Now, more than ever, personal trainers and fitness coaches are presented with significant opportunities to expand their business — especially with a new year quickly approaching.

We’ve seen the stats: Gen Z loves group fitness, millennials adore personal training and older people are active but less likely to hit the gym. But in 2025, trainers and coaches (either seasoned or just starting out) need to adapt to new trends and more, according to a new report from TrueCoach, which analyzed data from TrueCoach users and surveyed coaches on its platform.

Here are some key takeaways from the personal trainer software platform’s 2025 Personal Trainer Trends and Strategies report:

With Pilates, group fitness and HIIT projected to be three of the most popular fitness modalities in 2025, integrating these workout formats into training services can offer significant rewards, according to TrueCoach.

Similarly, leveraging peak booking times—found to be 6:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.—can prove to be an ideal window for targeting promotions or incentivizing clients to book a session.

And while trainers and coaches may want to focus on acquiring new clients in 2025, TrueCoach suggests that client retention should take priority in competitive markets, as it often leads to greater long-term engagement. 

For those looking to expand, incorporating new offerings like nutrition tracking or mindfulness coaching can provide added value. TrueCoach highlights its Habit-Tracking feature, which allows trainers to set personalized daily goals for clients in areas like movement, nutrition, hydration, recovery and sleep — health pillars that have become increasingly important to wellness-seeking consumers.

Additionally, building a sense of community can benefit trainers and coaches aiming to grow in 2025. As TrueCoach recommends, cultivating a sense of community can be achieved through group training sessions, private social media groups for clients or monthly challenges.

While the number of consumers booking personal trainers in 2025 remains uncertain for now, it’s reasonable to expect an increase given the growing emphasis on personalization and pivot towards health-supporting practices.

The post Retention Beats Acquisition for Trainers in 2025, Per Report appeared first on Athletech News.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is rolling out a new association management system (AMS) featuring enhanced self-service functions, including immediate access to benefits upon renewing or joining, password reset, membership and certificate PDFs, member type changes, chapter membership additions and auto-renewal.

Certification candidates will also find a streamlined application and bundled exam prep options, according to ACSM.

While ACSM gears up to launch the new management system, several website features will be shut down briefly between February 13 and 20, 2025. The following will be inaccessible during that period:

• Members-only content 
• Online courses 
• Exam applications
• Registration, scheduling and rescheduling 
• Membership join and renewal 
• The membership directory 
• Recertification 

ACSM suggests that any urgent tasks, such as membership renewals and recertification, should be completed before February 13, 2025.

Detailed information and FAQs regarding the new system features can be found here.

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The American Council on Exercise (ACE) has launched a new, interactive course in the era of weight loss medications: Leveraging Anti-Obesity Medications for Optimal Client Outcomes.

The new educational offering ($59) gives health and fitness professionals the unique skills needed to support personal training and health coaching clients using popular weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy. 

The course also offers personal trainers a competitive edge ahead of New Year’s resolutions, where an influx of motivated consumers are eager for expert guidance to meet their goals.

Co-designed by ACE, Renee J. Rogers, PhD, FACSM and Mike Hansen, a certified personal trainer and industry writer specializing in anti-obesity medications, ACE’s new program features video content and hands-on activities. 

Participants will discover the physiological effects and challenges clients may face while taking the popular drugs and learn the best practices for developing personalized fitness programs for long-term success. Upon completing the program, ACE says participants will be equipped to understand prescription guidelines and explain the effects of weight-loss medications on body composition.

“As anti-obesity medications become more prevalent, the health and fitness industry must adapt to meet the unique needs of clients using these treatments,” ACE CEO and president Cedric X. Bryant, PhD, FACSM, said. “Health and exercise professionals need to be well-versed not only in the physiological effects of these medications but also in addressing the challenges, biases and stigma that clients may face. This course bridges that gap, empowering professionals to deliver inclusive, informed, and impactful support.” 

Although roughly 12% of Americans have used GLP-1s at some point (and 6% are current users), the numbers are likely to grow. One 2023 survey found that nearly 90% of healthcare providers reported an increase in patients requesting prescription weight loss medications. 

The blockbuster drugs have slimmed consumers down, but experts agree that weight loss medication users should commit to building long-lasting healthy habits and building strength. This year, Noom added an in-app body scan feature for GLP-1 users to monitor body composition metrics, track progress and evaluate any potential muscle mass loss. The new feature follows the digital health platform’s Muscle Defense fitness program, launched in partnership with FitOn.  

Luxury lifestyle and fitness brand Equinox has also focused on developing a specialized program for members who use—or are considering—weight-loss medications.

Equipment maker Echelon recently entered the GLP-1 space with the launch of ActiveMD, a wellness division offering weight-loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Rybelsus to qualified individuals, combined with a fitness program.

“Weight loss has become a significant component to managing a person’s overall wellness,” Echelon CEO Lou Lentine said. “By combining GLP-1s, immune health regimen and metabolism boosts with Echelon Fitness programs that focus on the individual’s goals, ActiveMD will help you lose unwanted weight and stay healthy without losing muscle mass.”

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In the world of entrepreneurship, investing in a fitness franchise offers an enticing pathway to financial prosperity and personal fulfillment. However, the initial capital required can be a significant barrier for many prospective investors.

Fear not, franchises exist that provide strong investment opportunities without breaking the bank. With an initial investment under $250,000, these franchises offer a chance to enter the thriving fitness industry and carve out a path to success.

Athletech News uncovers what makes these fitness franchises ideal investments for aspiring entrepreneurs. Each franchise offers a unique blend of opportunity and potential, from affordable entry costs to comprehensive support systems. 

GymGuyz 

Investment: With an investment ranging from approximately $92,000 to $174,000, GymGuyz presents an enticing opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking entry into the fitness market. Boasting an impressive network of 178 locations across the United States, Canada, and the U.K., GymGuyz has experienced a staggering growth rate of 780 percent since its inception.

About: In the dynamic world of fitness franchises, GymGuyz emerges as a trailblazer, offering a unique and accessible approach to personal wellness. Founded in 2014 by Josh York, Gymguyz is on a mission to disrupt traditional fitness models and bring workouts directly to clients.

What sets GymGuyz apart is its commitment to convenience and innovation. Unlike traditional gyms, GymGuyz eliminates the need for brick-and-mortar establishments, delivering personalized workouts directly to clients’ homes or workplaces. This model reduces expenses and maximizes profit margins, catering to the ever-growing demand for convenience in today’s fast-paced world.

“Convenience will continue to rule the world,” York emphasizes.

With a focus on disrupting the fitness industry, GymGuyz is poised for exponential growth. Last year alone, GymGuyz expanded into over 265 cities, with plans to triple that number in the coming year.

When selecting franchisees, GymGuyz seeks individuals with drive, persistence and a growth mindset. York emphasizes the importance of leadership skills and the willingness to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for personal development.

With a focus on accessibility, innovation, and empowerment, GymGuyz is poised to shape the future of personal wellness on a global scale.

Learn more here.

Pvolve

Investment: With an investment requirement of between $150,000 and $250,000, Pvolve offers a compelling opportunity for aspiring franchisees looking to enter the wellness industry. Despite its relatively recent inception, Pvolve boasts an impressive network of 40+ locations, predominantly in San Diego, Phoenix, Houston, Austin and Nashville, with ambitious growth plans on the horizon.

About: Pvolve stands out as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity in the thriving fitness franchise space. Established in 2019, Pvolve has swiftly garnered attention for its proprietary fitness method and unique approach to holistic wellness. 

“Pvolve is a proprietary fitness method unlike anything else on the market,” says Jill Brand, head of brand at Pvolve. “This dedication is evident in Pvolve’s emphasis on science and validation through clinical research trials overseen by a Clinical Advisory Board comprised of medical professionals.

Pvolve’s success lies in its distinctive fitness method, which combines functional fitness with patented resistance equipment. Overseen by a Clinical Advisory Board comprising medical professionals, Pvolve prioritizes science-backed workouts aimed at enhancing mobility, strength and lean muscle mass.

What distinguishes Pvolve is its omnichannel offering, allowing members to experience workouts online and in-studio. This flexibility caters to the modern consumer’s lifestyle, resulting in higher member engagement and retention—good news for franchise owners.

Moreover, Pvolve prioritizes low-impact, functional workouts, challenging the conventional fitness mantra of “no pain, no gain.” By emphasizing longevity and body support, Pvolve attracts individuals seeking sustainable wellness solutions.

When considering prospective franchisees, Pvolve looks for individuals passionate about health and wellness who are driven to positively impact their communities. Business acumen and operational expertise are also valued traits, ensuring a robust foundation of franchisee success.

Innovation remains at the forefront of Pvolve’s strategy, with ongoing enhancements to lead generation and marketing support for franchise owners. Looking ahead, Pvolve is excited to deepen its partnership with Jennifer Aniston and expand its support infrastructure for franchisees, both digitally and in-studio.

Learn more here.

Barre3

Investment: With investment opportunities starting at approximately $250,000, over 185 franchise studios, and a global online community, barre3 provides potential franchisees with a compelling reason to join a brand that is committed to empowering individuals to embrace their whole-body health.

About: In the ever-evolving landscape of fitness franchises, one name stands out for its unique approach to wellness: barre3. Founded in 2008 by Sadie and Chris Lincoln in Portland, Oregon, barre3 emerged with a vision to redefine success in fitness. Its holistic approach to exercise sets barre3 apart from traditional fitness models. Combining strength, cardio and mindfulness, barre3 workouts offer a refreshing alternative to the typical gym routine.

We exercise to feel present and alive in our bodies just as they are,” Sadie Lincoln, the CEO and founder of barre3, explains,.

The franchise’s recent acquisition of The Barre Code further solidifies its position as an industry leader. With 22 new franchise studio owners onboard, barre3 is poised for even greater expansion. This growth is fueled by a commitment to providing unparalleled support to franchisees, ensuring their success in local communities.

Prospective franchisees are sought not only for their entrepreneurial spirit but also for their alignment with barre3’s vision and mission.

“We seek owners who are entrepreneurial business-minded leaders in their local communities,” Lincoln notes,

Innovation is at the heart of barre3’s evolution. In the past year alone, the franchise has introduced three new class types, each designed to enhance the barre3 experience. From strength-building to cardio-boosting workouts, barre3 continues to push boundaries in functional fitness.

Looking ahead, barre3 shows no signs of slowing down. With plans to open 50+ new studios and expand internationally, the movement towards redefining success in fitness is only just beginning. As Sadie Lincoln aptly sums up, “With this momentum, we are leaning heavily into franchise sales and studio conversions, continuing our mission to bring balance and empowerment to communities worldwide.”

Learn more here.

Anytime Fitness 

Investment: With existing franchise resale opportunities requiring less than $250,000, Anytime Fitness presents an opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs wanting to join the fitness industry at one of the top big gym fitness franchises. With an impressive network of 5,200 locations worldwide, including all seven continents, Anytime Fitness continues to set the standard for accessibility and innovation in the fitness industry.

About: In the world of fitness franchises, Anytime Fitness is an unparalleled leader in revolutionizing how individuals approach personal wellness. Established in 2001 and franchised since 2002, Anytime Fitness has rapidly expanded to become the largest and fastest-growing fitness brand worldwide.

Distinguishing itself from traditional gyms, Anytime Fitness prioritizes tailored fitness experiences catered to individual needs. The brand’s commitment to customization and convenience is evident through its 24/7, 365-day access and advanced technological offerings, which facilitate personalized coaching and support.

Prospective franchisees are sought based on their alignment with Anytime Fitness’s core values and their dedication to promoting wellness within their communities. Attributes such as a genuine passion for fitness, entrepreneurial drive and a desire to make a positive impact are highly valued.

Continual innovation drives Anytime Fitness forward, exemplified by recent partnerships with Apple Fitness+ to enhance member experiences. With plans to double domestic clubs and expand into new markets such as the United Arab Emirates and Europe, Anytime Fitness remains at the forefront of fitness evolution.

Learn more here.

Pure Barre

Investment: With an entry-level investment of just over $250,000, Pure Barre has expanded to over 640 locations across 48 states and Canada, with recent developments in Japan. This impressive growth underscores its strong market presence, especially in the major cities within California, Illinois, Florida, Massachusetts, Georgia and Colorado.

About: Established in 2002, Pure Barre has played a pioneering role in the barre industry that has set it apart from other fitness brands.

“Pure Barre is the pioneer in the barre industry, not only as it is the biggest barre brand in the world, but through the dedication to evolve the consumer experience and invest in class innovations constantly, it has a very loyal member base that allows the brand to continue to grow even now as a ‘legacy’ brand with a 22-year history,” explains Kate Doyle-Kwon, vice president of franchise marketing at parent brand Xponential Fitness.

Ideal franchise candidates exhibit effective leadership skills, strong business acumen, and a passion for health and wellness. Pure Barre values individuals who appreciate the franchise model and are committed to upholding the brand’s core values of inclusivity and community.

Pure Barre continuously innovates to enhance the member experience. In 2023, the brand introduced two new class types: Align, which focused on recovery and flexibility, and Define, which emphasized strength training with heavier weights. These innovations have been well-received, with the Define class achieving a utilization rate of 77 percent and driving a 15 percent increase in same-store sales across North America. Such innovations retain members by offering variety and attracting a more diverse membership base, catering to those seeking restorative and strength-focused workouts.

Looking ahead, Pure Barre aims to be a category leader.

“Our big vision is to continue to forge the path and be a driving force in developing the low-impact, high-intensity category in the fitness industry,” says Doyle-Kwon.

Learn more here.

The post The Best Fitness Franchises Under $250K To Open appeared first on Athletech News.

In fitness franchising, big-box gym franchises represent significant opportunities, offering investors a chance to capitalize on the enduring appeal of the health and wellness industry. With their extensive facilities, diverse offerings,and established brand recognition, these franchises provide a solid foundation for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the thriving fitness industry.

For those looking for strong unit economics and the ability to make a meaningful community impact, large gym franchises could be your ticket to success and fulfillment.

Here, Athletech News dives into what sets some of the top players in the large gym franchise category apart in a competitive market. From robust training programs to strategic marketing initiatives, each franchise offers investors a unique blend of opportunity and potential. 

Anytime Fitness

Investment: The initial investment to open a new Anytime Fitness franchise is just below $400,000. This comprehensive investment covers everything from equipment to the franchise fee, ensuring franchisees are well-equipped to start their business on a solid foundation.

About: Anytime Fitness stands out as a premier choice for prospective franchise owners. Established in 2001, Anytime Fitness has rapidly evolved into the largest and fastest-growing fitness brand worldwide. With over 5,200 clubs in over 40 countries, Anytime Fitness boasts an extensive global presence, including unique locations like Antarctica. The brand’s robust expansion is evident, with over 2,300 locations in the U.S. alone, mainly concentrated in Texas, Florida, Minnesota and California.

Anytime Fitness distinguishes itself from other fitness brands through its commitment to accessibility and personalization. Unlike conventional gyms, Anytime Fitness provides 24/7, 365-day access to state-of-the-art facilities, allowing members to work out at their convenience. The brand is dedicated to individualized fitness plans. Upon joining, every member receives a customized plan supported by professional coaches and innovative technology like AF SmartCoaching and the A.F. App. This approach ensures members receive tailored guidance, enhancing their fitness journey inside and outside the gym.

Anytime Fitness seeks franchisees who share the brand’s core values and passion for fitness. Ideal candidates are enthusiastic about promoting a healthy lifestyle and are entrepreneurial in spirit. Prospective owners should be committed to positively impacting their communities, building a successful business and fostering a supportive gym environment. This alignment ensures a strong foundation for success within the franchise network.

Relentless innovation has been a cornerstone of Anytime Fitness’s success. A notable recent development is the partnership with Apple Fitness+, launched in 2023.

Looking ahead, Anytime Fitness is poised for continued domestic and international expansion. In 2024, the brand aims to double the number of its domestic clubs, tapping into markets across all 50 states. Additionally, Anytime Fitness is expanding its global footprint, with significant growth planned in the United Arab Emirates and Europe. The first club in Dubai is set to open by the end of 2024, marking a new chapter in the brand’s exciting international journey.

Learn more here.

Snap Fitness

Investment: With a total investment ranging from £550,000 ($703,000) to £750,000 ($958,000) Snap Fitness presents a compelling opportunity for potential franchisees.

About: Founded in 2003 and franchising since 2015, Snap Fitness has grown to over 1,000 gyms across more than 20 countries, with the highest franchise concentrations being in the Americas, particularly the United States and Canada, followed by Australia and New Zealand, the U.K. and Ireland.

Over the past year, Snap Fitness has experienced a 16 percent rise in global memberships, remodeled 96 gyms, opened 32 new gyms and sold 78 new territories. The momentum behind the brand right now cannot be ignored. The goal for 2024 is to open a new site every two weeks, a target that the company is well on track to achieve. A strong value proposition and a commitment to holistic wellness drive this impressive expansion.

One of Snap Fitness’s key differentiators is its holistic approach to fitness. The brand focuses on the overall well-being of its members, emphasizing the intrinsic benefits of exercise, such as increased energy, reduced stress and improved mood.

“Snap Fitness has been a pioneer in shifting the fitness industry’s focus from aesthetics to overall wellness,” says the brand’s senior leadership team. This strategy resonates with modern gym-goers seeking more than just physical transformation.

Snap Fitness seeks franchisees who are passionate about health and wellness, committed to the member experience, eager to learn and grow, and keen to support their local communities. Their most successful franchisees understand the value of member satisfaction and strive to create welcoming, supportive and inclusive environments for them in every community they serve.

Innovation remains at the forefront of Snap Fitness’s offerings. In April 2024, the company launched Snap App 2.0, ensuring a seamless fitness experience for members. The app features improved navigation, personalized training programs and access to over 1,200 on-demand workouts. This advanced tool allows members to track their progress, receive personalized meal plans and participate in mental health programs, adding significant value to its members.

Looking ahead, Snap Fitness is focused on enhancing its member experience through ongoing, member-centric staff training and continuous app improvements. By prioritizing the member journey, Snap Fitness aims to expand its footprint and solidify its position as a leader in the global fitness industry. For investors seeking a dynamic and growing franchise opportunity, Snap Fitness offers a proven model with extensive franchisee support.

Learn more here.

D1 Training

Investment: With a total investment of between $161,000 and $711,000, D1 Training presents a compelling opportunity for potential investors.

About: Founded in 2001 and franchising since 2015, D1 Training already has an impressive footprint with over 116 locations, with the highest concentration being in the Central, South and Southeast regions of the U.S., including 25 new locations that have opened this year. The company is showing remarkable growth, as reflected in the March 2024 sales numbers, marking the largest sales month in company history. Add to that an impressive same-store sales growth averaging 6.5 percent year-over-year systemwide, and you can be assured that unit economics are top of mind for the team at D1. 

The brand differentiates itself in several key ways, but the most compelling is its ability to offer training to youth and adults.

“Our rookie classes train kids as young as seven years old, but we also train adults, including college and pro athletes,” boasts the senior leadership team.

This broad demographic appeal is complemented by a 5-Star Training program, which delivers a division-one training experience for all levels. Additionally, D1 Training benefits from four growth markets: Fitness, Health & Wellness, Youth Sports, and Family Entertainment, making it a versatile and robust franchise opportunity.

When looking for prospective franchisees, D1 Training seeks financially qualified individuals with experience in small-business ownership and strong leadership experience who are driven and passionate about fitness. “We want community leaders who are enthusiastic about the D1 Training brand and share our mission and vision,” the leadership team explains.

D1 Training’s strategic business model provides state-of-the-art operations and marketing tools to empower franchise owners to operate a best-in-class training facility while being encouraged to grow with the brand.

Learn more here.

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Increasingly, people looking to improve their performance both in the gym and on the sports field are turning to strength and conditioning workouts to help them both get stronger and grow endurance. Combine those benefits with encouragement and guidance as well as technology and tracking, and you have the perfect formula for a successful boutique strength and conditioning studio. These popular fitness franchises have taken off in recent years, and savvy entrepreneurs are poised to continue to grow this category within the fitness industry.

As you explore the opportunities inherent in fitness franchises, learning more about the unique benefits of strength and conditioning can help you determine whether this type of studio is an ideal match for your interests and skill set.

See below to learn more about this category, how it stacks up against your needs and what resonates most with members at each type of studio. 

Pvolve

Investment: Investment in a Pvolve franchise ranges between $392,950 and $892,500.

About: Founded in 2019, Pvolve is making a splash in the fitness franchise industry. The company has opened locations throughout North America, and awarded 28 franchise licenses in 2023. Nearly 50 studios are under development as of 2024.

“Pvolve is a proprietary fitness method unlike anything else on the market that combines functional fitness with patented resistance equipment designed specifically for the brand,” says Julie Cartwright, president of Pvolve.

The method is overseen by a Clinical Advisory Board (CAB) made up of medical doctors, a physical therapist and a sports physiologist. Pvolve is committed to incorporating science and validating the fitness method through clinical research trials with leading universities on lower back pain, mobility, strength and lean muscle mass.

Pvolve is available both online and in studio, so clients can do a 55-minute in-person class or a 20-minute workout at home. Cartwright notes that this flexibility leads to higher member engagement and a lift in retention. 

“An ideal franchise candidate is someone with a passion for health and wellness, and who has a desire to better the lives of the members of their community,” Cartwright says. She notes that half of their owners started as digital subscribers, which is a testament to their belief in the business. 

“Business and operational acumen are also key components we look at when evaluating owners. Pvolve franchisees are both owners and operators running the day-to-day of the studio or semi-absentee, hiring a studio manager to run operations, but still actively involved, explains Cartwright.

The Pvolve team is also working on new features to help owners market their studios and drive new leads.

“Recent improvements include enhanced landing pages for paid media funnels and improvements to the studio CRM platform to make sure we are properly nurturing and converting leads. We also use a platform called Marq that houses hundreds of brand-approved templates for studios to use to support their marketing activities, including events, partnerships, custom email campaigns, as well as local grassroots initiatives,” explains Cartwright, adding Marq is updated regularly to keep marketing efforts fresh.

Pvolve will continue its partnership with Jennifer Aniston, which includes content and collaborations. The company is also continuing to invest in building out additional support and infrastructure for its owner network. This includes additional learning and development courses, marketing tools and assets and agency partners.

Learn more here.

Discover Strength

Investment: The initial investment for a Discover Strength franchise is $463,000 to $877,000. This includes buildout estimates and equipment.

About: Since Discover Strength began franchising in 2019, the company has grown to 47 locations either already open or in development across 13 states. Of those, 32 are franchise-owned, and the highest concentrations of locations are in the Twin Cities, in the Scottsdale/Phoenix region and the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

The company, which was founded in 2006, is committed to evidence-based exercise, and the management team looks for franchise owners who operate on the same core value system.

Each of Discover Strength’s experts are educated trainers, including exercise physiologists with 4-year degrees in exercise science or a related field. These are professionals immersed in the field, who are staying on top of research and pursuing additional certifications.

“We follow an evidence-based approach to exercise. We do not hop on the latest fad or market-driven trend. We adhere to what the research says is going to give us the best results in the shortest amount of time while being safe,” explains Scott Breimhorst, vice president of franchise development.

And Discover Strength is geared towards busy clients, aiming to see them twice a week for thirty minutes, and this three-pronged approach with expert trainers, an evidence-based approach, and a focus on efficiency sets them apart.

“These three differentiators have allowed us to retain clients at an extremely high rate. Our company’s Net Promoter Score of 95 is a clear indicator of our clients’ strong loyalty and willingness to refer others to the experience,” says Breimhorst.

By 2025, Discover Strength expects to have 100 locations open, and the franchisor uses the Buxton Consumer Intelligence System to help guide territory decisions and support franchisees. The company looks for franchisees who align on the core values — learning, servant leadership, science-based, and creating our own future — and the core purpose — leading the movement in evidence-based exercise.

Learn more here.

Body Fit Training (BFT)

Investment: With a franchise fee of $60,000, the investment range for a Body Fit Training (BFT) franchise is $328,920 to $519,520. 

“Our ideal candidate has a background in some level of team development/leadership, has business experience whether in the corporate world or as an existing business owner, an appreciation for the franchise model, along with a passion for health and wellness, and our minimum net worth and liquidity requirements,” says Duncan Cork, president of Body Fit Training (BFT).

About: Established in 2017, BFT now has over 300 locations globally. It initially expanded rapidly in Melbourne, where it was founded, then expanded to other cities and regions across Australia and New Zealand.

“Realizing that BFT’s science-backed group strength and conditioning programming was resonating so strongly in Australia and New Zealand, we then saw demand and expanded into Singapore, the U.K., and Spain,” explains Cork. In 2021, Xponential Fitness acquired BFT for North American expansion across the U.S. and Canada. BFT has also expanded into South-East Asia and Europe, creating a global brand. 

BFT attracts members who are drawn to a type of group strength training based on coaching techniques that were previously used primarily for elite athletes, with the average client taking four to five classes per week.

“Knowing that athletes have different needs, with injury histories, years of training and specific needs of their position in the team, founder Cam Falloon saw an opportunity to bring a really considered, progressive and science-backed approach to group fitness informed by metrics collected from heart rate monitors that allowed for customized, future workouts for members,” say Cork.

BFT is also focused on a community-based member experience where members train in eight-week program blocks, working different energy systems and muscle fiber types. Their workouts are monitored through a custom heart-rate technology system, which tracks their fitness growth.  

Learn more here.

The post The Best Strength & Conditioning Fitness Franchises To Open appeared first on Athletech News.

ABC Trainerize is launching the ABC Trainerize Academy, an educational platform for personal trainers and health and wellness coaches looking to ramp up their online businesses.

Budding fitness entrepreneurs can expect a comprehensive approach with Online Trainer Business (OTB) Essentials, which provides access to top trainers and fitness business experts in the ABC Trainerize community, as well as hands-on learning and self-paced tutorials.

“ABC Trainerize is leading the way for trainers to get more out of their businesses and clients,” ABC Trainerize co-founder and platform president Sharad Mohan said. “Our goal with the Academy is to empower fitness professionals to become truly successful entrepreneurs who can guide their clients on a transformative health journey. The OTB Essentials course is the perfect place to begin that journey.”

Modules from OTB include strategies to craft business goals and revenue targets, implement online marketing strategies, convert leads, and onboard and retain clients.

A waitlist has been created for those who want early access to the OTB Essentials course at a discounted price of $150.

The post ABC Trainerize Launches Academy for Trainers, Coaches appeared first on Athletech News.

In the dynamic world of fitness franchising, few niches have experienced barre’s meteoric rise and sustained popularity. With its fusion of ballet-inspired movements, pilates, and yoga, barre workouts have evolved into a cultural phenomenon, captivating fitness enthusiasts worldwide. Selecting the right barre franchise is crucial for savvy investors considering opportunities in this thriving market. 

Here, we’ll explore what makes these barre franchises stand out in a competitive market. From comprehensive training programs to ongoing support and marketing initiatives, each franchise offers a unique blend of opportunity and potential. These franchises represent compelling investment possibilities for investors seeking sound unit economics and a chance to promote health and wellness within their communities. 

barre3

Investment: With a franchise cost ranging from $280,000 to $555,000, prospective business-minded leaders aligned with barre3’s vision and purpose will find an attractive investment opportunity backed by a commitment to balanced well-being. 

About: In the dynamic landscape of fitness franchise opportunities, barre3 emerges as a standout choice, offering a blend of innovation, inclusivity and community. Founded in 2008 by Sadie and Chris Lincoln, the brand quickly redefined fitness success, propelling its growth to over 185 women-owned and operated franchise locations predominantly in Oregon, Washington, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Illinois and Michigan, not to mention a vast online subscriber base across 100+ countries. 

“We aimed to reshape fitness ideals and foster body empowerment,” shares Sadie Lincoln, CEO and co-founder of barre3. Through comprehensive training programs and ongoing support, barre3 empowers its franchisees to cultivate communities centered on holistic health and wellness.

barre3’s distinctiveness lies in its comprehensive approach to fitness, integrating strength, cardio and mindfulness into efficient workouts. “We provide a refreshing departure from the norm,” remarks Lincoln. “Our classes prioritize presence and vitality, encouraging clients to embrace their individual strengths.”

Recent innovations include introducing three new class types—b3 Strength, b3 Cardio, and b3 Mindful Flow—each tailored to provide functional benefits for daily life.

In terms of growth, barre3 boasts 20 percent franchise expansion over the past year, further catalyzed by the acquisition of The Barre Code. This strategic move strengthens barre3’s industry leadership and adds 22 new franchise studio owners to its roster, amplifying its collective expertise.

Looking ahead, barre3 sets ambitious goals, aiming to sign and open 50+ new studios in the near future and exploring avenues for international expansion. “Our journey has just begun,” Lincoln affirms. “We’re committed to redefining fitness success globally, one studio at a time.”

Learn more here.

The Bar Method

Investment: The Bar Method franchises require an initial investment of between $350,000 and $500,000.

About: The Bar Method shines as a beacon of empowerment and innovation in fitness franchise opportunities. The studio was established in 2001 in San Francisco, CA, and started franchising in 2008. With a current unit count of 76 women-owned studios across 21 states, predominantly in California, New York and New Jersey, the brand’s trajectory is poised for exponential growth.

“At The Bar Method, we stand apart by empowering women to become the strongest versions of themselves,” emphasizes Stephanie Schon, brand president of The Bar Method. This ethos is underpinned by a commitment to constant refinement, a thriving community of female entrepreneurs, and a robust franchise business model with category-leading average unit sales volume.

Differentiating itself through a science-backed approach, The Bar Method offers a kinesiology-based technique supported by on-staff physical therapists. “Our method effectively targets every muscle group using isometric exercises and low-impact movements,” explains Schon. This commitment to excellence is reflected in the brand’s remarkable 3.6 percent attrition rate, significantly lower than the industry average.

When seeking prospective franchisees, The Bar Method prioritizes passion and a desire to empower others. “Our ideal owners possess a thirst for learning and a strong commitment to building a legacy in their community,” says Schon. With 93 percent female-owned and operated franchises, The Bar Method fosters a powerful relationship between franchisor and franchisee.

In terms of innovation, The Bar Method introduced two new class formats in 2023: Bar Method Cardio and Bar Strength. These additions cater to evolving consumer preferences for variety and deeper muscle engagement, further enhancing the brand’s appeal.

Looking ahead, The Bar Method remains dedicated to evolving its offerings to meet the changing needs of its clients. “Our mission is to empower individuals of all ages and abilities to strive for their strongest, healthiest selves,” affirms Schon. 

Learn More here.

Pure Barre 

Investment: “With a franchise fee of $60,000 and an investment range spanning from approximately $250,000 to $415,000, Pure Barre offers entrepreneurs a sound financial opportunity to tap into a thriving market,” notes the brand’s senior leadership team. 

About: Within the domain of barre studio fitness franchises, Pure Barre stands as a pioneering force, offering a blend of legacy, innovation and unwavering commitment to member experience. Established in 2002, Pure Barre has blossomed into the largest barre brand globally, boasting over 640 locations across 48 states in the U.S., Canada and now Japan. Pure Barre’s success is evident in its expansive reach, with high concentrations of studios in major cities nationwide, particularly in California, Illinois, Florida, Massachusetts, Georgia and Colorado.

Pure Barre is dedicated to constant evolution and class innovation, fostering a loyal member base. “As the pioneer in the barre industry, we continuously redefine the consumer experience,” affirms the brand. Recent innovations include the introduction of Align, which focuses on recovery and flexibility, and Define, which incorporates strength training with heavier weights. These additions have invigorated the brand and contributed to significant studio-level success, with Define class driving a remarkable 15 percent North American same-store sales growth in 2023.

Ideal Pure Barre franchisees possess a team development and leadership background, business operations experience, and a passion for health and wellness. The company looks specifically for candidates who appreciate being a part of a franchise system while meeting the minimum net worth and liquidity requirements.

Looking ahead, Pure Barre remains positioned to navigate fitness industry trends, offering low-impact, high-intensity experiences amidst a pendulum swing towards longevity-focused training. “Our concept delivers a perfect balance, making us a cornerstone in the evolving fitness landscape,” concludes the brand’s leadership team. With a legacy of innovation and a commitment to member satisfaction, Pure Barre continues to pave the way for fitness entrepreneurship.

Learn more here.

The post The Best Barre Fitness Franchises To Open appeared first on Athletech News.

Exploring options to invest in a Pilates franchise? With an increasing number of brands, formats and approaches to this century-old exercise regimen, there’s never been a better time to get into the business. The key is finding the right franchise fit for the right investor. Whether it’s location, technology, cost or stage of growth, potential franchises must weigh all considerations when determining which studio checks all the boxes for them.

Here are the leading Pilates franchises that should be on your radar as you look at investment opportunities this year, including insights into their future plans, current offerings and how they’ve managed to differentiate themselves in this dynamic market. 

Studio Pilates International

Investment: Each franchise runs between $400,000 and $700,000 in total start-up costs, which varies depending on the size of premises, number of reformers and location. 

About: Established in 2002, Studio Pilates International has expanded from its original Brisbane, Australia location to 100 studios including locations in Queensland and New South Wales, Australia; New Zealand; Brooklyn, New York; and Louisville, Kentucky.

“Studio Pilates International is currently growing at the rate of 20 to 30 new studios a year and already increasing with 31 signed agreements in the first 10 months of this fiscal year, from July 23 to April 24th,” says Jade Winter, co-founder of Studio Pilates International. On the horizon, Studio Pilates International expects to launch 17 more studios in 6 additional states within the year. All of this is part of a larger plan for over 400 new studios over the next five years.

Winter looks for franchise owners who are passionate about Pilates and bring sales, networking and people skills to the table. “We love a strong personality and someone who has the ability to run a busy franchise and interact with clients, and is willing to undertake an instructor class,” he said.

Studio Pilates International offers several unique value propositions to potential franchisees including corporate accounts, stretch classes, custom-designed reformers and physical therapy-based sequences. There is support across the financial and administrative back-end, as well as marketing templates and a KPI dashboard that each franchisee can access directly. 

Additionally, Studio Pilates International was an early pioneer in video classes, and PTV video systems are installed in every studio.

Learn more here.

Jetset Pilates

Investment: The initial franchise fee for Jetset is $50,000 with a 3-unit cost of $135,000.

“We provide detailed financial information and planning support to interested franchisees during our discovery process to ensure transparency and alignment,” says Tamara Galinsky, founder and brand president of Jetset Pilates, Galinsky. “The total investment necessary to begin operations of a Jetset franchise and 3 months of cash flow starts from $398,800 and includes the initial franchise fee.”

About: Galinsky opened her first studio in Miami in 2010. She spent over a decade building a sought-after brand before opening the business to the franchise system in 2022.

Currently, Jetset Pilates has locations throughout South Florida and nearly 50 locations in development, including U.S. locations in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Texas, California, Utah, Colorado and New York, as well as a studio in Melbourne, Australia. They are attuned to identifying the most strategic locations to focus efforts on new studios.

Galinsky is committed to fostering loyalty by keeping up with the evolving needs of the Jetsetters, as she calls her clients, both in-class offerings, membership options like the Jetsetter Premium Access Membership, as well as technology integration. “We offer custom DJ-curated playlists designed to integrate seamlessly with the workout flow, creating a holistic and elevated experience that goes beyond just another fitness class. This unique feature adds an extra layer of energy and motivation to our sessions,” adds Galinsky.

Galinsky has also created comprehensive support resources to assist franchisees at every stage of their journey. “From initial training programs to ongoing operational support, marketing assistance, and access to advanced client engagement platforms powered by state-of-the-art technologies, we empower our franchisees with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the competitive fitness industry.” 

Learn more here.

Club Pilates

Investment: The franchise fee is $60,000, and the investment range is $196,525 to $458,575.

About: With over 1,000 locations globally, Club Pilates is one of the largest Pilates franchises in the world. Founded in San Diego in 2007 to align Joseph Pilates’ original Reformer-based Contrology Method with a modern group practice and state-of-the-art equipment, Club Pilates now delivers more than 8 million workouts a year.

The goal of Club Pilates is to create an approachable and welcoming environment for anyone and everyone to experience Reformer Pilates.

“At a time when Reformer Pilates was only delivered one-on-one, Club Pilates revolutionized the industry by offering modernized Reformer Pilates with group practice and expanded state-of-the-art equipment at an affordable price to effectively scale the brand and bring the incredible benefits to the masses,” explains Tianna Strateman, president of Club Pilates.

Growth has been rapid in the past few years, growing from 30 studios in 2015 to the current number of over 1,000 in just nine short years. Club Pilates has a presence in every major market in the U.S., as well as across APAC, Europe, the Middle East and North America.

According to Strateman, when assessing potential franchise owners, they look for experience in team development/leadership, business experience, whether in the corporate world or as an existing business owner, an appreciation for the franchise model, a passion for health and wellness, and minimum net worth and liquidity requirements.

Learn more here.

Bodybar Pilates

Investment: The investment to open a Bodybar Pilates franchise is location-dependent, with a low range of $216,00 to $816,600.

About: “Bodybar delivers a fiercely effective workout experience powered by Pilates to build a balanced, athletic and real community,” says Kamille McCollum, president and COO of  Bodybar Pilates. Founded in 2012, Bodybar started franchising in 2014, and it now has 30+ locations across the Southwest, South and Southeast regions of the U.S., with a focus on growing the West and East Coasts.

Classic Pilates roots are used as the foundation, then elevated to create the signature Bodybar workout, which focuses on strength, endurance and challenging athletic intensity. “The science behind the Bodybar Method includes optimizing your muscles’ ability to contract repeatedly without getting fatigued, challenging your whole body, and moving in compound patterns through all planes of motion,” explains McCollum.

Their method includes eight unique class formats across four distinct Pilates apparatuses that integrate hundreds of exercises. There’s always a new challenge, no matter how long you’ve been practicing Pilates. 

Bodybar Pilates looks for entrepreneurial-minded fitness enthusiasts when talking to potential franchise owners.

“We have raised the bar for a rewarding fitness franchise opportunity for people from diverse business backgrounds. Bodybar Pilates looks for natural leaders with management skills and an appreciation for fitness. It’s even better if you’re a fan of non-traditional Reformer Pilates, or if you want to convert an existing fitness business,” says McCollum.

Learn more here.

FS8

Investment: An investment to open an FS8 franchise in the United States is between $292,700 and $719,600. This includes a franchise fee of $50,000. 

“FS8 seeks dedicated investors who are passionate about impacting health and wellness globally. Ideal franchisees should have strong business acumen, financial stability and a readiness to actively engage with their communities,” explains Scott Breimhorst, vice president of franchise development.

About: FS8 opened its inaugural studio in Manly, New South Wales, Australia back in April 2021 and has since expanded to 33 studios globally across six countries. The company plans to open two more by the end of June 2024. While initial plans were delayed due to the pandemic, FS8’s growth and expansion extended to Qatar, Thailand and London, then reached the United States by March 2023.

“Each of these entries was carefully timed to capitalize on market opportunities and build brand presence. The recent sale of master franchise rights in March 2024 for regions like the UK, Europe, and South Korea further emphasizes FS8’s commitment to strategic expansion and leveraging local expertise for regional management and growth. These strategic decisions have been crucial in FS8’s expansion and in establishing its footprint as a global player in the Pilates and yoga industry,” says Breimhorst.

FS8 is known for its unique approach — a 3-in-1 workout that combines Pilates, tone and yoga. It uses a functional style of workouts, which is backed and developed by leading industry experts—that are structured around eight key elements: cardio, mobility, posture, coordination, resistance, mental health, balance and flexibility. 

Workouts are aided by FS8 TV technology, which delivers centrally programmed workouts developed by the company’s dedicated athletics team to studios globally. “This ensures uniformity and consistency in training, irrespective of the trainer. This approach allows trainers to focus on technique, providing a personalized training experience within a group environment,” says Breimhorst.

FS8 also offers programs like Strength Reset & Strength Reboot, which are designed to motivate members to take 20 classes over a 30-day period, as well as class options like Express, which are 30-minute sessions for a busy lifestyle. 

Learn more here.

The post The Best Pilates Franchises To Open appeared first on Athletech News.

Daxko, a leading software and integrated payment solutions provider in the health, fitness and wellness industry has teamed up with Edge, an employee-driven growth solution, to offer an integration with Club Automation. 

The sides say the collaboration will boost member engagement, streamline operations and elevate fitness club staff performance to new heights.

Transforming Fitness Club Workflows

The integration allows fitness clubs and centers to automate workflows, connecting in-person member interactions and online feedback. By automatically sending SMS review requests based on member or transaction data, fitness clubs can increase online engagement and enhance visibility to potential members, driving growth and attracting new clients.

According to Daxko chief marketing and partnerships officer Wendy White, the new partnership addresses two significant challenges: retaining members and motivating staff. It’s an area Edge has perfected, boosting member and staff engagement by rewarding personnel for positive customer interactions.

“With Club Automation and Edge, clubs can automate processes that enhance member engagement, club reputation and employee satisfaction,” White says.

An Enhanced Fitness Solution 

The integration also enables gym owners and operators to incentivize staff and reward stellar performance via employee review and recognition tools.

Kylie Bergeson, head of marketing and partnerships at Edge, says the partnership  with Club Automation brings a new level of efficiency and impact to fitness centers.

“By integrating directly with Club Automation, we tap into real-time member data to automate review requests,” Bergeson says. “Highlighting exceptional staff creates a feedback loop that drives continuous improvement. This partnership is about more than just technology—it’s about helping gyms build stronger relationships with their members and teams, ultimately driving growth, loyalty and a standout reputation in the industry.”

Shaping the Future of Fitness Solutions

Club Automation merged with Daxko in 2018. Earlier this year, Daxko appointed Club Automation co-founder Jeff VanDixhorn as its CEO. 

VanDixhorn, who has owned several multi-purpose fitness and racquet sports facilities across three states, recently spoke to Athletech News in an exclusive interview about his vision for Daxko and its embracement of AI.

“There are a lot of eyes on AI, so it’s crucial that the AI solutions we adopt truly deliver value to our customers,” he said. “That’s why we’re leveraging Generative AI to help our customers craft personalized messages for their members, enhancing engagement like never before.”

VanDixhorn added that the company has introduced AI bots across some of its platforms to automate and improve customer interactions, making onboarding smoother.

“This allows our team to focus more on helping our customers succeed and grow,” he continued. “For any software company not considering AI to drive innovation, improve customer service, and streamline operations, they risk falling behind in today’s market.”

The post Club Automation Launches Integration with Edge appeared first on Athletech News.

In the ever-evolving landscape of franchising, the rapidly growing wellness and recovery sector offers investors a unique opportunity to capitalize on the growing demand for holistic health solutions. From stress relief to injury recovery, these franchises provide innovative services that cater to the needs of today’s health-conscious consumers. 

Here, we delve into what sets these notable wellness and recovery franchises apart in a competitive market. From comprehensive training programs to ongoing support and marketing initiatives, each franchise holds potential for the right franchisee. 

Perspire Sauna Studio

Investment: Perspire Sauna Studio offers a compelling investment opportunity with a total investment range of $430,000 to $880,000 and an initial franchise fee of $45,000.

About: For those looking to invest in a premier wellness and recovery franchise, Perspire Sauna Studio presents an unparalleled opportunity. Established in 2018, Perspire Sauna Studio has not just expanded but exploded onto the scene, with 55 open studios and over 200 franchises awarded, predominantly in Southern California. The brand’s remarkable growth—doubling the number of open studios annually and achieving a 2.5x increase in franchise sales—is a testament to the burgeoning demand for its wellness services and the potential for solid unit economics.

Jackie Mendes, vice president of franchise development, highlights the studio’s commitment to delivering private, personalized and convenient services, with a strong focus on an elevated customer experience. “Our approach to providing a customized wellness journey distinctly sets us apart in the competitive wellness market,” Mendes explains.

When seeking prospective franchisees, Perspire Sauna Studio looks for individuals with a deep passion for health and wellness and business acumen in operations, sales and marketing. Ideal candidates should be business-savvy, demonstrate exceptional leadership skills, align with the brand’s core values, and possess strong community ties.

“We prioritize franchisees who can cultivate and inspire a cohesive team to propel their business forward,” Mendes emphasizes. Experienced franchisees with a proven track record in other brands are particularly welcome. This strategy helps to ensure a robust network of capable franchisees who can contribute to the franchise’s continued success.”

Innovation drives Perspire Sauna Studio’s engagement. The recent introduction of Halotherapy integrates the benefits of salt therapy with the studio’s signature infrared saunas. Additionally, the company is testing a novel delivery method for Contrast Therapy, further enhancing their clients’ wellness experiences.

Looking ahead, Perspire Sauna Studio is focused on advancing its technological infrastructure to create a fully integrated biohacking experience that will add significant value for members, increase retention and drive long-term revenue for the studios. Additionally, the company has ambitious plans for international expansion this year to extend its impact in the global wellness industry.

As Jackie Mendes succinctly says, “We are not just building a business; we are cultivating a community dedicated to health and well-being.” Investing in Perspire Sauna Studio means becoming part of a forward-thinking, rapidly growing brand that prioritizes personalized wellness experiences and continuous innovation.

Learn more here.

Pause Studios 

Investment:  “With a franchise cost ranging from $1M to $1.5M, Pause Studios presents a compelling investment opportunity,” notes the brand’s senior leadership team.

About: Pause Studios emerges as a transformative force in the burgeoning landscape of wellness and recovery studio fitness franchises, offering a unique blend of holistic healing services and community engagement. Established in 2022, Pause Studios has swiftly garnered attention, with five corporate locations already open in Los Angeles, and 77 franchise territories awarded to new franchisees, with the highest concentration being in Florida.

Despite its infancy, Pause Studios has already made significant strides, focusing on creating immersive experiences and fostering a sense of community.

What truly sets Pause Studios apart is its commitment to offering diverse holistic healing services. “We differentiate ourselves by providing seven unique services, including float, sweat, and cryotherapy, alongside industry-leading retail offerings,” explains the brand’s senior leadership team. This comprehensive approach to wellness, coupled with our focus on creating immersive experiences and fostering a sense of community, sets Pause Studios apart in a crowded market.

Pause Studios has introduced several cutting-edge innovations to enhance the wellness experience for its clients. These include custom breathwork programming designed to optimize respiratory health and relaxation and “sauna socials,” which create a unique communal and social experience within the soothing environment of its saunas. Additionally, Pause Studios offers new longevity services to promote long-term health and vitality, ensuring clients enjoy a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to wellness.

Ideal Pause Studios franchisees are those who possess a passion for the brand, its commitment to wellness services, and building a vibrant community. The brand’s senior leadership team states, “We seek individuals committed to promoting holistic healing and creating a welcoming environment for our members.”

Looking ahead, Pause Studios has ambitious growth plans, intending to open 80 franchise locations over the next 26 months. “Our focus is on expanding our footprint and bringing our transformative wellness experiences to new communities,” concludes the brand’s leadership. With a dedication to innovation and community-building, Pause Studios is poised to help redefine the wellness and recovery studio landscape.

Learn more here.

The Covery Wellness Spa

Investment: Starting a franchise with The Covery Wellness Spa requires an initial franchise fee of $39,500, followed by a total investment of between $325,000 and $600,000

About: As the wellness and recovery industry expands, investing in the right franchise can be a strategic move for entrepreneurs. One standout option is The Covery Wellness Spa, founded in 2021 and led by CEO Tatum Crews. With a blend of innovative treatments, a robust franchisee support system, and a focus on scalability, The Covery is a promising opportunity for those looking to enter the wellness space.

While the brand is a relative newcomer to the wellness scene, it has already opened 10 locations, with another 65 locations awarded to new franchisees, predominantly in the Southeastern U.S. The immediate focus of the Covery team is to support its newest franchisees, ensuring successful openings and a solid foundation focused on strong execution.

The Covery Wellness Spa differentiates itself through several key factors, but none is more important than how it supports its members. “

We stand out because of our robust medical team,” says Crews. “Our franchise locations are staffed and managed by RNs, providing an unrivaled level of care and experience.” Additionally, The Covery strongly emphasizes the customer experience, meticulously designing spa environments with optimal lighting, sound, and décor to create a relaxing and healthy atmosphere.

Training and franchisee support are central to The Covery’s franchise model. The company provides comprehensive initial and ongoing training, ensuring franchisees and their teams are well-equipped to operate successfully.

“We educate and support our franchise branches continuously,” Crews explains. This dedication to support helps maintain high standards across all locations.

The Covery continues to innovate, recently introducing Ozone IV Therapy and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to its offerings. Looking ahead, the company plans to enhance its infrastructure, implement comprehensive testing protocols, and focus on successfully opening and supporting its newest locations by providing best-in-class franchisee support.

“We are strategically advancing our brand to ensure long-term success,” Crews notes.

Learn more here.

SWTHZ

Investment: Starting a SWTHZ franchise requires an initial franchise fee of $45,000, followed by a total investment of between approximately $500,000 and $700,000, depending on the leasehold improvements required to meet the brand standard.

About: Investing in wellness brands is becoming increasingly popular, and one brand that stands out is SWTHZ. With 17 locations currently open, SWTHZ has shown significant growth since its first studio opened in November 2019. The company plans to finish the year with a remarkable 75 open locations.

SWTHZ is making its mark in several key areas, with the highest concentration of studios in Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia and Dallas. By the end of 2024, SWTHZ aims to have a presence in 23 states, showcasing its ambition for national expansion, says Stefani Rizzi, Director of Marketing at LFC Brands.

What sets SWTHZ apart from other wellness brands is its commitment to providing its clients with a premier, holistic experience. Each private suite at SWTHZ is equipped with an infrared sauna, cold plunge, vitamin-C shower and en-suite entertainment.

“We focus on science-backed modalities that have stood the test of time while providing our clients and guests with holistic wellness to help them live more fulfilling lives—for longer,” Rizzi explains.

The brand emphasizes continuity in the member experience both in and out of the studios, with future plans to integrate more technology to keep clients engaged and active in their wellness journeys. SWTHZ seeks franchisees with specific experience who are interested in making a deep commitment.

“With us only having 32 franchisees, our focus is on multi-unit franchisees that have had some sort of retail or franchise experience in the past,” says Rizzi. This selective approach ensures that franchisees are well-equipped to grow and manage their studios effectively.

Looking ahead, SWTHZ is preparing for international growth with exciting plans on the horizon. Additionally, SWTHZ is teeing up new innovations, affirming the brand’s commitment to continuous improvement and expansion is clear.

Learn more here.

Restore Hyper Wellness

Investment: Initial investment starts at just over $800,000.

About: Restore Hyper Wellness nurtures a loyal customer based in the wellness and recovery franchising world. Established in 2015 in Austin, Texas, this franchise has quickly emerged as a leader, revolutionizing the industry with its cutting-edge approach and commitment to customer well-being.

At the heart of Restore Hyper Wellness is its dedication to enhancing vitality and longevity. Franchisees gain access to a proven business model backed by a renowned brand – the franchise boasts over 225 locations across the U.S., strategically concentrated in California, Texas, Washington and New York.

Restore’s relentless pursuit of innovation and ability to stay ahead of the curve sets it apart. It distinguishes itself through a comprehensive range of services, including cryotherapy, IV drip therapy, infrared sauna sessions, and more. This diverse portfolio caters to various wellness needs, ensuring personalized care tailored to clients’ preferences.

The franchise’s exponential growth trajectory speaks volumes about its success and potential. With each passing year, Restore Hyper Wellness expands its footprint, opening new locations and attracting a diverse clientele. This rapid expansion underscores the growing demand for holistic wellness solutions and positions Restore as a frontrunner in meeting these needs.

When selecting new franchisees, Restore prioritizes individuals who share its passion for health and well-being. Prospective franchisees undergo a rigorous screening process, emphasizing their commitment to customer satisfaction and ability to uphold the franchise’s values and standards. The company is particularly interested in in-market owners involved in day-to-day operations, as they are among the most successful franchisees in the system.

Innovation is the lifeblood of Restore Hyper Wellness. In 2024, the franchisor unveiled its Weight Management Program, advancing personalized weight loss strategies by amalgamating individual health data with FDA-approved weight loss medications and the establishment’s wide-ranging wellness therapies. Developed alongside Dr. Rich Joseph, Restore’s chief medical officer, the initiative fosters sustainable weight loss by mitigating food cravings and enhancing appetite signaling. With assessments like InBody scans and telemedicine consultations, each client receives a tailored plan for their weight management journey.

Looking ahead, Restore Hyper Wellness has ambitious plans for the future. Under the leadership of co-founder and CEO Steve Welch, the company aims to have 500 studios by the end of this year. From expanding its range of services to penetrating new markets, the franchise remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. With innovation at its core and a growing network of franchisees, Restore Hyper Wellness is poised to be a recognized name in wellness for years to come.

Learn more here.

The post The Best Wellness & Recovery Franchises To Open appeared first on Athletech News.

You’re in the process of finalizing your fitness franchise deal. Congratulations. Now it’s time for the real work to begin. The period between signing your franchise agreement and opening day is critical to the success of your gym. And, it’s also often a real wake-up call for new franchisees.

“A lot of franchisees will say, ‘You know, I’m buying a franchise and paying upfront money for the franchise, and the franchisor is gonna help me all along the way and I can just sit back and do very little. That is not the case,” Leonard Briskman, a SCORE mentor based in Washington, D.C., told Athletech News. “Once you open for business and you start that first week or the first two weeks, chances are the franchisor is not going to be readily available for you, unless you have an operational problem.”

Briskman has been on both sides of the franchise relationship. First, purchasing a lighting retail chain with 27 franchisees and later as a franchisee operating 42 athletic footwear stores.

For Briskman, the franchisor’s training program was immensely helpful, mainly due to the coaching he received but also because it gave him the opportunity to build relationships with other franchisees that were also going through the onboarding process. 

But a classroom setting can only teach you so much. Briskman advises new fitness franchisees to spend time in an existing gym to get a feel for how things work behind the scenes.

“They ought to spend several days or maybe a week or more at another franchisee’s operation, especially if it’s within the same city just to acclimate to what’s happening in the business and what you can expect,” he said.

While every business is different, one thing is universal, once you sign on to open a fitness franchise, you are taking on a host of financial and operational responsibilities, many of which require immediate attention. 

Here, we highlight three main milestones leading up to and immediately following signing your franchise agreement. 

Secure Funding

It’s going to take a lot of investment to bring your gym or studio to life. It’s best to get your loan approved ahead of signing your franchise agreement. Because, of course, there’ll be no business if you can’t secure the capital but also you need to account for the lead time inherent in getting the funds, which could be up to 90 days. 

You also need to make sure your lender is willing to finance a deal with the fitness franchisor you’ve selected.

“The SBA typically has a list of franchisors who they’re prepared to work with and franchisors who they will not work with,” Briskman said. “The best-case scenario is the lender and franchisor have worked together before, which will help expedite your loan process.” 

While franchisees can opt for a traditional commercial loan, Briskman says an SBA-guaranteed loan has a lot of advantages that often makes it more attractive. For loans under $500,000, you qualify for the SBA’s Express Loan Program. Not only would that help you get going on your new business faster, but it would also be less likely that you’d need to put up collateral like your home in order to secure the funds. 

Briskman said an SBA-guaranteed loan also typically offers a longer payback window than a traditional bank loan — for instance, 10 years versus seven. Plus, the borrower can put down less money toward the deal by going the SBA route.

Develop a Budget

Developing your budget is one key area in which your franchisor will be instrumental. Pay close attention during your training sessions to this part of the discussion so you’re aware of where the money’s going and you don’t end up making costly mistakes. 

The list of expenditures you can expect to make long before you open your doors include: annual insurance premiums, real estate attorney fees, your lease, your contractor, permits, licenses, equipment, advertising and staffing.

“It’s nerve-racking, because all of these expenses are going out, but they should be budgeted for before you’re spending the money so nothing comes through as a surprise,” Briskman advised. “I would say you’re looking at probably something in the area of anywhere from eight months to 12 months before you’re able to open.”

When building your timeline alongside your budget, you need to factor in time for loan approval, lease negotiations, location scouting, location build-out and permitting. 

Pick a Location

With funding and budget in hand, it’s time to pick your location. Again, Briskman said, your franchisor will be instrumental in helping to advise you on the area and the type of structure that will work for your fitness franchise.  

In some cases, the franchisor may have a real estate team that can lend a hand. If not, you’ll need to work with a broker to find a location that offers the demographic, size and environment that best matches the franchisor’s suggestions. 

Once you think you’ve found the best spot, it’s time to engage a real estate attorney who can negotiate a lease that will work for your gym or studio.

From there, it’s time to turn that empty space into your new business. One advantage of opening a franchise is your franchisor has a set aesthetic for its brand, which they’ll provide plans for. You and your contractor will need to work together to bring that vision to life in your new space.

It’s crucial that you ensure the contractor sticks with your agreed upon timeline. Every day that you’re not open is costing you. Also, you’ll want to work backward from your build-out date to determine when to start advertising and the best timing for onboarding your staff.

“If your contractor says, ‘I can complete this whole thing in 60 days,’ you have to hold that contractor to that 60-day period. Otherwise, there should be some kind of a penalty involved,” Briskman said.

The stakes are high in those critical first days. Remember, every decision you make will help lay the groundwork for your new studio. 

“You’re operating the business,” he said. “You have to make sure that you have the best possible people who are assisting you. And you have to go out and advertise and provide [your clients] with an environment that they want to come back to.”

The post The 3 Keys to Starting Your Fitness Franchise appeared first on Athletech News.

Boxing’s roots go back centuries, and as a workout, it continues to grow in popularity. But today’s gyms don’t look like the old-school boxing gyms your grandfather once attended. Now, boxing clubs are as sleek and tech-savvy as any boutique fitness studio, and they’re a prime investment opportunity for fitness entrepreneurs and business-savvy individuals. 

The key is finding the boxing franchise that aligns with your investment goals, budget and your desired rate of return. Some studios are focused on regional growth, while others are setting their sights internationally. There are certain franchises that are drilling down on technology, and others that see the value in providing workouts beyond boxing. Deciding which outlook aligns with your business vision is critical in choosing the right franchise to invest in. 

Ready to start doing your research? Athletech News highlights five boxing franchises to watch. 

Rumble

Investment: The franchise fee is $60,000 and the investment range is $370,810 to $566,680.

About: In just seven years, Rumble Boxing has grown to over 90 locations worldwide. Initially, the company focused on growth in New York City, San Francisco, Chicago, and Philadelphia. But, when Rumble was acquired by Xponential Fitness in 2021, it quickly expanded across the U.S., Canada, APAC, Mexico and the Middle East. 

“Born on the streets of New York City, Rumble has cultivated a loyal cult-like following. It’s founded on a lifestyle,” says Shaun Grove, president of Rumble Boxing.

In each Rumble class, there’s a 10-round, 45-minute fight that is evenly divided between two styles of training. “Half of the class is spent exploring the skills and drills of boxing, and the other half is spent on the transformative power of resistance training,” explains Grove. 

The class is led by a trainer who’s part DJ, part coach, and the mega-watt sound system pumps out custom playlists that keep the room moving and upbeat. While boxing may sometimes seem intimidating — Rumble’s goal is to make it both inclusive and positive.

“When we say, ‘10 rounds, 2 fists, zero experience necessary,’ we truly mean it. It’s not uncommon to see first-time boxers next to professional or amateur fighters. No matter your fitness level, we squad up and Rumble together,” says Grove.

When vetting franchisees, Rumble looks for candidates who have experience in team development and leadership, ideally with a background in the corporate world or as an existing business owner. Looking to the future, Rumble is focused on emphasizing the importance of strength training for longevity and presenting more efficient class options.

Learn more here.

RockBox

Investment: The franchise fee to open a RockBox location is $59,900, and they look for franchisee candidates who are equally passionate about business and fitness. 

“We find that owners who put in the work and are excellent at leading and motivating their team can thrive in the boutique fitness industry,” says Roger Martin, co-founder and CEO.

About: Concentrated in the Southeast U.S., RockBox has opened 60 locations since launching in 2017. The program offers a combination workout, bringing together kickboxing, boxing and functional strength training for a more comprehensive approach to fitness.

“The workout experience is wrapped in an amazing member experience set to curated playlists and color adaptive lighting,” explains Martin.

The RockBox approach is meant to be welcoming to all fitness levels. The company prides itself on meeting members where they are on their fitness journey, with a supportive mixture of fitness, nutrition and accountability. The focus is on utilizing technology in the workout, but it’s done in a way that feels inclusive and judgment-free. The goal is to be as un-intimidating as possible. 

RockBox has even made one bold decision to make it more approachable. “To keep members from feeling self-conscious, we have built our studios without mirrors, so the only thing that matters is working hard and having a great time getting in the best shape of their lives,” says Martin.

Learn more here.

Legends Boxing

Investment: The franchise fee is $54,000, and Legends looks for potential franchisees who want to empower others. 

“Remarkably, many of our franchisees initially joined our program as members and were inspired to become part of the company after experiencing its transformative impact firsthand,” says Rob Scott, co-founder and CEO. 

About: Legends Boxing is sanctioned by USA Boxing, which is the national governing body for boxing, and the company upholds its studios and coaches to rigorous certification standards. This includes ensuring sparring members adhere to the USA Boxing rules and are covered by insurance. Scott explains, “With boxing instruction at the forefront, our no-contact classes focus on real USA Boxing techniques. Our curriculum includes a comprehensive 8-punch system, enhancing your boxing prowess compared to the standard 6-punch system.”

The goal is to get you to your desired results, whether that’s skill acquisition, strength or weight loss. The skill-based fitness program is tailored to each individual and their goals and current fitness levels.

“Our core values distinguish us within our industry. We cultivate a welcoming environment where everyone belongs,” says Scott. Legends Boxing also focuses on their community and embracing every person who walks through their doors. There are off-site events to bolster a sense of community, and the company actively works against old-school stereotypes associated with boxing. 

Legends Boxing opened in March 2012, and they now have 16+ locations across Utah, Texas, Michigan and Florida. The highest concentration of locations is in Utah, where there are 10 studios. 

Looking to the future, Legends Boxing is thrilled to introduce EmpowerHer, a workshop tailored for women.

Learn more here.

UBX Boxing + Strength

Investment: UBX looks for franchisees who want to be actively involved in their gyms as owner-operators or active investors. Total startup costs, including the franchise fee of $50,000, come in at $130,147 to $307,797.

About: Founded in 2019, UBX Boxing + Strength was originally launched in Australia by fitness and tech entrepreneur Tim West and four-time world champion boxer Danny Green. It started with the Milton, Queensland location, and UBX now has 111 locations with 510 contracted across seven countries.

“Our growth was powered by strong community support, often seeing members, coaches and their networks becoming franchisees. Following our domestic success, we ventured internationally with locations in New Zealand, Singapore, the UK, Ireland, Japan and the U.S.,” says West. 

UBX made the bold move of eliminating class schedules and offering flexible access times for workouts. These are updated daily and available to follow via on-site coaching screens.

UBX has a signature blend of boxing and strength training, conceptualized by Green. The workout provides a dynamic 12-round circuit, combining bag work, pad work with coaches and functional strength movements.

“This unique model caters to all fitness levels and schedules, from professional athletes to newcomers, ensuring every member can train on their own terms, bolstered by our on-demand app for remote access,” explains West. 

As UBX looks toward an aggressive expansion across North America, Europe and Asia, the company will focus on its unique model, which integrates 1-on-1 boxing pad work within a flexible group training format. West says, “We have our sights set on 1,500 locations in the U.S. and 1,500 in the rest of the world.”

Learn more here.

Mayweather Boxing + Fitness

Investment: The initial franchise fee is $49,500, and complete start-up costs range between $347,000 and $660,000 based on studio/gym size. Mayweather Boxing + Fitness looks for franchise candidates who understand that their team is a sales organization, whether you’re at the front desk or a trainer on the floor. 

About: When Floyd Mayweather announced the concept for Mayweather Boxing + Fitness in 2018, 6000+ inquiries flooded in from individual candidates and large, multi-unit investors. From that, over 100 franchise licenses were awarded, and development began in 2019.  While COVID slowed initial growth, more than 70 locations are currently open, with another 9 U.S. locations to open by the end of 2024 plus another two international locations in Dubai and Uzbek. Currently, the locations are primarily concentrated in California, Texas, Florida and Tennessee. 

The company prides itself on a high-energy, fast-paced and fun group workout experience designed to build strength and confidence. All Mayweather Boxing + Fitness workouts are designed by Mayweather himself with a focus on three values: Goal-Oriented, Variety & Balance, and Teamwork.

“In addition to expert instruction and quality equipment, screens throughout the studio track your performance, and Floyd himself guides you through boxing combinations that are both challenging and fun,” says Chan Gannaway, director of education and programming.

Mayweather Boxing + Fitness has also expanded beyond boxing with MBody, a fitness workout designed to give members an opportunity to build lean muscle and learn how to move properly while working with DBs, MBs, Rowers, and TRX. 

“The more that like-minded individuals are added to the system, the more community is created, the more classes are full, the better the business. The systems and processes that drive marketing, memberships growth, and operational excellence are in place. What is needed are franchisees that will lean in and motivate their teams to create long-term membership value and a deep-rooted community among their patrons,” says Ryan Reeves, chief development officer.  

Learn more here.

The post The Best Boxing Fitness Franchises To Open appeared first on Athletech News.

In the fitness space, there’s always a new trend. Whether it’s novel workouts, new medications or updated technology, each threatens to make existing brands stale, or worse, obsolete.

This is not news to Self Esteem Brands. As its studio and gym franchises continue to grow, the leadership team remains focused on evolving the brands to meet the ever-changing needs of its fitness-conscious consumers. And that’s good news for the many franchisees with Anytime Fitness, Basecamp Fitness, The Bar Method and Waxing the City locations—as well as other entrepreneurs who may have designs on joining the fold.

With more than 5,000 Anytime Fitness locations alone, the company is unique in the fitness franchise space. The sheer number of users across brands translates into a constant flow of customer feedback and insights, which the team uses to evolve their concepts and bring new ideas online. 

Here, Stacy Anderson, global brand president, Anytime Fitness, and Nick Herrild, president – studio division/Waxing the City, share how Self Esteem Brands leverages its size and scale to keep its franchise brands relevant and its franchisees profitable.

Athletech News: The conversation around fitness changes a lot. How does Self Esteem Brands evolve its studio concepts to keep them relevant for your franchisees?

Nick Herrild: It’s absolutely something that we try to keep track of. And we do look at trends in the fitness industry and beyond to understand what’s happening and how can we stay ahead of it, but we adapt along the way. We often talk about how a concept will have a core essence that will be true for a long time, but the brand will evolve over the next three to five years so the brands will look different. 

I’ll use The Bar Method as an example. There’s a lot of focus on strength right now. And I think that at the baseline, The Bar Method does have a strength focus, but we’ve been able to make fitness modalities that really focus on the strength essence of getting into the trends that consumers are looking for. We try to evolve over time to match up with what consumers need without losing the essence of the brand.

ATN: How do you determine what consumers at each of your concepts will want next?

NH: The fact that Anytime Fitness is so big and has been able to guide us in building capabilities has given us more access to resources we wouldn’t have in our small brands. It gives us really two things: not only resourcing but also data and thought around the consumer in order to match up the right concept with what we’re trying to do in the marketplace. 

When we think about SEB [Self Esteem Brands] as a shared service matrix, that means that if you’re working in marketing for any one of our brands, you’re still laddering up to the capability that we’re building at the SEB level of stronger marketing function. That helps us evolve. So, we know what they’re looking for. We understand what the trends are in the marketplace. We think of ways to apply those trends to the work that we’re doing within the brand as well as what we believe is core to each brand.

ATN: For a concept like Basecamp Fitness, which is in growth mode, what’s the difference between a concept that has 10 locations versus one with 100 locations from the franchisees’ perspective?

NH: We’ve got 10-20 locations, when you think about the idea of the work that you need to go into the brand at this point at 22 locations for Basecamp, you’re very involved. You’re in the studio. We’re working through details with the franchisees that are out there. They understand that when a brand is young like that, we’re going to be really good at some things, and we have to figure out some other things.

When you get out to 40 to 60 locations, you’re getting to a place where you’re really thinking ‘Okay, we need to make decisions that help us scale.’ So, we can’t do any one-off things. And then as you move towards 100 locations, everything needs to scale, and you’ve got a lot more of the system and process put into place in a way that’s replicable and then that gives you the chance to unlock. It is very hard in those early stages. But you gradually get to a place where you’re thinking more and more about scale and success metrics.

ATN: Consumers now have a lot of fitness options, including working out at home. How does Self Esteem differentiate its brands from competitors?

Stacy Anderson: The reality is, the community you create in your club environment is probably the stickiest thing you can do in terms of customer loyalty. And the good news is [mobile phones are] probably your most important piece of workout equipment. It’s also the hub of your connection to your clubs, and your connection to your members.

We talk about care coaching and connecting at this company quite a bit, and that is really the secret sauce for creating community that drives business results and loyalty or I always say irrational loyalty. You might always have a cheaper concept come into the market, but the relationships you have are that thing that really binds both your staff and your membership together in a way that creates insulation around your business.

ATN: Where do you see the fitness industry heading over the next five years?

NH: It’s only going to become more important to people to have a full, holistic outlook on their health and wellbeing. That’s probably an advantage or tailwind for us. We’re thinking about different ways to give them more out of their memberships or their experiences in the studio or the club to be able, to find coaching if they need that, to be able to have in Waxing the City more holistic beauty services to think about their healthy skin versus just hair removal.

We’re using technology a lot because regardless of what product we’re offering and how we think about how our brands or our workouts or our services come be life, the technology piece of it is going to become more and more important to our consumers. And so, we’re using technology to reduce friction points for them. Your phone is a great avenue to get people to connect with brands in an efficient way.

ATN: How do fitness and wellness fit together, and how is Self Esteem pursuing opportunities at this convergence?

SA: Everybody’s talking about Wegovy and Ozempic, and clearly all those medications have an impact on people’s jumpstart to their wellness journey. I think personally that that’s a great thing. Whatever you need to get started to be able to move yourself forward is really incredible. The reality is the side effect of some of those drugs is that you’re losing some of your strength and you’re losing some of your muscle, and I think gyms and wellness services are going to play a really big part. That’s just another tailwind that’s going to be behind us as a larger population is going to feel like, “Oh gosh I can do this.”

Beyond just different modalities of inside and outside the club, digital versus physical, we’re thinking about nutrition. We have Stronger U, a nutrition service that is a direct-to-consumer business of ours. We’re working on training programming that’s expanded to different populations. We’re working on recovery programming. We’re even getting into the mental health side of things, knowing that so much of your health has to do with your headspace and where you’re at there. I think as we go forward, you’re going to see a lot more partnerships. We just started one with Apple Fitness+ that allows all of our [Anytime Fitness] members to have access to Apple Fitness+ as part of their membership.

The post How Self Esteem Brands Stays Ahead of Fitness Trends appeared first on Athletech News.

Orangetheory Fitness has experienced robust growth right along with the fitness industry at large. Today, the company has more than 1,500 locations in 24 countries all while staying true to the science-based approach that put it on the map.

Rich Armstrong, chief development officer of Orangetheory Fitness, credits the company’s success to three things. 

“Larger concepts such as Orangetheory transcend local boundaries due to their widespread appeal, expert corporate guidance and passionate franchise operators who share the same vision on a global scale,” he said.

With franchising at the core of its business model, Orangetheory is mindful of its franchise partners’ desire for a strong concept, continuous support and a commitment to staying on the forefront of fitness trends.

Here, Armstrong shares with Athletech News why Orangetheory’s franchisees are so dedicated to the brand, how the company strives to enhance its member experience and what it means to have a “one brand” mindset.

The following conversation has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

Athletech News: What makes Orangetheory Fitness a concept ideal for franchising?

Rich Armstrong: Orangetheory Fitness distinguishes itself in franchising with its unique blend of science-backed workouts, innovative technology and expert coaching. Our franchise offers an accessible entry point, a streamlined operational model and the potential for attractive returns. Our scale provides exceptional support, leverage and brand development opportunities, setting us apart in the fitness industry.

ATN: What makes someone an ideal Orangetheory Fitness franchisee?

RA: We seek franchisees who are passionate about the Orangetheory brand and committed to helping people achieve their fitness goals. Financial stability and real estate expertise are important, but a strong cultural alignment with our brand values is essential.

ATN: What differentiates top-performing franchisees from those on the bottom?

RA: The key differentiator is passion. Franchisees who genuinely engage with their community and embody our brand’s ethos often experience greater success. This authentic, hands-on approach fosters a stronger community and drives the brand forward.

ATN: Why should someone pursue an Orangetheory franchise instead of another fitness concept? 

RA: Someone should pursue Orangetheory for three main reasons: the concept, the support and the model. Our workouts are the pinnacle of a holistic fitness experience, blending endurance, strength and power training, all under the guidance of certified coaches. The support from our headquarters at The Grove covers every aspect of operations, from site selection to marketing and innovation, ensuring our franchisees are always at the forefront of the fitness industry.

ATN: How do you meet the challenge of evolving a concept as times and member needs change?

RA: Our commitment to helping members live a more vibrant life drives us to evolve continuously. We’re more than just responsive to fitness trends; we’re pioneers, setting the bar for boutique fitness excellence. Our approach is visionary, anticipating and shaping the future of fitness before it becomes a member need. With a team of expert fitness and science professionals, we stay ahead of the curve, crafting innovative and effective fitness experiences that define industry standards and exceed member expectations.

Orangetheory remains true to its core concept by focusing on delivering a balanced and scientifically-backed workout experience. Even as trends shift in the fitness world, from weight loss to mental well-being, our approach continues to provide a holistic workout that caters to all aspects of health. This consistency in our mission allows us to adapt while staying true to our foundational principles.

ATN: What can franchisees expect when working with Orangetheory? 

RA: The relationship between our franchisees and corporate is built on mutual trust, clear communication and shared input. We maintain close connections, fostering an environment of authentic listening and collaboration. This ‘one brand’ mindset allows us to stay attuned to the needs and feedback of our members, ensuring we evolve in alignment with their aspirations.

ATN: What do others who are considering building their businesses via a franchise model need to know before they start?

RA: It’s important to recognize that while contractual requirements are essential, the best franchisors view the arrangement as a long-term relationship rather than just a legal agreement. At Orangetheory, we believe that strong support and collaboration lead to satisfied and passionate franchisees, which is key to a successful business endeavor.

ATN: What’s the value of a brand name in the fitness space?

RA: Having a strong brand name carries immense value. It not only aids in marketing and attracting new members but also assures quality and consistency. Orangetheory Fitness is synonymous with a positive fitness experience, a powerful tool for building trust and loyalty among our members.

ATN: How has the fitness industry and fitness franchising changed since 2010?

RA: Since 2010, the fitness industry and franchising landscape have evolved dramatically. There’s been a significant shift towards more personalized, science-based fitness experiences. Orangetheory has been at the forefront of this transformation, offering effective and adaptable workouts to individual needs and fitness abilities. The rise of digital platforms and the increasing importance of community and wellness in fitness have also been key trends shaping the industry.

ATN: What’s your outlook on the fitness market over the next five years?

RA: The next five years in the fitness market are prepared for innovative growth. We anticipate a continued focus on personalized, technology-driven experiences while integrating wellness into everyday life. Orangetheory aims to be at the forefront of this evolution, continually adapting to meet the needs of our members.

The post Orangetheory’s ‘Exceptional’ Take on Building a Global Franchise appeared first on Athletech News.

Self Esteem Brands’ portfolio spans a wide range of fitness and wellness concepts, which include Anytime Fitness, Basecamp Fitness, The Bar Method and Waxing the City. The company attributes its continued success to the hard work of its many franchisees. 

Whether they’re part of a mega brand like the 5,000-plus Anytime Fitness locations or an emerging concept like the 22-studio Basecamp model, Self Esteem Brands is equally committed to providing these entrepreneurs with the tools and support they need to win. 

“We own some of the parts of helping them to go from never owning a business perhaps all the way to being a successful business owner in a successful franchise, regardless of which brand it is,” Nick Herrild, president – studio division, Waxing the City, told Athletech News.

Ultimately though, it’s up to the franchisees to use those resources to build their businesses. 

Here, Herrild and Stacy Anderson, global brand president, Anytime Fitness, share their tips for finding success as a fitness franchisee. 

Know Your ‘Why’

Business ownership can be challenging no matter what industry you enter and fitness is no different. What gets you through the tough times, Anderson said, is a genuine love for the space. 

“Ultimately, it comes back to a values alignment. We talk about people, purpose, profits and play here,” Anderson said. “We care about franchisees that have purpose, that care about what they’re doing. You could go into a QSR and probably make more money than you would with a fitness franchise. We care about people that want to improve the health of the community.”

In her experience, franchisees who align with this mindset are better positioned to achieve their business goals. 

Select the Right Brand

Once you’re sure a career in fitness or wellness is for you, the next step is to find the brand and leadership team that best match your working style and needs. Every franchisor operates differently and each offers a different level and type of support. Anderson advises that prospective franchisees really tune into what makes a specific franchisor tick.

“I think it’s really important to understand their relationship with the franchisor and whether or not they have open dialogue, what that culture is like, if it’s a high-performance culture. You should get a sense of who you’re working with because ultimately, you’re business partners and it’s a symbiotic relationship,” Anderson said. “You should get to know the people and feel confident in who they are. And if you don’t, that should be a warning sign that maybe that isn’t the right fit for you.” 

Look for a team that has your best interests at heart and sees you as more than a revenue generator, she added.

Be Coachable

Look for a brand that has enough experience to provide you with a playbook for success—and be prepared to follow it. 

“It’s on us as a franchisor to help a franchisee build baseline skills and to be able to figure out their financial acumen and to help them become business operators. And so, we look for owners that are willing to be coachable and follow the system, and that’s a broad diverse range of people,” Herrild said. “If we say, ‘Hey, the best way to do this is to add two cups of flour,’ and you add three, you’re making it real hard for yourself, and you don’t need to do that.”

One of the main advantages of opening a fitness franchise is there is a business model already in place. Herrild said it’s counterproductive to ignore it.

Tap Into Your Support System

The franchise business model comes with a built-in community made up of both cohorts and consultants. Herrild and Anderson said franchisees that flourish are often the ones that capitalize on the wisdom of both the franchisor and their fellow business owners. 

“When you have tough times, the great news about being in a franchise is you can look up and talk to your franchise business consultants. We’re here as kind of your support network” Anderson said.

“I also think that franchisees who become part of that franchise community in a positive way, use the resources [and] help new franchisees once they become more experienced, build a culture,” Herrild added.

Don’t forget to lean into that ecosystem when you face a challenge. Chances are it’s not unique to your location and others may have advice that can help.

Be Self Aware

It’s really important to know your strengths and the areas that might present more of a challenge for you personally. This self-awareness will help you select the right brand as well as build a team that speaks to all of the needs of your business. 

“This is a service business and if you don’t happen to be (customer service oriented) as a franchisee, then you hire somebody who is. You can teach just about anyone to run a gym or a HITT franchise, but you can’t teach them to be people people generally.” Anderson said, by way of example.

To achieve success, you’ll either need to bring or hire all of the skills, talents and traits your fitness franchise will need to excel.

The post Self Esteem Brands Shares 5 Keys to Franchise Success  appeared first on Athletech News.

As more people head back to the gym, private equity firms are seeing an opportunity to stake their claim in fast-growing fitness franchise groups in 2024. 

Multiple gym franchises, ranging from no-frills fitness centers to children’s gyms have seen an influx of private equity dollars, and that trend stands to continue — just as confidence in at-home workouts like Peloton continue their downward spiral.

“There has been a sizable infusion of private equity cash over the last couple of years in the franchise space. This has been especially evident in subscription-based businesses such as fitness centers,” said Carolyn Collins, franchise fitness vice president of sales, Mitsubishi HC Capital America. 

But with more investment also comes more competition, and fitness franchises will be up against other similar concepts when they’re aiming for private equity attention. How can they stand out as the right franchise to invest in and what’s inspiring private equity firms to invest in fitness right now? Here are five factors that are leading the wave.

Proof of Concept

“PE firms focused on control leveraged buyout (LBO) are generally looking for at least $3 million of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) achieved through proof of concept across enough locations in different geographies to support management’s forecast,” explained Jon Canarick, managing partner at North Castle Partners. 

Generally, they aren’t looking for a high-risk investment in this space. This is a proven market and, for an investment to be worth their time and funds, it needs to have shown that it can succeed in a crowded marketplace. 

Multiple Revenue Opportunities

Opening new locations generally is not enough to attract serious private equity cash. There have to be other revenue streams available within this opportunity.

“I would like to see a viable path to a minimum of $500 million of system-wide revenue, such that at a 7% royalty there is a minimum of $35 million of recurring royalty revenue supported by other revenue opportunities beyond the initial franchise sale,” said Canarick. He explained that Orangetheory not only has their business model with workout classes, they also make money off of the heart rate monitors they sell. 

“You want to believe a business can generate at least $15mm of EBITDA and be enticing to a consolidator or an exit path,” added Canarick.

Successful Franchisees With Viable Returns

The best way to determine viability to $500 million is to see a proven track record of successful franchisees, with Canarick noting that translates to at least 85% of franchisees as successful. 

“I want to see a strong return on invested capital, which could be making $150,000 per year. This would in theory allow the franchise to hire a new general manager while they open a second location so that they can build a real business,” said Canarick. 

Low average EBITDA models generally won’t tempt private equity investors, and $150,000 is a general minimum to get a meeting. Three hundred thousand dollars is going to be more appealing to most private equity firms, though that is not required. 

What doesn’t count as successful? Canarick noted that spending $250,000 to open a location and making $50-$75,000 a year is not good enough for private equity investment. 

Large Enough Sample Set of Locations

“In terms of locations, we like to see a large enough sample set in enough varied geographies to have confidence that the franchise can continue to grow,” said Mark Grabowski, managing partner at Snapdragon Capital Partners. 

Multiple locations in the same city may not be enough to attract a private equity investor since they can’t be confident this is not a niche product that’s only serving a small geographic region. They want to see proven success across multiple cities, ideally across diverse locations.

Qualitative Validation

Not everything will come down to numbers. Some of the reasons to invest will come from personally believing in the product and hearing that the consumers have also bought in. 

“It all starts with the consumer. Do you have a business that delivers a great value proposition to the consumer? We look for quantitative and qualitative validation of consumer affinity for the brand,” said Grabowski.

He wants to see profitability, of course, but you can’t necessarily measure customer satisfaction and whether they love the experience, franchisee relationships, or a franchisor’s interest in growing — and all of these play a critical role in how successful an investment will be.

“We want to hear what franchisees are saying about the franchisor and their experience with the brand,” added Grabowski.

Bringing It All Together

When all of these factors come together, that’s when a private equity firm will decide it’s worth having a conversation and entertaining the idea of investing in a fitness franchise. And, in 2024, there will be many more of these conversations, but also many more competitors. Those who focus on strengthening each of these areas will rise to the top.

The post What Private Equity Firms Look for in Fitness Franchise Groups appeared first on Athletech News.

Knowing what to expect in your first year as a fitness franchisee can help pave the way for your success.

Your first year operating a fitness franchise can be both rewarding and very challenging, and the amount of success achieved will be a direct result of the amount of time and energy you spend on building a solid foundation from which your fitness franchise will continue to grow and thrive in your local marketplace. You can expect to spend significant time working in and leading two core parts of your business—building an initial membership base and working and troubleshooting various potential operational challenges. 

Build Your Membership Base 

One of the most critical aspects of your first year of operations is building and maintaining your membership base, and one of the best tactics you can leverage to start strong right from day one comes down to how you select and train your team. Knowing that you will not be the one to take care of all of the members in your fitness club, it’s vital to hire and train the best member-focused, fitness-minded individuals you can find; it’s the single most crucial part of how you will deliver excellent service in the vital first year of your operations.

Once you’ve hired and trained the best possible team, it’s crucial to ensure that you actively lead them every day and every shift. Set clear expectations for how you want your members’ experience to come to life and then role-model that behavior for them whenever you are in the club interacting with your members.

“If you want to be the best in the industry, you can expect to spend up to sixty percent of every day communicating with your team. This is where time is best spent as a fitness business owner—investing time, energy, and resources into the team—helping them however you can,” says Jamie Weeks, the 2017 Orangetheory franchisee of the year.

Navigate Operational Challenges

It’s wise to expect your first year of operations to be a little bumpy and have some stressful moments. If you selected a strong fitness franchise, you will have experienced robust onboarding and training from your franchisor before you arrive at your grand opening day. While this training will have helped you build a strong foundation, you cannot expect to become an expert operator during the training period.

On top of the stress you may experience while you get up to speed on your fitness franchise programs, systems, and tools, you’ll also need to build and execute a recruiting and training program to get your employees up to speed. That’s a lot of newness in your first year as a franchisee, and it’s wise to anticipate some friction along the way.

“The first year as a franchisee can often be the toughest as you get up to speed on the franchisor’s business model, build your customer base, and recruit employees,” says the expert team at Franchise Business Review.

While you may have already anticipated that there will be a steep learning curve for both you and your new team during the all-important first year, what you may not have expected are some of the additional operational challenges that you may be unprepared for. 

Typical fitness facilities have an extensive suite of equipment that must be well taken care of to ensure you get the maximum life span from this large portion of your upfront investment. You’ll also need to ensure that any classes offered in your facility are well organized and that instructors do a great job working with and engaging your members.

“As an active operator, I also spend a significant part of each day running the business – from broken air conditioners to managing the class schedule, overseeing marketing campaigns, and engaging with our clients,” says Weeks

The best fitness franchisors in the industry understand the complexity that often comes during the first year in business for their newest franchisees and will have a strong support plan in place to help you adapt to any challenges that come your way. 

Plan for Some Long Hours

While you will surely experience many rewarding moments in your first year as a fitness franchisee, the best advice is to prepare yourself for a bit of adversity. Be ready to invest many hours working alongside your new team to ensure an excellent member experience is delivered right from the start; this will go a long way when it comes time for the first members of your club to renew.

“When it comes to running a successful fitness franchise, there are no shortcuts to the top. Instead, you’ve got to put in the work and be patient,” says Rick May, founder and CEO of Alloy Personal Training Center, with over 2000 locations worldwide.

The post What To Expect in Year 1 as a Fitness Franchisee appeared first on Athletech News.

Knowing what not to look for in a fitness franchise partner is just as important as knowing what to look for.

It can be overwhelming to find the best-in-class fitness franchise that will help you on your way to becoming a successful franchisee in this space. In my experience, potential franchisees should investigate five significant areas for potential red flags before selecting their franchise partner: communication, onboarding, marketing, franchisee management and the growth plan. 

Let’s take a closer look at all five.

Lack of Two-Way Communication Between Franchisees & Franchisors

Effective communication between franchisees and franchisors is critical to a productive and successful partnership of stakeholders. Franchisees’ quarterly, bi-annual, or annual meetings are among the most common tactics to share upcoming business initiatives and results with franchisees. Signs of collaborative franchisee meetings with their franchisor should include multiple opportunities for you to have a two-way dialogue and offer feedback. 

During your due diligence phase, ask current franchisees if these meetings are nothing more than a ‘parade of PowerPoint’ presentations, where the head of each department merely downloads the information they deem relevant to franchisees and nothing more. This type of meeting does little to build a collaborative working culture between franchisees and their franchisor.

A broader business update followed by smaller roundtable sessions is much better suited to ensure meaningful collaboration with the system’s franchisees takes place.

When comparing your potential fitness franchise partners, ensure you have a robust discussion about how and when the franchisor looks to seek feedback and engage directly with their franchisees.

No Formal New Franchisee Training Programs

The best fitness franchisors know that showing new franchisees what right looks like as it relates to the operations of the business model is essential to their brand’s success. A learning approach like this often comes in an immersive on-the-job training experience ranging from several weeks to several months, depending on the brand and the complexity of its operations. The training will either occur in a franchise location that consistently ranks among the chain’s top performers or at a franchisor-owned and operated site.

Regardless of who conducts the training, corporate or franchise employees, getting the absolute most of this experience is vital to your success.

When considering the purchase of a franchise, understanding their process for training new franchisees and if there is an opportunity to bring key staff with you is essential. New franchisee training will set the foundation for understanding how the business model operates and familiarize you with the systems and tools required to run a top-performing location for your members.

A Lack of Focus on Attracting Gen Z

By 2026, Gen Z will be the largest consumer demographic in the US. Ensuring your chosen fitness franchisor has a marketing plan that captures them in their decision-making process about which fitness center to join will be essential to your success as a franchisee. 

A survey by CivicScience reveals that nearly 50% of Gen Z adults exercise several times weekly, which is above average compared to the general population, so ensuring that your franchisor understands this demographic and what they are looking for in a fitness center is critical. The same study also revealed that Gen Z likes a variety of fitness activities, so make sure you choose a franchise partner that can offer a variety of fitness classes and activities to keep your Gen Z members engaged, as it will be vital in ensuring you can capitalize on this growing and soon to be number one, consumer demographic.

No Management of Underperforming Franchisees 

One of the main reasons entrepreneurs invest in buying a franchise fitness business is the well-designed operating system that has proven successful in the minds of members and operators alike.

Investing in a franchise with a well-qualified team of professionals whose sole focus is the programs, systems, and tools required to operate the business is the driving force behind why many entrepreneurs end up in the franchise world.

As a franchise operations professional, I’ve always found it curious why franchisees would invest their money and time into buying a franchise with a proven operating system and then fail to follow the franchisor’s brand standards. If the system has proven successful and evolved into a franchise, not trusting the methods that helped it become successful seems counterintuitive. Yet, I saw it repeatedly across several franchised systems.

One of the most important things you can do as a franchisee is to dedicate as much time as is required to knowing your brand’s standards inside and out. What are the steps to deliver a member experience that will keep them returning repeatedly, helping you build a solid reputation in your community? 

Failing to execute the brand standards will jeopardize your members’ experience, community reputation, and ability to run a profitable business. It will also undermine the brand’s reputation and the investment and capital of every franchisee within the system.

The best franchisors take this commitment to brand standards very seriously. Asking potential franchisors for specific examples of how they have handled underperforming locations and franchisees in the past is an excellent way to get historical examples of how this has been managed.

No Strategic Plan for Growth

In my experience in the franchise world, one of the single greatest detractors of strong franchised unit economics has been when franchisors have no strategic guidance or insights into how their system will grow, as this often leads to situations where new locations open too close to existing franchises, which can lead to significant cannibalization of memberships. 

The leading franchisors in the fitness space understand that the best way to manage the system’s overall health is to ensure each franchisee’s success. When individual franchises have strong unit economics, meaning healthy profitability and strong membership growth year over year, the entire system will thrive. 

Understanding how growth happens within your franchised system is vital to your overall success. How are new locations selected? What tools or processes do they use to assess the viability of that location and its potential cannibalization of memberships on existing units?

Great franchisors have a scientific approach to making these decisions and should openly share that process with franchisees whom the new location may impact.

The post The 5 Red Flags To Look for in a Fitness Franchise appeared first on Athletech News.

Taking on private equity money isn’t always the right move for a fitness business. There are successful businesses that have grown and scaled on their own, without raising money from private equity investors. They’ve opened franchises across the country and even had successful exits. A private equity investor is not a necessity for everyone. 

However, it is a great strategic move for many fitness franchise businesses. The key to making it a successful relationship for you is to know whether or not it’s the right fit before you enter into a partnership and to understand the expectations on both sides. 

What should you expect from a private equity relationship? And what will they expect from you? Athletech News breaks down what you need to know:

Understand the Goal of Taking On Private Equity

Before you do anything else, reflect on why you want to take on a private equity partner. Is it because you need cash to grow and scale quickly? Are you looking for mentorship from someone who’s been through the process and successfully exited? Do you want to tap into resources in terms of expertise, talent, and skill from someone who’s been there before? All of these are excellent reasons. Just make sure you know your specific why.

Think About Your Collaboration Style

“A private equity partner will expect open and honest and regular communication,” Jon Canarick, managing partner at North Castle Partners, told Athletech News.  

How do you ideally want to collaborate with your private equity partner? Do you want someone that’s going to be a warm, inviting sounding board? Do you prefer someone who offers the tough advice? Every partner is going to be different, and if you know that you work in a certain collaborative style, then you can pick the right partner — but you can also decide whether that type of relationship isn’t what you want right now. Maybe moving forward without outside investment is the best decision for you in the moment.

Discuss Their Involvement With Your Team & Hiring Decisions

A private equity partner is going to want to make sure you have the most talented, knowledgeable people on your team. Set expectations early about how that will impact hiring and the team they currently have.

“Human capital is also a major component PE firms are looking at. Skilled workers and experienced leaders are invaluable as they are seen as the driving force behind the success of the company,” explained Carolyn Collins, franchise fitness vice president of sales, Mitsubishi HC Capital America.

Communicate About the Type of Mentorship Available

“You should expect a good partner. Someone who will work with you through your problems and help guide organizational growth. This is someone you want to have a drink or coffee with,” Canarick said.

Set these expectations early. If you’re going to take on a private equity partner, know what that mentorship relationship will look like. What do you want to get out of it? Is that a main goal of pursuing private equity investment for you?

Determine Whether You Would Benefit From the Support

PE might be the right decision if you’re looking to tap into expertise that goes beyond your skill set. Private equity could open doors for you in terms of franchise knowledge, marketing skills, networking, and more. But you also have to be open to that advice. 

“A partner will look for open-mindedness to change and adapt. If they speak from experience, the entrepreneur should recognize they don’t know what they don’t know while, of course, upholding the values that made their business successful in the first place,” explained Canarick.

Reflect on Your Desired Exit Strategy

If you don’t have a desired exit strategy right now, then private equity investment might not be the right answer. They will want to see a return on their investment. If you plan on staying in this business without selling or going public, then there’s no incentive for them to put up their capital. Discuss this early so no one is put in a situation where the expectations don’t meet reality, and one party ends up frustrated or feeling as if they were not given a clear vision of the future.

The Reality of Private Equity Investment

Taking on a private equity partner not only means they’re investing in you, you’re investing in them. You’re entering a true partnership, where you’re able to tap into the wealth of knowledge, resources, network, and expertise that they have to offer, and they believe investing their capital with you is going to be worth the risk. It can be an incredible opportunity on both sides. But you both have to be aligned, and these discussion topics can help you find that alignment.

The post Is Private Equity Right for Your Fitness Business? appeared first on Athletech News.