What does it cost to start a personal training business?
Personal training is a low-cost business to start, especially if you train clients in parks, their homes or an existing gym rather than your own studio. The main early costs are certification, insurance and the marketing needed to build a client base.
As a guide, plan for around $4,750 – $17,400 in one-off setup costs and $350 – $4,810 per month in running costs. Adding a three-month cash buffer puts a realistic launch figure at $5,800 – $31,830.
One-off setup costs
The costs you pay once to get up and running:
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Certificate III & IV in Fitness | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Portable equipment (mats, bands, weights) | $500 – $4,000 |
| Branding & website | $500 – $3,000 |
| Insurance setup | $300 – $1,000 |
| First aid & CPR certificate | $150 – $400 |
| Marketing launch | $300 – $2,000 |
Totals roughly $4,750 – $17,400. Buying used or starting lean lands you near the lower end.
Monthly running costs
The ongoing costs of operating each month:
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Gym access / studio hire | $0 – $2,500 |
| Insurance | $50 – $200 |
| Marketing & ads | $200 – $1,500 |
| Software (booking, programs) | $30 – $150 |
| Equipment top-ups | $50 – $400 |
| Professional registration | $20 – $60 |
Totals roughly $350 – $4,810 per month. Work out your break-even point →
Licences & registrations
- Certificate III & IV in Fitness (industry standard)
- Registration with a body such as AusActive/Fitness Australia
- Public liability & professional indemnity insurance
- First aid & CPR certification
- Working with Children Check if training minors
Not legal advice — requirements vary by state and council. Check business.gov.au and your local council.
Tips to start lean
- Small-group sessions multiply your hourly income without more of your time.
- Online coaching and program sales scale beyond one-to-one hours.
- Retention beats acquisition — a strong onboarding keeps clients paying for months.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start a personal training business in Australia?
A small, owner-operated start typically costs around $5,800 – $31,830. That covers roughly $4,750 – $17,400 in one-off setup costs plus a three-month buffer for running costs of about $350 – $4,810 per month. Your actual figure depends heavily on scale, location and whether you buy new or used.
What are the ongoing monthly costs?
Expect ongoing running costs of roughly $350 – $4,810 per month, covering items like gym access / studio hire, insurance, marketing & ads and more. Use the break-even calculator to see how many sales cover these.
What licences or registrations do I need?
Common requirements include: Certificate III & IV in Fitness (industry standard); Registration with a body such as AusActive/Fitness Australia; Public liability & professional indemnity insurance; First aid & CPR certification; Working with Children Check if training minors. Always confirm the exact requirements with your state and local council.
Can I start a personal training business cheaply?
Yes — the low end of the range (around $5,800) is realistic if you start lean: buy used equipment, start from home or solo where possible, and avoid a fixed lease until demand is proven.
Cost ranges are general estimates for 2025–26 and vary widely by location, scale and choices. Not financial or business advice.