The business model certainly makes sense. Time starved consumers of the male and female variety need to find the time in their hectic schedules to get into shape. A nice half-hour workout makes sense, and it fits their hectic schedules.

This model on the surface makes sense for prospective franchise owners, too. One can come and go as they please once the business gets rolling, because staff is hired to help with the "fitness" end of things, allowing one to go out and grow the business. One can even keep their job, supposedly in some of the Fitness franchise opportunities.

So we have a franchise that makes sense for a time starved consumer in dire need of a short workout, and we have a franchise model that does not require full time hours for the franchise owner, in some cases.

The problem lies in the competitive nature of a hot industry...everybody want to be involved. So you have fitness concepts popping up everywhere, with no proven track record. Then you have prospective franchise owners who see fitness franchises popping up everywhere, and want in. The bigger question is this: Are people buying into a trend or a fad? Trends have longevity. Fads, well...they are just fads. How many different names can the franchise companies come up with? According to a popular franchise blogger, Sean Kelly, tons. {No overweight jokes, please.}

Let's talk about some recent wonderful PR that a certain fitness franchise has been getting...and one that is headed up by a familiar name in the franchise industry, Rick Schaden.

Lawsuits. An increasingly crowded and competitive market. A guy who made millions with the Quizno's franchise, with a not so good industry reputation. Food {or less food} for thought, folks. I am not suggesting to you that you not get into a fitness franchise. What I am suggesting is that you talk to twice as many franchise owners of the concept that you are looking at, than you first planned. Then, you will be ahead of most people, who may only do cursory research. The industry has some good thing going for it. there is a need for quick workouts, and semi-absentee ownership options. Just make sure you use good franchise research tools, including competent small business attorneys, who know how to read and interpret franchise documents. A CPA could also be helpful, when it comes to deciphering the financial information you will be reviewing. Take your time, and trust your gut.

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