Progressive Health Club Raises The Bar For Women's Fitness

A fast-growing women's fitness concept out of Michigan is gaining muscle in the $15.9 billion health club industry, selling 70 new locations, earning rave reviews from existing members and winning the respect of fitness gurus for its approach as the next generation women's fitness chain that "doesn't insult women." Unlike the bare-bones approach offered by the majority of women's clubs, Fit Zone for Women offers women a real health club alternative and has set new industry standards. With women accounting for 60 percent of fitness club memberships, Fit Zone for Women is filling a niche as a tailored concept that follows the mantra, "Real Women, Real Equipment, Real Results." Founded by Gretchen Shannon and a team of seasoned health club experts with over 100 years of combined fitness expertise, Fit Zone was created to address women's individualized concerns of being physically fit and their desire for challenging workouts. "Fit Zone is in a class by itself, offering a high quality fitness experience with a feminine touch," Shannon said. "Fit Zone has created the next-level in women-only gyms. Members of our clubs have endorsed the concept by renewing their memberships and raving about our workouts and offerings. Now we're looking for investors with a passion for helping women in order to fill the increasing demand for Fit Zone locations around the country." In its first year of franchising, Fit Zone has sold more than 70 locations. Currently, sites operate in Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, Florida, California and Illinois and the franchise plans to open 75 more health clubs in 2007.

By listening to what women really want in a facility, Fit Zone has incorporated several elements that have set the concept apart from the industry norm. Bright lights and fun colors create an exuberant and energetic vibe throughout Fit Zone state-of-the art fitness centers. The spacious atmosphere is equipped with an array of cardio and weight machines manufactured for Fit Zone for Women by Nautilus�, the most recognized fitness brand in the world and the originators of circuit training. The workout area is surrounded by an aerobic floor, creating an inviting and uplifting atmosphere that sparks instant motivation. "Fit Zone's Nautilus for Women circuit equipment allows for simple, one-handed seat adjustment and uses weight resistance as light as 1 pound, unlike the 10 pound weight intervals found in many co-ed gyms," Shannon said. "This system has been demonstrated to produce quicker, longer lasting results. " Fit Zone developed CircuitLight training which offers their members their proprietary green light/red light system that silently directs them to switch equipment at proper time intervals ensuring a more productive and less stressful workout. With private changing rooms, members can also enjoy their own space without the crowds and noise of regular locker rooms. The private changing rooms are just one way Fit Zone provides a pleasant and comfortable fitness experience.

Each Fit Zone club offers a wide variety of group classes, including aerobics, Pilates, yoga classes and full-workouts. Members can also enjoy watching their favorite TV shows as they burn calories in a state-of-the-art cardiovascular training center. In addition, members can opt for tanning and nutritional weight loss services.

For franchisees, the company offers extensive training and ongoing support that helps its owners in every aspect of the business, including operations, training, marketing sales and finance. "We offer an extensive franchise support system," Shannon said. "In fact, our reputation and high quality service has led several Fit Zone members to invest in the concept and become Fit Zone franchisees themselves. A background in fitness is not required; our franchisees come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Now that's what I call a true testament to our brand." Fit Zone is looking for potential franchisees eager to own and operate their own business. The average startup cost to open a Fit Zone for Women franchise is $101,100-$150,450. Fit Zone for Women offers franchisees a number of services and support, including franchise training, an elaborate Operations Manual, site selection assistance and initial and ongoing franchisee support.

About Fit Zone for Women Founded in 2003, Fit Zone for Women is a full service health club with a focus on women's needs. Fit Zone offers cardiovascular and strength training equipment, a variety of group classes and personal training, among other services. Honored by Franchise Market Magazine in 2006 as one of the top100 new franchise systems, the company's plans call for 300 locations to open by the end of 2008. For more information, visit www.fitzoneforwomen.com or www.FitZoneFranchising.com or call 1-866-615-6600.

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