Renting studio time vs your own gym vs a chain

An independent trainer has three ways to get a space, each with a different risk. Renting studio time is how most build a business before ever taking on a lease.

Working for a chain

Clients, equipment and no overheads come with the gym, but it takes a big cut, caps your rates and owns the relationship. Good for starting out and building numbers.

Renting studio time

You pay by the hour for a professional space, keep your clients, rates and brand, and scale hours up or down with your book — no lease, staff or fit-out. You cover your own quiet weeks and fill your own calendar.

Your own gym

Total control and the most upside, but rent, equipment, staff and marketing are all on you from day one. It makes sense once your client base reliably covers the fixed costs — usually after years of renting.

Ready to train clients? Browse and book fitness studios in Amsterdam by the hour.