By Jim Weights, GymRadio.com · 9 November 2026
Canadian gyms that play music to members generally need public performance licences for both the songs and the recordings, plus a music source that is allowed for business use.
Who issues the licence
Two organizations look after music rights in Canada. SOCAN represents songwriters and publishers, and Re:Sound represents performers and record labels. Entandem is a joint venture of the two, so most businesses, gyms included, can get both licences from Entandem in one place.
The fitness tariffs
The fees are set in tariffs approved by the Copyright Board of Canada. For gyms, the main ones are:
- SOCAN Tariff 19, for music used in physical exercise and dance classes, charged per average weekly participant.
- Re:Sound Tariff 6.B, for recorded music in fitness venues: background music in the club and music that accompanies classes.
Who needs the licence
- The gym or studio, for background music and the classes it runs.
- Independent instructors who rent space or run their own classes usually need their own licence.
- Instructors employed by the gym are usually covered by the gym’s licence, but check with Entandem.
What affects the cost
Rates change, so check the current figures with Entandem. The cost usually depends on:
- how many classes you run and how many people attend them each week;
- how much you pay your background music supplier, or your membership numbers if you don’t use one;
- whether you use music in other areas, such as a café or a pool.
Your music source matters too
Personal Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube accounts are for personal use only, so they can’t be played to members, even with an Entandem licence. Here’s why.
We have secured music supplier licences, but in Canada you also need a public performance licence. Entandem issues it for SOCAN and Re:Sound.
How to get it
- Go to the Entandem website and choose the licence for fitness or recreation businesses.
- Have your weekly class numbers and the areas where music plays ready.
- Apply online and keep the licence renewed each year.
See also gym music in Canada and our music licensing guide for gyms.
Questions
Do Canadian gyms need both SOCAN and Re:Sound?
Yes, if you play recorded music: SOCAN covers the songs and Re:Sound covers the recordings. Entandem issues both, so you can apply once.
Do fitness instructors need their own music licence in Canada?
Independent instructors who run their own classes or rent space usually do. Instructors employed by the gym are normally covered by the gym’s licence.
Can I use Spotify in my gym in Canada if I have an Entandem licence?
No. Spotify’s terms only allow personal use. You need a music service made for businesses as well as the licence.