Orangetheory Fitness has distinguished itself in the competitive fitness industry with its innovative approach to gym franchising.
This dynamic brand, which originated in the USA, has seen a rapid global expansion, including a significant presence in the UK.
Orangetheory Fitness is not just another gym; it’s a community reshaping how people approach fitness and group workouts. The franchise’s success lies in its unique blend of science-backed workouts, state-of-the-art technology, and passionate coaching, making it an attractive proposition for potential franchisees.
What Makes Orangetheory Different?
Orangetheory Fitness has carved out a distinct niche in the gym franchise sector. But why? We’ve detailed the major reasons.
The Orange Zone
The brand’s signature approach, focusing on the ‘Orange Zone’, leverages heart rate-focused training to stimulate metabolism and increase energy. This method is designed to produce results by creating an afterburn effect known as Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption (EPOC).
The workouts are tailored to cater to a broad spectrum of fitness levels, making it inclusive for everyone, from fitness novices to professional athletes. The classes, typically an hour long, are a mix of cardiovascular and strength training, ensuring a well-rounded fitness regime.
Personalised Heart Rate Monitoring
In every Orangetheory class, participants wear heart rate monitors, and their metrics are displayed in real-time.
This allows both the participant and the coach to monitor their performance and ensure they are working in the right heart rate zone. This level of personalisation and real-time feedback is rare in group fitness settings, making Orangetheory’s approach both innovative and effective.
Inclusive and Adaptive Workouts
Orangetheory prides itself on being accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. Whether someone is just starting their fitness journey or is a seasoned athlete, the workouts are adaptable to each individual’s abilities and goals.
Balanced Fitness Regime
Orangetheory classes are structured to provide a balanced mix of cardiovascular and strength training.
Each class, typically lasting an hour, is designed to offer a full-body workout that improves cardiovascular endurance, strength, and muscle tone. This comprehensive approach to fitness helps members achieve a well-rounded level of health and fitness.
Small Group Training
These sessions maintain a low coach-to-member ratio, ensuring focused attention and guidance for each participant. Such a setting is ideal for those who seek the motivation of a group class but value the personal touch typically found in one-on-one training sessions.
This careful attention within a group environment is a key aspect of Orangetheory’s innovative approach to fitness.
How to Open an Orangetheory Fitness Franchise
To open an Orangetheory Fitness franchise in the UK, there are several key steps and requirements to consider:
Entrepreneurship Experience
Orangetheory looks for franchisees with strong entrepreneurship experience, not necessarily specific to running a gym or fitness studio.
This includes skills in recruiting and operating a business, a deep understanding of customer behavior, and strong P&L management experience.
Capital Investment
Franchisees should be prepared for a high capital investment. The cost to buy and own an Orangetheory Fitness franchise is estimated to be between £451,000 and £1 million.
This includes expenses such as pre-opening and post-opening support, equipment, construction, and furniture.
Devotion to the Brand
A strong commitment to the Orangetheory Fitness brand is essential for success. This means hands-on involvement in the studio and adherence to the brand’s standards and unique selling points.
Franchise Startup Fees: What is the Orangetheory Fitness Franchise Cost?
The initial franchise fee is roughly £48,500, which goes towards securing the licence to use the Orangetheory brand name. This fee also includes initial marketing efforts.
Ongoing Costs
These include a royalty fee of 8% of total sales, a marketing fee of 2%, contributions to the Orangetheory Fund of 3%, as well as other operational costs like staff salaries, utility costs, and refresher training courses.
Revenue Potential
A successful Orangetheory Fitness franchise can expect an average revenue of around £630,000 ($805,000) per year.
However, profits can vary based on size, location, and other factors. The average income for a franchise owner might be around £60,000, with an estimated time of around 11 years to break even or generate profit.
Training and Support
Franchisees receive comprehensive training in various aspects such as real estate, sales, operations, and strategic and pre-sales training courses. Ongoing support is also provided, including regional & international summits and launch training.
Market Presence
Owning an Orangetheory Fitness franchise offers the advantage of brand recognition, as there are over 1,800 Orangetheory franchises worldwide.
Opening a Gym Franchise in the UK
While Orangetheory Fitness stands out in the fitness franchise industry for its unique approach and solid market presence, the investment required is substantial. For entrepreneurs seeking more budget-friendly options in the fitness and sports sector, Franchise Local offers a variety of alternatives.
Among these, Active Sports Group requires a much lower investment of just £5,995 and offers the flexibility of working full-time or part-time from home.
Premier Education, with an investment of £24,950, is another viable option, especially for those looking to blend sports with education. For a focus on children’s fitness, Active Future presents an opportunity with an investment of £12,500, while fit20 and Bodystreet offer gym franchises catering to those looking for a more traditional fitness studio model.
Each of these franchises brings its unique flavour to the fitness industry, whether it’s through sports education, children’s fitness programs, or traditional gym setups.
They represent a spectrum of investment levels and operational styles, providing potential franchisees with a range of choices to match their budget, lifestyle, and business aspirations.