Own the Future of Fitness with Outlaw FitCamp by Jesse James

Let’s be real—being fit isn’t just about looking good for Instagram. I’m 17, and working out is a huge part of my life. Whether I’m lifting weights, going on a long run, or swimming laps at my local pool, fitness gives me something nothing else can: clarity, strength, and confidence. Fitness isn’t a trend for me. It’s how I manage stress, push my limits, and feel like the best version of myself. And I’m not alone. A lot of people my age—and way older—are realizing how important it is to move, sweat, and take care of your body. That’s why there are so many franchise gyms and wellness studios popping up everywhere. It’s not just about one type of workout—it’s about giving people access to whatever fitness means for them. Why I Work Out I started lifting weights when I was 14. At first, I just wanted to get stronger for sports. But soon I realized that the gym was more than just a place to build muscle. It was where I could zone out, push through tough sets, and see real progress every week. Jogging helps me clear my head. It’s like therapy with a soundtrack. And swimming? That’s where I feel the most free. There’s something powerful about being in the water, using every part of your body, and coming out exhausted but energized. For me, fitness is about discipline . It’s about showing up—even when I don’t feel like it—and doing the work. That mindset has helped me in school, in sports, and even in friendships. You build grit. And grit gets you places. Why Fitness Matters (for Everyone) It doesn’t matter if you’re 17 or 70—your body needs movement. Staying active helps you: Stay mentally sharp (I swear I think better after a hard workout) Fight off stress and anxiety Keep your heart and lungs strong Sleep better Feel better in your own skin Fitness doesn’t have to mean lifting heavy weights or running marathons. For some people, it’s yoga or stretching. For others, it’s dancing, walking, or doing Pilates. The point is to move in a way that feels good and keeps your body working the way it’s supposed to. Why So Many Fitness Franchises? If you’ve ever driven through a shopping plaza, you’ve probably seen a crazy amount of gyms: Orangetheory, Planet Fitness, F45, Burn Boot Camp, StretchLab, Pure Barre… the list goes on. I’ve had the opportunity to meet many of the entrepreneurs who started fitness franchises and they are always focused on their clients health and well being. But……you might ask, why are there so many? Simple: everyone has different goals. And the fitness world has evolved to meet those needs. Some people want intense group workouts. Others want quiet one-on-one personal training. Some need recovery and stretching. Others want 24/7 gym access with tons of equipment. Franchises allow people to pick their fitness journey and stick with it. They also help owners create businesses that are meaningful—because let’s face it, helping people get healthy is a great reason to wake up every day. What’s Cool About Fitness Right Now Technology is making fitness smarter. A lot of studios now use heart rate monitors or fitness trackers during class. You get real-time feedback on how hard you’re working and how you’re improving. There are also franchises focused on wellness and recovery, like cryotherapy, IV hydration, and even mental fitness. That’s how deep this thing goes—it’s not just physical anymore. It’s whole-body health. Fitness is personal. It’s different for everyone. But the reasons to do it are universal: to feel stronger, think clearer, and live longer. Whether you're 17 and training for sports like me, or 47 trying to stay in shape for your kids, there’s something out there for you. And with so many franchise options available, there’s no excuse not to find your thing. Lift. Run. Swim. Stretch. Dance. Recover. Just move. Your body will thank you. So will your future self.

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The modern fitness movement has created ripple effects far beyond gym memberships. One notable beneficiary has been the skincare industry, which has experienced substantial growth as fitness enthusiasts discover new needs for their workout-stressed skin. The Workout-to-Skincare Pipeline Exercise can cause various skin issues like excessive sweating, increased oil production and clogged pores. "Equipment such as helmets, heavy clothing and athletic gear can cause friction against the skin leading to irritation and acne breakouts in susceptible individuals," explains Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital. In Fort Myers, Florida dermani MEDSPA® franchise owner, Michael Stark, said he has definitely seen a rise in people seeking post- and pre-workout care. "The fitness craze is probably why we are seeing more men than ever before," Stark added. The Social Media Multiplier Fitness influencers also have become powerful skincare advocates as they share complete fitness-to-wellness regimens-- including medispa visits. The visual nature of platforms like Instagram and TikTok has accelerated this trend, with hashtags like #WorkoutSkincare generating millions of views. This visibility has normalized specialized skincare routines for active people and introduced these services to demographics that traditional skincare marketing might miss. Athleisure Effect The "athleisure" fashion trend has extended into what industry insiders now call "athleisure beauty" – products designed to look good during workouts while providing skincare benefits. Tinted sunscreens, hydrating face mists, and lightweight moisturizers have become gym bag essentials. According to Sarah Jindal, Associate Director of Global Beauty Innovation at Mintel: "We're seeing a rise in products designed specifically for use during and after workouts. The athleisure trend has expanded into beauty, with consumers seeking skincare formulations that address workout-specific concerns." The MediSpa Revolution The fitness-skincare connection has fueled significant growth in the medical spa industry. One significant development has been the introduction of IV drip therapies specifically formulated for fitness enthusiasts, delivering hydration, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids directly into the bloodstream. Popular treatments for fitness enthusiasts at Stark’s dermani MEDSPA® location in Florida now include: Vital Flow Awakening – advanced hydration treatment designed to help recover from marathon workouts, heat exhaustion and fatigue. Vital Flow Fit – for weekend warriors, gym enthusiasts and marathoners who need a boost of energy, hydration and muscle recovery. Vital Flow Complete – an all-in-one treatment that supplies the body with a proprietary combination of vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, zinc, magnesium, copper, glutathione, B12, and B5 to optimize your body's natural healing response to reduce chronic fatigue and pain, improve immunity, support energy production and maintain skin health. Vitamin C – 15,000mg or 25,000mg dose to stimulate the production and function of white blood cells while enhancing the body's immune system to fight infections—often a concern in crowded gyms and locker rooms. In addition to IV Therapies, Stark's dermani MEDSPA® offers individual vitamin injections of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3 or Alpha Lipoic Acid which are popular among fitness enthusiasts because they are associated with potential benefits many are seeking. Such as, Vitamin B12, linked with energy production to reduce fatigue. Vitamin D3 supports muscle strength and bone health which may improve exercise capacity. Alpha lipoic acid, an antioxidant, may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially accelerating recovery from intense exercise. Looking Ahead: The Integration Continues "As we eagerly step into the next stage of beauty evolution with the expansion of these highly requested services, our main focus remains the same – creating an affordable space with effective restorative therapies," said Stark, reflecting the mission of the award-winning franchise that has been providing premier skincare services since 2013. "By expanding our service portfolio, we can provide our clients with the ability to enhance athletic performance, combat inflammation and accelerate the body's natural recovery time." The Fort Myers location was granted permission by the franchisor dermani MEDSPA® to expand its offerings in keeping with the company’s mission as a leading beauty brand renowned for its expertise in evidence-based aesthetic age management treatments. This initiative introduced a suite of six different therapy IV drips and three medical-grade vitamin injections to boost cellular production, reduce inflammation, provide illness recovery support and improve energy. As these athleisure sectors continue their mutually beneficial relationship, franchisees can expect more innovative solutions that support both their fitness-centric clientele and their growth aspirations. About the Author Robyn Deering is a franchise consultant supporting both franchisees and franchisors throughout Florida's Gulf coast region. Proud member of The Veterans Franchise Council. Contact Robyn at Robyn@TheFranchiseConsultingCompany.com .

Visit Peak 360 Fitness → For Dominic Novak, founder of Peak 360 Fitness in Greenwich, Connecticut, the journey into fitness was born from a personal setback that ultimately sparked a lifelong passion. “I didn’t make the basketball team my freshman year at Pace College,” he recalls. “It was the first time I hadn't made a team in my life, and I was dejected. But I had been training since I was 14, so I wasn’t new to working out. I channeled that energy into building my body — and the results inspired me to help others do the same.” That moment of disappointment became a catalyst, not just for physical transformation, but for an impressive career that spans nearly four decades and has influenced countless lives through customized, holistic fitness training. A Foundation Built on Experience Dominic’s career began in 1987 after graduating from Springfield College. He started by training clients in gyms and private homes before opening his own 10,000-square-foot facility, Peak Physique, in 1993. His mission was simple: provide a personalized, distraction-free training experience that placed relationships at the heart of fitness. “As I built my private training center, I gradually added more services—nutrition counseling, massage therapy, Pilates, physical therapy, and stretching,” Dominic says. “Everything we offer is designed to exceed expectations. At the core of what we do is the belief that we’re in the people business. Relationships with our clients are everything.” The Evolution to Peak 360 In 2016, Dominic and his wife Dana opened the doors to Peak 360 Greenwich , a modern, luxurious fitness and wellness studio that elevates the Peak Physique legacy. Designed as a true one-stop destination for total health and well-being, the facility offers a wide range of services including: Personal Training Sports-Specific Conditioning Core Stabilization Strength and Agility Training Boot Camps Pilates and Yoga Kickboxing and Martial Arts Massage Therapy Nutrition Counseling EMS (Electrical Muscle Stimulation) Integrated Physical Therapy Every client receives a complimentary consultation and assessment, where posture, balance, strength, and movement are evaluated. From there, a completely personalized program is created, ensuring that clients don’t need to look elsewhere to meet their goals. The "Perfect Posture" Difference One of Peak 360’s most innovative offerings is the AL|GN™ Perfect Posture Program , a proprietary method designed by Dominic himself. “This program teaches clients to create pliability in their muscles by making space in them,” he explains. “It helps those who need realignment, and also those who need to decompress, breathe, and reduce stress.” Dominic also incorporates his two books, H.E.A.L. and EMPOWER 30 , into his life coaching sessions, helping clients align spirit, mind, and body for a truly holistic experience. A Vision Rooted in Purpose After nearly 38 years in the fitness industry, Dominic’s passion hasn’t waned. In fact, many of his clients have been with him for over 20 years—a testament to the trust he’s built and the results he delivers. “As for the future, Dana and I are prayerfully considering our next steps,” he shares. “I’m blessed to work with an amazing team every day, and our mission remains to serve our clients with heart and expertise.” A Message from Dominic and Dana Novak Welcome to Peak 360 Greenwich. Since opening in 2016, we’ve created a space that reflects the very best of what we’ve learned since starting Peak Physique back in 1992. From personal training and boot camps to massage therapy and nutrition programs, everything we do is customized for you—your body, your age, and your goals. I have been spending a lot of time in prayer for next steps for Peak 360 and Dana and me. About the Author Rick Morgin is a Consultant with The Franchise Consulting Company and alumnus of Santa Clara University. He assists clients with the educational process of researching and selecting available franchise businesses that best suit desired lifestyles and financial goals. Contact Rick at rick@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

​​The fitness industry has witnessed a massive shift—a passing of the torch, if you will, from the enormous, intimidating big-box gyms to the more intimate, community-driven boutique fit camps and HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) gyms. The new wave of fitness is here, and it’s more accessible, personal, and challenging than ever before. Brands like ISI Elite Training , Alloy Personal Training , and Outlaw Fit Camp are leading the charge, offering specialized workouts that cater to everyone—from the seasoned athlete to the weekend warrior, and even the kids. Gone are the days of walking into a cavernous gym filled with rows of intimidating machines. We’re seeing a rise in boutique fitness brands that focus on community, tailored workouts, and an experience that feels more like a family than a fitness center. These gyms are designed for all ages, genders, and skill levels , and they’re pushing the limits of traditional fitness. A New Era in Fitness: Small, Specialized, and Personal At the heart of this shift is a focus on personalized, impactful training. ISI Elite Training brings a blend of strength and cardio to its classes, making every participant feel empowered regardless of their fitness level. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned gym-goer, ISI’s trainers ensure you’re supported every step of the way. Similarly, Alloy Personal Training combines group and one-on-one training, offering flexibility for those looking to balance personal goals with group dynamics. Their emphasis on functional fitness helps individuals build strength and endurance for everyday life, not just aesthetics. But one of the standout features of this boutique fitness revolution is Outlaw Fit Camp , a brand that’s all about community, intensity, and most importantly, family health . Outlaw takes a different approach by offering high-intensity workouts designed to challenge even the most seasoned athletes—while also making it a space where families work together and push themselves to new limits. Outlaw Fit Camp: Fitness for the Whole Family What sets Outlaw Fit Camp apart is its commitment to creating a challenging fitness environment while involving the entire family. Outlaw’s workouts are known for being harder and more intense than those offered at other boutique gyms. But the unique twist is that Outlaw invites families to participate in these challenging workouts together , ensuring that fitness becomes a family affair. Outlaw offers free memberships for kids , promoting the importance of healthy habits from a young age, and emphasizes husband and wife specials to make sure that couples can work together toward their fitness goals. The focus isn’t just on getting fit—it’s about creating mental and physical resilience through challenging, focused workouts that everyone in the family can share. “ Fitness is about more than just strength—it’s about mental fortitude, family bonding, and pushing through challenges together, ” says an Outlaw Fit Camp franchisee. “We’re not just creating athletes—we’re building a community where families are involved in intense, focused workouts that bring them closer and make them stronger.” By encouraging families to face tough workouts as a unit, Outlaw Fit Camp is shifting the narrative from gyms as individual spaces to a family-driven fitness experience , where the challenges are met together, with a focus on strength, endurance, and discipline. Health Is Always in Demand: A Timeless Necessity Health—both physical and mental—will always be in demand. With the stresses of modern life, people are increasingly turning to fitness to escape, rejuvenate, and improve their well-being. The boutique fitness industry capitalizes on this by creating environments that are supportive, friendly, and adaptable to various needs. The emphasis on mental health in fitness is becoming just as important as physical well-being, and these gyms are meeting that need head-on. The personalization and support offered in small boutique settings like ISI Elite , Alloy , and Outlaw make these environments ideal for people who may be intimidated by large gyms but still want to achieve their fitness goals in a supportive atmosphere. The Future of Fitness: Stronger, Together The shift from big-box gyms to boutique fitness brands is more than just a trend—it’s a movement. A movement toward community, family health, and personalized care that is transforming the fitness space. These gyms are more than just places to work out; they are places to grow, connect, and transform. As the demand for personalized fitness experiences continues to rise, the future of fitness looks brighter than ever. From the family-focused intensity at Outlaw to the functional, goal-oriented fitness at ISI Elite and Alloy, boutique gyms are offering what today’s fitness enthusiasts are looking for: results, community, and a sense of belonging. So, if you’re looking to invest in the future of fitness, or simply want to experience a transformation that goes beyond the gym floor, these boutique fitness brands are where the torch has been passed. And trust us—you won’t want to miss it. About the Author Lane Klastow is a seasoned franchise consultant, who leverages over 15 years of expertise to help entrepreneurs navigate the world of franchising and build successful businesses. With a deep understanding of both the franchise industry and business development, Lane is dedicated to connecting clients with the best opportunities, empowering them to take control of their financial future and achieve long-term success. Contact Lane at lane@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Laura Clark is launching her revolutionary barre gym into its new era as a franchise in 2025, bringing a fresh and dynamic approach to boutique fitness. Orlando Weekly’s Best Barre Studio, Breaking Barre, is is a movement designed to redefine the workout experience by combining variety, music, community, and opportunity. It is also the result of years of planning and hard work by an incredibly dedicated entrepreneur. Laura’s Vision and Journey For years, Laura dreamed of creating a barre gym that felt more engaging, energetic, and welcoming. As a former project manager seeking a more creative and fulfilling career, she spent a decade researching and refining what the perfect barre experience could be. "I took every barre class I could find," Laura recalls. "It was like conducting research. I studied what I loved, what worked, and what was missing." With the support of her husband, Nic, she left her job and started Breaking Barre in January 2020. Two months later, gyms were required to close. In response, Laura and her trainers overcame many technical challenges and became one of the first boutique gyms to offer online workouts, which kept all of her trainers employed during the shutdown. Revolutionizing the Barre Gym Breaking Barre offers a fresh take on the traditional barre workout. It moves beyond repetition and rigidity by focusing on variety, energy, and a sense of belonging. Breaking Barre's classes incorporate a mix of barre, yoga, strength, bounce, and balance exercises. Every routine is choreographed to popular music, using the energy of sound to enhance motivation and enjoyment. More than just a gym, Breaking Barre fosters real relationships by creating an environment where women connect through themed classes, social events, and group challenges that encourage consistency and fun. "Music can motivate and distract from the burn," Laura says. "It makes workouts more enjoyable and keeps members coming back. We did a Greatest Showman class with music from the movie and made it fun with the top hats and everything that ties it in. We’ve done Friends trivia nights, Marvel-themed workouts, and even post-class movie hangouts. It’s about more than just exercise. It’s about forming real friendships and feeling like you belong." At Breaking Barre, motivation extends beyond the workout itself. Members participate in challenges and reward-based programs to keep engagement high. Whether it’s earning recognition for consistent attendance, achieving personal fitness milestones, or joining community-driven challenges, there is always something to strive for. Rewards range from small incentives like personalized shoutouts to invitations to exclusive social gatherings or selecting the next major workout theme. Themed workout nights often conclude with movie screenings, game nights, or casual meetups, reinforcing the community-driven experience that sets Breaking Barre apart. A Community for Women, Including Mothers Laura designed Breaking Barre to help women reclaim time for fitness and build strong relationships. The program offers childcare in their Bambino Bungalow, making it easier for women, especially mothers, to prioritize working out and engaging with one another. "Especially when you have young kids, it can be so hard to just get out and do something for yourself," Laura explains. "I really wanted to make these workouts available to moms who felt like they were chained to their house. You come in, we’ll watch your kids, and you can get your workout and maintain your sanity." Recognized Success and Community Impact Breaking Barre’s dedication to excellence and community support has not gone unnoticed. The studio has received multiple awards, including Best Barre Studio in Orlando and Best Health Club in Oviedo, and was a recipient of the prestigious Red Backpack grant from Spanx founder Sara Blakely, which provided financial support to women-owned small businesses. Additionally, Laura submitted an essay on her small businesses community impact and won a $10,000 grant from T-Mobile, funding a year’s worth of radio advertising and further growing the brand. Breaking Barre’s Future: A Franchise for Women Entrepreneurs With its proven success and strong community appeal, Breaking Barre is ready to expand nationwide. Laura is passionate about bringing this opportunity to women who want to own their own businesses and build something impactful. "I'm excited to encourage entrepreneurs, and I want to lead more women in doing what I have done," she says. "Owning a business gives you control, freedom, and a way to change lives, including your own." Breaking Barre is more than a fitness studio. It is a platform for empowerment, connection, and transformation. As Laura Clark brings her vision to new locations, she is paving the way for women to step into business ownership and build the future they dream of, one barre at a time. www.breaking-barre.com About the Author Kyle Heck is a franchise consultant in Winter Garden, FL. He brings a background of process engineering to franchising helping small businesses optimize business models to generate great franchises. Contact Kyle at Kyle@TheFranchiseConsultingCompany.com .

WHAT is a Fitness Franchise? A fitness franchise is a business model where an individual or entity buys the rights to operate a gym, wellness center, or boutique studio under an established brand. This includes traditional gyms, personal training studios, boutique fitness (like yoga, pilates, or HIIT), recovery centers, mobile fitness units, and tech-powered fitness solutions. The franchisee benefits from the franchisor’s proven system, brand recognition, marketing support, and operational playbook—while offering a service aligned with today’s growing focus on health, wellness, and performance. Core Segments in Fitness Franchising: Traditional Gyms: 24/7 access models (Anytime Fitness, Snap Fitness) Boutique Studios: Yoga, Pilates, Barre, Dance, Spin (Club Pilates, F45) High-Intensity Training: HIIT, CrossFit-style models (Orangetheory, Burn Boot Camp) Personal Training / Coaching: One-on-one or small group formats Recovery and Wellness: Cryotherapy, IV Therapy, Infrared Saunas, Stretch Studios Women-Focused Fitness: Curves, HOTWORX Kids & Teens Fitness: My Gym, youth sports training Mobile / On-Demand Fitness: Personal trainers or workouts brought to homes Tech-Enabled Fitness: Virtual coaching, AI-based training, smart equipment WHY the Fitness Franchise Boom? 1. Health is the New Wealth Fitness is no longer a luxury; it has become a lifestyle priority. The pandemic accelerated this shift, pushing consumers to value health, immunity, and holistic wellness. 2. Market Size & Opportunity According to IBISWorld, the U.S. fitness industry exceeded $40 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at 8% CAGR over the next five years. Boutique fitness, recovery services, and tech-integrated models are fueling this expansion. 3. Franchise Resilience Fitness franchises showed resilience through economic disruptions. Subscription-based models, community-oriented culture, and lean operations have helped brands recover rapidly and grow stronger post-pandemic. 4. Tech Transformation: AI, AR, and Automation AI-Powered Personalization: Tailored workouts, predictive analytics, churn reduction Augmented Reality (AR): Immersive, gamified workouts for engagement Smart Equipment: Wearable integration, real-time feedback, and tracking CRM Automation: Streamlined client communication and retention HOW to Invest, Operate & Scale a Fitness Franchise 1. Choose Your Niche Wisely Evaluate local demographics, competition, and personal passion. Focus on scalable and high-demand segments such as recovery services, boutique HIIT, or youth fitness. 2. Operational Excellence is Key Apply Lean principles: Automate processes Engage members with challenges and events Monitor key KPIs: retention rate, LTV, CAC, member visits 3. Leverage Tech for Competitive Edge AI coaching for behavior prediction AR-enhanced mirror workouts or VR fitness classes Smart CRM to improve marketing ROI 4. Franchisor Support is Essential Look for: Strong onboarding and continued training Marketing assets and national branding Innovation adoption (AI, hybrid models) Trends & Forecast: Where Fitness Franchising is Heading Recovery & Regeneration: Infrared sauna, cryo, IV therapy Youth & Family Fitness: Tailored programs for younger demographics Green Gyms: Eco-conscious and sustainable fitness spaces Holistic Wellness: Mental + physical fusion concepts Hybrid Delivery: Virtual + in-person programming B2B Wellness: Corporate wellness partnerships Fitness franchises are more than a trend—they are purpose-driven business models capitalizing on the booming wellness economy. With smart investment, strong franchisor alignment, and tech-forward operations, franchisees can build scalable, life-transforming ventures. About the Author John Ngo, DBA - Founder of J&P Consulting & Education Global. Contact John at jngo@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

From Jazzercise to AI: The Evolution of Franchised Fitness from 1975 to 2025 Over the past five decades, the franchised fitness industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. From its humble beginnings in the mid-1970s to the technologically advanced and wellness-focused landscape of 2025, the industry reflects broader societal shifts in health consciousness, technological innovation, and consumer preferences.​ The 1970s: The Dawn of Franchised Fitness In 1975, the concept of franchised fitness was still in its infancy. One of the earliest pioneers was Jazzercise, founded in 1969 by Judi Sheppard Missett. Combining dance, aerobics, and strength training set to music, Jazzercise offered a fun and accessible workout, quickly gaining popularity across the United States. Another significant development was the establishment of Powerhouse Gym in 1974 by brothers William and Norman Dabish in Michigan. Initially a local gym catering to professional athletes, it began licensing its brand in 1984, paving the way for future fitness franchises.​ During this era, fitness centers were primarily focused on bodybuilding and aerobic classes. The industry lacked the technological advancements and diversified offerings seen today.​ 2025: A Technologically Advanced and Holistic Approach Fast forward to 2025, the franchised fitness industry has evolved into a multifaceted ecosystem that integrates technology, personalization, and holistic wellness.​ Technological Integration Modern fitness franchises leverage advanced technologies to enhance user experience:​ Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning : These technologies analyze individual health data to create personalized workout plans, adapting in real-time to user progress.​ Wearable Technology : Devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers provide real-time metrics, allowing for more informed training decisions.​ Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) : Immersive experiences, such as virtual cycling through scenic landscapes, are becoming standard offerings in many gyms.​ Hybrid Membership Models The pandemic accelerated the adoption of hybrid fitness models, combining in-person and virtual classes. Members now expect seamless integration between physical gyms and digital platforms, with features like live-streamed classes and on-demand workout libraries.​ Holistic Wellness Focus Modern fitness franchises recognize the importance of mental health and recovery in overall wellness:​ Recovery Services : Offerings such as cryotherapy, massage therapy, and infrared saunas are becoming commonplace.​ Mental Health Support : Workshops on mindfulness, meditation, and nutrition counseling address the growing demand for mental well-being resources. ​ Sustainability and Eco-Consciousness Environmental sustainability is a priority for many fitness franchises:​ Green Infrastructure : Gyms are investing in renewable energy sources and eco-friendly building materials.​ Waste Reduction : Initiatives include reducing single-use plastics and promoting recycling programs.​ Decade-by-Decade: The Evolution of the U.S. Franchise Fitness Industry 1970s: Jogging & Health Awareness Cultural shift : Bill Bowerman’s “Jogging” book (1966) and Jim Fixx’s “Complete Book of Running” (1977) helped launch a jogging boom . Fitness becomes lifestyle : People began exercising for health , not just performance. Gyms : Still mostly independent . Aerobics, racquetball, and universal gyms started appearing. Franchise scene : Still minimal. Only a couple of brands had scaled (e.g., Jack LaLanne’s gyms). Health clubs were regionally known, rarely nationally. 1980s: Aerobics & Franchise Boom Begins Culture : Jane Fonda’s workout videos explode; the aerobics craze is born. Tech : Rise of VHS helps at-home workouts thrive. Gyms : Shift toward big-box gyms with full amenities. Racquetball, saunas, swimming pools became common. Franchise Growth : Gold’s Gym begins franchising (1980) Bally Total Fitness expands nationally, often buying up other brands. Jazzercise (founded 1969) becomes a massive franchise in the 80s. Weight Watchers expands into wellness and fitness. Fitness becomes mainstream for suburban middle-class adults. 1990s: Commercialization & Women’s Fitness Cultural focus : Shift toward weight loss, toning, and convenience . Gyms : More chains: 24 Hour Fitness , Crunch , LA Fitness Specialized clubs for women rise: Curves (1992) becomes a global franchise. Franchise Expansion : Fitness franchises become more standardized and franchising models mature. Curves becomes one of the fastest-growing franchises in history at its peak. 2000s: Convenience & Personalization Technology : iPods, early wearables, online workouts. Trends : 24/7 access gyms become popular: Snap Fitness (2003) , Anytime Fitness (2002) . Emphasis on short, intense workouts : HIIT begins gaining ground. Franchise Scene : Huge boom in affordable, no-frills gyms . Anytime Fitness and Snap Fitness dominate the franchising space. Brand Strategy : Fitness becomes less intimidating and more accessible. 2010s: Boutique & High-Tech Boom Trends : Rise of boutique fitness studios : smaller, specialized, community-driven. Categories explode: spin (SoulCycle) , rowing (Row House) , boxing (Rumble) , HIIT (F45) , yoga (CorePower) . Luxury fitness and "Instagrammable" workouts. Franchise Growth : Orangetheory Fitness (founded 2010) becomes one of the fastest-growing fitness franchises ever. F45 , Club Pilates , Pure Barre , CycleBar — all part of the Xponential Fitness empire. Tech : Peloton, Apple Watch, online coaching, fitness apps — fitness goes digital.  2020s (So Far): Hybrid, Virtual, & Wellness Integration COVID-19 Impact : Gym closures fuel a huge shift to virtual fitness . At-home equipment (Peloton, Tonal, Mirror) explodes. Franchises pivot to online + in-person (“hybrid” models). Franchise Resilience : Brands like Orangetheory and Anytime Fitness adapt well due to strong member communities and digital options. Trends : Focus on recovery, mental health , holistic wellness. Rise of wellness franchises : cryotherapy, IV therapy, float spas, etc. Wearables and data-driven training. The franchised fitness industry has transformed from simple aerobics classes and bodybuilding gyms into technologically advanced, holistic wellness centers. This evolution reflects broader societal changes, including increased health consciousness, technological advancements, and a focus on sustainability. As we look to the future, the industry is poised to continue innovating, offering personalized and comprehensive wellness solutions to meet the diverse needs of its members. There is truly a fitness option for any type of health-conscious consumer, and for every entrepreneur who wants to own a fitness franchise! About the Author Joe Fox has spent his professional career as a Senior Executive owning, operating, buying, and selling multi-site businesses. He believes entrepreneurship is a great vehicle to financial independence and career satisfaction. Joe is based in Nashville, TN and has helped startup businesses all over the US & Canada and has won numerous prestigious awards throughout his career. Contact Joe at joefox@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Just as many successful entrepreneurs launch franchise ventures or diversify their investment portfolios in their 50s, this same decade can mark the beginning of an extraordinary fitness transformation. Consider this: Ray Kroc was in his 50s when he transformed McDonald's into a global empire, and Colonel Harland Sanders franchised Kentucky Fried Chicken at 62. Age wasn't a barrier for their business success - and it shouldn't be for your health journey either. The parallel between business reinvention and physical transformation is striking. Both require strategic planning, consistent effort, and the wisdom to adapt. As someone who guides entrepreneurs through franchise development and business transitions, I've witnessed countless individuals reinvent their professional lives in midlife. The same principles apply to fitness: with the right approach, your 50s can become the launchpad for your strongest, healthiest self. Why Your 50s Are the Perfect Time to Begin The scientific case for fitness after 50 grows stronger each year. Researchers at Harvard Medical School found that adults who begin regular exercise in their 50s can achieve comparable cardiovascular benefits to those who've been active since youth. This isn't about recapturing youth - it's about claiming the vitality needed to enjoy your most productive years. Consider the story of Richard, a 53-year-old accountant who took up cycling after decades at a desk. Within a year, he'd not only lost 25 pounds but found himself outpacing colleagues half his age during their annual charity ride. Or Maria, who at 55 discovered strength training and reversed her osteopenia diagnosis. These aren't exceptional cases - they're examples of what's possible when we apply the same determination we use in business to our physical wellbeing. Building Your Fitness Business Plan Much like launching a successful franchise, developing a sustainable fitness routine requires smart planning. The most effective approach combines three key elements: 1. Strength as Your Foundation Just as successful franchises build on proven systems, your body needs structural strength. Resistance training becomes increasingly vital after 50, counteracting the natural muscle loss that begins in our 30s. Start with basic bodyweight movements - chair squats, wall push-ups, and resistance band exercises. These are the "startup costs" of your fitness venture. 2. Cardiovascular Investments Think of cardio as your cash flow - the steady, ongoing work that keeps everything functioning smoothly. Low-impact options like swimming, elliptical training, or brisk walking provide heart health benefits without excessive joint stress. Many successful 50+ exercisers find that alternating between different cardio methods keeps the routine fresh and sustainable. 3. Flexibility and Mobility These are the equivalent of business continuity planning - often overlooked until they're urgently needed. Yoga, tai chi, or simple daily stretching can maintain the range of motion that makes all other activities possible. A 10-minute morning mobility routine can pay dividends for decades. Franchising Your Fitness: Success Stories The fitness industry itself offers inspiring examples of midlife transformation. Mark Mastrov founded 24 Hour Fitness at 26, but it was in his 50s that he launched the innovative UFC Gym concept. Similarly, the founders of Orangetheory Fitness were industry veterans when they created their heart-rate based training system. For those considering fitness franchising as both a business and personal health opportunity, several established concepts cater specifically to the 50+ demographic: - SilverSneakers: The premier fitness program designed exclusively for older adults, now available through many Medicare plans - The Exercise Coach: Utilizing smart technology for efficient, science-based workouts ideal for time-conscious professionals - StretchLab: Addressing the crucial flexibility component through assisted stretching sessions - Burn Boot Camp: While not age-specific, their scalable programming accommodates all fitness levels Just as the most successful franchise owners understand that business growth requires adaptation, your fitness journey will evolve over time. The strength exercises that challenge you today may become warm-up material in six months. The walking routine that leaves you breathless now could transform into regular 5K participation. The business world celebrates second acts and reinventions - from Ray Kroc to Charles Schwab to Julia Child. Your health deserves the same entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're considering investing in a fitness franchise or simply investing in yourself, remember that the most valuable ventures are those that compound over time. Your 50s aren't about slowing down - they're about strategic growth. In fitness as in business, the most impressive success stories often begin with someone deciding, "Why not now?" About the Author Jack Tiwari is a seasoned Washington, DC-area franchise consultant specializing in mergers and acquisitions, business brokerage, and real estate. With a deep understanding of the franchise industry, he helps entrepreneurs achieve success in franchise sales and acquisitions. Follow him on social media for more insights into the evolving world of food and business. Contact Jack at jack@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com.