A brand new fusion fitness concept from Malaysia has landed in Australia, with the first of 10 studios set to launch by the end of 2022 already open.

In total six studios have been signed up by Fitness Business Sales, the Australian business tasked with growing the fitness chain’s footprint here.

Fire Fit plans four more Aussie studios this year, according to Damien Bain, founder and managing director of Fitness Business Sales.

“The success Fire has already gained in Southeast Asia, as well as its popularity via virtual classes, among participants from all over the globe – including Australia – is a surefire indicator of the positive response we’re anticipating, to the local launch of this boutique fitness brand,” he says.

The brand’s owner, Asian health club operator Evolution Wellness, also has Celebrity Fitness and Fitness First in its portfolio, and has taken the Fire Fit concept from Malaysia to the US, UAE and now Australia.

So what’s different about this fitness business? The Fire Fit concept is class-based, with sessions available both online and in studios and most (80 per cent) delivering a mix of training techniques.

A typical class could combine cardio and weight training in a fusion of treadmill running, weight training, and bodyweight movements or match the high intensity of bike sprints with the benefits of a power yoga session.

The variety is good not just for members, who pay a standard price to access all classes, but for franchisees too, suggests Damien.

“As a franchisee you can have up to six disciplines under one roof: cycle meets boxing and function strength training, for instance. For a business owner, if for some reason the discipline/s you have do drop out of fashion, you can change your studio, say from an indoor cycle studio to Strike Boxing.”

So what do franchisees need to bring to the business? “Culture is important, people make the business,” says Damien. “If you are an owner operator is it crucial you have the passion for fitness and people; investors need to have a team behind them to execute this.”

The capital investment for a Fire Fit franchise is between $150,000 and $400,000 and franchisees need a minimum $100,000 liquid cash.