Youth Performance Drives the Next Phase of Fitness Franchising, New D1 Training Data Shows

“Our mission has always been to develop the complete athlete,” said Will Bartholomew, Founder and CEO of D1 Training. “That means pushing the body with science-backed training, strengthening the mind with confidence and discipline, and shaping character through accountability and teamwork. This data provides clear evidence of the lasting impact of that holistic approach.”

Youth performance growth

The Rising Demand for Long-Term Athletic Programs

Proprietary D1 Training data shows that cumulative athlete visits have grown more than sevenfold since 2021, reaching 5 million in the past year, highlighting strong demand for structured, long-term athletic development.

“I’m a huge believer in youth sports. As college athletics increasingly resemble professional sports, youth sports are starting to take on the role college once played,” On3 + Rivals CEO Shannon Terry said recently on The Turf: Powered By D1 podcast. “I’m betting heavily on the future of high school and youth athletics. If you asked me today, in a perfect world, where I’d invest the most time, energy, and resources, my answer would be simple: youth sports.”

That demand is being met through D1’s Scholastic Training programs, which are intentionally designed for athletes ages 7–18 and broken into three targeted training tracks, Rookie (ages 7–11), Developmental (ages 12–14), and Prep (ages 15–18), to align training intensity, movement patterns, and coaching style with each stage of physical and emotional development.

Tracking progress

Tracking Progress and Performance

Consumer research of over 900 D1 members shows parents view youth performance training as a meaningful long-term investment beyond sports. While only a few athletes reach the professional level, parents report strong developmental outcomes: 96% note improved physical fitness, 90% cite enhanced athletic skills, and 85% see benefits in injury prevention. Significant personal growth is also reported, including confidence and motivation (92%), leadership and teamwork (90%), and discipline and responsibility (88%), highlighting the lasting impact of structured training environments.

Scholastic training program

The Scholastic Training Program

D1’s scholastic sessions follow a 54-minute, coach-led 5-Star Training progression that balances performance gains with safety and recovery. Workouts include dynamic warm-ups, speed and agility, strength, core and conditioning, and structured cool-downs, all in professional-grade facilities that reinforce proper technique and lifelong fitness habits.

The program also emphasizes character and community through 12 core principles and team-based training, helping athletes improve both on and off the field.

“D1 Training is about building communities and fostering growth at every level,” added Bartholomew. “Our franchisees receive comprehensive support, proven systems, and expert guidance, giving them the tools to operate a successful business while making a lasting impact on young athletes and their communities.”