Franchise Information, advice and news.

Over seven million people in the UK are members of gyms. Only about half a dozen of them seem to go, as the rest of us sign up in good faith but never seem to have the time to attend, but nevertheless the market for gyms and fitness centres is huge.

Soaring obesity levels in both the UK and the US are putting massive strains on the NHS and health systems as the Department of Health predicts a 14 per cent increase in obesity in Britain by 2010.

However, millions of people are finally catching on to the government's message that large amounts of excess weight is a massive health risk – and are doing something about it.

Heading to the gym is one of the most obvious answers to being overweight, with experts estimating a minimum of 30 minutes exercise a day for five days a week is needed to help combat obesity and bring down health risks.

Of course, many people think the idea of going to a gym is either terrifying, too expensive, absurd, or all three, leaving the market open for alternatives such as fitness centres. As many gyms are stereotyped as being full of overly muscled young men pumping iron, meaning many potential customers, mainly older women, are turned off the prospect of joining a gym to get fit.

This is where franchising and fitness centres can step in, as the market is currently in its early stages in the UK. Centres which offer men and women of all sizes and ages a chance to use various pieces of equipment, join group classes and even relax in spas are taking off, meaning the canny franchisee can take advantage of the ever-burgeoning market.

Opening a franchise fitness centre is often a wise move for businesspeople with an eye on the health sector, as franchising has many benefits compared to going it alone.

These can include the support of a nationwide chain of centres with a proven business model and strong management structure, experience in the industry, training and marketing advice and support and it is less of a financial risk.

However, potential franchisees should be aware that taking on a franchise will require a great deal of research and financial awareness in its early stages, and the right kind of character from the franchisee themselves.

Business-minded people are often the most successful as a franchise requires not only a passion and knowledge of the industry you are working in, but also an ability to manage people, budgets, marketing and sales skills and a stomach for the tough and competitive marketplace.

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