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It is currently estimated that up to 15 per cent of all children in the UK can be classed as overweight or obese. And the problem is certainly at the forefront of the British public's consciousness thanks to relentless campaigns from the likes of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

But as children are running around less and playing video games more, this creates a situation in which exercise for young people becomes not only recommended, but vital for lowering the risk of health problems in later life.

And this in turn creates a steady market for anyone wishing to take advantage of the healthy living boom in the US and the UK.

However, children's fitness centres should not be confused with adult gyms. Many franchises are created to help encourage and educate children and parents in a fun way about the importance of exercise and nutrition, as well as make money from the industry.

Most range from centres encouraging ball games and exercises to indoor climbing and play centres.

Anyone looking to start a franchise based on child-related fitness centres should ask the normal questions and carry out research before committing to one franchise, such as whether they are setting up the franchise in the correct area and what kind of training, expertise and funding is needed.

However, many franchisers will take care of much of the specialised training for children's fitness instructors and carers, using comprehensive training programmes and development.

Children obviously do not want to sit on training machines and exercise on their own - which is also not encouraged as children's bodies are still growing and not suited to adult training exercises - meaning centres are instead sport and game based and need to be as engaging and entertaining as the people who run them.

The kind of person looking to take on the challenge of running a children's fitness centre needs to be interesting in improving the health and well-being of children, as well as encouraging social skills.

Franchisees must also be able to relate to children as they would be working closely with them and have a natural sporting ability themselves, in order to encourage and lead staff and clients alike.

But most importantly, the potential franchisee must be commercially aware, as the franchise is likely to provide their livelihood and must be a profitable business.

Enthusiasm, business skills and good management and organisational abilities are therefore a must.

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