Global Franchise 9.2 - Issue 56

f you think your local gym is still just a place to hit the treadmill or join a 7 a.m. spin class, think again. The fitness world isn’t just about breaking a sweat anymore – it’s undergoing a full-body transformation, flexing new muscles in technology, personalization, and delivering a truly holistic experience. Today’s fitness franchises are tech-savvy, wellness-obsessed, and laser-focused on consumer preferences. From AI-powered workouts that know you better than you know yourself to wellness hubs that treat your mind as well as your muscles, this is state-of- the-art stuff – and it’s only just getting started. The industry’s evolution is fueled by shifting consumer demands for personalized, tailored experiences. Fitness franchises are adopting some of the most innovative business models around, driven by rapid technological advancements. As we step further into the 21st century, we dive deep into how these franchises are leading the charge into the future, blending cutting-edge innovation with a comprehensive approach to health.Whether you’re a future investor or just curious about where the industry is headed, here’s your front-row seat to the future of fitness. Technology and innovation Technology is undeniably transforming the fitness industry, with forward-thinking franchises redefining the gym experience. Digital fitness platform Fitness On Demand – a key division of Lift Brands, a global powerhouse that includes the 24/7 international gym franchise Snap Fitness – is a prime example. “Fitness On Demand is about making fitness accessible to everyone, delivering holistic, personalized, and on-demand solutions through its four pillars: Group Studio, Flex App, Broadcast TV, and Digital Signage,” says CEO, Andy Peat. “These pillars elevate the fitness experience beyond what traditional gyms offer, adding a new dimension to the four walls of a club. Each pillar activates screens with top-tier content designed to motivate and retain members – crucial in an industry where 50% of new members typically quit within the first six months.” The Group Studio offers over 1,200 on-demand classes at the touch of a button, while the Flex App caters to diverse wellness needs. Meanwhile, Broadcast TV and Digital Signage open new revenue streams and enhance member engagement through dynamic displays. Fitness On Demand’s powerful analytics suite delivers real- time insights into member behavior, enabling operators to fine-tune offerings, boost retention, and maximize revenue.With gamification features and seamless integration with wearable tech and existing apps, the platform has driven a 115% increase in member engagement and a 66% surge in user numbers, with over 9 million classes streamed in more than 20 countries. Holistic wellness A key trend in 2025 is the shift towards holistic wellness, where fitness is seen as part of a broader approach to health that includes mental well-being, nutrition, and recovery. Lift Brands and Xponential Fitness are leading this shift by incorporating comprehensive wellness offerings into their business models. Snap Fitness, for instance, is expanding its recovery zones and enhancing its app to provide a more rounded member experience. And Xponential Fitness, a leading global franchisor of boutique health and wellness brands, has invested millions of dollars to enhance accessibility and personalization, creating a seamless customer experience. “We want our members to have access to an Xponential experience that matches their individual needs and interests, and we do this by approaching the experience in an omnichannel way,” explains Xponential’s president, Sarah Luna. One of Snap Fitness’ most successful strategies has been its recent brand repositioning toward holistic fitness, encapsulated in the philosophy “All About the Feeling.” Ty Menzies, global CEO of both Snap Fitness and Lift Brands, credits this shift towards well- being for fueling “significant growth in global memberships and franchise sales.” A key factor in this success is the innovative Snap App, which offers on-demand workouts, personalized training plans, nutrition guidance, and wellness content. Menzies emphasizes: “This digital-first approach has not only elevated member engagement and retention but also solidified our leadership in the market.” At the core of Snap Fitness’s success is a business model that balances strong support with franchisee autonomy.With a full- time club manager handling daily operations, franchisees can focus on growth while maintaining a better work-life balance. “This approach has been highly effective, with 70% of territory sales last I “It’s the ability to innovate and invest in groundbreaking tech that marks out the fitness franchise sector as a significant driving force in the global wellness revolution” Snap Fitness, Lift Brands 42 GLOBAL FRANCHISE Issue 9.2