Gyms, particularly those fostering safe environments, are experiencing a profitable boom in demand with the number of regional Australians crediting mental health as their motivation to exercise almost doubling since 2016.

AUSactive CEO Barrie Elvish said individual gyms, small and large franchises were "all in expansion mode".

"The biggest problem they've got is getting staff because we lost so many people from the workforce during COVID-19," he said.

It's not just city folk who love to pump iron. Demand for gyms in NSW's Kiama region, Mansfield in Victoria and Far North Queensland are among the highest in the country relative to population.

Australians spent more than $3.6 billion at gyms and fitness centres between 2022 and 2023 and hundreds of millions of dollars on Pilates, yoga and CrossFit classes with the average annual gym fee hitting $808.

Veteran Ballarat gym owner Mel Tempest said that many gyms historically marketed themselves in ways that were "intimidating" to new members, including the use of promotional pictures that only featured muscular models.

This made people who weren't already fit feel unwelcome, she said.

"You have to know your community, and demographic, and know what they need," Ms Tempest said.

Genesis Health and Fitness, and other gyms following the same strategy, have become more inclusive by putting people of all shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities in their marketing.

"There is a slow but steady growth in the older generation taking up gym memberships or exercising in the park," Mr Elvish said.

"The profession of being a personal trainer has transitioned from being just about how to build up your biceps and six pack to focusing on total wellbeing," he said.

Ms Tempest stays up-to-date with emerging fitness trends in the US that are likely to translate in Australia.

She foresees IV therapy, vitamin drips, infrared saunas and massage chairs will be a drawcard for gyms as services turn towards "recovery and feeling good".

Ms Tempest said country areas such as Ballarat would soon see these facilities opening.

Cryotherapy, cold exposure treatments, were also gaining in popularity as well as muscle stimulation therapy.

Classes and programs focused on mental health and wellbeing would continue to be well-attended, she said.

In Australia there is no requirement to register a gym with an industry body.

However a qualification level, through the vocational education and training (VET) sector or university, requires a Certificate III accreditation at a minimum.

AUSactive CEO Mr Elvish "would encourage a mental health first aid course as well".

"If you're working with people under the age of 18 years, which most gyms have, you need a Working with Children and Police Check," he said.

Founder of ACERO and H&R Block ambassador Jono Castano, whose clients included Sir Richard Branson, Rita Ora and Michael Clarke, recommended starting small and keeping initial investments "relatively low" when opening a gym.

"This allows you to test the viability of your [business] and gain momentum before you take on significant financial risks," he said.

"Building a strong team is crucial. As an entrepreneur, you may initially want to handle many aspects of your business solo.

"However, as your business grows, assembling a competent, dedicated and supportive team becomes essential.

"Surrounding yourself with talented individuals who share your vision and can contribute their expertise can vastly accelerate your business's growth and success."

"There's nothing better than building a strong team that becomes a family," he said.