Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers
713940
Telhio Credit Union Inc (OH)
Telhio offers personal and business checking, savings, student loans, mortgages, lines of credit and more. Since 1934.
T Bank, National Association (TX)
Stock Yards Bank & Trust Company
Are you looking for a reliable bank that puts your needs first? Look no further than Stock Yards Bank & Trust Company in Kentucky! With a long-standing commitment to exceptional customer service and innovative banking solutions, Stock Yards is here to support your financial journey.
Stellar Bank (TX)
Stellar Bank offers business and personal banking solutions. Stellar has the expertise, resources and commitment to out-service the big banks and out-bank the small banks. We are the bank and the bankers to help your business thrive.
St. Mary's CU (MA)
Over 100 years of local and trusted banking products and services for our community.
Sound CU (WA)
Since 1940, We’ve Provided Lower Rates, Exceptional Service, And Friendly Smiles. Discover Why Sound Credit Union Is Washington’s Top Choice!
Shoreham Bank (RI)
Shoreham Bank offers Retail Banking, Mortgages, Home Equity Loans, Auto Loans, and much more. Providing our customers with convenience and reliable service since 1959.
Security State Bank & Trust (TX)
Security National Bank of Omaha (NE)
With our extensive history and family-owned legacy, we have a deep and genuine understanding of how to serve and treat our customers.
SaviBank (WA)
We're a community bank that offers personal and business checking accounts, credit cards, safe deposit boxes, home loans & more. Learn how to Bank Savi!
Salem Five Cents Savings Bank (MA)
Salem Five Bank provides full-service financial services for the Greater Boston area, including banking, mortgage lending, loans, insurance and investments.
RiverBank (WA)
SBA Loans for Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers: Financing Growth in Health and Wellness
Introduction
Fitness and recreational sports centers help communities stay healthy by providing gyms, swimming pools, training studios, and recreational spaces for individuals and families. Classified under NAICS 713940 – Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers, this sector includes local gyms, yoga and pilates studios, community fitness centers, sports clubs, and indoor recreational facilities. While the demand for health and wellness continues to grow, owners face financial challenges such as equipment costs, facility expenses, staffing, and seasonal membership fluctuations.
This is where SBA Loans for Fitness Centers and Sports Clubs can provide vital support. Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loans offer longer repayment terms, lower down payments, and government-backed guarantees. These loans help business owners purchase gym equipment, expand facilities, improve marketing, and stabilize cash flow while growing membership bases.
In this article, we’ll explore NAICS 713940, the financial hurdles gyms and recreational sports centers face, how SBA loans provide solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions from entrepreneurs in the fitness industry.
Industry Overview: NAICS 713940
Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers (NAICS 713940) include businesses such as:
- Traditional gyms and health clubs
- Yoga, pilates, and spin studios
- Community fitness and recreation centers
- Indoor and outdoor sports facilities
- Specialty training centers (CrossFit, martial arts, swim schools)
This sector thrives on community engagement but requires large investments in equipment, facilities, and ongoing member retention efforts.
Common Pain Points in Fitness Center Financing
From Reddit’s r/gymowners, r/Entrepreneur, and Quora discussions, gym and sports center owners often highlight these challenges:
- Equipment Costs – Purchasing treadmills, weights, machines, and specialty gear requires heavy capital investment.
- Facility Expenses – Leasing or owning large spaces with showers, locker rooms, and HVAC systems adds significant costs.
- Staffing & Payroll – Trainers, instructors, and support staff are essential but drive payroll expenses higher.
- Seasonal Memberships – Cash flow can fluctuate depending on seasonal demand and membership retention.
- Marketing & Competition – Standing out among big chains and boutique studios requires strong local marketing strategies.
How SBA Loans Help Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers
SBA financing provides affordable, flexible capital that helps owners invest in facilities, retain staff, and grow memberships.
SBA 7(a) Loan
- Best for: Working capital, payroll, marketing, or refinancing debt.
- Loan size: Up to $5 million.
- Why it helps: Provides liquidity for payroll, advertising campaigns, and covering operating costs during slow months.
SBA 504 Loan
- Best for: Facility purchases and equipment upgrades.
- Loan size: Up to $5.5 million.
- Why it helps: Ideal for buying or renovating gyms, building recreational facilities, or upgrading fitness equipment.
SBA Microloans
- Best for: Startup or small fitness centers and studios.
- Loan size: Up to $50,000.
- Why it helps: Useful for marketing, small-scale equipment purchases, or studio improvements.
SBA Disaster Loans
- Best for: Gyms impacted by natural disasters or public emergencies.
- Loan size: Up to $2 million.
- Why it helps: Provides recovery funds for damaged facilities, lost memberships, or equipment replacement.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an SBA Loan
- Check Eligibility – Must be a U.S.-based, for-profit fitness or recreational sports center with good personal credit (typically 650+).
- Prepare Financial Documents – Include tax returns, P&L statements, membership projections, and equipment purchase records.
- Find an SBA-Approved Lender – Some lenders specialize in health and wellness or hospitality financing.
- Submit Application – Provide a business plan highlighting membership growth strategies, facility investments, and community engagement.
- Underwriting & Approval – SBA guarantees reduce lender risk. Approval usually takes 30–90 days.
FAQ: SBA Loans for Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers
Why do banks often deny loans to gyms and fitness centers?
Banks may consider fitness centers risky due to seasonal membership fluctuations, high equipment costs, and competitive markets. SBA guarantees reduce this risk and improve approval chances.
Can SBA loans finance gym equipment and facility renovations?
Yes. SBA 7(a) and 504 loans can fund fitness machines, weights, HVAC upgrades, and new facility construction or renovations.
What down payment is required?
SBA loans typically require 10–20% down, compared to 25–30% with conventional financing.
Are startup gyms or studios eligible?
Yes. Entrepreneurs with a solid business plan and experience in fitness can qualify for SBA financing.
What repayment terms are available?
- Working capital: Up to 7 years
- Equipment/facilities: Up to 10 years
- Real estate/gyms: Up to 25 years
Can SBA loans support marketing and member retention programs?
Absolutely. Many gyms use SBA financing to launch advertising campaigns, build mobile apps, or create loyalty programs that keep members engaged.
Final Thoughts
The Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers industry is thriving but faces financial hurdles tied to equipment, facilities, and member retention. SBA Loans for Gyms and Sports Centers provide affordable, flexible financing to stabilize cash flow, expand services, and build stronger communities through health and wellness.
Whether you operate a local gym, boutique studio, or large recreational sports complex, SBA financing can provide the resources you need. Connect with an SBA-approved lender today and explore your funding options in the fitness industry.
Filters
Tags
#Preferred Lenders Program
#SBA Express Program
#Existing or more than 2 years old
#Startup
#Loan Funds will Open Business
#Fixed Rates Startup
#Change of Ownership
#New Business or 2 years or less
#7a General
#Variable Rates
#Fixed Rates
#Standard Asset Base Working Capital Line of Credit (CAPLine)
#International Trade Loans
#Export Express
#7a with WCP
#Contract Loan Line of Credit (CAPLine)
#7a with EWCP
#Unanswered
#Preferred Lenders with WCP
#Preferred Lenders with EWCP
#Seasonal Line of Credit (CAPLine)