5 Ways Fitness Businesses Can Access Growth Capital in 2026

The UK fitness industry generates over £5 billion annually — yet banks still treat fitness businesses as high-risk

If you're running a gym, studio, or fitness franchise, you've probably experienced this first-hand. Strong membership numbers, consistent revenue, a growing client base — and still, your bank says no when you need capital to grow.

The good news? Banks aren't the only option. In 2026, there are more ways than ever for fitness businesses to access growth capital — without putting up property or waiting months for a decision.

Here are five proven funding options that UK fitness businesses are using right now.

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1. Asset Finance (Hire Purchase and Leasing)

Asset finance remains the most popular way for gyms and studios to fund equipment. Whether you're replacing worn-out cardio machines, adding a new functional training zone, or kitting out a second location, asset finance lets you spread the cost over 2–5 years with the equipment itself acting as security.

Key benefits:

• No property security required — the equipment is the collateral
• Fixed monthly payments for predictable budgeting
• Tax advantages through capital allowances (HP) or full expense deduction (leasing)
• Preserve your working capital for day-to-day operations

For a detailed breakdown of hire purchase vs leasing vs unsecured loans for gym equipment, read our complete guide to gym equipment finance.

For wider launch and growth needs, gym finance can help structure the full project. Fitness and wellness operators with broader requirements can also explore sports and wellness business funding.

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2. Unsecured Business Loans

An unsecured business loan provides £10,000–£500,000 with no property security required. Repayment terms typically range from 1–5 years, and approval can happen in as little as 24–48 hours.

Best for:

• Gym fit-outs and refurbishments
• Marketing campaigns and membership drives
• Working capital during quieter months
• Opening a second location

Lenders assess your trading history, revenue, profitability, and personal credit. Most require at least 6–12 months of trading and consistent monthly revenue.

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3. Merchant Cash Advance

A merchant cash advance gives you a lump sum upfront, which you repay as a percentage of your daily card transactions. There are no fixed monthly payments — when your card revenue is high, you repay more; when it's quiet, you repay less.

Why fitness businesses like MCAs:

• Repayments flex with your revenue — perfect for seasonal fluctuations
• No fixed monthly payment to worry about during quiet periods
• Fast approval — often within 24–48 hours
• No property or equipment security required

Best for: Gyms and studios with strong card payment volume that experience seasonal dips. If January is your busiest month and August is quiet, an MCA adjusts automatically.

Watch out for: The total repayment amount can be higher than a traditional loan. Make sure you understand the factor rate and total cost before committing.

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4. Revenue-Based Finance

Revenue-based finance works similarly to a merchant cash advance, but it's based on your total revenue — not just card transactions. This makes it a better fit for fitness businesses that collect payments through a mix of direct debits, bank transfers, and card payments.

Why it works for fitness businesses:

• Considers all revenue streams, not just card payments
• Works well for subscription-based models (monthly memberships, class packages)
• Repayments scale with your income
• No fixed assets required as security

Best for: Studios and gyms with mixed payment models — monthly direct debit memberships combined with pay-as-you-go class bookings, personal training sessions, and retail sales.

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5. Growth Guarantee Scheme

The Growth Guarantee Scheme is a government-backed programme where the government guarantees 70% of the loan to the lender. This reduces the lender's risk, making them more likely to approve businesses that might otherwise be declined.

Key features:

• Loans up to £2 million (though most fitness businesses access £25,000–£250,000)
• Government guarantees 70% of the loan to the lender
• Available through accredited lenders across the UK
• Can be used for almost any business purpose — equipment, fit-out, working capital, expansion

Best for: Fitness businesses that have been declined elsewhere due to limited trading history or insufficient security. The government guarantee gives lenders the confidence to approve applications they'd normally decline.

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Which Option Is Right for Your Fitness Business?

The best funding option depends on what you're funding, how long you've been trading, and how your revenue flows. Here's a quick guide:

• Buying equipment? Start with asset finance (HP or leasing)
• Need flexible working capital? Consider an unsecured loan or merchant cash advance
• Subscription-based revenue? Revenue-based finance may be the best fit
• Been declined by banks? The Growth Guarantee Scheme could unlock access

Not sure where to start? Book a 15-minute call with us. We'll review your situation, explain your options, and narrow down the 2–3 lenders most likely to approve your application. No jargon, no pressure, no upfront fees.

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Need Funding for Your Business?

We connect South West businesses with specialist lenders who actually understand your industry. No upfront fees — ever.

Start your application today →

Call Ben on 07840 908614 or start your application at loanlogic.co.uk/apply

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LoanLogic (BNGU Limited) is a commercial finance brokerage helping UK fitness businesses access funding from £10,000 to £500,000 through our panel of 70+ specialist lenders. No upfront fees, no pressure — just honest guidance from someone who's been in your shoes.

Ben Arhin
Founder, LoanLogic
ben@loanlogic.co.uk | 07840 908614