first steps in creating your business plan is to define your business goals and objectives. Ask yourself, what do you want to achieve with your online fitness business? Do you want to help people achieve their fitness goals, promote a healthy lifestyle, or create a community of fitness enthusiasts?

Once you have a clear understanding of your goals, you can then set specific and measurable objectives for your business. For example, if your goal is to help people achieve their fitness goals, your objectives may include increasing your client base by a certain percentage each month, or launching a new fitness program every quarter.

Identifying revenue streams

Another important aspect of your business plan is identifying your revenue streams. This will help you determine how you will generate income for your business. Will you be selling fitness programs and services, advertising on your website, or promoting affiliate products?

It’s important to choose revenue streams that align with your overall business goals. For example, if your goal is to help people achieve their fitness goals, selling fitness programs and services may be the most effective revenue stream for your business.

Budgeting and financial projections

Creating a budget and financial projections for your online fitness business is also crucial. This will help you determine your startup costs, including website development, marketing, and equipment. It will also allow you to estimate your monthly expenses and forecast your revenues.

When creating your budget, be sure to include all necessary expenses, such as website hosting fees, marketing costs, and equipment purchases. It’s also important to consider any unexpected expenses that may arise.

Financial projections will help you determine the expected revenue for your business. This can be based on factors such as your pricing strategy, the size of your target market, and your marketing efforts. By forecasting your revenues, you can create a realistic budget and determine the profitability of your business.

Overall, creating a comprehensive business plan is essential for any startup, including an online fitness business. By setting clear goals and objectives, identifying your revenue streams, and creating a budget and financial projections, you can set your business up for success.

Building your online presence

Building an online presence for your fitness business is crucial in today’s digital age. Not only does it help you reach a wider audience, but it also allows you to connect with potential clients and build a community around your brand. Here are some tips to help you build a strong online presence:

Choosing the right platform

When it comes to choosing the right platform for your fitness business, you have several options to consider. A website is a great place to start, as it allows you to showcase your services and programs, and provides potential clients with a way to contact you. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are also great options, as they allow you to connect with your audience and share valuable content.

When choosing a platform, it’s important to consider your target audience and which platform they are most likely to use. For example, if your target audience is primarily older adults, Facebook may be a better option than Instagram. On the other hand, if you’re targeting a younger audience, Instagram may be the way to go.

Designing an engaging website

A well-designed website is essential when building your online presence. Your website should be visually appealing, user-friendly, and easy to navigate. Make sure that your website showcases your services and programs, and don’t forget to include a call to action! This could be anything from encouraging visitors to sign up for a free trial, to offering a discount on their first session.

When designing your website, it’s important to consider the user experience. Make sure that your website is optimized for mobile devices, as more and more people are accessing the internet on their smartphones and tablets. You should also consider the loading speed of your website, as slow loading times can lead to a high bounce rate.

Creating valuable content

Finally, creating valuable content is key to building a strong online presence. Your content should resonate with your target audience and provide solutions to their fitness problems. Consider publishing blog posts or workout videos that address their needs and offer tips and advice. Engage with your audience through social media and create a community around your business.

Remember, building an online presence takes time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it. By choosing the right platform, designing an engaging website, and creating valuable content, you can build a strong online presence for your fitness business and attract more clients.

Developing your fitness programs and services

Developing fitness programs and services is the core of your online fitness business. It is important to keep in mind that workout plans should not only be effective but also enjoyable for your audience. The more they enjoy it, the more likely they are to stick to it and recommend it to others.

Crafting effective workout plans

When crafting workout plans, it is important to consider your target audience and niche selection. For example, if your target audience is beginners, you may want to focus on basic exercises and gradually increase the intensity over time. On the other hand, if your niche is focused on weightlifting, you may want to incorporate more strength training exercises.

It is also important to consider the equipment that your audience has access to. If they are working out from home, they may not have access to a full gym, so you may need to incorporate bodyweight exercises or exercises that can be done with minimal equipment.

Offering personalized coaching

Personalized coaching can help differentiate your business from competitors. It allows you to provide individual attention to your clients and cater to their specific needs. Consider offering one-on-one coaching sessions or tailored coaching programs that focus on specific goals, such as weight loss or muscle gain.

When offering personalized coaching, it is important to establish a strong rapport with your clients. This can be done by regularly checking in with them, providing feedback on their progress, and adjusting their workout plans as needed.

Incorporating nutrition and wellness advice

Nutrition and wellness advice can complement your fitness programs and services. By providing your audience with information on healthy eating habits and self-care practices, you can help them achieve their fitness goals more effectively.

Consider developing nutrition plans and wellness advice for your audience that aligns with your target audience and niche selection. For example, if your niche is focused on veganism, you may want to provide plant-based meal plans and information on the benefits of a vegan diet.

It is important to note that while providing nutrition and wellness advice can be helpful, it is important to stay within your scope of practice as a fitness professional. If you are not a registered dietitian or healthcare professional, it is important to refer clients to the appropriate resources.

With Exercise.com, I’m able to reach people around the world with the programs that I design, implement, and push out. You don’t have that opportunity working in a local gym. So that’s been huge.

Kellie Davis

Founder/Trainer, Fit Thrive

Get a demo now!

How much does it cost to start a fitness business?

The cost to start a fitness business can range from $10,000 to $50,000, depending on whether you are opening a physical gym or starting an online fitness business. Physical gyms typically require higher upfront costs, including rent, equipment, and insurance, while online fitness businesses have lower overhead, focusing on software, marketing, and program development. If you’re looking to reduce startup costs, using a platform like Exercise.com allows you to manage clients, deliver workouts, and track progress efficiently, making it a cost-effective solution for both brick-and-mortar and online fitness ventures.

How can I make money with online fitness?

You can make money with online fitness by offering services such as personalized training programs, live or recorded classes, fitness challenges, and selling workout plans. Many fitness professionals create subscription models or charge for one-on-one coaching. Utilizing a platform like Exercise.com allows you to efficiently manage clients, deliver customized content, and collect payments all in one place, making it easier to scale and increase revenue.

Can you sell workout plans without being certified?

While you can sell workout plans without being certified, it is strongly recommended to become certified for credibility, client safety, and legal protection. Clients are more likely to trust trainers who have the best and most recognized personal training certifications. Additionally, certification may help you market your services more effectively. Exercise.com provides the tools to deliver and track these workout plans professionally, ensuring clients can follow their fitness journey with ease.

What is the most profitable fitness niche?

The most profitable fitness niche often depends on your audience, but popular areas include weight loss, functional training, and online personal training. The growth of virtual fitness and niche communities such as online coaching or corporate wellness programs offers high profit potential. Exercise.com helps you tap into any niche with its robust tools for creating customized programs, running fitness challenges, and managing memberships.

What kind of fitness business should I start?

The type of fitness business you should start depends on your expertise, target market, and available resources. If you’re passionate about group workouts, consider a studio-based business. For those seeking scalability, an online fitness business offers lower overhead and broader reach. With Exercise.com, whether you’re launching a physical gym, yoga studio, or online coaching service, you have everything you need to manage your fitness business effectively.

How hard is it to start a fitness business?

Starting a fitness business can be challenging but manageable with the right planning and tools. You’ll need to consider licensing, location (if physical), equipment, marketing, and building a client base. Online fitness businesses may be easier to start due to lower overhead costs. Using Exercise.com simplifies many tasks, such as client management, payments, and program delivery, making it easier to launch and scale your fitness business.

How do I start an online fitness program?

To start an online fitness program, first decide on the type of program you want to offer—whether it’s live coaching, pre-recorded videos, or a workout subscription service. Develop a structured program with clear goals and exercises. Use Exercise.com to deliver workouts, track progress, and manage payments, all in one platform, so you can focus on coaching instead of administrative tasks.

Who is the highest paid fitness entrepreneur?

As of recent data, fitness influencers and entrepreneurs like Kayla Itsines, co-founder of the Sweat app, are among the highest-paid fitness entrepreneurs, earning millions annually from app subscriptions and online coaching. Her business model shows how leveraging technology, like Exercise.com, can help fitness professionals scale their services globally through digital products and programs.

How to start selling fitness programs online?

To start selling fitness programs online, first, create valuable and targeted programs for your audience. You can sell one-time programs, offer a subscription service, or provide one-on-one coaching. With Exercise.com, you can seamlessly sell and deliver these programs, manage client progress, and collect payments, making it easier to monetize your fitness expertise and grow your online business

What equipment do I need to start an online fitness business?

Starting an online fitness business requires minimal equipment. A laptop with a good internet connection, a quality webcam for recording or live-streaming workouts, and any fitness equipment you’ll use in your sessions are a good start. Utilizing a platform like Exercise.com can simplify the process by allowing you to host your workouts, manage clients, and process payments all in one place.

How can I identify my target market for my online fitness business?

Your target market will depend on your expertise, passion, and the needs of potential clients. Consider demographics such as age, gender, and fitness level, as well as interests, goals, and the types of workouts they prefer. Market research, such as surveys or social media polls, can help you gain insights into your potential clients’ needs and preferences.

Do I need certifications to start an online fitness business?

While not a legal requirement, having a fitness certification can boost your credibility and reassure potential clients of your expertise. Some popular certifying organizations include the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and the American Council on Exercise (ACE).

How do I price my services for my online fitness business?

Pricing can depend on several factors, including the type of service (e.g., group classes vs. one-on-one training), the length of sessions, your expertise, and the market rate. You could start by researching what other online fitness businesses are charging for similar services.

How can I promote my online fitness business?

There are many ways to promote your online fitness business, from social media marketing and content marketing to partnerships with other fitness influencers. Providing valuable, engaging content can help attract potential clients, while platforms like Exercise.com can help you manage your marketing campaigns and track their effectiveness.

How do I start an online fitness business from scratch?

To start an online fitness business from scratch, begin by defining your niche, whether it’s personal training, yoga, or weight loss coaching. Once you know your target audience, create a solid online fitness business plan that outlines your services, pricing, and marketing strategies. Next, choose a platform like Exercise.com, which is the best online fitness coach platform for managing clients, delivering workouts, and tracking progress. Build your online presence using a professional website or app (Exercise.com also offers the best website builder for fitness business and the best white label fitness app builder software) and start promoting your services through social media and email marketing. Over time, you can scale your offerings by adding new programs, fitness challenges, or corporate wellness services using corporate fitness apps and corporate fitness challenge apps to grow your business.

Are you thinking of starting an online fitness business from scratch? You’re not alone! The online fitness industry has seen tremendous growth in recent years, and there are plenty of opportunities for new businesses to succeed. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to learn how to start your own online fitness business from scratch, from understanding the industry to developing your fitness programs and services. Learn everything you need to know to start a fitness business.

Once you learn how to create an online fitness business from scratch, then if you want to run an online fitness business with the best software for personal trainers and the best software for fitness influencers, then see why Exercise.com is the best software to run your entire fitness business all in one place. You can sell workout plans online, run online workout groups, start fitness challenges, do online personal training, and more, all from your own custom-branded fitness apps with the best apps for online fitness coaches.

How can I start an online fitness business?

To start an online fitness business, identify your niche, obtain relevant certifications, develop a business plan, create a website or platform to host your content, design your fitness programs or services, and utilize social media and digital marketing to reach your target audience.

Are online fitness businesses profitable?

Online fitness businesses can be highly profitable due to lower overhead costs compared to traditional gyms and the potential to reach a global audience. Profitability depends on the quality of your offerings, effective marketing, and your ability to retain clients.

How can I make money in online fitness?

You can make money in online fitness by offering personalized training programs, subscription-based workout plans, hosting live classes, selling fitness e-books or courses, affiliate marketing with fitness products, and through ad revenue on fitness content platforms.

How much should I charge for an online workout program?

Pricing for an online workout program can vary widely based on factors like program length, content quality, and your credentials. Rates can range from $30 to $300 or more for multi-week programs, with some premium or highly specialized programs costing more. And don’t forget to consider a membership for recurring revenue!

How do I get clients for online training?

Getting clients for online training involves building a strong online presence, leveraging social media platforms, offering free trials or content to attract interest, engaging with fitness communities, and utilizing email marketing to convert leads into clients.

Are fitness apps profitable?

Fitness apps can be profitable, especially those that offer unique features, personalized experiences, or niche content. Profitability often comes from subscription models, in-app purchases, ads, and premium features.

What is the most profitable fitness business?

The most profitable fitness business models often include boutique fitness studios, specialized online fitness platforms, and fitness apps that offer unique, high-quality content and services to a dedicated niche audience.

How big is the online fitness market?

The online fitness market has seen substantial growth, especially post-pandemic, with projections reaching into the tens of billions of dollars globally. This growth is driven by increasing demand for accessible, flexible fitness options.

Can you make 6 figures as a personal trainer?

Yes, it’s possible to make 6 figures as a personal trainer, especially if you expand your services online, offer high-ticket personalized coaching, create and sell digital fitness products, and build a strong personal brand.

What fitness app pays the most?

Fitness apps that typically pay the most are those with a large user base, offering premium subscription services, personalized training plans, and additional in-app purchases. Earnings can also be significant for apps that successfully implement ad revenue models or affiliate marketing.

How much do online fitness influencers make?

Online fitness influencers’ earnings can vary widely, with top influencers making anywhere from $50,000 to over $1 million annually through sponsorships, brand partnerships, selling their fitness programs, and merchandise.

How to start a fitness business with no money?

Starting a fitness business with no money involves leveraging free platforms like social media and YouTube to build a following, offering services that don’t require upfront investment, like virtual coaching or classes, and gradually building up to more substantial offerings.

How does an online fitness business work?

An online fitness business works by delivering fitness content and services digitally, through platforms like websites, apps, and social media. This can include pre-recorded workout videos, live classes, personalized coaching, and fitness communities.

Can you make good money as an online fitness coach?

Yes, you can make good money as an online fitness coach by offering personalized training, leveraging your expertise to create digital products, and reaching a broad audience through effective online marketing and brand building.

How do I start an online fitness challenge?

Starting an online fitness challenge involves setting clear goals and guidelines, creating engaging content and workouts, promoting the challenge through social media and email marketing, and providing a platform for participants to track progress and engage with each other.

How can Exercise.com help me run and grow an online fitness business?

Exercise.com can help run and grow an online fitness business by providing a comprehensive platform for managing clients, delivering workouts, tracking progress, processing payments, and more. With custom branding and a range of integrations, it offers the tools needed to scale your business efficiently while maintaining a high level of service and engagement.

If you want to offer an elite service for the end user you need to get with the times and use elite level software that is intuitive, visually appealing, and effective. That is exactly what Exercise.com delivers to its clients.

Jimmy Myers

Owner/Trainer, Relentless Sports Performance

Get a demo now!

Tyler Spraul is the director of UX and the head trainer for Exercise.com. He has his Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medicine and is an NSCA-Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist® (CSCS®). He is a former All-American soccer player and still coaches soccer today. In his free time, he enjoys reading, learning, and living the dad life.

250+ Fitness Brand Name Ideas in 2025 - Creative, Powerful & Memorable

How to Start a Fitness Blog and Make Money in 2025