WORLD'S 10 BEST FITNESS AND GYM FRANCHISES TO OPEN IN 2021
www.insightssuccess.com
Eating Right The role of appropriate nutrition in a fitness regime
Consume Wisely
2021 | VOLUME-04 | ISSUE-02
Diana Williams Founder and Managing Director
Health and fitness content on social media – a boon or a bane?
Womenʼs Health Clubs The Right Place to Achieve your Fitness Goals.
EDITOR’S DESK
T
he year 2020 may not have been good for the fitness industry but this year definitely looks promising.
WORLD'S 10 BEST FITNESS AND GYM FRANCHISES TO OPEN IN 2021
www.insightssuccess.com
Eating Right The role of appropriate nutrition in a fitness regime
Consume Wisely
2021 | VOLUME-04 | ISSUE-02
Diana Williams Founder and Managing Director
Health and fitness content on social media – a boon or a bane?
The health and fitness industry were doing great with more and more people becoming conscious about their fitness levels, their bodies and with innumerable options to participate in the humongous number of events. But just as the industry was going great guns, it was in for a rude shock. The advent of corona virus pandemic and its newer mutations that followed changed the fitness landscape unexpectedly. The physical fitness centres came to a standstill. We have never been so acutely conscious of our health and fitness as we have been during the ongoing pandemic. For one thing has been made large and clear that the age-old adage ‘health is wealth’ is to be taken seriously. No amount of wealth can save your life if you are not healthy.
Womenʼs Health Clubs The Right Place to Achieve your Fitness Goals.
A Bright Future Awaits Fitness and Gym Franchises
Last year was challenging for every sector but particularly for the fitness industry it was a big setback since any fitness activity is based on inhalation and exhalation, and the mandatory social distancing was not possible in gyms. Also, when lockdowns were lifted for brief periods, it was not practical to sanitize every equipment and every nook and corner of the gym after a handful of people used them and the next few waited for their turn. It was also not possible to keep a tab of whether a person was infected or not. Gyms did resort to online
sessions and continued with training their members. Not everyone had equipment at home or alternatives for exercising and hence other forms of exercises became more popular. Third degree training, functional training, calisthenics, isometrics, and plyometrics, cross-fit and the like were earlier considered as anti-gym training, which are now trends that have become a rage among amateurs as well as elite sportspersons. Owing to the ongoing pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns these fitness regimes have dominated the fitness landscape. Gym closures had affected the fitness scenario to a major extent. Virtual gyms took over since physical gyms had to go sabbatical. Yoga and mind-body training have also become a rage this pandemic. Abrupt halt in gym training also led to activities like cycling, running, and walking or exercising outdoors if the government of the country permitted. More changes are expected in the world of fitness postpandemic. A huge shift to cater to the needs of the fitness enthusiasts is expected this year. But this year is also expected to see opening of gyms and people will be more eager to hit the floor after a year. People are bored of exercising indoors and alone, as many may not have the liberty to go outdoors depending upon the restrictions imposed by the government. The world of fitness has evolved and transformed like never before. While during the past decade we saw a revolution in
the fitness industry with many hitting the gyms for their fitness goals, this year revolution of a different kind is expected. The footfalls in gyms that have opened are gradually trickling and are expected to rise. This is the most advantageous period for gyms to open the doors to franchises and recover the lost time and revenue. Some of the gyms that stood the test of time and chose to stay in the market with ways that the new normal imposed, are ready to invite franchises. We chose few such gyms and fitness centres for our latest edition of Insights Success – World’s 10 Best Fitness and Gym Franchises to Open in 2021. Have a healthy read!
Sumita Sarkar
08
Cover Story
Womenʼs Health Clubs The Right Place to Achieve your Fitness Goals.
3ʳᵈ Degree Training Taking your fitness journey to the next level
Angelaʼs Swim School
22
Guiding Aspiring Swimmers towards Zeniths
26
MADabolic Strength-driven Approach Improving Fitness
USA Ninja Challenge
34
Empowering and Guiding the Younger Generation towards a Fit Future
36
CONTENTS Eating Right
Consume Wisely
The role of appropriate nutrition in a fitness regime
Health and fitness content on social media – a boon or a bane?
18
Articles
30
Editor-in-Chief Sumita Sarkar Senior Editor Anish Miller Managing Editor Abhishaj Sajeev Assisting Editors Vrushali, Ashish Visualiser David King Art & Design Head Asha Bange Art & Design Assistant Priyanka Rajage Co-designer Paul Belin Art & Picture Editor Deepanjali Jena Business Development Manager Sherin Rodricks Marketing Manager Joseph D'souza Business Development Executives Jenny, Michael Sales Executives Kelly, Mark, Alice Technical Head Jacob Smile Assistant Technical Head Amar Sawant Technical Consultants Pratiksha, Aditya, David Digital Marketing Manager Alina Sege Assistant Digital Marketing Manager Amol Wadekar SME-SMO Executives Gemson, Renuka Research Analyst Eric Smith Circulation Manager Tanaji sales@insightssuccess.com
April, 2021 Corporate Ofce Insights Success Media Tech LLC 555 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017, United States Phone - (614)-859-2600 Email: info@insightssuccess.com For Subscription: www.insightssuccess.com
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We are also available on : RNI No.: MAHENG/2018/75953 Copyright © 2021 Insights Success Media and Technology Pvt. Ltd., All rights reserved. The content and images used in this magazine should not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission from Insights Success. Reprint rights remain solely with Insights Success.
Company Name
Management
Brief
3rd Degree Training 3rddegreetraining.ca
Steven Collette Co-Founder and CEO
3rd Degree Training's goal is to help clients work on their fitness in a way which makes sense to the individual and their increasingly busy lifestyle.
Angela’s Swim School angelasswimschool.co.uk
Angela Wilson Founder and CEO
Angela's Swim School is committed to offering swimming lessons to all ages and abilities, including adults, and helping everyone learn to swim to a high standard.
Cia Athletica ciaathletica.com.br
Monica Marques Owner/Partner
Cia Athletica is one of the best and most complete gym franchise with activities for the whole family, from toddlers to grandparents.
Curves curves.com
Lisa Russell Senior Marketing Manager
Curves has been a leader in women’s fitness, helping millions of women get stronger and healthier.
Fernwood Womens Health clubs fernwoodfitness.com.au
Diana Williams Founder and Managing Director
Fernwood is renowned for its excellent customer service, premier facilities and special female touches, and is recognised as the leader in women’s health and fitness in Australia.
MADabolic madabolic.com
Brandon Cullen Chief Concept Offcier
MADabolic's signature intervals are designed to increase strength, torch body fat and promote lean athletic muscle.
Planet Fitness planetfitness.com
Mike Hamilton COO
Planet Fitness is one of the largest and fastest-growing franchisors and operators of fitness centers in the United States.
The Exercise Coach exercisecoach.com
Brian Cygan CEO
The Exercies Coach helps people achieve the personal health and fitness results that matter most to them with just two, 20minute workouts per week.
Train Learn Go trainlearngo.co.uk
Adam Host Operations Head
Train Learn Go is a Mobile Personal Training and Nutritional consultancy franchise.
USA NInja Challenge usaninjachallenge.com
Jorgen Strycharz Marketing Ninja
USA Ninja Challenge is a kids obstacle course based fitness program. With progression based teaching during hour long classes and camps we work with kids ages 4-15.
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WORLD'S 10 BEST FITNESS AND GYM FRANCHISES TO OPEN IN 2021
www.insightssuccess.com
Eating Right The role of appropriate nutrition in a fitness regime
Consume Wisely
2021 | VOLUME-04 | ISSUE-02
Diana Williams Founder and Managing Director
Health and fitness content on social media – a boon or a bane?
Womenʼs Health Clubs The Right Place to Achieve your Fitness Goals.
“
Choose E xc e l l e n t, Choose Insights
The role of appropriate IN A
Fitness Regime N
utrients are defined as the compounds in food substances that are essential in regulating chemical processes, providing our bodies with energy, and essentially maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Some of the major nutrients are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water. These nutrients have different properties that affect our health and fitness in various ways. Nutrition can be defined as the ‘science of food’ and its relationship to health for the body to use it for the purpose of growth, metabolism, and repair. In order for our bodies to function properly, the human body processes the nutrients from the food we consume. Hence, the food we consume determines the body’s health and fitness from the inside as well as the outside. Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining a fit body, as the food we eat affects how we look and feel. Based on various studies, nutrition is far more important than regular exercise and has a greater impact on the body. If you don’t maintain a regular balanced intake of nutrients, no matter how often you hit the gym, it will barely make an impact. There are studies that incline towards the rule of maintaining an 80% nutrition to a 20% fitness regime in order to achieve your body/health
goals. These studies are solely based on the fact that calories are easier to consume than to burn. While maintaining a fitness routine it is essential to maintain a balanced, varied, and moderated diet as well. These two factors must go hand in hand, because if the body consumes energy in the form of carbs, protein or fat and that energy isn’t used for metabolism, growth or physical activities, it will be stored as body fat. Excess nutrients in the body can also have negative effects. Saturated fats, also known as ‘bad fats’ contribute to plaque formation in the arteries and therefore lead to cardiovascular diseases. Similarly excess sodium (salt) and other nutrients may lead to health issues like, high blood pressure, obesity, and various other health related issues. A study done by WHO shows that in 2016, over 340 million children and adolescents in the age categories of 5-19 years, suffered with obesity and being overweight. The same study in 2019 showed an estimate of 38.2 million children in the same category facing the same issues. Therefore, it is necessary to eat right as it helps in reducing body fat, losing a few pounds, feeling more confident and reducing the risk of certain illnesses and diseases. There are super foods and antioxidants like peanut butter and quercetin that are advised by many nutritionists and fitness professionals all around the world.
18 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
19 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
These nutrients help your body get essential fats and healthy carbs while increasing your metabolism rate and in turn boosting your fat burning percentage. They are used by many professional athletes as well as they help with reducing muscle inflammation and improves their athletic performances. The list of recommended super foods and antioxidants may vary from nutritionist to nutritionist, but they all agree that in order to maintain a healthy body (inside and outside), they have proven to be an essential requirement. Similarly, the requirement of nutrition differs from person to person based on their body types. The more active a person is, the more energy their body will require. Hence it is important to consult proper designated physicians, nutritionists, and health experts in order to be able to reach the desired goal. At the same time, it is also vital to do your research on the same topic because certain diet plans that don’t match with your body type and requirements, while implementing weight loss, may also have different side effects on your mental and physical health. Some of the side effects emanating from wrong nutrition and diet plans are health issues such as depression, sleeping disorders, constipation, acid reflux, etc. Some diet plans can also affect the health of your heart, the energy level, less muscle growth, and brain functioning. Registered dietician, Cheryl Mussatto says, “If carbs are strictly reduced, the brain will be cut off from its main energy source, which can drastically alter brain functioning. One such change can occur with serotonin, a chemical produced by the brain. Serotonin regulates our sleep cycle, mood and appetite, all of which will be noticeably altered along with experiencing brain fog”. Hence, to reiterate, it is important to understand your body and its requirements for different sources of nutrients like ‘super foods’ and ‘fitness foods’. Doing this will help you ensure a healthier body and mind and achieve your fitness goals. In addition, good nutrition, while helping you achieve your fitness goals, also reduces the risk of diseases by boosting immunity and improves your general well-being. - Arran Calvert
20 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
World's 10 Best Fitness and Gym Franchises to Open in 2021
Taking your fitness journey to the next level The fitness industry has been through quite a bumpy ride since the coronavirus pandemic. However, 2021 looks promising to the fitness industry specially for non-traditional gyms and franchises. Franchises are paving the way for a new and improved way for people to work out, stay fit and healthy. Gym franchises are combating the issues stirred by the coronavirus pandemic head on. Fitness companies and gyms are now promoting a ‘no equipment necessary’ concept that is proving to be taking the fitness industry by storm. While researching on this topic even further for our edition titled, World’s 10 Best Fitness and Gym Franchises to Open in 2021 we encountered a fitness company with similar concepts and an insightful ideology known as 3rd Degree Training. In the following interview, Steven Collette, Co-Founder and CEO of 3rd Degree Training shares with us in detail about the company’s journey in the Fitness Industry and his opinions about the market that the company caters to along with their franchise options. Below are the highlights of the interview:
Give us a brief overview of your company, its vision, and its journey since inception. We’ve been described before as the anti-gym. It’s a place where anyone of any age or fitness level can come into a non-intimidating atmosphere and achieve their health goals, whatever they may be. When you walk into one of our studios, you’re never on your own. We motivate and support our members every step of the way. When we created 3rd Degree Training 11 years ago, we started with 10 members in the field. From the very beginning, we have strived to be different from the rest. We have always maintained a grassroots and personal approach in treating our members.
Please list the popular solutions that make your franchise standout from the competition. It really comes down to our core values – motivation, accountability, and community. We’re all about helping our members stay accountable to their goals and be their healthiest selves. By having such a personal approach, our clients are more motivated to stay on top of their goals and we find ourselves with long term clients because of it. We’re the type of gym where you don’t have to be in shape to join. Where you can find yourself working out by all shapes, sizes, ages, and levels of fitness and still feel like you belong to a motivating and welcoming fitness community.
Our belief has always been putting people first. Since the very first day that they walk through our doors, our staff has always greeted our members with a smile. We strive to ensure that everyone feel comfortable from the very moment that they walk in and that their health goals are achievable. We started franchising slowly back in 2013 in Atlantic Canada. Our low cost, easy to operate system allows franchise partners to be in business for themselves but never by themselves while operating a system that has been proven to work.
What competitive advantage does a prospective franchisee receive when they become a part of your company’s franchise chain? At 3rd Degree Training, we’re all about opportunities. A good example is that all of our current franchise partners are multi-unit owners. Having a low-cost entry allows for our franchise partners to enter new markets and grow their businesses. Our franchise model also allows for a semi-absent owner model, where you don’t have to be a personal trainer or
22 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
fitness instructor to own a 3rd Degree Training franchise. We provide personalized training to help our partners operate a successful business through building a team and giving them the tools, they need to achieve their own successes. As the co-founder and CEO, what is your opinion on the impact of the current pandemic on the fitness industry and its franchising market? There’s no question that the fitness industry has been very impacted by covid-19. Fortunately, we’ve been able to adapt and innovate with the pandemic by launching our online virtual model. This has been critical to not only our business but is also supporting our members through these stressful times by continuing to motivate them and provide them with ways to stay moving and healthy from home. Our slogan is ‘your body is your gym’, and the virtual rollout really allowed our members to stay active with our no-equipment necessary approach. Moving forward, as vaccination plans rollout the fitness industry will explode. There’s never been a better time to get into the fitness industry. In your opinion, what could be the future of the fitness industry post the COVID-19 pandemic? We are social creatures and given all of the isolation we’ve all experienced in the post COVID-19 pandemic times, there will never be a more important time for our communities to come together. While our spending habits have certainly changed, the boutique fitness like 3rd Degree Training will continue to be a place where members can come together and thrive as they work towards their health goals. It’s because of this that we will see the boutique fitness industry skyrocket.
Steven Collette | Co-Founder and CEO
As an established business leader, what would be your advice to the budding entrepreneurs aspiring to venture into the fitness services or franchising industry? The franchise industry is the 12th largest industry in Canada. Why it’s so successful is because it mitigates the risks of
“
At 3rd Degree Training, we’re all about opportunities. A good example is that all of our current franchise partners are multi-unit owners.
23 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
“
If given a chance, what is the one thing that you would change about the franchising ecosystem in the fitness industry? A lot of companies focus on fitness professionals as franchisees, but it’s also why a lot of them don’t reach their full potential. We focus on business owners who have a passion for fitness and helping people while also focusing on hard working and passionate business owners who see that the fitness industry is a fantastic investment.
Exhibiting Excellence rd
entrepreneurship. Rather than building a new business from the ground up, entrepreneurs can focus their efforts on executing the framework of an existing successful business. The focus moves from growing your business rather than establishing your business.
“I joined 3 Degree Training in January 2012. I planned to only do one round but have never left. Since joining I’ve graduated university, got married, and had 3 children. 3rd Degree Training continues to challenge me and keep me accountable through all of life’s changes. I’ve learned rd over the years what a big part 3 Degree Training plays in both, my physical and mental health. I have become friends with some amazing people and I’m proud to be rd a part of the 3 Degree Training Family” rd – Miranda, 3 Degree Training, Stratford. rd
How do you envision sustaining your company’s competency in this ever cutthroat and volatile business ecosystem? Where do you see your company in the next five years? It’s always maintaining core values. You can watch the competition but keep the focus on your business and your customers. In the next five years, we expect to see exponential growth across Canada, U.S., and U.K.
“Our journey as a 3 Degree Training Franchise partner has been amazing. We fell in love with the fun, vibrant, and motivating brand from the start. The core values of the brand really spoke to us and has allowed us to love what we do every rd day. The 3 Degree Training franchise model has allowed us to successfully grow and expand with continuing support from our franchisors and other franchise partners. We couldn't be prouder to be a part of this emerging brand and the success to come” – Holly Isnor, 3rd Degree Training Multi-Unit Franchise Partner.
24 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
World's 10 Best Fitness and Gym Franchises to Open in 2021
ANGELA'S SWIM SCHOOL Guiding Aspiring Swimmers towards Zeniths
S
wimming is known to be the fourth most popular physical activity and one of the best cardio exercises for all age groups. Whether you are a pro or a novice, a professional or someone who simply loves the activity, you will need an experienced coach to help you perfect the sport. Angela's Swim School is one such training institute that offers lessons to children and adults of all ages with effective techniques. We delved deeper into the training institute and here is what we learnt.
Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
relaxation body position breathing technique
Turning away from unrelatable animal characters, the Swimstylers are inspirational child role models who demonstrate how young swimmers get from absolute beginners to ultimately achieving 1500m, equivalent of a mile. Our syllabus is achievement led, with distance rewards at each level. For the best learning experience, we only ever offer small class sizes.
Following are the excerpts from the interview: Give us a brief overview of your company, its vision, and its journey since inception. We are now a franchised limited company created by a former Team GB international swimmer, Angela Wilson, Founder and CEO. What begun with one instructor in one pool has become a major provider of swimming lessons, that has taught thousands of children to swim. We offer classes to children from four months old, with some provision for adults. Under normal business conditions currently around 3,500 swimmers join us each week for term-time lessons in 20 locations. Opportunities for further franchise expansion will allow us to extend our reach beyond our current locations in London and the South East of England. Please list the popular solutions that make your franchise standout from the competition. We're the swim school that gets results. Our own unique swim teaching syllabus and badge reward scheme, Swimstylers, reflects the training and experience of Angela's own professional career. The syllabus helps beginners of all ages, even babies, to master our four pillars of learning to swim:
What competitive advantage does a prospective franchisee receive when they become a part of your company's franchise chain? We offer a complete and tested package of franchisee features and support, as well as full use of our longestablished brand. The franchise will be backed by our in-depth knowledge of the sport and the best guidance in how to run a successful franchise within it. With access to US-based management expertise we ensure that our standard compliance, development and marketing methods continue to fully comply. Also, 2021 will see the launch of our brand new online, interactive booking and e-commerce platform. As the Founder-CEO, what is your opinion on the impact of the current pandemic on the fitness industry and its franchising market? Even before the disruptions of the current pandemic struck, figures showed that about half of the UK's under12s can't swim. We hear that the US finds itself in a very similar situation. Now that our pools are reopening after having been closed for much of the past year the interest in having swimming lessons hasn't reduced. In fact, it's looking like it might have actually increased. Parents
26 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
“
No amount of bath-tub splashing can make up for the feeling of being fully stretched out and supported by water.
“
really value the opportunity to get their children exercising – especially as we're all so well aware how interconnected positive physical and mental health can be. As a swim school, we genuinely believe that franchises are a great first step to improving health at a national level, as learning to swim not only saves lives but it's a fantastic sport to build and maintain fitness. In your opinion, what could be the future of the fitness industry post the COVID-19 pandemic? The general mood seems very positive – in our business it really does sound and feel that people want to put the recent past of lockdowns and restrictions behind them. Instead, there's a keen interest in getting life back on track and doing exercise for real. Online classes just aren't just the same. No amount of bath-tub splashing can make up for the feeling of being fully stretched out and supported by water. Also, as we get used to living with COVID-19 and future pandemics there will be wider understanding of how to safely conduct lessons with minimal disruptions. If given a chance, what is the one thing that you would change about the franchising ecosystem in the fitness industry? It would be a huge benefit to the industry if there was a quality standard (a kitemark) that franchisees could achieve – in the same way that hotels have their star
Angela Wilson | Founder and CEO
ratings. It's a fact - not all swim schools are based on the same levels of sport knowledge and teaching experience. If this could be more easily reflected to clients, it would clearly identify premium products and help potential customers appreciate what sets the businesses apart from one another. This would greatly assist marketing within the fitness industry. Plus, it would give clients greater confidence, so they do not have to choose on location, price and word of mouth alone.
27 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
Exhibiting Excellence
As an established busines leader, what would be your advice to the budding entrepreneurs aspiring to venture into the fitness services or franchising industry? Having real passion in business is so important. The very best fitness franchises thrive when behind them is a leading force who want to help others achieve their goals and get the best results. Make sure that you feel true passion for what you'redoing, and it is infectious. It will definitely help you find staff and new business opportunities. How do you envision on sustaining your company's competency in this ever cutthroat and volatile business ecosystem? Where do you see your company in the next five years? We survive, and will continue to do so, because we always fall back to working with two main strategies. The first is sticking to what we do best. That is, offering quality swimming lessons that get results and produce strong, independent swimmers. After that, we look to the future and the opportunities that will allow us to grow. It's that attitude that's taken me from being a single instructor in my own school to a franchised business across numerous venues. It's that attitude that will see me being a growing presence in the US franchise market in the next five years.
“My daughter had her rst swimming lesson today and absolutely loved it. This is after having been with a previous swim school for nearly three years, where she spent half her time at the side of pool losing concentration. We thought today's teacher was amazing: always kept them going so no time was wasted and always corrected her when something wasn't quite right. Most of all she was so happy at the end of the class. Can't wait for the rest of term.” “This swim school is amazing. My son has always been nervous in the water and the encouragement from these instructors is amazing. They go above and beyond to ensure his condence grows and he gets the best out of lessons. The transformation in him is amazing!!” “My two have just completed a holiday crash course with Angela's Swim School and I am extremely proud of them both. They love water but we're not condent if they couldn't touch the oor. They are two different children at the end of the week and both super excited to be coming back in September for term lessons. Thank u so much and see u soon. Great teachers and such an important life skill to learn.”
28 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
Health and fitness content on
social media
a boon or a bane? 30 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
Consume Wisely
T
oday’s generation has become highly dependent on social media platforms for consuming content which was previously publicised through television, newspaper, and radio. Image based platforms like Pinterest, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat etc. have managed to ingrain themselves in the lives of innumerable individuals all over the world. The use of social media over the past decade has been increasing at a steeply ascending rate and continues to do so. The popularity of social media amongst today's generation has made it a highly influential factor in terms of a lot of things pertaining to an individual’s life and perception. One of the many things that social media influences on a great extent is the consumers’ behaviour around health and fitness. In the earlier days, articles based on fitness and health tips would mainly be accessible and available in printed magazines. However, social media provides a platform for plenty of health and fitness professionals to reach an unlimited
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immediately concerned with their own weight and appearance and even more aggravated when they came across posts of people whom they saw as fitter than themselves.
audience and network and helps them communicate the importance of health and newly founded studies to people all around the globe. Health and fitness content on social media has a positive influence on majority of the users, while at the same time has its downsides as well. The influence of social media platforms with respect to content on fitness and health related posts can be made distinct by numerous factors. Health and fitness posts and stories on social media can be motivating to a great extent as it influences people to change their sedentary behaviours and be more conscious about their health and lifestyles. Certain posts bring out the competitive nature in some individuals and lead them to bring about changes. However, it is important to follow fitness regimes or influencers that have accurate information from reliable sources, as not doing so may prove to be harmful. Plenty of fitness brands use these platforms and the motivational factor to even market their products and brands. While this can be a pro to plenty, the downside of this is that many influencers exploit these opportunities and a lot of the information that is provided, could be wrong and harmful as they may not be certified dieticians or professional fitness instructors. This even has nutritionists concerned with the possibility of people following restrictive diet plans that may prove to be unhealthy. Most of the unqualified influencers are motivated by the idea of promoting themselves or other brands and products for the sole purpose of earning money. These posts and related content have different effects on different people. Some studies state that people who were shown fitness related content on social media, grew
Dr. Anand Thakkar, Chief MD at Chicago Weight Loss Clinic said, “More staggering was the fact that this effect was seen even when the nature of the fitness related posts was positive and encouraged healthy lifestyles. If it is well managed this could be the motivation for viewers of such posts to adopt healthier lifestyle choices when it comes to weight and fitness”. To some, this content and certain posts on social media can also prove to be intimidating and bring about insecurities and self-consciousness in people and may not always have the desired impact. Social Media is definitely a growing source of fitness, diet, and health related education. Over 40% users have stated that information provided on social media affect the way they approach their health and lifestyles. The number of social media users that rely on information provided by fitness influencers or brands are increasing by the minute and this may prove to be a boon considering, not all the information provided might be completely right. This may also prove to be an issue majorly because fitness related influencers have access to resources that aren’t particularly available to the average person. Their range of accessibility is quite wide as well and there is also the added risk of incorrect information going viral as many social media posts and content do. Fitness related content does have a positive impact and influence on a wide range of users. It motivates and encourages them to maintain a healthier lifestyle. It also provides purpose to a lot of fitness and health related professionals by giving them a platform to reach wide range of people. However, it is imperative that the information you choose to follow and the influencers who provide them should be accurate and reliable. Therefore, it is important to do relevant research when it comes to health and fitness. - Vrushali R.
32 | April 2021 | www.insightssuccess.com
World's 10 Best Fitness and Gym Franchises to Open in 2021
Strength-driven Approach Improving Fitness
T
he ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of health and fitness. The global health crisis pushed individuals to adopt a healthy lifestyle focusing on improving their immunity. This increased the demand for fitness programs across the world. When the lockdown restrictions were removed people found their way to gyms and fitness training centers which have been helping individuals staying healthy. Established in 2011, MADabolic is one such fitness franchise that has been helping people achieve health through the franchise’s ‘strength-driven interval training’. This strength-driven approach and consistently healthy client experience have established MADabolic as among the renowned fitness franchises in the U.S. Brandon Cullen, Chief Concept Officer of MADabolic, further shares the uniqueness of the fitness brand. “Our competitive advantage is our program and training belief system. Strength is our base and priority, and it is this strength-driven approach that provides results unmatched in the group fitness spectrum,” he says. Read the following interview to know about how MADabolics is helping fitness enthusiasts, as well as caliber athletes, achieve their fitness goals, and how the franchise managed its operations during the pandemic. Give us a brief overview of MADabolic, its vision, and its journey since inception.
We are the industry’s first and only ‘Strength-Driven Interval Training’ franchise of its kind, leveling up the group fitness standard for the everyday go-getter. Our distinctive interval system is crafted entirely around work-to-rest ratios, which presents a challenging yet accessible environment unique to each client. We’re able to provide equally an effective training experience for both the novice fitness enthusiast and the elite-caliber athlete at the same time. Furthermore, every single trainer within our system attends a corporate training camp, is subject to our topdown execution of brand and movement education and must pass our rigorous standards to ensure that consistency in client experience is universal across all locations. As an experienced leader, what is your opinion on the impact of the current pandemic on the fitness industry and its franchising market? I believe the pandemic brought to light a certain level of expectation regarding professionalism in the fitness space. It is hard to admit, but the days of the hobby-driven, single-unit location are very much in jeopardy. I also think you can expect to see the boutique model become even more exclusive and desired throughout this Darwin-like process of natural selection within the fitness and franchising sectors. In your opinion, what could be the future of the fitness industry post the COVID-19 pandemic?
I believe you can expect a huge BOOM in the in-person group fitness space. We are already seeing an intense resurgence through attendance and membership. Digital had its moment, but we are social creatures wired for human connection. Digital provided an interim solution in an unstable time. That said, the very nature of digital cannot compete with the energy that a shared experience brings. And the oneon-one attention to detail that in-person training provides will hugely impact the overplayed digital agenda. If given a chance, what is the one thing that you would change about the franchising ecosystem in the fitness industry? Not much, I think there is a healthy balance of offerings selling professionalism and exclusivity as well as general fitness and approachability. As an established business leader, what would be your advice to the budding entrepreneurs aspiring to venture into the fitness services or franchising industry? You need to be able to anticipate (or pivot) to align with pop culture but more importantly, you need to understand your audience early. Having a well-defined client avatar will help pull your core customer towards you, rather than trying to push them in your doors. How do you envision sustaining your company’s competency in this ever cutthroat and volatile business ecosystem? Where do you see your company in the next five years?
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Sustainability comes down to two simple concepts – personality and results. Internally we often say “you can technique someone right out your door”. On the other side, you also need to deliver. And this is a very tough balance to strike, but it is the recipe for longevity in this game. It’s listening to pop culture, providing clients enough of what they want, while staying true to a results-driven approach backed by science and repetition. In the next 5 years, we plan to add 200 units to our greater MADabolic team of franchisees.
Exhibiting excellence “The coaching, music, and the program. Overall MAD is by far the best I've ever experienced. Having been to my fair share of gyms, and being a former gym owner, I understand and respect the level of precision and time it takes to come up with a program that not only works but keeps people coming back. MADabolic has all of it, and I am here for it.” – Charlotte NC
“The MADabolic workouts are the only ones that I return to every day, week after week. They are the intervals that I craved and missed during the pandemic and are the ones that I ran back to immediately when I had the chance. Every day is challenging, the music motivating, the people welcoming and the instructors kick-ass, but caring.” – Austin TX
Brandon Cullen | Chief Concept Officer
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Having a well-defined client avatar will help pull your core customer towards you, rather than trying to push them in your doors.
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“MADabolic is such an awesome workout. The facility is clean, and the trainers are friendly and knowledgeable. They emphasize correct movements which provide you a safe and resultsdriven workout. Every day is different, and the workouts are always challenging. No matter your fitness level or how you are feeling that day the workouts are scalable. You always give your effort and don’t worry about comparing yourself to others. I leave tired, sweaty, and proud of my accomplishments.” – Raleigh NC
USA Ninja Challenge F
itness has been at the center of the daily routine for many adults. However, the ongoing COVID-19 highlighted the importance of health and fitness not only in adults but in kids as well. The studies that came forward during this time also showed how the risk and severity of infection were less in physically active individuals. Since then, most parents were not only encouraged to start regular exercise at home but also motivated their kids to join the regime. Along with all the good habits, fitness achieved through regular fitness programs is one thing that, if inculcated within children at a young age, shows prominent results. Dale Grant and Richard Knight saw such tremendous benefits in their children gained from the program, that they set out to franchise USA Ninja Challenge (USANC). The duo also realized that not only were the kids having fun while getting a good workout, but each child's physical coordination, muscle tone, and concentration improved. The program has been designed in a way that each obstacle has multiple applications for developing joints that keep kids engaged over the entire program. This made USA Ninja
Challenge popular in kids as well as parents establishing the company as the best fitness and gym franchise to open. The following interview details how USA Ninja Challenge became a popular spot for kids' fitness activities and how the company ensures quality and safe training across all its franchisees. Kindly brief us about USA Ninja Challenge and its initial journey. USA Ninja Challenge began franchising in 2015 with the concept of getting kids active in a fun and competitive way that incorporates basic skill sets from gymnastics, climbing, cross-training, and track and field for boys and girls ages 4 to 17. The sport of Ninja is quickly becoming the most fun and creative way to meet the physical needs of today's youth. Now more than ever, it's important to get creative with how we approach fitness with our kids. At USA Ninja Challenge, we have created a fun, challenging environment that boosts confidence and keeps kids moving at a level where they are comfortable.
What are the key points that you consider while choosing or getting in talks with a new Franchisee? USA Ninja Challenge has developed a proven business model that boasts of strong EBIDTA which produces high ROI for each franchise. How do you train and support the new franchisee on-board and track their development? Each franchise owner receives over 40 hours of training at the corporate offices and 10 hours of onsite training at their location. Every year, our gyms get 6-month check-ups from our head trainer and call with owners every quarter that includes marketing support and training support. What factors differentiate you from competitors and how do you ensure that these factors remain consistent throughout the chain? USANC has developed a proprietary progressive regimen that develops multiple skill sets encompassing a variety of obstacles and floor exercises for kids ages 4-17. Our program has the potential to retain each student for 11 years.
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World's 10 Best Fitness and Gym Franchises to Open in 2021
At USA Ninja Challenge, we have created a fun, challenging environment that boosts confidence and keeps kids moving at a level where they are comfortable.
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FACTS: Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
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All gyms bounced back after Covid-19. Steady and consistent growth year after year. Gyms have rapid deployment schedules. Median Gross Income per gym - $420K (Referenced in our 2019 item 19 in our USANC FDD for gyms two years old and older.) Comparatively low initial investment. Average initial investment per gym $235K.
How do you leverage technology to keep a tab on growth and expansion? USANC has developed a highly organized digital system for each franchise location that incorporates point of sales, parent waiver system, and customer communications, as well as create their skill tracking system that measures the progress for each student. What has your past business growth looked like and what are the long-term plans for future growth? The Youth Fitness industry is booming. Parents want their kids active in a program that provides a progressive training system that could prepare their kids for US and World competitions in the Ninja Sport. USA Ninja has opened 17 locations all over us USA – CO, CT, MA, NC, NH, OH, TX, UT, VA. We are closing on multiple locations in Ohio, Texas, Florida, and Tennessee. We are looking for people who want to invest in multi-unit contracts as we rapidly build the future of the USA Ninja Challenge.
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