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Why functional fitness is next big thing

Nick Hall

Fitness is one of the most progressive, profitable and consumer-driven industries within the franchise sector, and while gym chains and personal training will continue to flourish, functional fitness has emerged as a key industry model.

Australian brands like F45 have taken the world by storm, bringing a renewed focus to fitness and health that is seeing a resurgence in functional, multi-discipline training

So what exactly is functional fitness?

Functional fitness refers to exercises and workouts that improve the way bodies function in daily and professional life, focusing on improving strength and stamina across a range of performance metrics.

With the  specialist fitness craze now booming, both domestically and internationally, Inside Franchise Business takes a look at three brands keeping Australian franchisees’ bodies and bottom lines healthy.

Fitstop Australia

Complete turnkey operation, Fitstop Australia was developed with multi-site franchising in mind.

Following a growth period that saw the brand develop strong foundations for franchisee success in Queensland, Fitstop is turning its sights interstate, with opportunities available across the east coast of Australia.

With a blend of cardio, resistance and team training, Fitstop Australia is creating a social movement for health and fitness that is fuelling a growing franchise sector.

Xtend Barre

American franchise Xtend Barre is part of the Collective Wellness Group, which also houses fellow fitness brands Orangetheory and Anytime Fitness.

A combination of pilates and dance, the system is a proven, safe and effective full body workout that provides clients with elements of strength, endurance cardio and flexibility training, in an intense, energetic envrinoment.

Franchisees enjoy the backing of an industry leading franchisor, with on-going support in marketing, business operations and training.

The HIIT Factory

High Intensity Interval Training franchise, The HIIT Factory has clients in and out in 30 minutes, providing a full-body, intense, calorie burning workout for time-poor Australians.

Founded in Australia, the business offers prospective franchisees an opportunity to enter the growing functional fitness industry through low set-up costs and overheads.

No experience is necessary, with full-training provided, however, standard industry qualifications are needed for class delivery and can be recruited or contracted.

The brand is currently seeking interest in all major metropolitan hubs across the country.

Industry future

As consumer demands evolve and change over time, the appeal of fast, efficient training will prove to be a strong commodity in the global fitness market.

Australians are increasingly time-poor and as a result, functional fitness centres that provide intense, full-body workouts in under an hour have grown in popularity and profitability.

Innovations, in both health and technology will also bolster the industry, with growth projected to continue over the next five years.