The S.A.F.E.R. Swimmer Promise, Interview with Chris Harkness, President SafeSplash

Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live. — Jim Rohn The fitness industry has evolved dramatically over the past decade, shifting from traditional gym memberships to personalized, technology-driven wellness solutions. Consumers are increasingly focused on efficiency, measurable results, and convenience, creating fertile ground for franchise concepts that deliver targeted outcomes. And despite economic ups and downs, 10 million people joined a gym or studio in 2025, a 14% increase YoY. For entrepreneurs and investors, fitness franchises can offer predictable demand, recurring revenue models, and scalable operations when structured correctly. However, not every fitness franchise is a smart investment. The most successful concepts share common characteristics—clear consumer demand, operational efficiency, strong brand leadership, and adaptability to emerging health trends. Understanding these factors can help prospective franchisees evaluate opportunities with confidence and position themselves for long-term success in a competitive but growing sector. Proven Demand and Market Relevance A strong fitness franchise begins with a service that solves a real problem. Today’s consumers are not just looking for a place to work out—they want solutions that fit into busy schedules, accommodate physical limitations, and deliver visible results quickly. And the demand continues to grow, with membership across US fitness facilities reaching a record 77 million in 2024. Franchises that thrive tend to address one or more of the most common barriers to exercise: Limited time Lack of guidance or accountability Injury concerns or aging bodies Difficulty maintaining motivation Concepts that directly tackle these obstacles position themselves as essential services rather than discretionary expenses. This distinction becomes especially important during economic fluctuations, when consumers prioritize value-driven wellness solutions. Efficient Startup and Operating Costs Another hallmark of a strong fitness franchise is manageable startup investment and predictable operating expenses. While some large gym models require multimillion-dollar facilities and extensive staffing, newer boutique concepts often focus on streamlined footprints and specialized services. Key financial indicators of a healthy franchise model include: Moderate build-out costs Limited equipment complexity Lean staffing requirements Recurring membership revenue High client retention rates Lower capital requirements reduce risk for franchisees and shorten the path to profitability. They also make expansion more accessible, enabling multi-unit ownership and regional growth. Scalable Systems and Experienced Leadership Behind every successful franchise is a leadership team with a proven track record of scaling businesses. Operational systems, training programs, and marketing support play a critical role in ensuring consistency across locations. Strong franchise organizations typically provide: Comprehensive onboarding and training Ongoing operational guidance Brand marketing support Technology platforms for scheduling and performance tracking Clear performance benchmarks For investors entering the fitness industry for the first time, these systems can significantly reduce the learning curve and increase the likelihood of success. Alignment with Emerging Health Trends Fitness is increasingly integrated with broader health and wellness trends, including longevity, weight management, and preventative care. Franchises that align with these shifts are better positioned to maintain relevance and grow market share. Current trends shaping the industry include: Personalized fitness programs Low-impact training solutions Technology-enabled workouts Recovery and mobility services Support for medical weight-loss patients One particularly important development is the rapid adoption of GLP-1 medications for weight loss. While these medications can help individuals shed pounds quickly, they also increase the risk of muscle loss—creating demand for strength-focused fitness solutions. Franchises that address this need are entering a rapidly expanding niche within the wellness market. For instance, the average profit margins for premium boutique concepts can be quite high, with margins up to 30% , while a more typical fitness franchise can range between 16.5% to 22.8%. Why BODY20 Is a Compelling Opportunity in the Modern Fitness Landscape Among emerging fitness concepts, BODY20 stands out as a particularly attractive franchise opportunity because it combines proven technology, operational efficiency, and strong consumer relevance. The brand is built around electro-muscle stimulation (EMS), a training method that has been widely adopted in Europe for years. With more than 8,000 EMS studios operating overseas, the modality has already demonstrated its effectiveness and commercial viability. What makes BODY20 especially compelling is its position as an early mover in the United States. Due to regulatory requirements and the FDA approval process, EMS technology entered the U.S. market later than in Europe. This delay has created a unique window for franchisees to establish leadership in a category that is still gaining awareness domestically. Early adopters have the opportunity to build brand recognition and customer loyalty before the market becomes saturated. From an operational standpoint, the economics are equally attractive. The cost to open a BODY20 studio is typically under $500,000, allowing franchisees to deliver a premium fitness experience without the financial burden associated with large gym facilities. The compact studio model reduces real estate requirements and simplifies build-out, while the technology-driven workouts minimize equipment maintenance. Labor flexibility is another major advantage. Unlike traditional fitness centers that require certified personal trainers for every session, BODY20 provides comprehensive training to staff members, enabling franchisees to recruit individuals who are enthusiastic about fitness and customer service rather than highly specialized professionals. This expands the available labor pool and helps control payroll costs. Most importantly, the concept directly addresses the primary reasons many Americans do not exercise. Time remains the number one barrier to fitness, followed closely by uncertainty about how to work out effectively and concerns related to age or injury. BODY20’s EMS technology delivers a full-body workout in just 20 minutes, typically once or twice per week. The low-impact nature of the training eliminates the need for heavy weights, making it accessible to individuals with joint pain, limited mobility, or recovery needs. The model also aligns closely with the growing population of consumers using GLP-1 medications for weight loss. As these individuals lose weight rapidly, maintaining muscle mass becomes a critical health priority. EMS training provides a highly efficient way to stimulate muscle engagement and preserve strength, positioning BODY20 as a valuable complement to medical weight-loss programs. Taken together, these factors—proven technology, first-to-market positioning, manageable investment, and strong consumer demand—make BODY20 a compelling franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the fitness industry with a differentiated and scalable concept. The Long-Term Outlook for Fitness Franchising The future of fitness franchising is closely tied to innovation and adaptability. Consumers are increasingly seeking solutions that deliver measurable results without requiring significant time commitments. At the same time, demographic shifts—including an aging population and rising interest in preventative health—are expanding the market for accessible, low-impact fitness options. For franchise investors, this environment creates substantial opportunity. Fitness remains one of the most resilient sectors within franchising because it is rooted in fundamental human needs: health, confidence, and quality of life. A good fitness franchise is not simply about exercise—it is about delivering solutions. Frannnexus can help you find the right franchise for your future, whether that is in fitness or another industry. Contact Seth Lederman today to learn more. About the Author Seth Lederman, CFE, a Franchise Acquisition and Development Specialist, is a multi-faceted entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in small business success, including ownership and sale of his business enterprises. He frequently contributes to The Franchise Journal and is on the exclusive Forbes Business Council. Contact Seth at seth@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

I grew up in Miami, where health is not really something you talk about once a year after New Year’s. It is part of the culture. You see it everywhere. People running over the bridge in the heat. Training before school. Playing basketball after class. Taking a protein shake to go. Walking into the gym after a long day like it is as normal as brushing your teeth. In Miami, fitness does not feel like something separate from life. It is part of how people live, how they socialize, how they deal with stress, and how they build confidence. I am a high school senior now, and this fall I will be going to NYU. I have been thinking a lot about what I am taking with me. Clothes, books, a laptop, probably too many shoes, and a lot of advice from my parents. But one of the most important things I am taking is a habit I built long before college: working out. Fitness has always been part of my life. Not because I was trying to become a professional athlete, not because I was chasing some perfect image, and not because someone forced me into it. It became part of my routine because it made me feel better. Stronger. Clearer. More disciplined. More in control of my day. For me and a lot of my friends, working out is not just about looking good. That is part of it, sure. Everyone wants to feel confident. But it is much bigger than that. It is about energy. It is about mental health. It is about having a place to put stress. It is about learning that if you show up consistently, even when you do not feel like it, you get better. That lesson goes way beyond the gym. High school can be stressful. There are grades, tests, sports, social pressure, college applications, family expectations, and the feeling that every decision matters more than it probably does. Working out gave me a way to reset. No matter what happened during the day, the gym was simple. Pick up the weight. Run the mile. Finish the set. Stretch. Breathe. Come back tomorrow. There is something powerful about that. Our generation gets criticized a lot. People say we are always on our phones, always distracted, always anxious, always looking for shortcuts. Some of that may be fair. But I also see something different in my friends. I see people who care about being healthy earlier than maybe any generation before us. We talk about sleep. We talk about protein. We talk about mental health. We talk about lifting, running, Pilates, boxing, basketball, recovery, and taking care of ourselves. That is not shallow. That is smart. I think fitness should be treated more seriously in schools. Not just as gym class where some kids play dodgeball and others try to disappear in the corner. I mean real education about the body, nutrition, strength, movement, sleep, stress, and long-term health. We learn math, science, history, English, and all of that matters. But we also live inside our bodies every day. Shouldn’t we understand how to take care of them? Students should learn how to train safely. They should learn why strength matters, why stretching matters, why food matters, and why sleep is not optional. They should learn that exercise is not punishment for eating. It is not just for athletes. It is not about embarrassing anyone. It is about giving every person tools to feel better and live better. That kind of education could change lives. Not every student needs to love the gym. Some people will find their health through soccer, tennis, yoga, dancing, running, swimming, martial arts, walking, or just being outside. That is the point. Fitness is not one thing. It is a relationship with your own body. The earlier you build that relationship, the better chance you have of carrying it through life. As I get ready for college, I know things will change. New city. New schedule. New friends. New pressure. New freedom. NYU is in the middle of one of the fastest, busiest cities in the world. It would be easy to get lost in everything happening around me. But I know fitness will help keep me grounded. I will to find a gym. I will walk the city. I will stay active. I will keep the discipline I built in Miami and bring it with me to New York. Not because I have to, but because I know how much better I feel when I do. That is what I wish more people understood. Fitness is not really about the mirror. It is about the person you become when you keep promises to yourself. You become more patient because progress takes time. You become more confident because you earn it. You become tougher because some days are hard and you show up anyway. You become healthier because small choices add up. You become more balanced because your body and mind are connected. Growing up in Miami taught me that health can be normal. It does not have to be extreme. It does not have to be something you start only when something goes wrong. It can be part of your friendships, your weekends, your school life, your family life, and your future. My generation is already living this. We are not waiting until we are 40 to care about wellness. We are not waiting for a doctor to tell us to move. We are not treating fitness like a phase. For many of us, it is part of our identity. That gives me hope. Because a healthier generation is not just a generation that looks better. It is a generation that thinks clearer, handles stress better, builds stronger habits, and understands that success is not only about what you achieve, but also about how you feel while achieving it. This fall, I will be starting a new life in New York. I know there will be a lot to figure out. But I also know this: wherever I go, fitness is coming with me and the many amazing businesses highlighted in this issue are part of the solution.

For decades, the fitness industry was defined by a singular, narrow goal: aesthetic transformation. Success was measured in inches lost or muscle gained, and the target demographic was almost exclusively the "active 25-to-45-year-old." But as we move further into the mid-2020s, a seismic shift is occurring. The walls between "fitness," "wellness," and "medicine" are dissolving, creating a new, holistic category: The Longevity Economy. At the heart of this evolution is an unlikely alliance between two of the largest and most influential generations in history: Baby Boomers and Generation Z. While they may seem worlds apart in lifestyle, both groups are currently obsessing over the same thing: the "Fountain of Youth." Whether it is a 22-year-old seeking to optimize their cellular health or a 70-year-old looking to maintain functional mobility, the demand for sophisticated, science-backed wellness has never been higher. For the prospective franchise owner, this demographic convergence represents a "Gold Mine"—a recession-resistant, high-margin opportunity to provide the infrastructure for the future of human health. The Boomer Quest for Functional Youthfulness The Baby Boomer generation (born 1946–1964) is currently undergoing a radical reimagining of aging. Unlike previous generations that accepted physical decline as inevitable, Boomers are leveraging their significant disposable income to fight back. They aren't looking for "senior aerobics"; they are looking for functional longevity. This demographic is increasingly focused on bone density, joint health, and cognitive preservation. They understand that muscle mass is the "currency of aging." However, they also face the reality of inflammation and longer recovery times. This has created a massive demand for low-impact, high-intensity training coupled with recovery modalities. They want the results of a rigorous workout without the injury risk of a traditional "big box" gym environment. The Gen Z "Optimization" Culture On the other side of the spectrum, Generation Z is approaching fitness with a level of scientific scrutiny never seen in a youth demographic. To Gen Z, fitness is a "Third Place"—a social hub that replaces the bars and clubs of previous eras. But more importantly, they view health through the lens of "bio-hacking." Gen Z doesn't just want to "work out"; they want to optimize their hormones, track their sleep, and reduce systemic inflammation. They are the primary drivers of the "pre-habilitation" trend—taking care of their bodies now to avoid issues forty years down the line. Because they are tech-native, they demand data-driven results and environments that offer more than just a rack of dumbbells. The Holistic Pivot: Integrating Science into the Studio To capture both of these powerhouse demographics, the modern fitness franchise has evolved beyond the "gym" label. The most successful models are those that integrate scientifically proven treatments into a daily routine. By moving wellness from a "luxury spa" experience to a "daily habit" experience, franchises are creating unprecedented member retention. Three specific modalities have emerged as the pillars of this new holistic model: 1. Photobiomodulation (Red Light Therapy) Red light therapy is no longer a fringe science. By using specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin, this treatment stimulates the mitochondria—the powerhouses of the cells. For the Baby Boomer, it offers a non-invasive way to reduce joint pain and improve skin elasticity. For the Gen Z member, it provides a recovery boost and enhances mental clarity. Integrating red light stations into a fitness franchise allows owners to offer a passive revenue stream that requires zero additional labor while providing immense value to the member. 2. Thermal Stress: The Sauna and the Cold Plunge The "Fire and Ice" method is perhaps the most significant trend in modern wellness. The science of hormesis—subjecting the body to brief, controlled stress to trigger a healing response—is a major draw for both generations. Sauna Therapy: Regular sauna use has been linked in peer-reviewed studies to improved cardiovascular health and a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases. It serves as the ultimate "warm-down" for an aging population. Cold Plunge (Cryotherapy): Cold water immersion is the gold standard for reducing systemic inflammation and spiking dopamine levels. For the younger athlete, it is the ultimate recovery tool; for the older member, it is a powerful weapon against chronic pain. When a franchise model incorporates these elements, it transforms from a place where people "sweat" to a place where people "heal." This shift dramatically increases the "stickiness" of the membership. People may cancel a gym membership when they get busy, but they rarely cancel a membership that makes them feel ten years younger. The Franchise Advantage: Why Now? Why should an entrepreneur look at a franchise model rather than starting an independent wellness center? The answer lies in the complexity of the modern consumer. Today’s member expects a seamless digital experience, high-end branding, and verified safety protocols for advanced treatments like cold plunges or red light therapy. 1. The Tech Stack: Modern fitness franchises come with integrated "stacks"—apps that track member progress, automate billing, and manage scheduling. For the owner, this means the business can often be run as a semi-absentee model. The "heavy lifting" of lead generation and backend operations is handled by the franchisor’s proven systems. 2. Real Estate and Site Selection: The "Gold Mine" demographics—Boomers and Gen Z—often live in specific urban and suburban pockets. Franchisors use sophisticated data to ensure that every location is placed in the "path of progress," maximizing foot traffic and minimizing the time it takes to reach break-even. 3. The Power of the Portfolio: For a prospective owner, the sheer variety of concepts can be overwhelming. This is where the role of a Franchise Consultant becomes invaluable. A consultant doesn't just sell a "gym"; they hold a diverse portfolio of brands across the entire health and wellness spectrum. Because they understand the nuances of your local territory and your specific financial goals, a consultant can help you identify which "flavor" of fitness is missing in your market. Whether it’s a high-tech recovery lab, a boutique Pilates studio, or a functional strength center for seniors, a consultant provides the bridge between your capital and the right brand. They offer a "vetted" shortlist, saving the entrepreneur months of research and protecting them from the high-risk "flavor of the month" concepts that lack long-term viability. High Margins and Low Labor: The Business Case Traditional service-based businesses are often plagued by high labor costs. However, the "Holistic Wellness" franchise model is designed for efficiency. Many of the most profitable treatments—saunas, red light beds, and automated recovery chairs—are "equipment-led." This means they generate revenue without requiring a one-on-one trainer or staff member to facilitate the session. This "passive-within-active" revenue model is the holy grail for franchise owners. You are providing a high-value, scientifically proven service to a desperate market (the aging Boomer) and an obsessed market (Gen Z) with a overhead structure that allows for scalability. Building the "Third Place" Beyond the science and the spreadsheets, there is a human element that makes fitness franchising a unique investment. We are currently living through a "loneliness epidemic." Gen Z feels isolated by screens; Boomers feel isolated by retirement. A fitness franchise serves as a community anchor. It is a place where a 24-year-old and a 68-year-old might share a cold plunge or a post-workout conversation. By investing in this space, owners are not just buying a business; they are building a "Third Place"—that essential social environment outside of home and work. The Fountain of Youth is a Business Model The demand for "youthfulness" is the most consistent force in the global economy. As science continues to prove that we can live longer and better through specific physical interventions, the "gym" of the past is being replaced by the "Wellness Hub" of the future.  The convergence of Gen Z’s desire for optimization and the Baby Boomers’ quest for longevity has created a perfect window of opportunity. For those looking to exit the corporate world or diversify their investment portfolio, the fitness and wellness franchise sector offers a rare combination: a business that is emotionally fulfilling, scientifically grounded, and financially robust. The Fountain of Youth isn't a myth; it's a multi-billion dollar industry. And with the guidance of a professional franchise consultant to navigate the vast portfolio of available brands, that fountain is now more accessible to owners than ever before. About the Author Ron Filian is a trusted franchise consultant who helps individuals and multi-unit operators navigate emerging opportunities and scale their portfolios. To explore vetted brands in the fitness and wellness space, contact Ron at rfilian@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

Why this high-energy category continues to attract entrepreneurs seeking purpose, growth, and long-term opportunity Every May, the conversation around fitness gets louder. People step outside, set new goals, and recommit to healthier lifestyles. But beyond the seasonal consumer buzz, there is another story worth telling—one that matters to entrepreneurs, investors, and franchise candidates across the country. Fitness franchising is no longer a niche category. It has become one of the most dynamic and influential segments in the franchise industry. Today’s consumers are not just buying gym memberships. They are investing in better health, more energy, greater confidence, and a stronger sense of community. That shift has turned fitness from a short-term trend into a long-term lifestyle priority, and smart entrepreneurs are paying attention. As a franchise consultant, I see firsthand how often candidates are drawn to the fitness category. Some are attracted by the economics. Others are inspired by the mission. The strongest fitness concepts offer both: the potential for recurring revenue and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. That combination is powerful. In many sectors, franchisees are selling convenience, speed, or necessity. In fitness, they are selling transformation. They are offering people a place to feel better, move better, and live better. Whether it is a boutique training studio, a strength-based concept, a recovery brand, a stretching model, or a hybrid wellness business, the best fitness franchises connect with customers on a deeply personal level. That emotional connection matters because it often leads to loyalty, referrals, and stronger member retention. From a business standpoint, loyalty is everything. Many fitness franchises operate on a membership or recurring-revenue model, which makes the category especially appealing. Predictable monthly income, when paired with strong operations and effective retention, can provide a solid foundation for growth. Of course, recurring revenue does not guarantee success. The concept still has to be managed well. But when the right owner is matched with the right brand, the model can be highly attractive. Another reason fitness continues to stand out is the sheer variety of concepts in the market. This is no longer just about the traditional gym filled with treadmills and weight machines. Today’s franchise landscape includes personal training studios, HIIT concepts, Pilates, yoga, boxing, indoor cycling, sports performance, stretching, recovery services, and wellness-centered brands focused on flexibility, mobility, and total-body performance. That diversity gives franchise candidates real options. It allows them to choose a concept that fits not only their investment range, but also their interests, market opportunity, and preferred ownership role. And that is where the conversation becomes especially important. Too many people evaluate franchise opportunities by focusing only on brand recognition or industry buzz. That is a mistake. A well-known brand does not automatically make it the right investment for every buyer. In my work with franchise candidates, I always come back to one central question: Is this the right business for this particular person? That question matters tremendously in fitness franchising. Some fitness concepts are ideal for owner-operators who want to be deeply involved in the culture, customer experience, and day-to-day leadership of the business. Others are better suited for executive-style or semi-absentee owners who prefer to build a team and manage through strong leadership on-site. Some require substantial buildout, equipment, and real estate investment. Others offer a smaller footprint and more manageable overhead. Some thrive in dense suburban corridors. Others can succeed in urban or secondary markets with the right demographics. There is no universal answer. The best fitness franchise is not simply the hottest one in the market. It is the one that aligns with the candidate’s capital, goals, management style, and long-term vision. That is why due diligence is so important. Fitness is an exciting category, but excitement should never be the only reason to invest. Candidates need to study the Franchise Disclosure Document carefully, understand the total investment, review any available financial performance representations, speak with current franchisees, and assess the competitive landscape in their target territory. They need to understand what drives member acquisition, what supports retention, and what kind of leadership the business truly demands. The strongest owners understand that fitness is not just about signing people up. It is about keeping them engaged. Retention is often the heartbeat of the business. A location may open with strong early momentum, but long-term success usually depends on culture, consistency, service, and results. People may join because of a special offer, but they stay because they feel connected, challenged, and supported. That is where great franchisees separate themselves. What makes this category especially compelling today is that it sits at the intersection of several durable consumer trends: health awareness, wellness spending, aging populations seeking mobility and longevity, and younger consumers looking for specialized, experience-driven brands. Add technology, digital engagement tools, wearable integrations, and personalized tracking, and the modern fitness franchise becomes even more relevant. In many ways, fitness franchises reflect where the broader market is heading. Consumers want more than transactions. They want outcomes. They want connection. They want brands that help them become stronger, healthier, and more confident. For the right entrepreneur, that creates a meaningful opportunity. Fitness franchising is not just about exercise. It is about transformation, accountability, and community. For franchise candidates looking for a business with energy, purpose, and growth potential, this category deserves serious attention.  In a season that celebrates renewal, fitness franchises are doing more than helping people get into shape. They are helping shape the future of franchising itself. About the Author Dave Sullivan is a franchise consultant who works with aspiring business owners to identify franchise opportunities that align with their goals, skills, lifestyle, and investment level. He is passionate about helping people find franchise businesses that offer both purpose and long-term potential.

If you have been thinking about starting a business, the fitness industry offers one of the most exciting and profitable opportunities available today. But here is the truth: starting can be overwhelming, expensive, and risky. That is why franchising a fitness business stands out as the smartest, most strategic move for aspiring entrepreneurs who want success without unnecessary setbacks.  First, let us talk about risk. Every new business comes with uncertainty even in franchising; however, franchising could dramatically reduce that risk. Instead of guessing what might work, you are stepping into a system that has already been tested and refined. The workouts, pricing models, marketing strategies, and customer experience have all been proven. You are not experimenting; you are executing a plan with a proven record. That alone gives you a huge advantage over independent startups. Another powerful benefit is instant brand recognition. Building a brand from scratch takes years of effort and a significant investment in marketing. With a franchise, that work is already done; Customers are far more likely to trust a name they have seen before, especially in the fitness space where credibility matters. People want to feel confident that their time and money are being invested in something effective. A recognized fitness brand brings that confidence from day one, helping you attract members faster and build momentum quickly. Then there is the booming demand for fitness and wellness. More than ever, people are prioritizing their health. Whether it is losing weight, building strength, reducing stress, or improving overall well-being, fitness has become a necessity rather than a luxury. This shift is not a short-term trend—it is a long-term movement. By franchising a fitness business, you are positioning yourself in an industry that continues to grow year after year, giving you long-term stability and opportunity. Support is another major reason franchising stands out. When you start a business on your own, you are figuring out everything out—from operations and hiring to marketing and customer retention. That can be overwhelming, especially if you do not have prior business experience. A fitness franchise, however, provides comprehensive training and ongoing support. You are guided by every step of the way, from choosing the right location to running daily operations instead of feeling lost, you are backed by a team whose goal is to help you succeed. Scalability is also a game changer. Once your first location is running successfully, expanding becomes much easier. The systems are already in place, and you know exactly what works. Many franchise owners go on to open multiple locations, turning a single investment into a growing business empire. That level of expansion is much harder to achieve when you are starting a new business. It is also worth mentioning that franchises often stay ahead of industry trends. Fitness is constantly evolving, with new workout styles, technology, and customer preferences emerging all the time. Franchise systems continuously adapt to these changes, ensuring that your business remains relevant and competitive. Finally, franchising provides something many entrepreneurs overlook: community. You are not alone on your journey. You are part of a network of franchise owners who share experiences, advice, and support. This built-in community can be incredibly valuable, especially during challenges, and helps you grow faster and smarter. In the end, franchising into a fitness business offers the perfect balance of independence and support. You get to be your own boss while benefiting from a proven system, strong brand, and ongoing guidance. In a fast-growing industry driven by real demand, that combination is hard to beat. If you are serious about building a successful business, franchising in the fitness space is not just a clever idea, it is something that could be the decision you can make. About the Author Emma Jean-Philippe, based in Palm Springs, Florida, is a franchise consultant dedicated to helping entrepreneurs successfully grow and scale through franchising. With expertise in development, strategy, and market analysis, she delivers tailored, results-driven solutions that empower businesses to expand with confidence and efficiency. Contact Emma at Emma@TheFranchiseConsultingCompany.com .

How recovery, mobility, and longevity are reshaping the future of fitness franchising  For years, the fitness industry was defined by one simple idea: burn calories. That model is changing. Today’s consumer is not just focused on working out harder. They are focused on moving better, recovering faster, reducing stress, and extending how long they feel good—not just how long they live. That shift is quietly reshaping the fitness franchise landscape. “Recovery is no longer optional—it is becoming part of performance.” From Performance to Longevity The traditional gym model emphasized intensity and repetition. While that still matters, it is no longer enough on its own. Consumers are becoming more educated about injury prevention, mobility, recovery, and long-term health. This has created space for new types of concepts to emerge—ones that would have been considered niche just a few years ago. Studios focused on assisted stretching, infrared and light therapy, and even longevity-based wellness centers are now becoming part of the broader fitness conversation. Brands like iFlex Stretch Studios are built around improving mobility and reducing pain through guided stretching sessions, helping clients move more efficiently and recover faster. At the same time, concepts like beem Light Sauna are introducing consumers to infrared and red-light therapies in a premium, accessible studio environment designed for repeat use and relaxation. Taking this even further, Ultimate Longevity Center represents a new category altogether—one that blends recovery, diagnostics, and personalized wellness protocols into a single experience. These are not replacements for traditional fitness. They are extensions of it. Why Recovery Is Becoming Core One of the biggest mindset shifts in the industry is the recognition that recovery is not optional—it is part of performance. Consumers are beginning to understand that without proper recovery, workouts become less effective and injuries more likely. As a result, recovery-based services are no longer seen as luxury add-ons. They are becoming integrated into regular routines. This is why concepts built around stretching, sauna therapy, and recovery modalities are gaining traction. They address a real need that complements traditional exercise. For franchise operators, this is significant. These models often require different footprints, different staffing structures, and different customer journeys than traditional gyms. In many cases, they also benefit from recurring membership models and repeat visits driven by habit and results. “Fitness is evolving from activity to a full wellness ecosystem.” The Rise of the Wellness Ecosystem What is emerging is not a single dominant model, but a broader wellness ecosystem. A customer may: train at a boutique fitness studio attend a recovery session during the week use sauna or light therapy for stress and recovery explore longevity or biomarker-based programs These behaviors are no longer isolated—they are connected. Franchise concepts that understand this ecosystem are better positioned to grow because they align with how consumers actually live. What This Means for Franchise Growth From a franchising perspective, this shift opens up new opportunities. First, it expands the definition of what a “fitness business” can be. Operators are no longer limited to traditional gym formats. They can participate in adjacent categories like recovery, mobility, and longevity. Second, it allows for diversification within a portfolio. An owner may operate multiple concepts that serve different parts of the same customer journey. Third, it reflects a deeper trend: consumers are prioritizing health not just as an activity, but as a long-term investment. The Bigger Picture The most important takeaway is that fitness is evolving into something broader. It is no longer just about workouts. It is about how people feel, how they move, how they recover, and how they age. Franchise concepts that align with that mindset are not chasing a trend—they are participating in a long-term shift in consumer behavior. And for those looking at the industry from a business perspective, that shift may define the next phase of growth. About the Author Ozzie Grupenmager is a franchise consultant with Franchise Consulting Company and founder of NextGen Business Solutions, a business coaching and franchise advisory firm. A former COO in the franchise industry and CIO at a global advertising network, he built a franchise system from the ground up as a franchisor. His background spans franchise development, multi-unit operations, branding, marketing strategy, and business intelligence. Ozzie advises entrepreneurs, investors, and emerging brands on franchise ownership, operational systems, and scalable growth. Contact Ozzie at ogrupenmager@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

When a career changes without your permission — or even when it changes by your own hand — the real battle isn’t finding the next job. It’s getting out of your own way. “Most people, when confronted with a choice of changing their thoughts or proving there is no need to change, get busy on the proof.” — John Maynard Keynes Read that again. Slowly. Keynes was an economist, but that line cuts straight to the heart of something I watch play out in my work every single day: the extraordinary lengths people will go to in order to avoid confronting what a genuine change of direction actually requires of them. I talk to a lot of people in transition. Some chose it — they walked away from a corporate career, a demanding boss, a commute that was eating their life. Others had it chosen for them — a layoff notice, a restructuring announcement, a role that simply disappeared. The circumstances are different. The internal battle they face is almost always the same. The Comfortable Conclusion The moment a person starts seriously exploring franchise ownership, something interesting happens. They begin researching — which is good. But very quickly, the research starts bending toward a predetermined destination: the conclusion that now is not the right time, that it’s too risky, that they should probably just update the résumé and find another job like the last one. That is what Keynes was describing. Not apathy. Not laziness. Something far more sophisticated — the human mind working overtime to prove that the comfortable choice is actually the rational one. And it is convincing work. I’ve watched brilliant people build airtight cases for staying exactly where they are — or retreating to exactly where they were — using logic, data, and perfectly reasonable-sounding concerns. The franchise is too expensive. The market is uncertain. They need more time to think about it. Maybe next year. Maybe next year has a way of becoming maybe the year after that. What a Forced Change Actually Reveals Here’s what I’ve come to believe after years of working with people in career transition: a layoff or a forced career change is one of the most clarifying events that can happen to a professional. Not comfortable. Clarifying. It strips away the inertia. It removes the excuse of “I’d explore this if I weren’t so busy at work.” It creates — sometimes for the first time in decades — the actual space and urgency to ask a question most people keep quietly on the shelf: What do I actually want this next chapter to look like? That question is dangerous, because it has an honest answer. And the honest answer often doesn’t look like another round of the same thing. The people I’ve seen build genuinely successful second acts — through franchise ownership, through entrepreneurship, through real ownership of their own income — weren’t the ones who had the most certainty. They were the ones willing to sit with uncertainty long enough to let something new take shape. The Proof Is Not the Point When someone I’m working with starts listing reasons why franchise ownership probably won’t work for them, I don’t argue with the list. The list is usually accurate on the surface — there are real costs, real risks, real unknowns. I acknowledge every one of them. What I ask instead is a different question: What would have to be true for this to be worth exploring seriously? That question does something. It interrupts the proof-building. It pivots from “why not” to “what if.” And more often than not, the person sitting across from me already knows the answer. They’ve been carrying it quietly beneath all the rational objections. Franchise ownership isn’t for everyone — I’m the first person to say that. But the people who discover it isn’t right for them through genuine exploration are in an entirely different position than the people who decided it wasn’t right for them before they ever looked closely. One has real information. The other just has a very polished argument. A Different Kind of Proof If you’re in transition right now — by choice or by circumstance — I’d invite you to notice where your mind is spending its energy. Is it genuinely evaluating your options? Or is it methodically building a case for the option that requires the least change? There is no shame in that tendency. It is deeply human. Keynes didn’t describe it as a character flaw — he described it as a near-universal pattern. The difference between people who move forward and people who don’t often isn’t courage or capital or the right market conditions. It’s the willingness to pause the proof-building long enough to ask whether the conclusion deserves a second look. Your career just changed. Maybe you changed it. Maybe it was changed for you. Either way, the window you’re standing in front of right now is real. What it reveals is up to you. About the Author Mike Martuza is a Senior Franchise Consultant and Partner with Franchise Consulting Company and author of The Franchise Rules: The No-Nonsense Guide to Finding a Franchise That Fits." With decades of experience in entrepreneurship, coaching, and strategic business development, Mike helps aspiring business owners find the right franchise that aligns with their goals, values, and lifestyle. Contact Mike at mikemartuza@thefranchiseconsultingcompany.com .

A modern guide to understanding two of the fastest-growing sectors in the wellness industry Over the years, I’ve joined five different Pilates studios and experienced more red light saunas than I can count. While I could clearly feel differences between Pilates machines and class styles, I remained curious about the specific benefits behind each variation. The same applied to red light therapy—some sessions felt noticeably more intense than others, raising a key question: does that mean stronger, better, or simply different?. Understanding these distinctions is critical, especially as both categories continue to gain traction among consumers and investors alike. In today’s fast-growing wellness industry, red light therapy and Pilates-based fitness stand out as two of the most in-demand segments. Both promise measurable, transformative results, yet the underlying differences in technology, equipment, and execution can significantly impact outcomes. A clear understanding of these variables is essential for making informed decisions—whether as a consumer or an investor. Illuminating the Benefits of Red Light Red light therapy has rapidly established itself as a core offering in modern wellness environments, delivering benefits that range from skin rejuvenation to muscle recovery and inflammation reduction. However, not all systems produce the same results. The effectiveness of red light therapy is driven by the specific wavelengths emitted and how deeply they penetrate the body. Red light in the 630–660 nanometer range primarily targets the skin’s surface, supporting collagen production, anti-aging, and overall skin tone improvement. Near-infrared light, typically between 810–880 nanometers, penetrates deeper into muscles and joints, where it plays a role in recovery, pain relief, and inflammation reduction. Far infrared, commonly used in sauna formats, operates through heat rather than light penetration, stimulating circulation, detoxification, and relaxation. The type of equipment used further differentiates the experience. LED panels are the most common and versatile systems, allowing for both targeted and full-body exposure. Red light beds provide a more immersive, full-body treatment, often positioned as a higher-end experience within wellness studios. Infrared saunas, while frequently grouped into the same category, are primarily heat-based, although many newer models incorporate red light for a hybrid approach. The key factors that determine effectiveness include wavelength accuracy, power output (irradiance), treatment time efficiency, and whether the system integrates complementary therapies. As a result, two devices that appear nearly identical can deliver significantly different outcomes. Beem sets itself apart in this space by delivering full-spectrum infrared (which includes near, mid, and far wavelengths) combined with red light technology. Unlike competitors that isolate far infrared or red light treatments, Beem's integrated approach allows for deeper tissue penetration and a broader array of therapeutic benefits. A major differentiator for the brand is its ability to merge multiple therapies into a single room session. Furthermore, Beem provides a highly technology-driven experience by outfitting rooms with smart features and tablets that stream curated branded content, such as music, meditation, or wellness education. This modern setup creates a distinct competitive advantage over traditional, lower-tech sauna models and strongly appeals to a tech-savvy demographic of younger, urban professionals. 

There’s a quiet shift happening in American business. It’s not loud like artificial intelligence or the constant churn of digital innovation. It’s something more fundamental. People want to look each other in the eye again. Nowhere is that more evident than on the show floor of The Great American Franchise Expo. In an era where AI can draft business plans, generate marketing campaigns, and simulate entire conversations, you might expect in-person events to lose relevance. Instead, the opposite is happening. Attendance is rising. Engagement is deeper. And across every city, the same pattern is emerging. When the stakes are real, people still choose reality. The AI Era Is Driving Human Connection Today’s prospective franchise buyer arrives informed. They’ve done the work. They’ve read articles, watched videos, compared models, and run projections. But AI can’t replicate trust. At The Great American Franchise Expo, attendees don’t just browse brands. They meet founders. Operators. Franchisees who are living the model every day. They hear tone. They see conviction. They ask direct questions and get real answers. That difference matters when someone is making a decision about their future. The show floor doesn’t feel like a trade show. It feels like a series of high-stakes conversations. A National Tour Built for Momentum The 2026 calendar reflects that demand, kicking off with a strong opening in South Florida. The season begins at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, May 2–3, 2026, setting the tone for what has become a powerful national run. From there, the Expo moves through major markets across the country: Atlanta, GA – Cobb Galleria Centre | May 16–17, 2026 Columbus, OH – Columbus Expo Center | May 30–31, 2026 New York / New Jersey – Dream Live | September 12–13, 2026 Detroit, MI – Oakland Expo Center | September 26–27, 2026 Denver, CO – National Western Center | October 10–11, 2026 Dallas, TX – Irving Convention Center | October 24–25, 2026 Phoenix, AZ – Mesa Convention Center | November 7–8, 2026 Each stop brings a different audience, a different pace, and a different mix of opportunity. But the underlying driver is the same. People are showing up because they want clarity. From Browsing to Deciding Online, everything looks good. Every brand has a polished pitch. Every opportunity highlights upside. Every model promises scalability. At the Expo, that gets tested quickly. Attendees walk the floor and compare concepts side by side. They ask the same question to multiple brands and watch how each responds. They see who is prepared. Who is real. Who understands their own business. It compresses months of research into a single weekend. And more importantly, it separates signal from noise. For many attendees, the result is not just inspiration. It’s direction. They leave with a shortlist, a plan, and often a completely new path. The Power of Choice Another reason for the surge in attendance is simple: variety. The Expo isn’t built around one industry. It reflects the full spectrum of the modern franchise economy: Fitness. Food. Pet services. Home services. Senior care. Automotive. Technology. AI-enabled platforms. Today’s buyer is not one-dimensional. They are evaluating lifestyle, flexibility, scalability, and risk. Some want semi-absentee ownership. Others want to operate hands-on. Some are chasing growth. Others want predictable income. The Expo gives them options in one place. Education That Actually Matters Strong attendance isn’t just driven by the brands. It’s driven by the learning. Each event includes practical sessions on: Franchise law Financing strategies Absentee ownership Growth and scaling These are not abstract discussions. They are frameworks delivered by people actively working in the industry. For many attendees, it’s the first time franchising truly makes sense. And that understanding builds confidence. The Psychology of Showing Up There’s something else happening beneath the surface. When someone attends an event, they make a decision before they ever walk in the door. They move from passive interest to active exploration. It’s easy to scroll. It’s different to show up. That shift changes everything. We see it every weekend. People arrive curious. They leave engaged. A Platform That Comes to You What makes The Great American Franchise Expo unique is its structure.  This isn’t one flagship event. It’s a national platform that moves city by city, bringing opportunity directly to the audience. Not everyone will fly across the country to explore a business. But they will drive 20 minutes to a convention center if the opportunity feels real. And once they arrive, they find more than they expected. The Future of Franchising Is Personal If there’s one takeaway from the continued growth of The Great American Franchise Expo, it’s this: The future of franchising isn’t just digital. It’s personal. AI will continue to evolve. It will shape how people discover and evaluate opportunities. But when it comes time to commit capital, time, and energy, people still want to meet face to face. They want to ask questions. Read reactions. Shake hands. That’s what the Expo delivers. Not just information. Not just opportunity. Connection. And right now, that’s what people are looking for most.