Gym Opening Checklist for New Owners

Legal & Compliance

Register business entity (sole proprietorship, LLP, or Pvt Ltd)

Apply for GST registration (if required or voluntary)

Obtain Shop & Establishment registration

Secure local trade / municipal license

Get fire safety NOC (if applicable)

Arrange public liability and property insurance

Music license (IPRS/PPL) if playing commercial music

Location & Setup

Finalize and sign lease agreement

Pay rent deposit and advance

Approve floor plan and equipment layout

Complete interior renovation and flooring

Install exterior signage and branding

Set up restrooms, changing rooms, and lockers

Confirm parking and member access arrangements

Equipment & Facilities

Install and test cardio equipment

Set up free weights, racks, and benches

Install mirrors and gym flooring mats

Test AC, ventilation, and lighting

Set up sound system and music playlists

Stock first aid kit and AED (if required)

Install CCTV and security systems

Staffing

Hire gym manager or head trainer

Hire front desk / reception staff

Prepare staff contracts and offer letters

Train staff on equipment, safety, and SOPs

Brief team on emergency and evacuation procedures

Marketing & Pre-sales

Finalise logo, colours, and brand guidelines

Create Google Business Profile

Launch Instagram and Facebook pages

Publish website or pre-launch landing page

Define pre-opening membership offers and pricing

Distribute flyers and local area marketing

Build WhatsApp lead list for interested members

Software & Operations

Set up gym management software (memberships & billing)

Configure membership plans and pricing in software

Configure GST invoices and payment methods

Integrate biometric or access control (if using)

Prepare member agreement, waiver, and PAR-Q forms

Create trial class and onboarding schedule

Opening Day

Final deep clean of entire facility

Opening day staff briefing and role assignments

Activate grand opening day offer

Plan ribbon cutting or launch event

Capture photos and videos for social media

Post emergency contacts and gym rules on premises

Opening Checklist

Gym Opening Checklist