Nguyen Van Duong, a former gym owner, said he had to shut down his centre after just one year. He estimated that, after accounting for operating expenses and the loss from liquidating equipment, the total deficit exceeded $19,000.

Duong explained that rent is a major pressure point. For a 500‑square‑metre facility, monthly rent can vary from about $1,900 to $7,600 depending on location. At a middle rate of $3,800 per month, the yearly rent alone reaches roughly $45,400, not counting electricity, water, staff salaries, equipment maintenance, marketing and service fees.

Many gym owners started their businesses as personal trainers and therefore lack essential management knowledge. Without skills in cash‑flow planning, staffing, and strategic budgeting, they often focus on training sessions while the business side deteriorates, leading to cash‑flow shortages and eventual closure.

Because operating costs are climbing and competition is intensifying, business models that worked a decade ago are now limited. Success now depends on using space efficiently, keeping expenses under control, and applying solid business management rather than relying solely on fitness expertise.