Fitness Studio Properties

Properties Suitable for Fitness Studios for Sale or to Let

Bernard Gordon & Co. have worked in the commercial property market for over 30 years and understand the complexities of finding properties suitable for fitness studios. Previously falling under use class D2, following the planning changes in September 2020, they now fall within use class E. This has created various opportunities for studios, with properties previously not suitable, now being prime targets. Fitness studios include yoga, Pilates, personal training, CrossFit, boxing and kickboxing studios, martial arts, specialist fitness classes such as boxercise or international fitness franchises, as well as other specialist users, and boutique style studios.

We have a range of suitable properties available to rent and buy that are ideal for use as fitness studios.

Please visit our listings below and use the filters to sort properties for sale or to let.

Our in-depth knowledge of the fitness industry allows us to identify and secure properties perfectly suited for a wide range of fitness needs, from high-intensity CrossFit spaces to reformer Pilates studios.

There are no properties that currently fit this search criteria.

Buying & Renting Fitness Studio Premises

While it isn’t unheard of for fitness studio businesses to buy properties, from experience we know that the general preference is to rent. Our extensive experience in the fitness property industry has allowed us to assist in finding and securing studios in Central London, Greater London, and the South East. The requirements for these types of fitness premises tend to differ from Gyms that often take on larger space, with fitness studios prioritising smaller spaces suitable for classes and individual training.

Depending on the fitness studio type, we understand that a high-visibility unit is usually preferable for signage opportunities and passing trade. This can now include shop front units, which also fall within use class E and offer excellent opportunities. We also understand that lower ground floor or basement spaces in suitable locations may appeal, especially where there is less need for natural daylight.

We seek properties with angles other agents may not have considered and, therefore, can offer unique opportunities. We also understand how fitness trends vary having seen periods of rapid growth in yoga and hot yoga studios, reformer Pilates, and various other class-based fitness business models. We keep up to date with these trends to ensure we can offer the right advice on potential commercial properties as and when it is required.

Our expertise in the fitness studio property market means we can help clients find the right property, whether that is an existing studio already fitted our, or a premise that requires development.

Let us know your requirements so we can find you the right property.

How We Can Help

Please do get in touch if you wish to discuss further; we specialise in:

Disposals by way of lease or sale of freehold or long leasehold interest of D2/E properties suitable for Fitness Studios
Purchasing freeholds and long leaseholds of properties suitable for Fitness Studios
Rentals or new leases for properties suitable for Fitness Studios
Guidance on opportunities that require planning permission, and working with various consultants to ensure the correct advice is given from the right source

Expert D2/E Commercial Property Assistance

We offer guidance on likely rental levels achievable should a property come to market suitable for D2/E use
We offer guidance on likely sale levels achievable should a property come to market suitable for D2/E use
We can advise on the process of renting or selling a property from start to finish, offering advice, guidance, and recommendations.
We can offer guidance as to the suitability of properties, planning implications, lease terms, negotiating etc.
We can provide an up-to-date guide on market trends should you need a better understanding of the market

Please contact us for further assistance with your fitness studio property search; we are always delighted to help.

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Fitness Studio Property FAQs

Yes, a vacant retail unit (Use Class E) can potentially be used for a fitness studio in the UK.

Use Class E includes a broad range of commercial uses, including gyms and fitness studios. This means you wouldn’t necessarily need planning permission to switch from a shop to a fitness studio, if certain conditions are met.

The benefit of Use Class E is that businesses within this class can swap uses without formal planning approval. This saves time and simplifies the process.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Exceptions and restrictions: While planning permission isn’t usually required, there might be exceptions. If the building has specific planning restrictions from a previous use, they might still apply.
Licenses and permitted development rights: Even if planning permission isn’t needed, you might require additional licenses for operating a fitness studio. Additionally, alterations to the building’s exterior might fall under permitted development rights, which have their own set of rules.

When considering properties for a fitness studio, there are no strict regulatory size limitations, but there are some practical considerations to take into account. A good rule of thumb is to allocate 10-15 square metres per member per session to ensure enough space for equipment, locker rooms, showers, toilets, reception, waiting areas, and possibly a café and office. You should also ensure there us adequate parking and disability access.

While these are guidelines rather than legal requirements, the UK Active group, which has over 4,000 members, has a stringent checklist you can review for more information to ensure you are compliant and providing a safe space for clients. This includes areas such as:

Health Commitment Statement (HCS): This sets expectations for both fitness centres and users regarding health, replacing the PAR-Q form and developed in collaboration with various stakeholders.
European Standards: UK Active participates in British and European committees to keep members updated on legislative changes and developments.
Children and Young People: Guidance is provided for activities involving children and young people, helping operators create appropriate policies.
Gym Theft Prevention: Collaboration with the National Business Crime Centre has led to guidance on preventing thefts in facilities.
Chemical Safety: Guidance on handling chemicals safely in response to recent incidents.
Harassment and Personal Safety: A template policy promotes zero tolerance for harassment, ensuring a safe environment for all.
The Active Standard: A comprehensive new standard for the sector, developed with various partners, to maintain professionalism and consistent quality across the industry. This includes ensuring compliance and continuous improvement in service delivery.
For studios offering high-impact classes (e.g., CrossFit), do you have any listings with specific floor load capacities?

Flexible lease terms for start-up fitness studios are not standard practice and typically vary depending on the landlord. Some commercial landlords might be willing to negotiate more flexible terms, especially for new businesses, but it is important to discuss this with us and agree these terms before a contract is signed.

The Use Class (E) for a fitness studio itself likely wouldn’t directly impact the noise restrictions for evening classes in a mixed-use building with residential units above. Noise restrictions are typically governed by building regulations and environmental health policies, not Use Class categories. These regulations set noise limits based on the time of day and acceptable decibel levels. There might be stricter limits during evening hours to ensure peace for residents though.

However, the Use Class E might be indirectly connected to noise restrictions in a couple of ways:

Planning conditions: If the building’s original planning permission for the commercial space included specific noise restrictions, those would still apply regardless of the Use Class.
Council’s discretion: In some instances, the local council might have more discretion when dealing with Use Class E changes, particularly for noise-generating businesses like fitness studios. They could impose additional noise control measures during the approval process.

We can discuss this in more detail if you have a specific premise from our listings in mind.

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At Bernard Gordon, we don’t just offer fitness studio properties for sale. We are experts across the commercial property market. Browse our other properties available for sale and to let:

Property Use Class E
Property Use Class F1
Property Use F2 & Specialist Uses
Day Nursery
Health & Medical
Dental
Gym
Fitness Studio
Offices
College/University
Religious/Community
Primary/Secondary School
SEND School
Tuition & Training
Other

View Our Other Services

Sell Or Let With Us

Ben G

Agency Manager

For more information on fitness studio sites for sale, contact us today!