5 Reasons Anytime Fitness Continues to Grow

When Anytime Fitness co-founders Chuck Runyon and Dave Mortensen opened the first club in 2002, they were confident that their concept had the potential to become something extraordinary. Today, it’s clear that inclination was right. In less than two decades, Anytime Fitness has expanded to become a franchise system of 4,000-plus locations. And the brand is continuing to grow, breaking into new and existing markets at a rapid rate.

How does Anytime Fitness continue to maintain such a substantial rate of growth? From the strength of the fitness industry to the company’s unique culture, here are five reasons the brand continues to succeed.

It’s no secret that health and wellness are top of mind for consumers all over the world. Much of that enduring trend involves fitness and working out, positioning Anytime Fitness for long-term success when it comes to growth, especially as it relates to revenue.

According to the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association, fitness industry revenue is growing at a rate of 2.6 percent globally. The organization’s latest report found that total industry revenue reached an estimated $83.1 billion in 2016, which was up from $81 billion the previous year. If that level of growth continues, it’s likely that fitness industry revenue could reach $87.5 billion worldwide by the end of 2018.

In addition to franchisees being able to benefit from strong consumer interest in the fitness industry, Anytime Fitness gym owners are able to make a true difference in their communities. Anytime Fitness has established a family across its entire network of 4,000-plus gyms, creating an environment in which people can change lives by helping others achieve results.

“There’s nothing more rewarding than hearing a member say that they were able to reach their fitness goals by working with us at Anytime Fitness. That’s why we’re in this business in the first place — to make a difference in people’s lives,” said franchisee Jinell Abernethy.

That ability to help members see results is another reason that Anytime Fitness continues to grow. Tom Gilles, Anytime Fitness’ National Sales Director, said, “What really keeps people in gyms is results. If good things aren’t happening, people start to question why they’re paying money for a membership. That’s why we capitalize on our coaching program — sometimes our members need a pat on the back or an extra kick of motivation. That little bit of extra effort goes a long way.”

Anytime Fitness also makes its gyms accessible to members at all hours, even when employees aren’t around. Since its founding, Anytime Fitness has been focused on giving its members unprecedented access to its clubs in order to best fit their schedules. That’s why every Anytime Fitness member gets a key fob to their local gym.

Runyon said, “While a key fob gives our members unlimited access to all 4,000 of our clubs, it also provides feelings of independence and trust. Think about it, what other brand gives you the keys to the business when no other employees are present? Our members value that trust and take control of exercising on their schedule, not ours.”

4. Strong Opportunities for International Expansion

Because of the advantages that Anytime Fitness brings to the table — both as a business ownership opportunity and for its members — there are numerous opportunities for international growth. The business model has been proven successful all over the world, in communities large and small. Thus, the opportunities for future growth are virtually boundless.

“We expect to continue adding approximately 200 clubs a year in the U.S. for the next 10 years or longer. Simultaneously, we expect to add more than 200 clubs to our franchise system internationally each year,” Mark Daly, National Media Director of Anytime Fitness, said.

5. One-of-a-Kind Culture Where Franchisees Have a Voice

One of the biggest differences that continues to fuel Anytime Fitness’s growth is the fact that it’s created a unique culture where franchisee opinions are taken into consideration.

Runyon said, “Most franchise brands are strict with uniformity and compliance. Often times, that stifles innovation. Instead, we listen to our best franchise owners and carefully balance standardization and innovation to foster entrepreneurialism within our network. When creative ideas are proven to increase efficiency or member satisfaction, then we enable our best franchisees to pull the brand forward with their success.”

Eric Keller, Senior Director of International Operations for Anytime Fitness, said, “As impressive as our growth is, people haven’t even seen us at our best yet. I truly believe that there’s endless possibilities in front of us, and we’re going to continue capitalizing on that momentum.”

Cassie has over five years of digital and traditional media experience. She joined NLA after working as a television news producer in both Milwaukee and Chicago, and now specializes in aligning strategies across the board for her clients, ultimately building buzz and telling compelling stories through content marketing, social media, digital campaigns and traditional PR. Cassie has a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast and Electronic Communications from Marquette University.

In her spare time, Cassie enjoys traveling and exploring what new cities have to offer in addition to spending time with her friends and family.