If you are venturing into opportunities within the exploding fitness sector, starting a Club Pilates franchise may prove to be one of the best business decisions you can ever make. With its affiliation with the Xponential Fitness group, Club Pilates has evolved into one of the largest and most prominent boutique fitness brands in the U.S. It boasts a winning business model with high consumer demand on its side, with more than 800 open studios and additional ones under construction.
But before investing, you should know the Club Pilates franchise expenses that cover the franchise fee, build-out costs, equipment, and recurring fees. You should have an idea of the financial investment to make an educated choice.
Here, we have broken down the total cost of starting a Club Pilates franchise. It includes potential earnings, guides you through the process of opening, and addresses frequent queries. At the end of it, you will have a complete idea about what it entails to become part of one of the fastest-growing fitness franchises in America, and if it suits your objectives and budget.
What is Club Pilates?
Club Pilates is a premier boutique fitness chain specializing in Reformer-based Pilates classes for every level of fitness. The company was founded in 2007 in San Diego, California. It quickly established itself as a go-to for making Pilates more accessible, affordable, and impactful for a broader base. It was acquired in 2015 by Xponential Fitness, a boutique fitness powerhouse that also owns Pure Barre, CycleBar, and StretchLab.
Club Pilates now has more than 850 locations globally and is growing quickly throughout the United States and abroad. The company provides a fusion of classic Pilates philosophy with contemporary group fitness models, utilizing high-performance Reformers and cutting-edge equipment in an open, inviting studio setting.
Each of the studios provides a range of class styles and levels of difficulty, from beginning classes to more intense flows. Members get the advantage of regular, full-body workouts that enhance strength, flexibility, posture, and mental clarity.
Club Pilates is a leading boutique fitness franchise that specializes in Reformer-based Pilates classes for all fitness levels. Founded in 2007 in San Diego, California, the brand quickly gained popularity for making Pilates more accessible, affordable, and effective for a wider audience. In 2015, it was acquired by Xponential Fitness, a powerhouse in the boutique fitness industry that also owns brands like Pure Barre, CycleBar, and StretchLab.
Today, Club Pilates operates over 850 locations worldwide and continues to expand rapidly across the United States and internationally. The brand offers a unique blend of traditional Pilates principles with modern group fitness formats, using high-quality Reformers and state-of-the-art equipment in a welcoming studio environment.
Each studio offers a variety of class types and difficulty levels, ranging from introductory sessions to more advanced flows. Members benefit from consistent, full-body workouts that improve strength, flexibility, posture, and mental focus.
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From a franchisee perspective, Club Pilates is known for its semi-absentee ownership model, strong brand recognition, and comprehensive training and support. The business model is designed to generate stable income and long-term value with a recurring revenue structure through memberships.
Club Pilates Franchise Cost Breakdown
Before you commit to starting a Club Pilates studio, it’s essential to understand the full range of costs involved. While the brand offers a turnkey franchise system with strong support, it does require a significant upfront investment, typical of premium boutique fitness concepts.
According to the most recent Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), here’s a breakdown of the Club Pilates franchise cost:
1. Franchise Fee
$60,000 (one-time)This gives you the right to operate under the Club Pilates brand and access to its proven systems, national marketing, and training programs. It’s a standard fee across all territories.
2. Total Initial Investment
Estimated: $180,000 – $400,000+
This range includes all the costs required to get your studio up and running. Here’s how that breaks down:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| Studio Build-out & Leasehold | $80,000 – $180,000 |
| Pilates Equipment (Reformers, etc.) | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| Pre-Sale & Grand Opening Marketing | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Technology & Software Licensing | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Training, Travel & Lodging | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $20,000 – $40,000+ |
Note: Costs vary based on location, lease terms, studio size, and local contractor rates.
3. Ongoing Royalties & Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Royalty Fee | 7% of gross monthly revenue |
| National Brand Fund | 2% of gross monthly revenue |
| Local Marketing Spend | Minimum $2,000/month suggested |
| Renewal Fee | $10,000 (at the end of the 10-year term) |
These fees cover continued use of the brand, national marketing campaigns, ongoing support, and technology updates.
Financing Options
While Club Pilates does not directly offer financing, they have approved third-party lenders familiar with the franchise. You may also qualify for:
- SBA loans
- Equipment leasing
- Rollover for Business Startups (ROBS)
- Personal loans or partnerships
Starting a Club Pilates franchise is a premium investment, but it also offers the infrastructure, support, and brand recognition to position you for long-term growth in the booming wellness space.
How Much Can a Club Pilates Franchise Owner Make?
Understanding potential earnings is just as important as knowing the costs. Club Pilates operates in the high-demand boutique fitness sector, and with a membership-based business model, it offers recurring revenue and long-term growth potential. But how much can a franchisee earn?
According to data from Club Pilates’ most recent Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), here’s what you can expect:
-
- Top-performing studios report annual gross revenue of $500,000 to $1.5 million or more.
- Average unit revenue (across mature locations) falls in the range of $400,000 to $600,000 annually.
- Studio profitability can vary significantly based on location and rent, studio size and member capacity, local market demand, and owner involvement and team efficiency
Profit Margins
Club Pilates locations typically operate at 15%–25% profit margins, depending on:
- How efficiently costs (like payroll and marketing) are managed
- Studio occupancy rates and member retention
- Class scheduling and instructor utilization
Time to Break Even
- Most franchisees report reaching break-even within 12–24 months.
- New owners often begin generating positive cash flow after the first 6–12 months of operations, especially with strong pre-sale marketing and local demand.
<h3]>Example Scenario (Estimated)
| Revenue Category | Amount (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Gross Revenue | $550,000 |
| Operating Costs (75%) | -$412,500 |
| Net Profit (25%) | $137,500 |
Disclaimer: These figures are averages based on disclosed and public information. Actual performance can vary widely.
In summary, while Club Pilates requires a significant upfront investment, it also provides the potential for steady cash flow and strong returns, especially for franchisees who actively manage their business and tap into local fitness trends.
Support & Training Provided by Club Pilates
One of the key reasons many entrepreneurs choose Club Pilates over other fitness franchises is the comprehensive support and training offered throughout the journey, from signing the agreement to studio launch and beyond. As a part of Xponential Fitness, Club Pilates provides a well-structured system to help franchisees succeed even if they don’t have prior experience in the fitness industry.
Initial Training Program
After signing the franchise agreement, owners and their key team members go through an in-depth onboarding process that includes:
- Business operations training
- Studio management software (ClubReady)
- Sales training and lead conversion
- Staff hiring and onboarding processes
- Intro to fitness compliance and safety
Training is typically a mix of in-person instruction, virtual learning, and hands-on practice at a model studio.
Real Estate & Studio Build-Out Support
Club Pilates provides guidance on:
- Site selection and demographic research
- Lease negotiation assistance
- Architectural layout and design standards
- Vendor connections for equipment, flooring, lighting, and signage
Their project management team helps streamline the setup process and reduce costly mistakes.
Marketing & Lead Generation
Franchisees get access to professional marketing support that includes:
- Grand Opening campaign planning
- Local digital advertising (Google, Facebook, Instagram)
- Email and SMS templates
- Brand-level national campaigns
- Access to a library of marketing materials and visuals
Franchisees are also trained in local outreach strategies to build community awareness and boost memberships.
Ongoing Business Coaching & Support
After launch, franchisees benefit from:
- Dedicated franchise business consultants (FBCs)
- Monthly check-ins and KPI reviews
- Performance benchmarking against other studios
- Updates on new systems, best practices, and technology
- Access to Xponential Fitness’ full ecosystem
Instructor Support
Club Pilates also assists in training and certifying Pilates instructors through their approved education partners. This ensures consistent class quality and member experience across locations.
Whether you’re a hands-on owner or plan to operate semi-absentee, Club Pilates equips you with everything you need to build, grow, and manage your fitness studio with confidence.
Club Pilates Franchise Requirements: What You Need to Get Started
Before you begin your journey as a Club Pilates franchise owner, it’s important to know the qualifications and requirements needed to be approved by the franchisor. While previous fitness industry experience isn’t mandatory, the brand looks for individuals who are financially prepared, business-minded, and passionate about wellness.
Financial Requirements
To open a Club Pilates studio, you must meet the following minimum financial criteria:
- Minimum Net Worth – $500,000+
- Liquid Capital – $100,000 – $150,000
These figures ensure you have enough capital to cover startup costs and sustain operations until your studio becomes profitable.
Ideal Franchisee Profile
Club Pilates is looking for motivated individuals who can manage or oversee studio operations successfully. The ideal candidate should have:
- A strong interest in health, wellness, and fitness
- Leadership and team management skills
- A desire to follow proven systems and brand guidelines
- Customer service or sales experience (preferred but not required)
- Willingness to actively engage in marketing and local outreach
While some franchisees are owner-operators, others adopt a semi-absentee model, hiring a studio manager to handle daily tasks.
Additional Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Ability to pass a background and credit check
- Commitment to complete the initial training program
- Signing of a 10-year franchise agreement, with renewal options
- Willingness to open within 6–12 months after signing
Meeting these requirements positions you to not only be approved for a Club Pilates franchise but also to run it successfully with the support and structure of an industry-leading brand.
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Steps to Start a Club Pilates Franchise
Getting started with a Club Pilates franchise is a structured and supportive process. From the first inquiry to launching your studio, the franchisor provides expert guidance at every stage. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to become a Club Pilates franchisee:
1. Submit Franchise Inquiry Form
Begin by visiting the official website of Club Pilates and submitting an online franchise interest form. You’ll provide basic information like your background, investment capability, and preferred location.
2. Initial Call & Franchise Overview
A franchise development representative will contact you to discuss:
- Your goals and expectations
- Territory availability
- The business model and investment details
If you’re a good fit, you’ll be invited to move forward.
3. Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) Review
Club Pilates will share its FDD, which outlines all legal, operational, and financial details—including the full Club Pilates franchise cost, fees, and earnings data. Take time to read and consult a franchise attorney or advisor if needed.
4. Attend Discovery Day
You’ll be invited to a Discovery Day—virtually or at Club Pilates HQ—where you’ll meet key team members, ask questions, and tour a studio. This is your chance to understand the culture and support in depth.
5. Sign the Franchise Agreement
If both parties agree to move forward, you’ll sign the official franchise agreement and pay the $60,000 franchise fee to secure your rights and territory.
6. Secure Financing & Find a Location
You’ll work with Club Pilates’ real estate and finance teams to:
- Finalize your funding (via SBA loan, third-party lender, etc.)
- Identify and lease a suitable studio space
- Begin planning your studio build-out
7. Complete Training Program
You and/or your studio manager will attend the comprehensive initial training program, covering everything from operations and marketing to staff hiring and member retention.
8. Studio Build-Out & Pre-Launch Marketing
With the help of Club Pilates’ design and project management teams, your studio will be built according to brand standards. At the same time, your pre-sale marketing campaign begins to attract early memberships.
9. Grand Opening
Once everything is ready and your team is trained, you’ll officially launch your Club Pilates studio! Post-launch, you’ll continue receiving ongoing support, business coaching, and marketing assistance.
Following these steps ensures you open your Club Pilates location smoothly and confidently, backed by a brand with a strong track record in boutique fitness.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Club Pilates Franchise
Like any business opportunity, investing in a Club Pilates franchise comes with both advantages and potential drawbacks. Understanding these will help you evaluate whether this investment aligns with your personal goals, financial capacity, and lifestyle.
✅ Pros of Owning a Club Pilates Franchise
1. Strong Brand Recognition
Club Pilates is a nationally recognized name in the boutique fitness industry, with hundreds of studios across the U.S. and international markets. This gives you instant credibility with potential members.
2. Proven Business Model
As part of Xponential Fitness, Club Pilates offers a well-tested, scalable business model with built-in support for marketing, operations, and training—even for first-time business owners.
3. Recurring Revenue Stream
The membership-based model creates a predictable and recurring cash flow. Monthly packages, auto-renewals, and retention strategies help keep your revenue stable.
4. Semi-Absentee Ownership Possible
You don’t need to be involved full-time. Many owners hire managers and instructors to run day-to-day operations, making it ideal for those seeking semi-passive income.
5. Growing Industry Demand
Pilates is a fast-growing fitness trend focused on wellness, posture, flexibility, and rehabilitation, making it attractive across a wide age and fitness spectrum.
❌ Cons of Owning a Club Pilates Franchise
1. High Initial Investment
The startup cost ranges from $180,000 to $400,000+, which may be a barrier for some aspiring entrepreneurs. It also requires solid cash reserves or financing.
2. Competitive Local Markets
In some cities, the boutique fitness market is highly competitive. Success may require aggressive local marketing and top-notch customer experience.
3. Ongoing Royalties & Fees
You’ll need to pay 7% of gross revenue as royalties and contribute 2% to the national marketing fund, which affects your net profit.
4. Staff-Dependent Operations
You’ll rely on trained instructors, front desk staff, and studio managers. Staff turnover or poor service can affect customer satisfaction and retention.
5. Location Sensitivity
The success of your studio heavily depends on securing the right location with high foot traffic and a health-conscious local demographic.
Verdict: Club Pilates is a great fit for entrepreneurs seeking a reputable fitness brand with a supportive franchisor and recurring income. However, it requires careful financial planning, staff management, and marketing execution to thrive, especially in competitive markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Club Pilates Franchise
Is owning a Club Pilates franchise profitable?
Yes, many franchisees report healthy profit margins, especially after reaching break-even. Top-performing studios generate $500,000 to $1.5 million in annual revenue, with margins ranging between 15% to 25%, depending on location and management.
How much does a Club Pilates franchise cost to start?
The total initial investment typically ranges from $180,000 to $400,000+, including the $60,000 franchise fee, equipment, build-out, marketing, and working capital.
Do I need Pilates or fitness experience to own a Club Pilates franchise?
No. While fitness experience is a plus, it’s not mandatory. Club Pilates provides comprehensive training and operational support for franchisees from all backgrounds.
Can I run a Club Pilates studio as a semi-absentee owner?
Yes. Many franchisees hire studio managers and instructors to handle day-to-day operations, allowing them to focus on marketing and strategic growth.
How long does it take to open a Club Pilates studio?
From signing the franchise agreement to launch, the process typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on site selection, build-out, and financing timelines.
What kind of training does Club Pilates provide?
Franchisees receive in-depth training on business operations, sales, software, hiring, and marketing—plus ongoing support and access to Xponential Fitness resources.
Where can I find the latest Club Pilates Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)?
You’ll receive the FDD directly from the Club Pilates franchise team after submitting an official inquiry. It includes detailed financials, fees, and performance data.
Are there exclusive territories available?
Yes, Club Pilates grants protected territories to each franchisee. Availability depends on your target location and existing studio coverage.
Can I own multiple Club Pilates studios?
Yes. Many successful franchisees expand into multi-unit ownership, either within the same market or across regions.
Is Club Pilates part of a larger franchise group?
Yes. Club Pilates is owned by Xponential Fitness, which also operates top boutique brands like CycleBar, Pure Barre, StretchLab, Row House, and YogaSix.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.