h e alt h & fi t n e s s fr an c hi s ing fe at u r e
EXPERT ADVICE: Regan Stokes | President | Pure Barre
Advice for Future Fitness Franchisees Regan Stokes first entered into the field of franchising through a career opportunity to join the team of a budding franchisor in the fitness space. While Stokes was primarily working in client services management before that, she became fascinated by the concept of franchising and saw first-hand how the franchisor and franchisee could work together to create the strongest business possible. Appointed in 2021 as the president of Pure Barre, a boutique fitness concept with over 600 locations, Regan is responsible for building a business model and support system that allows entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams of business ownership.
Before deciding to invest in a fitness franchise, it is worth asking some valuable questions of yourself. What franchise is the best fit for you? What would be the best location for the brand? How can you create a community and brand loyalty? In addition to thinking about the business, you also need to know if you would personally thrive in a franchise system and the type of brand you want to align with and represent in your market(s). In my past roles, and my current one as the President of Pure Barre, I have helped franchisees in the health and fitness industry with each step of the process. So, why would someone want to invest in a fitness franchise? As cliche as it sounds, fitness really can change lives. Fitness not only has a large role in physical wellbeing, but also mental health, as evidenced throughout the pandemic. A study surveying 1.2 million people in the United States found that people who exercise report having 1.5 fewer poor mental health days a month, compared to people who do not exercise. The study also found that team sports, cycling, aerobics and going to the gym were the activities that made the greatest impact. By opening a fitness studio, owners are creating a space for others to feel their best and work toward the best versions of themselves in a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment. Adding franchising to the mix gives these entrepreneurs the support of a company with a proven track record that has years of experience and tools to help them succeed. The first step you should take, and one of the most important, is figuring out what
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