When evaluating franchise opportunities in high-density areas, Japan stands out as a powerful proof point. With over 1,100 Anytime Fitness locations operating across all 47 prefectures, the country demonstrates that fitness franchises can thrive in even the most compact and urbanized environments.
In a landscape defined by limited space, heavy foot traffic, and a health-conscious population, Anytime Fitness Japan has achieved scale and sustained success. This example from across the Pacific Ocean may provide valuable insights for U.S. investors seeking franchise opportunities in major metropolitan areas like New York, Miami, and Washington, DC.
Japan’s cities are some of the most densely populated in the world, and yet, Anytime Fitness has successfully adapted to the space and lifestyle constraints of these markets. Its format has proven effective in neighborhoods that demand accessibility, convenience, and community.
The model’s success in Japan highlights three key traits essential for high-density markets:
These same principles apply to high-density markets in the U.S., where consumers are looking for fitness solutions that fit into fast-paced city life. All these attributes – combined with Anytime Fitness’ light labor model and recurring revenue – create a unique opportunity for an entrepreneur looking to build a multi-unit franchise business.
Anytime Fitness locations in the U.S. can be as small as 3,500 square feet, making the brand uniquely positioned for success in space-constrained urban settings. This compact footprint opens the door to a broader range of real estate options, including upper-floor retail, mixed-use developments, or smaller storefronts in busy corridors.
The reduced space requirements lead to lower buildout costs and more efficient use of resources—critical factors for maximizing profitability in high-rent markets.
With more than 5,500 locations worldwide, Anytime Fitness has established a franchise model that works across continents, cultures, and cities.
This international scalability reflects a consistent ability to adapt to local conditions while maintaining brand standards and delivering a strong member experience.
Related Reading: Learn how Luke Andrus grew his franchise business with Anytime Fitness
Urban centers offer several advantages for fitness franchise operators. High population density translates into built-in demand and walk-by traffic. Locations situated near transportation hubs, office buildings, or apartment complexes benefit from constant visibility and easy access.
In addition, urban consumers typically value convenience and are willing to pay a premium for gyms that fit into their daily routines. Combined with Anytime Fitness’s efficient operating model—which requires minimal staff and streamlined maintenance—urban franchisees can achieve strong results.
While we are the world's largest fitness franchise, many major U.S. cities have significant open territory available for new franchise development. Markets with high-growth potential include:
These cities exhibit similar urban characteristics—high foot traffic, compact real estate, and health-conscious residents—that made the Anytime Fitness brand successful in Japan. Investors seeking a scalable, urban franchise business model will find these metro areas primed for strong growth.
Urban gyms often foster tight-knit communities, despite being located in fast-paced and densely populated areas. Anytime Fitness locations are designed to offer a welcoming, consistent, and personalized experience. Members develop loyalty to locations that foster a connected community that isn't intimidating, but rather a place that always has an open door for wherever they are on their fitness journey.
Strong community engagement and word-of-mouth referrals help drive retention and reduce acquisition costs, creating an organic growth loop that strengthens the business over time.
Success in urban franchising starts with strategic planning. Identifying neighborhoods with the right mix of demographics, transit access, and walkability is essential. Ideal urban territories often feature high concentrations of young professionals, active residents, and a lack of existing compact-format fitness offerings.
Real estate selection is a key factor. Thanks to Anytime Fitness’s small-footprint model, franchisees can pursue affordable and unconventional retail spaces without compromising service quality.
Operationally, the brand provides advanced technology that enables franchisees to track member engagement, monitor performance metrics, and automate key functions. These systems allow for efficient management, even in complex and high-traffic environments.
Related Reading: Discover how data is shaping the future of fitness franchising
The success of the Anytime Fitness brand in Japan proves that fitness franchises in high-density areas can achieve scale, profitability, and long-term relevance. With over 1,100 locations in one of the most urbanized nations in the world, the brand has demonstrated that compact gyms can succeed in dense, fast-moving environments.
That same opportunity is now available in U.S. cities where open territories remain and urban demand is growing. For franchise investors seeking a business with scalable operations and industry momentum, Anytime Fitness offers a smart, future-ready choice.
Visit Anytime Fitness Franchising to learn how to build success in a high-density urban market. As your next step, schedule a conversation with an Anytime Fitness Franchise Development Director. These experienced professionals will:
Whether you're ready to open one location or build a multi-unit presence in a high-density area, a Franchise Development Director will help tailor the opportunity to your goals and ensure you feel confident at every step.
Please complete the form below, for yourself or you and your investors, to learn more. After the form is submitted, someone from our team will contact you to discuss next steps.
