http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/be-a-part-of-the-movement-to-stop-diabetes/   Be a part of the Movement to Stop Diabetes! As a personal trainer and owner of Fitness Together in Burlington, I've committed my professional life to helping people improve their health and fitness. But did you know every 20 seconds someone new is diagnosed with diabetes?  Diabetes kills more Americans each year than AIDS and Breast Cancer combined.  In fact, 1 in 3 of our children will develop diabetes in their lifetime if current trends continue. This is why I will be running the 2012 Boston Marathon to raise money for the American Diabetes Association in their quest to Stop Diabetes!  Please join me in the fight by making a donation no later than April 1.  You can do so by simply clicking here You can make a difference! Each dollar I raise will be used in the fight to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. No matter how small or large, your generous gift will help improve the lives of the more than 20 million Americans who suffer from diabetes and another 54 million people with pre-diabetes, in the hope that future generations can live in a world without this disease. Together, we can all make a difference!Thank you for making a generous contribution to this cause that is so important to me!   Have questions or need more information? Please contact us at teamdiabetes@diabetes.org or 1-800-DIABETES. If you think this page contains objectionable content, please inform the system administrator. Fitness Together Fri, 24 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/be-a-part-of-the-movement-to-stop-diabetes/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-announces-aggressive-brazil-expansion/   Prominent U.S. Personal Training Franchise to Fill Demand for One-on-One and Small Group Fitness Highlands Ranch, Colo.– As a leader in the U.S. personal training sector, Fitness Together is poised to fill the growing demand in Brazil for one-on-one and small group personal training, featuring state-of-the-art fitness techniques that keep workouts challenging and dynamic.  The Colorado-based company plans to open 60 units in Brazil over the next five years and 124 over the next 10 years.  Fitness Together currently has a presence in five countries outside of the U.S. including Brazil, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada.  In comparing results for first year of operations, the company’s seven Brazil locations performed better in their first year of operations than all other international Fitness Together franchises. “Our approach to international franchise growth focuses on finding the right partners in the right markets,” said Jeff Jervik, CEO and President of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.  “We will only develop in a country when we feel that we’ve identified an individual or group of individuals who have the necessary business acumen, and a genuine passion for the health and wellness sector, and changing people’s lives.” The Brazil expansion will be led by developers Cassiano Ximenes, Newton Jose Soares Cabalieri, and Ranata Cabalier. They have a proven track record of building and sustaining franchises in the Brazilian fitness industrywith over 90 units and a solid support staff. “Fitness Together studios perform best in areas where other gyms and clubs are present,” said Cassiano Ximenes.  “Similar to Americans, the Brazilian culture values health and fitness, and the typical Brazilian Fitness Together client has tried other fitness options and been disappointed with the results.  They then decide that our personalized approach to safe, effective training is the right solution.” According to the IHRSA, Brazil is the second largest worldwide fitness market with over 18,000 clubs, as measured by number of clubs.  With the upcoming 13th Annual IHRSA Latin American conference in 2012, the Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup over the next couple of years, Fitness Together looks to capitalize on the country’s growing interest in sports and fitness. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/, a personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/or call 877.663.0880 ext. 51 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-announces-aggressive-brazil-expansion/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-acquires-area-director-territories-from-kathol-inc/ Highlands Ranch, CO – Fitness Together Franchise Corporation announced today the purchase of the Area Director Territories in Kansas, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Missouri. Effective immediately, Fitness Together Franchise Corporation will provide operational support for existing Fitness Together studios and franchise development in the territories. Area Director Phil Kathol, the first Fitness Together franchisee, has moved on to other ventures. “Phil has contributed tremendously to the growth of the Fitness Together franchise system, and we thank him for the support he has provided over the last 15 years,” said Kevin Betts, Chief Operating Officer for Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “Our team is looking forward to working with the Kansas, Nebraska, Pennsylvania and Missouri franchisees in a new chapter for the Fitness Together brand.” Betts and the Fitness Together operational team will work closely with Kathol to ensure a seamless transition for franchisees in the acquired territories. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.:
 Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. ### Fitness Together Fri, 17 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-acquires-area-director-territories-from-kathol-inc/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/business-owner-credits-fitness-together-nutrition-program-with-new-lifestyle/   Avon Resident, Business Owner, Credits Fitness Together Nutrition Program with New Lifestyle AVON, Conn. – (March 22, 2011) – When local resident Don Long started going to Fitness Together in Avon, Conn., it was to exercise. What he got in return was an 80-pound weight loss and a life-long bonus: a lesson on how to eat. Fitness Together has built a national reputation for delivering one-on-one professional workouts with a personal trainer. But new to the business, which is being implemented at Fitness Together studios nationwide, is a complementary program called Nutrition Together. Don Long, who struggled to lose weight in the past, found his answer with both. He hadn’t joined a stereotypical gym. “I was intimidated by gyms,” said Long. “With all my focus on working too much and not eating healthy, my priorities were out of alignment and I was overweight and out of shape.” In April of 2010, Long chose Fitness Together to help with his weight loss because of the private one-on-one training offered to clients. With the help of personal trainers Billy Pratt and Tim St. Pierre, Long lost 69 pounds by December of 2010 when he began to plateau. “It was getting harder for him to lose the weight,” said Pratt. “So in an effort to help boost his weight loss and keep him on track, I recommended he start the Nutrition Together program.” Modeled after the same one-on-one approach used for Fitness Together’s personal training, Nutrition Together provides clients nutrition guidance in tandem with fitness training to help achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The program is designed to offer sensible solutions and a common-sense approach to nutrition. “The Nutrition Together program gave me a clear-cut approach to eating healthy by breaking apart food portions and teaching me how to read food labels,” Long says. “It was flexible and easy to follow, as long as I stayed with the guidelines, and I really learned what is healthy for me.” Long lost ten pounds during the four-week Nutrition Together program with his personal trainers, and has lost a total of 80 pounds since joining Fitness Together in 2010. “My wife and daughter love the progress I have made. I can’t believe how far I’ve come,” Long says. “I still work out three times a week and I’m a lot more active, riding my bike and doing outside activities I couldn’t do before.” For more information on the program or to schedule an interview with Don Long or Fitness Together personal trainers Billy Pratt and Tim St. Pierre, please contact Ashley Connor at 972.770.5086 or Ashley@bizcompr.com. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://elementsfranchise.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/business-owner-credits-fitness-together-nutrition-program-with-new-lifestyle/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/hopkinton-waitress-commutes-two-hours-daily-to-beat-diabetes/   Carol Pontremoli part of Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group Type 2 Diabetes Study HOPKINTON, Mass. – (Feb. 9, 2011) – Can a balanced diet and exercise help overcome type 2 diabetes? That’s what Hopkinton resident Carol Pontremoli is trying to prove. Part of an observational study conducted and subsidized 50 percent by the Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group, Carol, a 50-year-old waitress, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes three years ago. She believed her diagnosis was part hereditary and part improper nutrition. “After I was diagnosed, my doctor told me to lose weight but simply dieting didn’t work, so he prescribed medications,” said Carol. “There was no real advice or direction or how important it was to take the medication at specific times on how to take better care of myself. I had a lack of knowledge and couldn't figure out how to do this on my own.” After nearly two years of doctor visits and medications, she did something she has never had the courage to do before – ask for help. “I saw an advertisement on TV for the diabetes study and decided to go online and fill out the application,” said Carol. “I’ve never done anything like that before. I didn’t tell anyone about it either, not even my husband. When I was chosen for the study it came as a huge shock.” In order to participate in the subsidized observational study, Carol had to work with one of 43 participating Fitness Together studios in the area. The closest one to her was an hour away in Natick, Mass., but Carol decided it was worth the mileage. Now, just over three months into the study, Carol has lost three pant sizes and feels better than she ever has. “I’m on my feet six days a week waiting tables so by the time I got home all I wanted to do was lay down and relax. I never realized it was my diabetes making me so tired all of the time. Now I stay active and go to Fitness Together after work.” Carol has even inspired her husband to take control of his life as well by joining the Fitness Together studio in Westborough, Mass. The Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group, which is comprised of 43-area Fitness Together franchised locations, formed the special health study under the guidance of Joan Hill, a Certified Diabetes Educator and Nutritionist, to see how six months of resistance training and cardiovascular exercise, combined with nutritional coaching can impact type 2 diabetes. All client results will be shared with the American Diabetes Association of Eastern New England. “We wanted to invite type 2 diabetics into our studios and offer our personal, tailored and safe exercise and nutritional guidance program to help improve their lives for the better,” said Steve Lichtman, owner of four Fitness Together franchises. “This isn’t just about losing weight. It’s about battling an illness in a smart, responsible and healthy manner.” For more information on the program or to schedule an interview with Carol Pontremoli or Fitness Together owner Steve Lichtman, please contact, Ashley Connor at 972.770.5086 or Ashley@bizcompr.com. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Wed, 09 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/hopkinton-waitress-commutes-two-hours-daily-to-beat-diabetes/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/dunstable-engineer-proving-steady-diet-and-exercise-key-to-overcoming-type-2-diabetes/ Donald Whittemore part of Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group Type 2 Diabetes Study TYNGSBORO, Mass. – (Feb. 8, 2011) – Can a balanced diet and exercise help overcome type 2 diabetes? That’s what Dunstable engineer Donald Whittemore is trying to prove. Part of an observational study conducted and subsidized 50 percent by the Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group, Donald was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes four years ago. Though he immediately began a strict regimen of medications and diet, he continued to gain weight and feel worn down. That’s not the case today. Six months after joining the type 2 study at Fitness Together of Tyngsboro, Donald has lost more than 30 pounds, his triglycerides have decreased, and his doctor has significantly reduced his medications. The Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group, which is comprised of 43-area Fitness Together franchised locations, formed the special health study under the guidance of Joan Hill, a Certified Diabetes Educator and Nutritionist, to see how six months of resistance training and cardiovascular exercise, combined with nutritional coaching can impact type 2 diabetes. All client results will be shared with the American Diabetes Association of Eastern New England. “We wanted to invite type 2 diabetics into our studios and offer our personal, tailored and safe exercise and nutritional guidance program to help improve their lives for the better,” said Steve Lichtman, owner of four Fitness Together franchises. “This isn’t just about losing weight. It’s about battling an illness in a smart, responsible and healthy manner.” Donald has seen such improvement that he hopes to one day be free of insulin injections. “My doctor has even taken me off some of my meds,” said Donald. “My AC1 has stayed down and I’m using far less insulin than before. The amount of medication I used to take in one month now lasts up to four months.” Donald has signed up for an additional six months of training at the Tyngsboro Fitness Together studio. His goal is to keep the weight off but he also wants to lose another five pounds, placing him under 200 lbs. "The best part of having a personal trainer is that I have someone holding me accountable and pushing me farther than I thought I could go," said Donald. "This is a whole new lifestyle for me, I even bike about 30 miles with my wife on the weekends now! But the most rewarding part is that I can keep up with my four-year-old grandson a little better!" For more information on the program or to schedule an interview with Donald Whittemore or Fitness Together owner Steve Lichtman, please contact, Ashley Connor at 972.770.5086 or Ashley@bizcompr.com. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Tue, 08 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/dunstable-engineer-proving-steady-diet-and-exercise-key-to-overcoming-type-2-diabetes/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/personal-training-franchise-celebrates-10-year-anniversary-in-orange-county/ DANA POINT, Calif. – Feb. 3, 2011 – Fitness Together is celebrating its 10 year anniversary in Orange County this month by thanking the community that has helped it grow. All four local Fitness Together studios, which specialize in one-on-one workouts with a personal trainer, are offering the “I’m Ready to Get Started” program, giving clients a 40% discount for the first month, a free duffle bag and other workout gear. The first studio, located at 34255 Pacific Coast Highway, opened in January 2001. Now, four Fitness Together studios serve Orange County, and all four of them will be participating in the “I’m Ready to Get Started” discount program. The locations include: Fitness Together of Aliso Viejo, located at 23411 Aliso Viejo Pkwy., Ste L., (949) 448-7900 Fitness Together of Dana Point, located at 34255 Pacific Coast Highway, Ste 107-108, (949) 488-0005 Fitness Together of Ladera Ranch, located at 1501 Corporate Dr., Ste B5, (949) 364-5700 Fitness Together of Laguna Niguel, located at 30051 Alicia Pkwy. (949) 218-3100 The Dana Point and Laguna Niguel studios are owned and operated by franchisee Debbie Peters. And the Aliso Viejo and Ladera Ranch studios are owned and operated by franchisee Jennifer Fitzgerald. Both Peters and Fitzgerald have been involved with health and fitness for most of their lives and have pulled together a team of Certified Professional Trainers who share their passion for helping people look and feel their best, and get the most out of life. “We’ve spent the last 10 years helping Orange County residents change their lives through exercise and healthy eating,” said Peters. “Our program is results-oriented, and includes weight training, cardio exercise and nutrition, which are critical components to achieving and sustaining a healthy, productive life.” For more information about the Orange County special offer visit, www.fitnesstogether.com/oc. Fitness Together’s certified personal trainers provide customized training sessions in a private setting. Franchising since 1996, Fitness Together has more than 350 operating studios. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Thu, 03 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/personal-training-franchise-celebrates-10-year-anniversary-in-orange-county/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-announces-top-7-healthy-food-trends-for-2011/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (January 24, 2011) – Your New Year’s Resolution to get in shape may get a boost thanks to some national food trends putting consumers’ health in the driver’s seat in 2011. Fitness Together, the world’s largest organization of fitness studios specializing in one-on-one personal training, has just released its Top 7 Healthy Food Trends for 2011. “This could be the year that grocery stores, restaurants and government regulators come together to make big advances for the health and wellness of the general public,” says Janet Brill, Ph.D., R.D. [“Dr. Janet”], a nationally-acclaimed author and the director of nutrition for Fitness Together’s Nutrition Together program. In Brill’s newest book, Prevent A Second Heart Attack, that hits bookstores across the country in February, she addresses a lot of these healthy food trends in great detail as well. Fitness Together’s Top 7 Healthy Food Trends for 2011 include: Sodium and added sugars are the new trans-fats. These are two ingredients that have been black-listed by major health organizations. Expect to see less of them in foods as a direct result. Processed foods are out and locally-grown foods are in. There is a growing attraction to farmer’s markets, community gardens, and restaurants that source locally-grown fresh foods. This, in turn, will continue to promote a healthier diet with more fresh fruits and vegetables as well. Omega-3s win the spotlight. An understanding of good fats and fatty acids found in Omega-3s is on the rise, and so is the demand for more fish and heart-healthy foods in the American diet. More of these foods rich in Omega-3s will find their way into restaurants and kitchens across America. Portion control, done easy. Expect to see a growing variety of pre-packaged foods in smaller portions with limited calories. The success of the 100-calorie snack packs of cookies and crackers has spawned a new niche to help consumers downsize what we eat by downsizing what we buy. Better food labeling…by law. Consumers want to know what they are eating. Food suppliers and restaurants will continue to provide nutritional information on their products and menus in growing numbers. Or, legislation will mandate it. Boomer nutrition will boom. The aging population isn’t interested in fad diets. They are living longer and eating better. They want food that tastes good and is nutritious too. And they have buying power and voting power to exercise their demands on businesses that serve them. Your gym now has nutrition guidance. Nutritionists are getting top billing at fitness facilities. That will continue as more businesses that specialize in fitness tackle a healthy diet as an integral component of the best overall healthy lifestyle solution. Workouts that burn calories now include meal plans and eating counseling, too. “We don’t want escalating health care costs, but medical advances are helping us live longer,” Brill explains. “That’s why our diet in the midst of the rising obesity and diabetes epidemics is more important than ever. And the market is responding.” A regular in the media, Brill is an authority on the topics of obesity and cardiovascular disease prevention. She is a frequent guest nutrition expert on Lifetime Television’s “The Balancing Act.” She also has been published and quoted in scientific journals as well as mainstream press, including: the International Journal of Obesity, the ACSM Health & Fitness Journal, Shape, Prevention, Men’s Health, First for Women, Woman’s World and more. As director of nutrition for Fitness Together, Brill works closely with franchisees to create a science-based nutrition program for their clients designed to promote health and to reduce the risk for major chronic diseases. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Mon, 24 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-announces-top-7-healthy-food-trends-for-2011/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/houston-fitness-together-personal-training-studio-announces-winner-of-makeover-contest/ Fitness Together Studio of Houston Announces Winner of Makeover Contest Local businesses partner to change one resident’s life  HOUSTON – (Nov. 23 2010) – For one Spring, Texas resident, Christmas came early this year. And a New Year’s resolution to get in shape came with it. Thanks to the Fitness Together studio of Champions Village, Shirley Guzman was chosen as the winner of the first Champions Makeover Contest and will receive three months of one-on-one personal training sessions with Fitness Together as well as several other prizes from local shops to assist in transforming her life. “It’s the gift of a lifetime,” Guzman said. “I want to thank everyone involved in making this happen. Words cannot express how much this opportunity means to me.” The contest, organized by Blake and Amy Edmonson, owners of Fitness Together of Champions Village, was limited to local Champions Subdivision residents who submitted an essay detailing why they deserved the makeover. A panel of local judges chose the winner. “We had many outstanding entries but Shirley's desire to change her life touched all of us,” said Amy. “As a wife and mother of two boys, Shirley is so busy helping those around her, she doesn't take the time to take care of herself. She is a very hard worker and we all know this is going to be one amazing story, start to finish.” Born and raised in the Houston area, Guzman works for HR Consulting traveling for much of her job. Married for more than 16 years and with two sons, ages 11 and 6, she has neglected herself and now admits that she is embarrassed about her weight and how out of shape she is today. “I know if I give this challenge 110% I will live my life happier, healthier and most importantly long enough to see my kids go through life,” said Guzman. “I know I am in for a journey but I also know that I am a strong woman with a can-do attitude that will get me through the next three months.” Guzman’s final reveal will be right after the New Year, and she and her trainers at Fitness Together will be blogging about her progress at http://www.championsmakeover.blogspot.com/ “This makeover is about more than simply getting in shape,” said Blake. “We want to help Shirley learn to live a healthy life for the rest of her life, and our local partners are on board with us. I went to each of their offices personally to ask them to participate and I didn’t get a single no.” For the first three months, Guzman will receive: Personal training sessions five times a week at the Fitness Together Champions Village studio including, fitness assessment, nutrition together training, cardio counseling and a polar heart rate monitor Monthly massages from Massage Heights Once a week yoga classes at Cherry Blossom Yoga Regular visits with Dr. Ted Piliszek, who specializes in aging wellness and will share all tests with Fitness Together to help keep Shirley healthy and on track Nutritional and food counseling with My Fit Food of Champions which is donating their 21 day full meal plan and a continued discount for future use In addition, directly before the reveal Guzman will also receive: A new wardrobe courtesy of Scruples Facial treatments from DermaTouchRN Teeth cleaning and whitening from Dr. Patrick Swonke D.D.S. A $100 gift certificate to Anything Bling Boutique A hair makeover from Alan Murphy Follow Shirley’s progress at http://www.championsmakeover.blogspot.com/ For more information on the Fitness Together of Champions Village studio visit, www.fitnesstogether.com/championsvillage About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/houston-fitness-together-personal-training-studio-announces-winner-of-makeover-contest/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-donations-exceed-50-000-to-american-diabetes-association/ Fitness Together Donations Exceed $50,000 To American Diabetes Association of Eastern New England And personal trainers help clients with diabetes improve their health and wellness. BOSTON, Mass. – (November 17, 2010) – The Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group, which specializes in one-on-one personal training, is proud to announce it has raised more than $50,000 for the American Diabetes Association of Eastern New England. The network of 43 Fitness Together franchised studios throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island and New Hampshire collectively signed on as the Official Health and Fitness Sponsor for the ADA’s STEP OUT: Walk to Fight Diabetes campaign to raise the funds and make the contribution. Meanwhile, the additional sweat they have put into helping people living with type 2 diabetes across their fitness studios has magnified their cause and given a face…several faces... to the illness. Separate from the crowds at STEP OUT walks in Worcester, Mass.; Providence, R.I.; and Boston recently, Fitness Together certified personal trainers have spent the past days, weeks and months up close and personal with people battling the illness, who are on a quest for health and wellness. “A lot of people can raise money, support a good cause, and call it a day. But that’s not what Fitness Together had in mind when we signed up to support the ADA chapter,” said Steve Lichtman, owner of 4 Fitness Together franchises. “We also wanted to invite people living with type 2 diabetes into our studios to offer personal, tailored and safe exercise and nutrition guidance that could improve their lives for the better.” In conjunction with the fundraising effort that surpassed Fitness Together’s goal to raise $40,000 for the ADA, the group has enlisted 35 people with type 2 diabetes across Eastern New England for their type 2 diabetes observational study. Fitness Together is tracking the impact of a fitness and nutrition program on their client’s type 2 diabetes over a six month period. The results have been amazing and Fitness Together has extended their enrollment period to add more study participants now through year-end. “We have seen dramatic transformations both physically and emotionally,” Steve said. “This isn’t just about losing weight. It’s about battling an illness in a smart, responsible and healthy manner.” And the battle continues. Based on the success of this study, Fitness Together wants to broaden the awareness of it services. People with type 2 diabetes are encouraged to contact their local Fitness Together studio and visit www.FTGetsResults.com to get more information. “The positive impact of helping people lose weight, get in shape, lower their dependence on medications and live a more fulfilling life is the best motivator,” said Chris Boynton, Executive Director for the ADA, Eastern New England. For more information on how to join Fitness Together’s type 2 diabetes study or to make a contribution to the ADA of Eastern New England, contact Maria McGlone at 508-414-1411. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-donations-exceed-50-000-to-american-diabetes-association/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-fitness-together-named-to-the-inc-5000/ Inc Magazine’s 2010 Fourth Annual Exclusive List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Sept. 1, 2010 – Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., has been named to The Inc. 5000, Inc. Magazine’s Fourth Annual Exclusive List of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies. The list represents the most comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy, America’s independent-minded entrepreneurs. “This is a huge compliment to our team and the franchise brands that we continue to grow on a national and global level,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “We are honored to be named among the industry’s best.” Honored for the second consecutive year, Fitness Together posted a three-year sales growth of 5 percent and exceeded $9 million in revenues for the parent company. The business was ranked #86 in Denver, #392 in the health industry and #4,913 of all companies in the country. “The leaders of the companies on this year’s Inc. 5000 have figured out how to grow their businesses during the longest recession since the Great Depression,” said Bob LaPointe, Inc. president. “The 2010 Inc. 5000 showcases a particularly hardy group of entrepreneurs.” Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found on www.inc.com/5000. Fitness Together’s results can be viewed at http://www.inc.com/inc5000/profile/fitness-together-holdings. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### For more information, or to schedule an interview, contact: Monica Feid / 972.490.8053 monicafeid@bizcompr.com Fitness Together Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-fitness-together-named-to-the-inc-5000/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/how-one-man-found-his-fitness-routine-and-lost-70-pounds-at-fitness-together/ Quitting the Quitting Game: How one man found his fitness routine and got it to stick. TEMECULA, Calif. -- “I had tried everything,” said Andy Ringle, who was 307 pounds when he walked into a Fitness Together studio in Temecula, Calif., last year. Today, more than 70 pounds lighter, many people don’t even recognize him. Ringle credits Fitness Together owner Ed Ferrell, his certified personal trainer. “Before joining Fitness Together, I did it all,” Ringle says. “I did Power 90 and Power 90X [the home boot camps]. I had all the home fitness gear. I bought the treadmill. I bought the exercise bike. I would be gung-ho for a month. Two months. Three months. And then I would go back to my old ways. It was a cycle.” What used to be a quick fix for Ringle in his younger days no longer did the trick. “Here I am 44, and I keep thinking I’m 25. I’ll just whip into shape,” Ringle said. But that’s never how it worked out. There was always an excuse. “I’ve got three kids. We work hard. And the whole balancing act takes over,” he admits. “Eventually, something would kick in and the first thing to go would be exercise.” Then he met Ferrell. Ringle Googled personal trainers and Ferrell’s name came up. But he still waited three months before setting foot in the Fitness Together studio. It was a commitment, financially and emotionally, to sign up and be accountable to a person whose sole business is helping him exercise. If the client quits, the trainer knows! For Ringle, that meant no more excuses. “The whole procrastination thing -- saying ‘tomorrow I’ll hit it harder’ -- I would play those games,” Ringle confesses. “But at Fitness Together, you have to bring it every day. It’s on.” He started working out at the studio three times a week, and it showed. “It was very humbling in the beginning,” he said. “I was bursting at a 42-inch waist. I was more than 50 percent body fat.” Yet, each and every workout was rewarding. So were the results. “One of the best things about Fitness Together is the expertise,” Ringle shared. “You start a fitness program, you do it and you do it, and then you get into an area where you need an adjustment. Ed is able to correct it right away. Sometimes I think he sees me coming and changes my workout when I walk in the door. There’s just something about when you have someone who knows what they’re doing that makes a difference.” After more than 100 sessions at Fitness Together, the biggest difference for Ringle is his passion for not quitting. “The clothes fit nicer,” Ringle said. “I’m looking in the mirror and I say ‘wow, I’m not the fat guy anymore.’ I’ve got a bit of spring in my step.” And his routine has changed along with his attitude. “In the past it would be: It’s Friday’s night, let’s go out and eat dinner,” he remembers. “Now, it’s let’s go get a salad.” Ringle is a changed man. And he’s not alone. His wife, Vicki, and their son, Aaron, also joined Fitness Together. They’ve lost a combined weight of 130 pounds. And they’re not done yet. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. ###  Fitness Together Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/how-one-man-found-his-fitness-routine-and-lost-70-pounds-at-fitness-together/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/how-hard-should-you-exercise-fitness-franchise-introduces-new-program-for-clients/ Fitness Together introduces Aspire 8 to further customize each client’s fitness program. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (August 4, 2010) – When it comes to exercising, not all workouts are the same. And that’s just the way Fitness Together wants it. The leading franchise network of one-on-one personal training, Fitness Together specializes in tailoring workouts for each and every client’s abilities, needs and goals. The science of crafting the right fitness routine just got better. The company recently unveiled Aspire 8, a proprietary program that will guide one of the largest workforces of personal trainers as they match each client’s aspirations to a custom fitness program designed to meet clients at their current fitness level and progressively move them forward. “If a Fitness Together studio has 60 clients, there will be 60 tailored workouts in one-on-one sessions at a private studio with a personal trainer,” says Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “That’s the individual attention that gets results, pushes clients to excel, and takes the routine out of a fitness routine.” The Aspire 8 program was released nationwide to Fitness Together studios in July. The system will help Fitness Together trainers classify each client into one of four training zones based on their current fitness level. Then, the personal trainer will work with the client individually to build a customized program designed to progressively move that client toward higher levels of fitness. The workouts will continue to evolve and adapt to the levels of improved health and fitness for each individual client ensuring that they continue to improve. “The Aspire 8 program evolves with a Fitness Together client who is increasingly getting in better shape,” Jervik added. “It addresses the age-old question: How come I work out all the time but don’t lose weight?” The results-oriented approach to exercising is one reason Fitness Together continues to excel as a growing national chain. And Jervik expects the Aspire 8 program to keep loyal customers coming back, turning many into clients for life. “We approach health and fitness as a lifestyle, and our personal trainers and fitness studios play an incredibly important role in the lives of clients,” Jervik added. “We’re not a volume business that focuses on dues versus usage. We’re about a very high level of service for people who want real results that will last. We will make the most of their valuable time each and every session in a way they won’t get anywhere else. The Aspire 8 program will take that to the next level.” About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###   Fitness Together Wed, 04 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/how-hard-should-you-exercise-fitness-franchise-introduces-new-program-for-clients/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/naperville-illinois-business-owner-follows-dream-to-pursue-fitness-training/ Fitness Together expands presence in Chicago with franchise event July 22 HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (July 19, 2010) – Working by day as an auto insurance sales agent and by night as a personal trainer at a local gym would be enough to keep most people busy. But for Betty Scarimbolo, of Melrose, Illinois, something was missing. A graduate of Illinois State University with a degree in business management, Betty was determined to find a new career. Growing up a competitive swimmer, she was always the most enthusiastic about her life when fitness was front and center. “I’ve been passionate about athletics my entire life, and have competed in and judged fitness and bodybuilding contests,” said Scarimbolo. “So when I decided to look into a new career, owning a fitness studio seemed like a natural step.” What wasn’t so natural was finding the right fitness franchisor. After an exhaustive search into several fitness concepts, Betty fell in love with the personal, one-on-one training offered through Fitness Together, a national personal training studio. “I immediately liked the way the studio was set up, and the support offered through the corporate office. But what really got me was the one-on-one training approach,” said Scarimbolo. “When I was a personal trainer, that’s how I liked to work, one-on-one with my clients, it really helps keep them accountable.” In November of 2005 Scarimbolo opened her Fitness Together studio at 1001 E. Ogden Avenue in Naperville, Illinois, and in 2009 the National Fitness Hall of Fame and Museum named her the 2009 Rising Star Award recipient. Now, based on the success of her studio, and the 13 Fitness Together studios in Illinois, the company believes the area is ready for more. Fitness Together will host a “Making Your Future Fit” franchise event for a select audience in Chicago.Scarimbolo and other franchisees will be on hand to share their experiences and recommendations for the potential franchisees. WHO: Corporate evacuees, fitness enthusiasts and entrepreneurs interested in opening and operating a Fitness Together franchise in Illinois. WHAT: Fitness Together’s “Making Your Future Fit” 2010 Franchise Event WHEN: Thursday, July 22, 6 – 8 p.m. WHERE: Doubletree Hotel O’Hare/Rosemont 5460 North River Road Rosemont, IL 60018 REGISTER: For registration information, visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/event/ or call 877-663-0880 ext 25. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Mon, 19 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/naperville-illinois-business-owner-follows-dream-to-pursue-fitness-training/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-announces-six-months-of-consecutive-growth-in-same-studio-sales/ And Targets Franchise Expansion in Illinois HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (July 13, 2010) – Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, the national one-on-one personal training giant, has announced six months of consecutive growth in average same-studio sales nationwide as consumers put a higher value on staying fit. The trend has poised the company for growth, and Fitness Together has named Illinois as its next place to expand. From January through June of 2010, sales were up across the chain of 337 locations. Fourteen of those locations are in Illinois, where demographics and demand support adding some 30 more studios throughout the state. Fitness Together is targeting approximately 12 of those studios to open in the second half of this year. “The best way to combat rising healthcare costs is to put exercise and nutrition first,” said Bob Haimes, executive vice president and chief growth officer for Fitness Together. “Contrary to the economy, people are taking control of their health and wellness by visiting our fitness studios in growing numbers. And we’re supporting that momentum by sharing our franchise opportunity and opening up the Illinois market for our next phase of expansion.” Honored as one of Dun & Bradstreet’s “AllBusiness Franchise AllStars” for 2010, Fitness Together is raising the bar for the industry and will host a “Making Your Future Fit” franchise event for a select audience in Chicago. WHO: Corporate evacuees, fitness enthusiasts and entrepreneurs interested in opening and operating a Fitness Together franchise in Illinois. WHAT: Fitness Together’s “Making Your Future Fit” 2010 Franchise Event WHEN: Thursday, July 22, 6 – 8 p.m. WHERE: Doubletree Hotel & Embassy Suites O’Hare/Rosemont   5460 North River Road   Rosemont, IL 60018 REGISTER: For registration information, visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/event/ or call 877-663-0880 ext 25. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-announces-six-months-of-consecutive-growth-in-same-studio-sales/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-franchisees-launches-type-2-diabetes-study-in-massachusetts-and-rhode-island/ BOSTON, Mass. – (July 8, 2010) – Some of the newest clients exercising at area Fitness Together franchised studios in Massachusetts and Rhode Island are doing more than stepping on a scale to chart their progress. They’re giving blood. They are part of a type 2 diabetes observational study being conducted by area Fitness Together studios to examine the impact of a 26-week individualized fitness training program. Regular blood glucose tests with a small prick on the finger are as important as the exercise in measuring safe success. “Diabetes is a major health issue affecting more than 24 million Americans, and our franchisees have told us they are happy to have a chance to make a difference,” says Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Fitness Together studios are welcoming a minimum of 50 subjects to the program and will share the results with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) of Eastern New England where the Fitness Together franchise group is also the Official Health and Fitness Sponsor for the ADA’s Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes. In one of the largest research projects of its kind, 42 Fitness Together studios have assembled across Massachusetts and Rhode Island to enlist men and women over the age of 30 who have been clinically diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and are more than 30 pounds overweight. They will be monitored by a Certified Diabetes Educator as well as Fitness Together studio personal trainers. “Through this study, we will better understand the impact of diet and exercise on diabetes control, high blood pressure, one’s sense of well-being and the costs of medications,” explains Joan Hill, Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator and Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (RD, CDE, LDN). “The mission of the ADA is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. We are supportive of the Fitness Together franchise group’s efforts to gather information for a better understanding on how working with a personal trainer can motivate those with diabetes to improve their control,” said Chris Boynton, executive director for the Eastern New England area of the American Diabetes Association. From July through December, the Fitness Together studios will chart weight loss and conduct A1c tests, which measure one’s average blood glucose level and helps track if people are at risk of complications due to uncontrolled diabetes. The studios will also track blood pressure, medication use and sense of well-being before and after test results and look for indicators of significant health improvements from the clients. People with type 2 diabetes who wish to be part of the study can locate participating studios at www.FTGetsResults.com. Each client who signs up for the type 2 diabetes study must be cleared by a doctor to exercise and must agree to six-months of observation for the following: resistance training three times a week with a personal trainer in the studio cardiovascular exercise a minimum of three times a week in the studio an initial fitness evaluation followed by fitness re-tests every six weeks documenting of all meals in a nutrition journal frequent blood glucose checks at Fitness Together In the help to fight diabetes, the Fitness Together studio franchise owners have also pledged to raise a minimum of $40,000 for the ADA Eastern New England Chapter. To join the cause, you can make a donation at participating studios or visit www.FTGetsResults.com at the “Cardio for a Cure” link in cooperation with the ADA. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. is not an official sponsor of the diabetes test in which Fitness Together franchise owners are participating, but are supportive of their involvement. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-franchisees-launches-type-2-diabetes-study-in-massachusetts-and-rhode-island/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/issaquah-fitness-together-sponsors-resident-in-2010-masters-outdoor-track-and-field-championships/ Former National Gold Medalist Jim Crittenden to go for the world record in the long jump. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (July 7, 2010) – At the age of 60, Issaquah, Washington-resident Jim Crittenden is attempting to break the world record in the long jump. And he just might do it, according to Juliana Jade, his personal trainer at Fitness Together of Issaquah on 660 N.W. Gilman Blvd. “Jim’s in incredible shape and not just for his age group,” said Jade. “He’s a real athlete and a prime example that health and fitness know no age limit. We’re excited to be involved in his conditioning, and he’s already a winner to us by making exercise and nutrition such a big part of his life.” Fitness Together Issaquah is Crittenden’s official sponsor to participate in the 2010 USA Masters Outdoor Track & Field Championships. The 2010 meet takes place in Sacramento on July 22 and will feature athletes ranging in age from 30-95+ in track and field events. To prepare, Crittenden has been working with his Fitness Together trainer at the Issaquah location, where he receives training assignments and nutritional guidance to compete in the 60-64 age group. His goal is to set the world record in the Long Jump, which currently stands at 6.07 meters or approximately 19 feet 10 1/2 inches. Previously winning a gold medal at the Masters’ National Competition, Crittenden jumped an incredible 18 feet 3 inches. With the help of Jade, owner of Fitness Together Issaquah, he hopes to leap even further into the record books. "I feel free pretty confident that I can go and get a gold medal, but that's not why I'm going," Crittenden said. "I want the big one." The 2010 USA Masters Outdoor Track & Field Championships will be held at Sacramento State University in the A.G. Spanos Sports Complex on July 22 – 25. For more information visit http://www.usatf.org/events/2010/USAMastersOutdoorTFChampionships/  About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Wed, 07 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/issaquah-fitness-together-sponsors-resident-in-2010-masters-outdoor-track-and-field-championships/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/expansion-plans-for-illinois-personal-training-giant-to-add-30-more-studios-to-the-region/ Franchise event scheduled for July 22 HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (June 29, 2010) – Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, the national one-on-one personal training giant, is launching an expansion campaign designed to add 30 more fitness studios throughout Illinois, with a dozen targeted for the second half of 2010. The expansion addresses the rising demand for one of the fastest-growing franchises in the $14 billion health and fitness industry as more than 55 percent of the U.S. population is considered overweight. Fitness Together has 14 studios in Illinois and, based on their success, believes the area is ready for more. Through its unique approach to fitness and nutrition, Fitness Together offers one-on-one sessions customized for each client’s goals with the guidance of a personal trainer in a private workout suite. And the company is rapidly adding to its network of 357 locations. “Even in a slow economy, the fitness and wellness industry has maintained steady growth,” says Bob Haimes, executive vice president and chief growth officer for Fitness Together. “As the general public becomes more health conscious and the aging population places a greater value on staying active, demand for personal trainers is growing and our Fitness Together franchise owners are filling a unique niche in their communities. We plan to add 30 more locations in greater Chicago and throughout Illinois to answer the call.” Honored as one of Dun & Bradstreet’s “AllBusiness Franchise AllStars” for 2010, Fitness Together is raising the bar for the industry and will host a “Making Your Future Fit” franchise event for a select audience in Chicago. WHO: Corporate evacuees, fitness enthusiasts and entrepreneurs interested in opening and operating a Fitness Together franchise in Illinois. WHAT: Fitness Together’s “Making Your Future Fit” 2010 Franchise Event WHEN: Thursday, July 22, 6 – 8 p.m. WHERE: Doubletree Hotel & Embassy Suites O’Hare/Rosemont 5460 North River Road Rosemont, IL 60018 REGISTER: For registration information, visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/event/ or call 877-663-0880 ext 25. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/expansion-plans-for-illinois-personal-training-giant-to-add-30-more-studios-to-the-region/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-personal-trainers-take-tulsa-contest-by-storm/ Muscling In on the Bodybuilding Scene: Husband and wife personal trainers take Tulsa contest by storm OWASSO, Okla. – (June 21, 2010) – Steve and Paula Dibbins, of Owasso, Okla. are Certified Personal Trainers who coach clients daily on how to lose weight, get in shape and lead a healthy life. But most importantly they can finally relax and have that slice of pizza they have been craving since February. That’s because the Dibbins, who co-own two Fitness Together studios in Owasso and Bartlesville, Okla. recently competed in their first bodybuilding contest at the Thoreau Academy in Tulsa. They entered the “Battle of the Bodies” exhibition as amateurs but came away as winners as Steve took second place in the men’s novice heavyweight division and Paula won second place in the woman’s short bikini division. “The goal of competing in the Battle of the Bodies was not to place, but put ourselves in a student role to better understand the client-trainer relationship,” said Steve. Preparing for the competition, Steve and Paula, both in their mid-40s, lived a fitness extreme. Led by their own coaches; Professional Body Builder, Michael and his wife, Professional Figure & Fitness Competitor, Kendra, the Dibbins ate seven meals a day, cooked & prepared their own meals, completed multiple cardio & workouts in between training clients, and running two studios. “This whole experience would not have been the same with out Michael and Kendra,” Steve explains. “Nothing compares to having someone there to hold you accountable. In fact, they have given me a new respect for what we ask of our clients in one-on-one personal training sessions at Fitness Together. (Check out Steve and Paula's Before and After Photos on Facebook: http://bit.ly/DibbinsPhotos) About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. Fitness Together-Owasso 918-272-6363 or Fitness Together-Bartlesville 918-333-7676. April 30, 2010, Husband and wife personal trainers become the trainees for Tulsa contest: http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/muscling-in-on-the-bodybuilding-scene-personal-trainers-become-the-trainees-for-tulsa-contest/   Fitness Together Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-personal-trainers-take-tulsa-contest-by-storm/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/from-world-class-figure-skater-to-real-life-mom-how-one-woman-still-values-a-coach/ Health and Wellness: From world-class figure skater to real-life mom, how one woman still values a coach TEMECULA, Calif. – June 15, 2010 – Vicki Ringle, 48, is tackling the hardest workouts of her life. That would surprise many who don’t know that she was once an alternate on the 1984 U.S. Olympic Figure Skating Team. Exercise and fierce international competition used to be the norm for Vicki who began skating at the age of 2. “I was nothing but muscle,” Vicki says of her years on the ice. But today, you can find Vicki at Fitness Together at 31045 Temecula Parkway working out those muscles again to regain control of her body. And she has a new coach, Merin Babich, a National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer. What came naturally as a world-class athlete for Vicki has been tough as an adult woman, wife and mother of three who has struggled with serious health issues. Vicki was a scarce 108 pounds when she married, and she lost her first child because she didn’t have enough fat on her body to support the pregnancy. With each child that came later, the medical complications grew, even sending her to intensive care after the birth of her daughter. The journey to lose the baby weight got harder, and Vicki taught figure skating until the pain was unbearable. “I stopped because my pelvis went out,” Vicki says. “Being in the cold, my disks slipped forward. It was a long process of several months laying on the floor getting adjusted and not getting better.” Vicki put her family first in her drive to be a good mother. And there was a new and unfamiliar hurdle – weight gain that she couldn’t fast away or skate off like the old days. So she walked…a lot. “I was walking miles and miles on a daily basis,” Vicki says. “On the weekends I would walk to church, 11 miles, and I wouldn’t lose an ounce.” Then came the onset of menopause. Doctors were no help. She didn’t want to medicate her symptoms. She wanted to feel healthy again. That’s when her husband Andy Ringle presented her with a gift membership to Fitness Together, where every client receives a customized workout in a private training studio under the direction of a personal trainer. In short, Vicki got a coach – one who would give her the kind of one-on-one attention she used to get as an elite athlete. And the guidance would prove invaluable. Fitness Together became a family affair for the Ringles. Andy joined in his own quest to lose weight, and one of their sons signed up as well. They joined Jenny Craig at the same time to monitor their diet too. Now, Vicki works out with Merin three times a week. She turns off her cell phone, and it’s her time to be selfish. Her energy has improved along with her weight. And she describes her time with her trainer as a very important relationship. “Merin is really very good,” Vicki says about the sessions. “It’s different every time. It’s always challenging.” The two have become so close that Vicki handled the flower arrangements for Merin’s recent wedding. The Ringle family is on a new journey. Andy has lost more than 70 pounds, Vicki has lost 20 pounds, son Aaron has lost 40 pounds and everyone has a new outlook on life. It’s a realistic and healthy outlook, too. “I’m 48,” Vicki says. “This is what you start to feel like. It’s about working through things on a daily basis to keep going. But I’m moving better now, and the weight comes off as it comes off. My goal is to be healthy.” About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one fitness personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996. In 2010, Fitness Together launched Nutrition Together, a nutrition and weight loss counseling program for their clients. Fitness Together Franchise Corporations also oversees Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### For more information, contact: Monica Feid, BizCom Associates 972.490.8053 or MonicaFeid@BizComPR.com Fitness Together Tue, 15 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/from-world-class-figure-skater-to-real-life-mom-how-one-woman-still-values-a-coach/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/five-strategies-for-a-more-efficient-franchise-system/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (June 9, 2010) – Even profitable companies with hundreds of locations in multiple countries must look to improve in today’s unforgiving economy. That’s the speech Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., delivered today to some of the nation’s top franchise executives at the International Franchise Association’s “Emerging Franchisor Roundtable” at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago. It’s a topic Jervik knows well. He stepped in to run Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. (parent company to the Elements Therapeutic Massage and Fitness Together franchise brands) in May of 2008. From that time on, he has hardly been in his office. Instead, he visited more than 150 franchise locations across 15 states to get a grassroots perspective of what existed and, more importantly, what could be improved. Then Jervik came back to the company’s headquarters and officially changed the office name to the Fitness Together Franchise Support Center. This was step one to emphasize the most important function for the franchisor: to support its franchisees. Upon rebranding its headquarters, Jervik identified four areas that the company should focus on for improving the franchise system: profit margin, staff retention, client retention and sales. In order for a franchisor to be successful, it needs to help its franchisees be successful in these four areas. The same is true for any growing franchise, Jervik said in today’s speech. A lean corporate staff with franchise experience has since focused on improving morale, sharpening key support systems, promoting a cohesive vision, and improving field support. The creation of leadership councils for Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage has also encouraged input from successful franchisees and Area Directors for both brands. “We have a laser focus. Run great studios. Build great teams. Make plan. And grow,” Jervik said. “The approach has allowed a large system to run much more efficiently, which has positioned us for strong growth today and in the future.” The direction has helped Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage remain vital and to grow despite the economy. Contrary to old views of personal training and therapeutic massage as discretionary expenses, today’s emphasis on health and wellness, stress reduction and preventative health measures have greatly boosted both franchise systems. Jervik said that franchisors, large or small, must get out and see their systems, train and support franchisees, and have a presence in the field to validate that the system is working. Advanced communication tools like webinars, electronic newsletters and videos, and social media can also keep a growing network connected, on message, and working towards common goals and best practices for a brand. For Jervik, it is also critical to practice what one preaches in running a good business. That’s why he volunteered to be one of the first clients for the launch of Fitness Together’s new Nutrition Together program, which means working out with a personal trainer at a local Fitness Together franchise and changing his diet to reflect his individual weight and nutrition goals. Today, not only is Jervik the President and CEO for Fitness Together Holdings, Inc, he is also a successful client. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/five-strategies-for-a-more-efficient-franchise-system/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-launches-cardio-for-a-cure-campaign/ Fitness Together Launches “Cardio for a Cure” Campaign To Raise $40,000 for American Diabetes Association of Eastern New England BOSTON, Mass. – (June 3, 2010) – It’s a huge fundraising goal with life-saving potential. Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group, which specializes in one-on-one personal training, kicked off the “Cardio for a Cure” Campaign on May 15 in an attempt to raise more than $40,000 for the American Diabetes Association (ADA) of Eastern New England. “This represents the largest fundraising campaign in the history of Fitness Together for our region,” said Benjie Moser, Area Director, of Fitness Together. From May 15 – October 15, a record 42 Fitness Together studios are inviting the general public, clients and staff to participate in the Cardio for a Cure program, collecting donations for each mile they log doing exercises like walking, running, biking and swimming. Each studio will raise a minimum of $1,000 to help fund research and education with the ADA. The campaign is also being promoted with in-store signage and local marketing with the theme that regular exercise may reduce or eliminate the need for other medication. “Our goal is to raise $40,000 to help find a cure for diabetes,” Moser said. “We want to tackle a health issue that affects more than 24 million Americans and make a real difference for participants at the same time. Cardio for a Cure is a great way to motivate our clients to work hard at their own health and fitness goals while supporting a fantastic cause. And you don’t need to be a client of Fitness Together to participate. Everyone is invited to visit our participating locations and sign up for Cardio for a Cure for free.” Donations can be made by check to the American Diabetes Association and dropped off at participating Fitness Together studios. Donations can also be given online at www.FTGetsResults.com, the home page of Fitness Together studios in New England where Fitness Together is also the official sponsor of the ADA Step Out: Walk for Diabetes. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Thu, 03 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-launches-cardio-for-a-cure-campaign/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-helps-reveal-the-new-erin-stehl-on-dr-phil-may-26th/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – May 26, 2010 – Three months, countless workouts and the guidance of Certified Personal Trainers at Fitness Together of Ponte Vedra, Fla. will be on display for the “Dr. Phil” show on May 26th when Erin Stehl of the now-famous “Dr. Phil Family” reveals her new body. With a goal to lose weight, increase her cardiovascular intensity and shed inches off her waist, Erin was paired with Wes Greer, franchise owner of three Fitness Together studios in Jacksonville, Florida and part of a international fitness franchise that specializes in one-on-one personal training. From Left-Right: Wes Greer, Dr. Phil, Lori Eboli, Erin Stehl Greer, along with one of his personal trainers, Lori Eboli, guided Erin through four workouts each week to help her lose 25 pounds and 9 percent of her body fat. Amazed by Erin’s progress in just over three months of work, the producers of the “Dr. Phil Show” invited Wes and Lori to the show’s LA studios to be there with Erin as she was unveiled in front of millions of viewers. “America will see a whole new woman,” Greer says. “And it’s not just a physical change. Erin has a new mental strength and confidence in herself after following through on a very big goal. The results were fantastic because she was willing to do it, she was ready to change, and she was fully committed,” Greer said about working with Erin. The accountability and expertise that Greer and Eboli provided helped Erin stick to a strong fitness program. According to Greer, “Erin is a semi-celebrity and is well known around here because of her ‘Dr. Phil Show’ fame, so she loved the one-on-one atmosphere here in the Fitness Together studio. The last thing Erin needed was to have distractions from this vital part of her physical and mental development.” She even stayed 30 – 45 minutes after every session to do extra cardio exercise on her own. Now America will get to see the new Erin, which will send a real message to viewers, according to Greer. “We’re promoting healthy weight-loss with diet and exercise,” Greer said. “Erin’s journey took time and serious dedication. But there are millions of women out there like Erin who are still searching for answers. We’re honored to show that Fitness Together can be part of the solution.” To watch the “Dr. Phil” Show click this link: http://drphil.com/videos/ About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. Additional Information: Wes Greer is the owner of Fitness Together Ponte Vedra, Mandarin and Atlantic. He can be reached at 904.285.3236 or wesgreer@fitnesstogether.com. www.FTJACKSONVILLE.com ### Fitness Together Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-helps-reveal-the-new-erin-stehl-on-dr-phil-may-26th/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/kitchen-designer-loses-43-pounds-and-learns-how-to-eat-at-fitness-together/ From High-End Kitchens to High-Impact Workouts: Medway resident gets in shape and learns how to eat at Fitness Together BARRINGTON, R.I. – (May 25, 2010) -- Working in a kitchen design center all day and hosting wine tasting events on the side sounds like a tasty career. But for Jane Norris, of Medway, Mass., her recipe for life was missing some important ingredients. A woman in her 50s, Norris was surrounded by the tools of the trade to build great kitchens. But over time she also discovered herself surrounded by a few extra pounds. That’s when she found a personal trainer at the nearby Fitness Together studio at 334A County Road in Barrington, R.I., and began exercising. She trains twice a week with her trainer, Erskine McIntosh, and goes once a week to work on the machines. “They are two doors down from where I work, so I have no excuses,” Norris says. “I have to go. I now go before work, so I can't sneak out at the end of the work day." After trying Weight Watchers and a gym membership, it was the accountability of her personal trainer that made a real difference. Not only does Erskine know me, but all of the trainers are on a first name basis with me. They help me with my struggles and cheer me on with my successes. “I called once, while I was at work and said I was sick. Somebody came to my office and said, ‘So, you’re sick?’” She was. But the follow-through was a perfect example of someone who truly cared about her road to health and wellness. With a goal to reach a healthy weight, her regular workouts helped her shed 19 pounds in the beginning. Then the launch of a new program, Nutrition Together, helped her learn how to eat. One of the first customers across the national Fitness Together chain to add the Nutrition Together program to her routine, Norris took her sophisticated palate and applied the rules of good nutrition. Today, she has lost a total of 43 pounds and is full of energy. During the six week program, Norris has kept a food journal, lowering her carbs, checking her calories, watching her food portions and reviewing them with Matthew Gagliano, the owner of Fitness Together. Each week Matt and Jane went over a different chapter of the Nutrition Together program. They reviewed the ups and downs of the previous week and set goals for the upcoming week. Now they meet once a month for a review. Soon their topic of conversation will be how to maintain. For now they continue to discuss ways to continue the successful weight loss. “The amazing thing is, I really don’t feel like I’m missing out,” she says. “Matt checks my books and puts a red line under things where he questions what I’ve eaten, even though I know where he’s going to put those lines now.” As Norris describes it, her old routine was delicious work that was missing a pinch of diet and exercise. Now her real hurdle is shopping for clothes that actually fit. “Physically, I feel great,” she says. “I’m in fantastic shape. Obviously, losing 43 pounds I was very much overweight. My exercise "program" was walking the dogs. Now, I work out six days a week and I do activities that I had either never done or hadn't done for a long time. I do push-ups for crying out loud. A year and half ago, if you said I was going to do these things, I would say you’re crazy.” About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/kitchen-designer-loses-43-pounds-and-learns-how-to-eat-at-fitness-together/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-named-official-health-and-fitness-sponsor-for-american-diabetes-association/ Fitness Together Named Official Health and Fitness Sponsor For American Diabetes Association of Eastern New England’s Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes BOSTON, Mass. – (May 3, 2010) – Fitness Together Massachusetts Owners Group, which specializes in one-on-one personal training, has assembled a record-setting 40 fitness studios across Massachusetts and Rhode Island to serve as the Official Health and Fitness Sponsor for the American Diabetes Association of Eastern New England’s Step Out: Walk to Fight Diabetes. From May through September, participating Fitness Together studios will raise a minimum of $40,000 [$1,000 per studio] for the ADA Eastern New England Chapter. Clients at each studio will have a chance to sign up for the Fitness Together “Cardio for a Cure” program, collecting donations from family and friends for each mile they log doing exercises like walking, running, biking and swimming. The public is invited to join in and can sign up for free at any participating Fitness Together studio. “It’s a natural fit for our clients to make the most of their workouts and support a fantastic cause at the same time,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “Diabetes is a major health issue affecting more than 24 million Americans. Diabetes incidence continues to grow, now reaching epidemic proportions and it’s a disease that deserves more attention, deeper support, broader education and swifter action from people and organizations that can help like Fitness Together.” Proceeds from the “Cardio for a Cure” program will be tallied in October when Fitness Together also sponsors three ADA Step Out: Walk for Diabetes events. The walks will take place Oct. 16, in Worcester, Mass., Oct. 17 in Providence, R.I. and Oct. 23 in Boston. “We are very appreciative of the Massachusetts and Rhode Island Fitness Together studios and their teams of trainers for taking on this important issue”, said Chris Boynton, Executive Director for the Eastern New England area of the American Diabetes Association. “Fitness Together’s mission to help their clients live healthier, happier lives is very much compatible with our mission to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the quality of life for all those living with the disease.” Separate from the money that Fitness Together raises for the ADA chapter, the studios have announced that they will also sponsor a health study to examine the impact of fitness and exercise on Type 2 diabetics who sign up at their studios this summer. Details of the six-month study will be announced soon. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Mon, 03 May 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-named-official-health-and-fitness-sponsor-for-american-diabetes-association/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/muscling-in-on-the-bodybuilding-scene-personal-trainers-become-the-trainees-for-tulsa-contest/ Muscling In on the Bodybuilding Scene: Husband and wife personal trainers become the trainees for Tulsa contest OWASSO, Okla. – (April 30, 2010) – Steve Dibbins, of Owasso, Okla. is a Certified Personal Trainer who coaches clients daily on how to lose weight, get in shape and lead a healthy life. But right now, he confesses that he cannot wait to have a slice of pizza with his wife. That’s because Steve and Paula Dibbins, also a Certified Personal Trainer, who co-own two Fitness Together studios in Owasso and Bartlesville, Okla. are training for their very first body building contest. And no “cheat foods” are allowed leading up to the competition. On May 8, Steve and Paula will compete as amateurs in the “Battle of the Bodies” exhibition at the Thoreau Academy in Tulsa. And the audience will have a special rooting section – the many clients Steve and Paula push through regular workouts who have been inspired to see the trainers become the trainees. For the last 16 weeks, Steve and Paula, both in their mid-40s, have been living a fitness extreme. Their day job involves helping a majority of clients get trim and slim, but their personal intensity has been bulking up the muscle. A low-carb diet, multiple cardio workouts and heavy weightlifting on a daily basis have propelled them into incredible shape. They eat seven meals a day, they cook all of their own food, they stagger their workouts in between training their clients, and they run two studios. The way they encourage their Fitness Together customers is how Steve and Paula have been led by their own coaches: Professional Body Builder, Michael Elias and his wife, Professional Figure & Fitness Competitor, Kendra. “I have a new respect for what we ask of our clients in one-on-one personal training sessions at Fitness Together,” Steve explains. “My wife and I exercise regularly, but this is the toughest thing we’ve ever done. Everyone needs someone to hold them accountable.” Unlike the muscle-bulging stereotypes, many certified personal trainers are very lean and thin. Steve, who grew up on tennis and towers 6’ 4” tall, is a perfect example. Paula, whose physique cannot possibly belong to a mother of three grown kids and one grandbaby, is just as energetic. Nevertheless, the duo wanted to set a new goal, put themselves in a student role at something, and inspire their clients at the same time. They aren’t out to challenge Mr. Universe, but they are on track to be toned and cut, as the judges will see. Steve will compete in the master’s division for men over 40 and the novice heavyweight division. Paula will compete in the open and master’s bikini division. Bethany Little, a personal trainer who works for Steve and Paula at Fitness Together, will compete in the figure division. And Jared Shelton, who is one of their former trainers, will compete in the men’s open. “Getting up on stage and posing in front of an audience is a little out of my comfort zone,” explains Steve. But that’s exactly the point. For the countless clients that have tried diets, joined gyms, been up and down on the scale and then walked into a Fitness Together studio and asked for his help, they are out of their comfort zone too. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/muscling-in-on-the-bodybuilding-scene-personal-trainers-become-the-trainees-for-tulsa-contest/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-owner-named-to-business-west-s-40-under-forty-class-of-2010/ Brandon Reed of Fitness Together in Northampton Named to Business West’s 40 Under Forty ‘Class of 2010’ Honorees Northampton, Mass. – April 27, 2010 – Brandon Reed, co-owner of the Fitness Together studio at 18 Strong Avenue in Northampton, Mass., has been selected as one of the Business West’s 40 Under Forty ‘Class of 2010’ Honorees by Business West magazine, the business journal of Western Massachusetts. “It’s an honor to be selected, especially at a time in our economy when small businesses are more important than ever to helping our communities succeed and thrive,” said Reed. Reed and his father, Bob, opened their Fitness Together studio in 2007. In addition to being a co-owner and manager of Fitness Together in Northampton, Reed is a NASM certified personal trainer and has obtained the C.H.E.K. Institute’s Exercise and Holistic Lifestyle Coach designations, Healthexcel’s Metabolic Typing TM Advisor – Level I certification and is now preparing to become a USAW Club Coach. “Exercise and balance are imperative to a healthy, productive and happy lifestyle,” said Reed. “That’s why it’s so wonderful to own a business in the health and wellness industry that helps so many clients every day.” Honored as one of Dun & Bradstreet’s “AllBusiness Franchise AllStars” for 2010, Fitness Together includes 357 studios across the network and expects to be sold out of available franchise territories in Massachusetts in the next 12 months. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 27 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-owner-named-to-business-west-s-40-under-forty-class-of-2010/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/dc-personal-trainer-excels-in-fight-for-air-climb-and-fund-raising-for-the-american-lung-association/ Washington, DC – April 26, 2010 – Brian Kolb, personal trainer at Fitness Together Scott Circle, participated in the American Lung Association’s Fight for Air Climb in Chicago, IL on Sunday, March 28th. “While numerous stair climbs for the American Lung Association are held throughout the United States, Brian elected to travel to the Chicago climb because there wasn’t an event in the DC area,” said Matt McKinnis, owner of the Fitness Together studio where Kolb is a trainer. “Not only did Brian want to support the American Lung Association, he also wanted to visit Chicago for the first time.” Kolb ran up the 2,340 steps in the Presidential Towers residence (4 separate towers) in 21 minutes and 20 seconds, making him the 4th in his age bracket and the 15th out of 700 participants. Additionally, he was the top fundraiser in the Chicago area bringing in $11,135 in donations. For a four-month period prior to the event Brian rigorously trained by doing calisthenics and stair climbs. Often he would spend up to 60 minutes at a time running the stairs in the 8-story building where Fitness Together is located on the main floor. “This is the best aerobic shape I have ever been in. Everyone should embrace the staircase and try not to rely on elevators and escalators to get around. You'll feel more energetic and increase your endurance, stamina, and lung health. Also, your legs and glutes will get a fantastic workout and who wouldn't want that?” said Kolb. Due to his outstanding fund-raising and his excellent run time in Chicago, Brian aspires to secure a spot next year in the Empire State Building Run-Up in New York City, which is an invitation only event. Fitness Together Scott Circle is located at 1112 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036. For more information call the studio at (202) 861-2222 or visit http://fitnesstogether.com/scottcircle. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ###  Fitness Together Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/dc-personal-trainer-excels-in-fight-for-air-climb-and-fund-raising-for-the-american-lung-association/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-names-jenna-kravec-controller/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – April 6, 2010 – Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. has named Jenna Kravec controller for the company. “Jenna’s talent for forecasting and accounting across a large enterprise with multiple locations is a welcomed addition to our growing company and our two expanding franchise networks,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. In her new position for one of the world’s largest wellness organizations, Kravec will report to Dan Colbourne and oversee parent and operating company accounting needs, financial planning functions, and cash flow forecasts for the combined franchise systems of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation and Elements Therapeutic Massage. Kravec comes to Fitness Together from Comex Group, in Lone Tree, Colo., where she worked for eight years and held positions as director of financial planning and analysis and manager of financial planning and analysis. A professional paint company with $577 million in annual sales, Kravec’s responsibilities included regular forecasts for 300 stores. Prior to Comex Group, she served as a senior accountant at Aerie Networks, a startup company in Denver specializing in long-haul fiber optic networks. She also held positions as an accountant for Celluloid Studios, a commercial production company in Denver, and as analyst and accountant for Particle Measuring Systems in Boulder. Kravec is a graduate of the University of Colorado where she earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in business administration with an emphasis on accounting. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 06 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-names-jenna-kravec-controller/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/personal-trainer-uses-social-media-to-build-big-brand-for-his-franchised-fitness-business/ Fitness “Geek” Uses Social Media to Build Big Brand for His Small Business APPLE VALLEY, Minn. – April 1, 2010 – Being a tech geek paid the bills, but fitness was his hobby. That’s how Clinton Helget describes his life until the economy tanked and he was let go from his job at a well-known communications company. Then he stumbled onto Fitness Together where he says, “my hobby became my career.” Helget became a certified personal trainer with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He first worked for another fitness chain but found he needed more control to produce real results for satisfied clients. That’s when he opened his own one-on-one personal training franchise, Fitness Together of Apple Valley, Minn., in 2006. Today he employs two personal trainers and he gets to be the boss. But his nerdy side hasn’t gone away either. Thanks to the social media revolution, Helget not only owns a successful business. He has also become one of the leaders for Fitness Together’s 357 studios on how to use Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and blogs to market his company’s services. “I wouldn’t have guessed anything from my previous career would apply to my business today, but it’s awesome to be a bit of a dork at this,” he says. It has paid off big-time to give his brand some incredible marketing muscle on a small budget. He gets to put a face on his business and overcome a “fear of personal trainers,” as he puts it. Compared to the money he used to spend on direct mail for his franchise, Helget said his strongest marketing initiative today is free. “All it costs me is time,” he says. And not that much of it. Helget had a lot of friends on his personal Facebook page. So did his personal trainers. Why not create an official Facebook page for his Fitness Together business? He did, and the friends followed. He started shooting videos of himself, the staff and client testimonials to post to the site. He requires his trainers to make regular, meaningful contributions to the page too. Mostly, they ask questions or start topics on hot subjects like six-pack abs or New Year’s resolutions. It’s less about what the experts think and more about inviting a discussion, which is the whole point. Today, Fitness Together of Apple Valley has some 500 fans. In return, they are sharing the company’s news with their friends too. Helget can reach all of them every single day by clicking “Send.” “It just grows exponentially,” he explains. “You post something and soon you have 15 comments.” Even better, those comments are constantly notifying every fan or follower of a popular discussion, creating multiple impressions thanks to the audience and not the business owner. Helget’s new blog is about to hit cyberspace too. He gets excited just talking about it. All the tech channels to showcase his passion for fitness have combined his talents to make work fun. Meanwhile, businesses have come and gone in the strip center where Helget’s studio is located. But Fitness Together of Apple Valley, about to celebrate its fourth anniversary, remains a strong constant in the neighborhood. Helget credits the brain and brawn of real people discussing real topics in real-time online as a big part of his staying power. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/personal-trainer-uses-social-media-to-build-big-brand-for-his-franchised-fitness-business/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/personal-training-franchise-to-add-12-more-locations-to-its-51-fitness-studios-in-massachusetts/ Fitness Together to Host Franchise Expansion Event in Boston April 8 HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (March 31, 2010) – More people in Massachusetts are getting in shape with the help of a personal trainer than any other state in the nation for the rapidly-expanding Fitness Together chain. The Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, which specializes in one-on-one personal training, has 51 operating franchised studios in Massachusetts and has announced plans to award another 12 locations in the region over the next year. “It’s our final phase of development for our strongest market in the country,” says Bob Haimes, executive vice president and chief growth officer for Fitness Together. Fitness Together offers a unique approach to fitness and nutrition that goes beyond traditional personal training. One-on-one sessions customized for each client’s goals take place in private workout suites. For many who unsuccessfully tried big box gyms or fad diets, Fitness Together offers a solution with sustainable results, which has allowed the brand to grow in popularity. “It’s a win-win,” explains Haimes. “Customers in Massachusetts are taking control of their health and wellness in record numbers at our Fitness Together locations. And our franchise owners are taking control of their careers as well by owning their own studios and joining a powerful brand.” Fitness Together will host a franchise expansion event from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, April 8, at the Marriott in Newton to visit with interested franchise prospects. The company is targeting fitness professionals who want to advance their careers, fitness enthusiasts with strong business skills, and corporate evacuees who want to own their own business. Honored as one of Dun & Bradstreet’s “AllBusiness Franchise AllStars” for 2010, Fitness Together includes 357 studios across the network and expects to be sold out of available franchise territories in Massachusetts in the next 12 months. For more information or to register for the event, visit corp.fitnesstogether.com/event or call 877-663-0880 ext 25. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Wed, 31 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/personal-training-franchise-to-add-12-more-locations-to-its-51-fitness-studios-in-massachusetts/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-names-jim-warren-executive-director-of-fitness-systems-advancement/ Personal trainer to the pros will help 357 fitness studios get the public in shape. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – March 24, 2010 – Fitness Together Franchise Corp., the world’s largest personal training franchise, has gone to the pros to draft one of the most sought-after personal trainers to support the franchise network. Jim Warren, who has trained hundreds of professional athletes across the NFL, the NBA, the NHL and more in his career, will now serve as executive director of fitness systems advancement for Fitness Together. “Jim’s roster of clients speaks volumes,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “The results he has achieved with athletes like Jerome Bettis, Steve Atwater and Eddie George are just a hint of his expertise. And his passion for teaching other personal trainers how to build lasting client relationships and stronger businesses are now an advantage for our brand. Today we are raising the bar across Fitness Together with Jim on our team.” In Warren’s new role for Fitness Together, he will help hundreds of personal trainers across the franchise system approach their one-on-one personal training sessions with the big picture in mind. According to Warren, who also serves as CEO of SPORTS Performance Technologies, personal training is not about helping clients lose weight or bulk up. It’s about guiding clients to dedicate themselves to lifelong health and wellness. “I’ve never trained clients with a single goal in mind to make it to the World Series, win the Super Bowl or earn the MVP award,” Warren said. “My approach to fitness is about a way of life.” Warren has mentored hundreds of personal trainers throughout his career and says conquering the yo-yo diets and sporadic exercise habits of the public at-large are a global imperative. His expertise has taken him around the world, doing business in South Africa, Japan, Italy, France and countless destinations. Today, as a resident of Highlands Ranch, Colo., he now has the Fitness Together Franchise Support Center in his backyard and 357 personal training fitness studios across the franchise network to add to that list. A lifelong athlete, Warren was an All-America running back in high school, a football defensive back at Villanova University, a defensive back and a letterman in track at the University of New Hampshire, and a member of the U.S. Pro Ski Tour. “I’ve always had a love for sports and physical conditioning,” Warren says. “My accreditation to help others with their fitness programs is the most rewarding career in the world. And I look forward to supporting personal trainers at Fitness Together on a mission to train clients for life and build a healthier, more active society.” About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-names-jim-warren-executive-director-of-fitness-systems-advancement/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-hires-freeman-and-carpenter-as-development-directors/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – March 4, 2010 – Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. has hired two development directors to oversee franchise growth across the country for Fitness Together, a one-on-one personal training franchise system. The newly-created positions go to Lance Freeman, of Capistrano Beach, Calif., and Don Carpenter, of Denver, Colo. “Lance and Don have experienced this business from the ground up, and they know what it takes to be a successful franchise owner,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. “They bring great skills to our Franchise Support Center in identifying the right prospects for us as we aggressively grow our franchise system.” Freeman began his career with Fitness Together 17 years ago and was a personal trainer at the very first studio in the system. He worked his way up to manager and then regional director. He later moved to California and purchased his own Fitness Together franchise, grew his business to include three locations and was also named the area director for Southern California. Carpenter also has a longstanding career with Fitness Together, beginning as a trainer 10 years ago and working his way up to manager, franchise owner, and then area director for Michigan and Virginia. Freeman and Carpenter will report to Tom DeLosa, chief sales officer of Fitness Together, in their new roles. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://corp.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-hires-freeman-and-carpenter-as-development-directors/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/a-red-carpet-opening-of-fitness-together-and-a-fundraiser-for-the-american-red-cross/ Washington D.C. Counts Down to the Oscars ™ with a Red Carpet Opening of Fitness Together and a Fundraiser for the American Red Cross Washington D.C. . – February 25, 2010 – And the Oscar goes to…. Everyone is making their predictions, but one local business is planning to turn that Hollywood buzz into some relief for the Red Cross as well, as it provides relief following the earthquake in Haiti. Fitness Together, a personal training fitness studio, is celebrating the grand opening of its newest location at 3222 N Street in Georgetown with a special “Countdown to the Oscars™” red carpet event at 6 – 9 p.m. on March 4. “Opening a small business is just as exciting to me as a blockbuster Hollywood event,” says Matt McKinnis, franchise owner of three Fitness Together studios, including the new Georgetown location. So he is rolling out the red carpet to open his doors and throwing an A-list party to raise money for Haiti in the process. “This party is our way to introduce our new Fitness Together Central Georgetown location to the community, have some Oscar fun, give away some great gifts and invite contributions to a worthy cause all at once,” McKinnis says. And with a tour of the new Fitness Together studio comes the chance to win a backlot studio tour in Hollywood as well. The “Countdown to the Oscars” party is sponsored by Washington Life Magazine and will benefit The American Red Cross of the National Capital Region. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served to guests and Hollywood goodie bags, courtesy of several motion picture studios, will be given away. Guests will be invited to make their Oscar predictions for a chance to win a VIP backlot studio tour in Hollywood if someone picks all of the Oscar winners. A suggested contribution of $25 per person will provide some important aid to Haiti at the same time that people turn their attention to a more glamorous event – the Oscars ™. “As a business, we focus on making a difference in people’s lives by pairing clients with personal trainers to guide them through a health and wellness program,” McKinnis explains. “It made perfect sense for our grand opening to help raise money to deliver health and wellness to Haiti too” About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://corp.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Thu, 25 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/a-red-carpet-opening-of-fitness-together-and-a-fundraiser-for-the-american-red-cross/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-teams-up-with-dr-phil-show-to-help-erin-stehl-of-the-dr-phil-family-get-fit/ Fitness Together Helps Erin Stehl of the “Dr. Phil Family” Get Fit HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Feb 17, 2010 – Fitness Together of Ponte Vedra, Fla. has teamed up with the “Dr. Phil” Show to help one of the most famous moms in America get back into shape. And on Feb. 22, viewers of the daytime talk show will get a close look at the new diet and workout regimen that could change her life forever. Erin Stehl, mom of the now-famous “Dr. Phil Family,” has let America see the ups and downs of motherhood, marriage, a teen daughter’s pregnancy and the fight to get control of her family’s life. Now it’s Erin’s turn to get control of the ups and downs of her own weight and personal health. With a goal to lose 20 pounds, increase her cardiovascular intensity and shed three inches off her waist, Erin was paired with Wes Greer, franchise owner of three Fitness Together studios in Florida and part of a national fitness franchise that specializes in one-on-one personal training. Greer, along with one of his personal trainers, Lori Eboli, have started Erin on a workout regimen, exercising 3-5 times a week at the Fitness Together studio in Ponte Vedra. Erin is also doing cardio exercises another three days a week on her own and following a nutrition program set up by the show. “Erin’s goals are not uncommon for the majority of our clients,” Greer says. “Several years of inactivity and stress have meant Erin’s own health often takes a backseat to the needs of her family. She has suddenly found herself in a position of needing help to safely and effectively lose some extra pounds and ensure that she will be healthy for her family for a long time.” The “Dr. Phil” show will follow Erin’s fitness journey, highlighting her progress in episodes leading up to a final makeover reveal episode in May. “I’m excited for viewers to get a real-world look at healthy weight-loss,” Greer added. “It’s a compliment to Dr. Phil and his team that they are communicating a healthy approach rather than a quick fix. And Erin’s journey is the journey of millions of Americans out there who just need the right guidance. We’re honored at Fitness Together to be part of that solution.” About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 16 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-teams-up-with-dr-phil-show-to-help-erin-stehl-of-the-dr-phil-family-get-fit/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-names-franchise-business-consultants/ Fitness Together Names Dean and Cicci Franchise Business Consultants HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – February 9, 2010 – Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, the one-on-one personal fitness franchise, has appointed two new franchise business consultants to serve and support studios in the field. Katherine Dean, of Detroit, will cover Michigan and Virginia; and Matthew Cicci, of Syracuse, N.Y., will cover New York and New Jersey. “Katherine and Matt are going to deliver some great hands-on support to build great teams, run great studios and grow our brand to bigger heights,” said Kevin Betts, chief operating officer of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Their duties will include working with franchise owners and area directors to ensure system-wide uniformity and adoption of Fitness Together programs, helping with grand openings of new locations, assisting with local studio marketing and providing quarterly field visits to studios in their territories. “Having the guidance of a professional is at the core of the services our personal trainers provide to thousands of clients across our network,” Betts said. “We take that same approach in providing franchise business consultants to our franchisees to guide them in following the franchise system.” About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-names-franchise-business-consultants/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/the-need-for-personal-trainers-grows-and-so-does-fitness-together/ American Fitness magazine highlights franchise in supply/demand battle for health HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – February 3, 2010 – Fitness Together, a national fitness franchise that specializes in one-on-one personal training, is highlighted in the January/February issue of American Fitness magazine for succeeding despite the economy. While times are lean, the franchise is poised for growth. In the article “Tight Economy Versus the Expanded Waistline,” reporter Cherry Butler notes that Fitness Together is filling a critical role at a critical time. According to a study published last year by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Trust for America’s Health, more than 25 percent of adults in America are obese. “The findings prove that the need for certified and talented personal trainers is at an all time high,” according to Butler. Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. agrees. He credits the success of Fitness Together to the franchise chain’s one-on-one approach to exercise and marketing to people who care about their health. “[Our clients] recognize the value of a fit and healthy lifestyle, and they will sacrifice some other type of discretionary spending before they will give up their personal training,” Jervik shared. “With the rising cost of healthcare, they would rather spend their dollars on training than on medication or the costs of an injury.” The tailored approach also has separated Fitness Together from competitors. “It’s a major departure from the big box gyms that depend on attracting a large clientele who pay monthly dues, but who may rarely use the facilities,” Jervik told the magazine. “Those who have tried big box gyms and come up short seek the focus and results that come with the personal attention our private studios offer.” Jaime Singley, who trains at a Fitness Together studio in Cleveland, Ohio, told American Fitness about those powerful results. “Working with a personal trainer is an investment in not only your health, but also your education,” she said. Singley, who has lost nearly 150 pounds, also explained how she has actually saved money by working with a personal trainer. “I go out to eat less and have cut out alcohol. That isn’t because of the money I’ve spent on training. It’s because those are decisions I’ve made to support a healthy lifestyle.” About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling fitness franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 14 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Wed, 03 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/the-need-for-personal-trainers-grows-and-so-does-fitness-together/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-names-heinrich-marketing-agency-of-record/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – January 27 2010 – Fitness Together Holdings Inc. has named Heinrich Marketing its agency of record for direct marketing and advertising programs, effective immediately. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed but will include creative campaigns for Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training franchise, and sister-company Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc. “As the nation debates the high cost of health care reform, championing the merits of health and wellness have never been more important,” said Sandi McCann, senior vice president at Heinrich Marketing. “Heinrich Marketing understands that, and we have been entrusted to take that message to the masses for these brands.” Based in Denver, Heinrich Marketing is a full-service agency that has specialized in direct marketing and advertising for more than 30 years. Breaking with the stereotypes of splurging on a personal trainer or indulging in a therapeutic massage, Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage have built solid reputations as affordable bridges to health and wellness across a combined network of 440 studios. Heinrich Marketing initially stepped in to help Fitness Together leverage proven direct marketing tactics and creative messaging to an existing campaign theme “We are not a Gimmick.” The approach worked well to generate new client leads for studio owners and helped differentiate the business from competitors. In 2010, Heinrich Marketing will handle both brands, including the debut of a new creative campaign for Elements Therapeutic Massage. “As more and more Americans take an active approach to their overall health and well being, Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are two highly relevant brands today, positioned for success. We’re excited to be a part of helping to get their message out to consumers,” McCann said. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and Elements Therapeutic Massage, Inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and Elements Therapeutic Massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-names-heinrich-marketing-agency-of-record/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-manager-becomes-business-owner/ MIDDLETON, Mass. – January 26, 2010 – For many Americans, New Year’s resolutions are about losing weight, exercising more, and getting control of one’s life. But for Melanie Braswell, of Middleton, Mass., her resolution was to own her own personal fitness training studio that makes all that happen. On Dec. 31, 2009, her resolution became a reality. Today, Braswell is the new owner of Fitness Together at 149 South Main Street in Middleton, a one-on-one personal training studio and part of a national fitness franchise where she previously served as the manager. After eight years in the fitness industry, Braswell made the impressive leap from employee to business owner and hasn’t looked back. “Since college, I’ve always wanted to own my own gym,” Braswell says. That’s why she earned a degree in recreation management with an emphasis on health and fitness from Virginia Wesleyan College, in Virginia Beach. She entered the workforce -- and the workout force -- with enthusiasm, earning management positions at different fitness gyms over the years. But it was her introduction to Fitness Together where she found a real home. “It’s very different than any other training experience,” Braswell explains about Fitness Together’s approach, which provides one-on-one workouts with a skilled personal trainer to each client in a private studio. “There’s nothing more rewarding than having a friend be successful when you have a more personal relationship like that.” Witnessing the transformations of clients who lost weight, regained their health or overcame injuries, also led Braswell to make a transformation of her own when she purchased the franchise. “I’ve always thought I was a good employee,” Braswell shares. “But there’s something about owning your own business. You can’t pay someone to love it the way that an owner does.” Ironically, Braswell said that being the owner now allows her more freedom and flexibility in her life. And she credits a strong team of three personal trainers and a great franchise system for the company’s success. “I don’t have to be a ball and chain to the studio,” she says about owning a franchise versus trying to do it on her own. “I don’t feel overwhelmed, because I know what needs to be done after being a manager for two years.” Her trainers are the ambassadors of her business. While they coach clients to get in shape, Braswell has the coaching and assistance of her franchisor and peers across 360 Fitness Together studios to help her along as well. Braswell, 31, also practices what she preaches, squeezing in a minimum of three workouts for herself every week. As a busy mother with a 3 year-old son, she has a career more than a job. And with the brand power of 50 Fitness Together studios in Massachusetts alone, the single largest concentration for the chain, she is business for herself, but not by herself. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-manager-becomes-business-owner/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-named-to-entrepreneur-magazine-s-2010-franchise-500/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – January 15, 2010 – According to the pros, the personal training fitness experts at Fitness Together Franchise Corporation run one “fit” business. Named to Entrepreneur magazine’s 31st annual “Franchise 500,” Fitness Together has once again been honored among the top franchise opportunities based on financial strength, stability, growth rate and size of system. Fitness Together, which offers one-on-one personal training across more than 360 fitness studios, was ranked #118 in the list published in January. “Our focus on 1 Client, 1 Trainer, 1 Goal continues to be the tailored approach that delivers huge results across hundreds of locations,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., regarding the brand’s success. Founded in 1983, the company began franchising in 1996 and continues to add locations across the U.S. and abroad. And unlike hot trends and here-today-gone-tomorrow ideas, Fitness Together’s longevity counts, according to the magazine. “We also consider the number of years a company has been in business and the length of time it’s been franchising, startup costs, litigation, [and] percentage of terminations,” Entrepreneur reported. Jervik credits Fitness Together’s track record to a great franchise support team and smart franchisees who follow the system. “A business that’s been around 26 years is not a fad or a victim to temporary economic swings. That’s a business with staying power, and our goal is to spread that opportunity to more franchisees who share our passion,” Jervik said. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-named-to-entrepreneur-magazine-s-2010-franchise-500/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-names-leadership-council-members/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – January 14, 2010 – Fitness Together Franchise Corporation recently elected top franchisees and area directors from the personal fitness training network to serve on the company’s national Leadership Council. The council members will represent their peers across Fitness Together’s 363 studios to foster open communication with the Support Center. Leadership Council members were selected by territory and include: (Chairperson) Benjie Moser, area director of Fitness Together in Massachusetts, representing the Northeast; (Vice Chairperson) Rick Coe, franchise owner of Fitness Together in Bethesda, MD, representing the Northeast; *re-elected (Secretary) Jonathan Slain, area director of Fitness Together in Kentucky and Ohio and franchise owner of four Fitness Together studios in Hudson, OH; Chagrin Falls, OH; Solon, OH; and Rocky River, OH , representing the Central U.S.; *newly-appointed Rick Anderson, franchise owner of Fitness Together in Matthews, NC, representing the Southeast; Randy Zarecki, franchise owner of Fitness Togethers in Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN, representing the Central U.S.; Debbie Peters, franchise owner of Fitness Togethers in Dana Point, CA, and Laguna Nigel, CA, representing the West; *newly-elected Paul McKinnis, area director of Fitness Together in Washington D.C., Maryland, and Georgia and franchise owner of two studios in Scott Circle, D.C. and Central Georgetown D.C., representing the Southeast; Pete Piranio, area director of Fitness Together in Connecticut and Minnesota and franchise owner of four studios in Woodbury, MN; Brookfield, WI; Delafield, WI; and Wauwatosa, WI, representing the West. *newly-appointed “The franchisees and area directors on this council are an important voice for our system and we look forward to their input and the greater network that they represent,” said Kevin Betts, chief operating officer of Fitness Together. As members of the Leadership Council, franchisees and area directors will attend periodic meetings with the Fitness Together management team to review company policy and initiatives, provide feedback from franchise owners in their regions and discuss matters of common interest to franchisees, area directors and the management team. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Thu, 14 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-names-leadership-council-members/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/resolution-season-brings-new-meaning-to-fitness-together/ Personal Trainer and Three Clients Fly to Phoenix to Run Marathon, Jan. 17 SAMMAMISH, Wash. – Jan. 12, 2010 – Resolution season is just underway, and four local women already have their finish line in sight. The marathon finish line, that is. Amy Lewallen, a certified personal trainer and the owner of Fitness Together Sammamish located at 3008 Issaquah Pine Lake Rd. S.E., will fly to Phoenix with three of her clients this weekend to help them run their very first marathon. Lewallen will be joined by Kris Lang, 45, and Mary Christy, 46, for the Rock and Roll Marathon’s challenging 26.2-mile race in the Sonoran Desert. A third client, Sherry Zeiler, 47, is also running her first half-marathon. That’s a long way to travel just to work up a sweat. But that’s also what puts the personal in personal training for Lewallen. Lewallen, whose fitness studio specializes in one-on-one personal training, challenged her clients to set a big goal after coaching them to early milestones in their workout sessions. That’s when the ultimate test, a marathon, entered the picture. For the last 18 weeks, the women have tackled long weekend runs in addition to their regular workouts at Fitness Together to build their stamina for the big race. And now they are kicking off the new year with one of the toughest physical challenges a person can undergo. “I know that crossing the finish line with Mary and Kris will be one of the highlights of my career,” Lewallen says. “Because each week that we complete our long Sunday runs, I feel that way already.” Lang, a busy engineer; Christy, a stay-at-home mom; and Zeiler, a second-grade teacher; have already achieved another goal too. All have made regular exercise a part of their busy lives. And with the help of a personal trainer who is now a true friend, they are going after something that many women half their age never even attempt. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about fitness franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/resolution-season-brings-new-meaning-to-fitness-together/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/personal-training-franchise-awards-franchise-agreement-for-brazil/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Dec. 21, 2009 – Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, the world’s largest business that focuses exclusively on personal training, has awarded a Master Franchisee Agreement to open Fitness Together studios in Brazil. It marks the sixth country for the growing franchise network.   Entrepreneur Antonio Cassiano Ximenes, of Fortaleza, Brazil, purchased the Master Franchisee rights with plans to open as many as 60 Fitness Together studios throughout Brazil over the next five years. Ximenes has already sold five franchise agreements.   The first Fitness Together location is targeted to open in Sao Paulo in January of 2010, and will introduce clients to a new approach for exercising. Offering fully-equipped private training rooms, personal attention, fitness assessments, customized workouts and nutritional information, Fitness Together follows a 1 client, 1 trainer, 1 goal focus and motivates clients to stick to their fitness objectives.   And to help get him started, Kevin Betts, chief operating officer and senior vice president of Fitness Together, recently spent 10 days in Sao Paulo training the Master Franchisee and other staff who will be working at Fitness Together locations in Brazil. The training sessions addressed how to open studios, how to hold a franchise university to train franchisees and other operational procedures.   Ximenes is targeting areas with populations of high household incomes and an interest in health and wellness to establish additional Fitness Together locations.   “Antonio has a fantastic track record for taking brands and making them retail and service leaders in Brazil,” said Betts. “That means he already knows the how to target the ideal Fitness Together client, and he is about to introduce a huge affluent audience to the best one-on-one personal training fitness franchise in the world.”   Among his business interests, Ximenes established the Westfall men’s clothing store chain, which he has grown to multiple locations to be the exclusive dealer of Tommy Hilfiger, Polo Ralph Lauren and Hugo Boss in Fortaleza. He also owns the master license for a ladies-only fitness franchise that has awarded 94 franchise agreements and opened 66 locations over the last five years to become the second largest fitness chain in the Brazil.   “Every business I own is a reflection of my passion for introducing the best products and services to the people of Brazil,” Ximenes said. “That is why Fitness Together will make an immediate impact for the men and women in my country who seek the personalized service, attention and results that a one-on-one workout regimen with a professional trainer will provide.”   Ximenes brings both real-world business experience and an extensive higher education to his latest endeavor. He grew up in a family-business that became the largest local chain of supermarkets in Fortaleza which was sold in 2007. He studied abroad in the United States and Nova Scotia where he earned a bachelor’s degree from Bentley University in Waltham, Mass., and a master’s in business administration from Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia.   About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, Canada and Brazil.   Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities.   ### Fitness Together Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/personal-training-franchise-awards-franchise-agreement-for-brazil/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-personal-training-franchise-named-allstar-franchise-for-2010/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Dec. 15, 2009 – Fitness Together Franchise Corporation and affiliated-company elements therapeutic massage, inc. have been named to the AllBusiness.com AllStar Franchises for 2010. Editors of the ranking considered some 700 franchise opportunities in America to rank the 300 “best of the best” for the year. “We’re honored to be recognized for our outstanding achievements and the solid position our franchise networks have established for another strong year ahead,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of parent company Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “And our thanks go out to the many franchisees with Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage who are All Stars as well for our brands.” Fitness Together, the world’s largest business of personal trainers, was ranked #207. The listing noted that “Movie stars do it. Business executives do. And now even ordinary people pump up with a personal trainer.” Highlighting that the health and wellness industries have done fairly well in the recession, Fitness Together has benefited from the trend and came in at #123 in brand awareness. elements therapeutic massage, which only began franchising in November 2006, made the nation’s top 30 for outstanding franchise growth at #27 and ranked #270 overall. Today the franchise network includes therapeutic massage studios in 21 states and continues to expand. The AllStar honor stated that the franchise offers relief through therapeutic massage for people of all ages and from all walks of life, and the franchise opportunity “also provides a stress-relieving solution for people looking to own their own business.” For the complete AllBusiness.com AllStar Franchises ranking, visit: http://www.allbusiness.com/allstar-franchises/11736542-1.html. AllBusiness.com is an online media and e-commerce company. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Dun & Bradstreet, the company is based in San Francisco, Calif. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Brazil, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-personal-training-franchise-named-allstar-franchise-for-2010/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-unveils-proprietary-nutrition-program/ Fitness Together launches Nutrition Together as part of a complete regimen to help clients achieve overall wellness goals HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Nov. 18, 2009 – Fitness Together Franchise Corp. is stepping up services for clients, and providing additional support to their franchise owners by launching a proprietary nutrition program, Nutrition Together, in select markets. Modeled after the same one-on-one approach used for Fitness Together’s personal training, Nutrition Together provides clients nutrition guidance in tandem with fitness training to help achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. With the motto “Eat healthy. Eat light. Eat often.” Nutrition Together is designed to offer sensible solutions and a common-sense approach to nutrition. The program is administered by the Fitness Together personal trainer in a series of one-on-one sessions that go hand-in-hand with the client’s personal training regimen. “Because fitness and nutrition are inseparable components of an overall wellness plan, this program brings our approach full circle to helping clients achieve their goals and live healthier lives,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “We have always encouraged and provided guidance for eating well, but with Nutrition Together we now have a solid, sensible program that completely complements our personal training services and will help promote stronger results.” The science-based program was developed by Janet Brill, Ph.D., R.D., LDN [“Dr. Janet”], director of nutrition for Fitness Together, a certified nutritionist and wellness coach and a nationally-known author and speaker. “My hope is that this program will give people the tools they need to make healthy choices in their everyday lives,” said Brill. “In today’s fast-paced society, it’s easy to let health and wellness take a backseat. Nutrition Together is a way to take back control and make healthy, informed decisions about what we eat.” After months of surveying hundreds of Fitness Together owners and personal trainers across the nation, Brill identified key areas concerning nutrition that many current Fitness Together clients considered important. She found that most clients did not want a complicated computer-based program or intensely restrictive diets. What clients did want was to learn how to make wise nutrition choices in their daily life. Nutrition Together aims to educate the client to make life-long changes in the way they look at nutrition. Modeling the paradigm of personal training, a driving force of the program is accountability of the client to the trainer. Clients are provided a journal to document what they eat each day, which they review in Nutrition Together sessions for optimal success. The program also includes a 44-page “Food & Exercise Weight Reference Guide” developed by Brill. The guide allots value, listed as “food weight,” for an extensive list of food items and common restaurant dishes. The guide also includes a corresponding “exercise weight” listing of common cardiovascular exercises, detailing how many calories per hour are burned in accordance to the individual’s weight. “Developing Nutrition Together raises the level of support offered to our franchise owners,” said Jervik. “Much of our network expressed a need for a nutrition program, and we answered the call. Our goal at the Fitness Together Franchise Support Center is to help equip our franchisees with tools and programs they need for success at the local level.” The program is currently being tested in 19 select Fitness Together locations across the country. The Fitness Together studios offering Nutrition Together are located in the following cities: Dana Point, Calif.; Rancho Bernardo, Calif.; Lake Oswego, Ore.; Raleigh Hills, Ore.; Tualatin, Ore.; Mequon, Wis.; Janesville, Wis.; Minneapolis (Downtown), Minn.; Woodbury, Minn.; Chagrin Hills, Ohio; Brentwood, Tenn.; Norcross, Ga.; South End, N.C.; Waxhaw, N.C.; Mint Hill, N.C.; North Attleboro, Mass.; Belmont, Mass.; Rocky Hill, Conn. and Barrington, R.I.  All Fitness Together personal trainers implementing the Nutrition Together program are required to complete the training curriculum outlined by Fitness Together Franchise Corp. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-unveils-proprietary-nutrition-program/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/private-training-franchise-adds-four-field-sales-directors-to-support-national-expansion/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Nov. 6, 2009 – Fitness Together Franchise Corp. has expanded its franchise development team to include four new Field Sales Directors who will support the company’s aggressive national expansion campaign and manage the recent influx of franchise leads. “Health and wellness are becoming increasingly more important to Americans,” said Bob Haimes, executive vice president and chief growth officer of Fitness Together. “We want to ensure a solid sales team is in place to accommodate entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on this growing market.”  The Field Sales Directors report to Tom DeLosa, senior vice president and chief franchise development officer for Fitness Together Franchise Corp. DeLosa started with the company as a personal trainer 12 years ago and worked his way up through management. He brings experience at both the grassroots level and an executive level within the company to his new added role of overseeing the Field Sales Director team. Each team member has been assigned a specific region in the U.S. Lance Freeman will oversee franchise development efforts in 11 states that make up the Western Region. With a 17-year background as a Fitness Together franchisee, Freeman is also an area director for the company. In his 10 years as an area director, Freeman is responsible for the addition of more than 40 franchisees to the Fitness Together system. Michael Hall was awarded the Midwest Region and will oversee 14 states within his territory. Hall co-owns three Fitness Together studios in Ohio and has been with Fitness Together since 2006. He holds a personal trainer accreditation from the National Personal Training Institute.  Don Carpenter was awarded the Southeastern Region, and will oversee franchise development efforts in 15 states. Carpenter has been with Fitness Together for 11 years and is an area director. Carpenter also spearheaded a franchise expansion effort by working with the State of Texas Economic Development Division to connect with foreign investors in Mexico earlier this year. Scott Thompson, Fitness Together studio owner and former area director, will oversee the Northeast Region, which includes 10 states. Thompson began his career with Fitness Together as a personal trainer and went on to own a franchise in Dedham, Mass. that became the third top-producing Fitness Together Franchise in the nation. In his role as area director, Thompson was the top franchise sales person in the network in 2006. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1983 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., one of the world's largest wellness organizations. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996 and has sold franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation is actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/private-training-franchise-adds-four-field-sales-directors-to-support-national-expansion/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-ceo-featured-on-cover-of-club-solutions-magazine/ Cover story profiles Fitness Together’s leader and his growth plans for the company. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Sept. 21, 2009 – Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., parent company of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a personal training franchise, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., a massage therapy franchise, is featured on the September cover of Club Solutions magazine. The cover story: “Personal Growth: How Jeff Jervik and Fitness Together are Building Relationships to Facilitate Expansion," highlights how Jervik is leading the national personal training franchise to continued growth while developing a strong corporate staff to support both existing and future franchise owners. After personally visiting more than 150 studios, Jervik implemented a more intense corporate support program to better address the needs of more than 400 existing Fitness Together franchise locations. He also unveiled plans to add 250-300 additional locations over the next five years. Focusing on Jervik’s background and an aggressive expansion campaign for the company, Club Solutions says he “has been involved with franchising for more than 20 years, making him the ideal candidate to facilitate growth and lead the overall strategic direction of the company.” Highlighting a career with leadership roles from PepsiCo to Papa John’s and Krispy Kreme to Fitness Together, Jervik’s skills and expertise have positioned him to duplicate success in the health and wellness industry and raise the bar to a whole new level. He stresses the importance of not only creating a strong business model, but also successfully replicating that model in each franchise location. “Jervik is in the position to fully understand what it takes to manage hundreds of existing locations while also achieving significant growth,” the story says. And his approach has also positioned the company to make impressive advances despite the economic downturn. Sharing Jervik’s keys for success, the article details the importance of brand awareness, customer research, internal communication, team-building, and getting back to the basics that make a difference. Fitness Together currently has more than 400 locations open in the United States, Costa Rica, Israel and Canada. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. ### Fitness Together Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-ceo-featured-on-cover-of-club-solutions-magazine/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/c-wing-at-fitness-together-holdings-forms-relay-team-to-run-boulder-marathon-sept-20th/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Sept. 17, 2009 – Leading by example isn’t just a goal at Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., parent company of one-on-one personal training franchise, Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, and massage therapy franchise, elements therapeutic massage, inc.. To show they do more than run the company from behind a desk, four members of the executive team are running in the Boulder Marathon on Sept. 20 in Boulder, Colo. Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Bob Haimes, executive vice president and chief growth officer of Fitness Together Holdings, Kevin Betts, chief operating officer and senior vice president of Fitness Together Franchise Corp., and Kyle Gjersee, senior vice president of operations and chief operating officer for elements therapeutic massage, have formed a relay team and will run the 26.2 miles beginning and ending at the Boulder Reservoir. Practicing what they preach, the four executives are physically active and intent on promoting health and wellness – a growing industry that their combined franchise network of more than 450 studios supports. “We want to show that as a company and as individuals we truly believe in the importance of overall health and wellness,” said Jervik. “Running in the Boulder Marathon is just one outwardly visible way we can accomplish that.” In addition, elements therapeutic massage studios of Colorado have been selected as the exclusive massage therapy sponsor for the race. The sponsorship was organized by Kate and Mark Mills, owners of elements therapeutic massage of Boulder. Massage therapists from elements locations throughout Colorado will be on-site providing complimentary massages to runners at the race start and finish station. elements will also have a booth set up, offering promotional items and information about membership. Mark Mills is a full-time injury massage therapist at his elements location as well as an avid runner, who at 55 has completed 10 100-mile ultramarathons and 106 marathons. “Running and massage therapy are both a huge part of my life and as an elements owner, I am proud to support my community and hope to share the healing power of massage therapy with fellow runners.” There are 13 elements therapeutic massage studios currently open in Colorado. For more information about studio locations, visit http://corp.touchofelements.com/locations/. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, Fitness Together,a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities.  ### Fitness Together Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/c-wing-at-fitness-together-holdings-forms-relay-team-to-run-boulder-marathon-sept-20th/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-personal-training-franchise-names-cfo-and-new-board-members/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Sept. 10, 2009 – Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., parent company of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation and elements therapeutic massage, inc., has named a new chief financial officer and announced three new board members, further positioning the company for its continued strategic growth. “These recent additions within our already strong executive team and board reiterate that Fitness Together Holdings is poised for continued growth and success across our brands,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. “We are passionate about building a team of leaders that support our company, our current and future franchisees and the clients they serve.” Dan Colbourne was named executive vice president and chief financial officer of Fitness Together Holdings. Colbourne will oversee all finance, accounting and IT functions at the parent and operating companies, providing strategic financial leadership. Prior to joining Fitness Together Holdings, Colbourne served as senior vice president and CFO of Comex Group, Inc., formally known as Professional Paint, Inc. There he was a member of the senior management team that formed the company and acquired a $340 million business, operating 225 stores and five manufacturing facilities across North America. Charles Van Gundy was promoted to vice president of finance and accounting for both brands, previously serving as interim CFO and corporate controller from November 2008 to August 2009. In his new role, Van Gundy will be responsible for the end-of-year financial audit and will direct the day-to-day operations of accounting, account payable, payroll and financial reporting. Van Gundy has 15 years experience in financial management, and prior to joining Fitness Together Holdings served as controller for PostNet International Franchise Corp., a privately held shipping franchisor, where he increased collections by $1 million and reduced outstanding accounts receivables to 30 days. In addition, Fitness Together Holdings has named three new members to its Board of Directors: John Adams, Tom Auth and Debra Koenig. Adams, CPA, CIA, CFE, CDE, is a founding member of National Retail Concepts Partners, LLC, a consulting and investment firm specializing in services to the retail and franchise sectors. Adams also provides consulting services to Nolaris USA, LLC, a company developing commercial solutions for concentrated solar power technology. Prior, Adams served as president of Big O Tires, LLC from 2000 until his retirement in 2008. He continues to serve as a consultant on mergers and acquisitions for Big O Tires and its parent company, TBC Corp. Adams was an Olympic Torchbearer in the 1996 Summer Olympic Games and the 2002 Winter Olympics Games. Auth is a general partner of Enhanced Equity Fund, L.P. (EEF). Prior to joining EEF, Auth was a member of ACI Capital Co., LLC, a generalist middle market private equity fund focused on value-oriented buyouts and growth investments across industries. Auth also co-founded Concordant Rater Systems, a services company focused on improving efficiencies in clinical trials. He is a member of the Junior Board of the Cancer Research Institute and is the Chairman of Row New York, a charitable organization focused on exposing inner city kids to rowing. Auth was a member of the U.S. Olympic Rowing Teams in 1996 and 2000. Koenig is the president of Power of 3 Solutions, an innovative practice focused on unit execution and profitability and part of the Red Book Solutions family of companies. She is also co-owner of Koenig Sales, LLC, a collector car sales and restoration company operating in the global market. Prior to her current roles, Koenig served as CEO of VICORP Restaurants, a $466 million private equity portfolio company in the hospitality and manufacturing industries. She also served as president of the Southeast Division of McDonald’s Corporation, with corporate responsibility for 2,600 locations across 14 states. Koenig serves on the Board of Evolve, a company providing custom designed corporate apparel. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://www.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. Fitness Together Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-personal-training-franchise-names-cfo-and-new-board-members/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-announces-executive-promotions-and-reorganization/ Bigger leadership team to support growing franchise network and target strategic development of new locations. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – August 20, 2009 – Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., parent company over Fitness Together Franchise Corporation and elements therapeutic massage, inc., has announced several executive promotions and new hires in a reorganization that will position the company for its next level of strategic growth. With more than 550 sold locations, the leadership team was expanded to address an increase in franchise support and to embark on a franchise development campaign to expand the number of Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage locations. “The talent and expertise of our team today has set the stage for an exciting future across our entire franchise network,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. “We remain committed to supporting our existing franchisees in their goals for health, wellness and business success while also introducing more studios in the marketplace.” Serving both franchise brands, Kristine Fisher has been promoted to senior vice president of human resources and Sue Beranek has been promoted to senior vice president of marketing. For Fitness Together Franchise Corp., Kevin Betts, chief operating officer, has added the title of senior vice president and Tom DeLosa has been promoted to senior vice president and chief sales officer. For elements therapeutic massage, Kyle Gjersee has been promoted to senior vice president and chief operating officer and Scott Wendrych has been named senior vice president and chief sales officer. In addition to the executive promotions, Fitness Together Holdings recently hired Amy Powers as executive vice president and general counsel and Bob Haimes as executive vice president and chief growth officer over both franchise brands. Fisher, Betts, Gjersee, Powers and Haimes will report to Jervik on the organization chart. And Beranek, DeLosa and Wendrych will report to Haimes. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://corp.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. Fitness Together Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-announces-executive-promotions-and-reorganization/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-named-to-inc-5-000-list-third-consecutive-year/ Wellness organization one of America’s fastest-growing private companies HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – (Aug. 19, 2009) – Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. has been named to Inc. Magazine’s “Inc. 5,000” list of America’s fastest-growing private companies for 2009. Honored for the third consecutive year, Fitness Together Holdings posted 56.9% growth last year and exceeded $12 million in revenues for the parent company. The business was ranked #99 in the Denver metro-area, #267 in the health industry and #3,848 of all companies in the country. “This is a huge compliment to our team and the franchise brands that we continue to grow on a national and global level,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings.  The company manages two franchise concepts: Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, the largest business of personal trainers in the world, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., a massage therapy franchise. In three years, elements has expanded to 22 states and recently announced a 25 percent growth in revenue over last year. “Savvy trend spotters and those who invest in private companies know that the Inc. 5,000 is the best place to find out about young companies that are achieving success through a wide variety of unprecedented business models, as well as older private companies that are still expanding at an impressive rate,” said Inc. 5,000 Project Manager Jim Melloan. “That’s why our list is so eagerly anticipated every year.” Supporting that statement, Jervik said, “We are proof that private companies can thrive and good business ideas can become international realities. We look forward to our continued growth and helping more consumers reach their health and fitness goals.” About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is one of the world’s largest wellness organizations. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, http://www.fitnesstogether.com, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1983 that began franchising in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., http://www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has hundreds of franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. Franchise Information: Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage are each actively selling franchises. If you are interested in changing your life and the lives of others, please visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/ and http://www.touchofelements.com/franchise/ or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10 for more information about franchise opportunities. Fitness Together Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-named-to-inc-5-000-list-third-consecutive-year/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-of-santa-monica-donates-to-american-heart-association-california-spirit-xxv-gala/ SANTA MONICA, Calif. – July 28, 2009Fitness Together of Santa Monica has partnered with the American Heart Association as a contributor to the California Spirit XXV Gala silent auction. The gala will take place Sunday, August 9 at 4:00 p.m. at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood. Celebrating its 25th year, California Spirit is a much-anticipated event with a well-established reputation as one of the most prestigious charity galas in California. As a participant of the silent auction, Fitness Together of Santa Monica will donate a gift certificate for five personal training sessions, valued at $375.00. "We are passionate about heart health and physical fitness," said Kelly Radomski, owner of Fitness Together of Santa Monica. "And we are excited to be a part of the American Heart Association's mission of eliminating cancer as a major public health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering, through research, education, advocacy and service." Fitness Together has led the industry for one-on-one personal fitness training. Whether the client is looking to lose weight, tone and tighten muscles or simply work toward better health, Fitness Together pairs clients with a personal fitness trainer in a private setting equipped with an individualized workout plan. Fitness Together of Santa Monica is located at 1450 5th Street in Santa Monica. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world's largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises sold across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-of-santa-monica-donates-to-american-heart-association-california-spirit-xxv-gala/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/personal-training-franchise-names-amy-powers-executive-vp-and-general-counsel/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – July 15, 2009 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., has named Amy Powers as executive vice president and general counsel, overseeing legal duties for the parent company and its relationship with a growing franchise network of studios operating under the Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage brands. “Amy brings a wealth of knowledge to our team, coming from a strong franchising background and understanding the compliance it takes to build and protect brand leaders across the country and around the world,” said Jeff Jervik, president, CEO and chief operating officer of Fitness Together Holdings. In her new role, Powers will report to Jervik where her responsibilities will include litigation, regulatory compliance (including franchise disclosure compliance), contract review and negotiation, and compliance with studio and master agreements for Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage. She will oversee the parent company’s relationships with area directors and franchisees and will play a key role in the development of the growing organization. Powers previously served as senior vice president and assistant general counsel for the Quiznos restaurant franchise system. Prior to that, she was of counsel at the law firm of Holland & Hart, LLP in Denver. She previously served as general counsel for Boston Market and associate general counsel for Einstein/Noah Bagel Corp. Prior to joining Einstein/Noah Bagel Corp., she was a partner at the law firm of Bell, Boyd & Lloyd in Chicago (which recently merged with K&L Gates, LLP). Powers holds a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University and a law degree from DePaul University. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world’s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has sold more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/personal-training-franchise-names-amy-powers-executive-vp-and-general-counsel/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-franchise-names-bob-haimes-executive-vp-and-chief-growth-officer/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – July 9, 2009 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., has named Bob Haimes to the newly-created post of executive vice president and chief growth officer. Haimes will oversee marketing and development teams for both brands of the parent company, Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage.  “Bob comes to us at a perfect time in the evolution of our growing franchise network,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. “His expertise in brand development, consumer goods, market share ownership and overall company growth bring a track record to our business when we are poised to solidify our leadership position in the health and wellness industry for the future.” In his new role, Haimes will be responsible for key initiatives driving profitability and growth on two levels. His division will assist with business marketing and support to increase customer traffic and retention for the sprawling network of Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage studios. Additionally, he will focus on franchise growth for the parent company with a goal to add more locations for both the personal training franchise and massage franchise concepts in the U.S. and abroad. “I’ve been a life-long student of consumer trends and business growth that meet at the right time to define success in the supply-and-demand chain,” Haimes said. “I cannot think of a better role than the one I accept today in the growing field of health and wellness and the Fitness Together and elements brands that can champion this movement.” As a man involved in personal fitness training, Haimes has been participating in triathlons, cycling, weight conditioning and sports for most of his life. He said a great advantage to his new job is the ability to combine his skills for growing companies with his personal passion for health and wellness. A veteran of building brands, Haimes began his career with Procter & Gamble overseeing household names like Folgers coffee and Crest toothpaste, along with numerous efforts leading new brand development and early stage business initiatives. He later moved to Boston Market Corp. as director of new products and business development contributing to the aggressive growth of the lunch business along with leading the creation of a new product pipeline. Haimes then assumed marketing and sales roles for Coors Brewing Company where he earned the title of senior director of market development. His skills were then transferred into executive positions at eCollege, where as SVP Haimes led corporate strategy, product management, marketing and channel sales, and after eCollege’s acquisition of Datamark, a response marketing firm out of Salt Lake City, Haimes took on the role of Datamark’s chief operating officer, chief marketing officer and executive vice president. Haimes helped eCollege grow from $4 million in sales upon his arrival to more than $120 million and was instrumental in the company’s rankings on Forbes “Top 25 Fastest Growing Technology Companies,” USA Today’s “eBusiness 25” list, and the Deloitte & Touche “Fast 50” in Colorado and “Fast 500” in the U.S. Haimes most recently served as executive vice president and board member of Efficient Forms, LLC, in Littleton, Colo. Prior to that, he was a principal of Growthtrac Consulting, LLC, where he counseled early-stage businesses and non-profit organizations on business expansion. Haimes holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Cincinnati and a master’s of business administration degree in marketing from Xavier University. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.:  Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world’s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network has sold more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, visit www.fitnesstogether.com, www.touchofelements.com, or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-franchise-names-bob-haimes-executive-vp-and-chief-growth-officer/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/personal-training-franchise-receives-approval-for-sba-franchise-registry-listing/ Prospective Fitness Together Studio Owners Afforded Easier Access to Franchise Opportunity HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - July 1, 2009 Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, the world’s largest personal training franchise, announced the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has included Fitness Together on its official Franchise Registry, a list of franchise systems whose franchisees receive expedited loan processing. “Today, sixty percent of Americans are considered overweight, and Fitness Together fulfills a growing demand of Americans wanting to get healthy,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “Our inclusion on the Franchise Registry will be a great tool to support our growth initiatives by affording potential franchise owners easier and more efficient SBA loan application processing.” The online Franchise Registry lists franchisors whose franchise agreements have been reviewed and approved by the SBA, streamlining the loan application process for franchise owners and making financing more accessible. Fitness Together currently has sold more than 470 franchised studios and continues to grow. To learn more about franchise opportunities with Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, visit http://www.fitnesstogether.com/franchise/. The full list of franchise systems included on the Franchise Registry is available at www.franchiseregistry.com/Registry/. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. Fitness Together has sold 471 franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/personal-training-franchise-receives-approval-for-sba-franchise-registry-listing/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/personal-training-franchise-launches-redesigned-industry-leading-web-site/ Fitness Together updates site to feature E-mail marketing program, aims to increase online traffic, generate franchise leads   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – June 24, 2009 Fitness Together Franchise Corporation has announced the launch of its redesigned Web site, www.fitnesstogether.com. The site features a new opt-in marketing E-mail campaign for consumers and an online application process for franchise prospects. Built by Fusionbox, a Denver Web development company, the new Web site was custom developed to create a comprehensive Web 2.0 experience while using the latest techniques for search engine optimization (SEO). The new site is now equipped with video, sharing features and easy-to-navigate functions aimed to handle increased site traffic and assist with growing consumer and franchise sales. “We are excited to launch our new Web site and provide clients, prospective franchise owners and other audiences with an all-inclusive platform to learn about and interact with Fitness Together,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. “We believe that constant company updates and news via our Web site will provide a clear picture of the successes we are experiencing.” The opt-in E-mail program is a new marketing tool designed to attract new clients to Fitness Together through a free session at a participating location. The site also features links to the company history, company news, fitness tips, studio locations, and information about domestic and international franchise opportunities. The new site embraces the growing social media landscape, directing visitors to the company’s Twitter page at Twitter.com/FT_1goal and using a widget that displays recent Tweets on the homepage. Interactive agency Fusionbox has helped companies create brand awareness, increase sales and optimize operations through Web site development and search engine optimization since 2001. “Fitness Together approached us with the goal of bringing in new prospects and engaging existing clients in both consumer and franchise sales,” said Ivy Hastings, account director with Fusionbox. “Our goal in partnering with Fitness Together was to create a site with modern design and functionality, but more importantly to use the site as a tool to deliver a direct and measurable financial impact by improving search engine optimization, lead generation and sales.” About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. Fitness Together has sold 471 franchised locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/personal-training-franchise-launches-redesigned-industry-leading-web-site/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/boston-area-college-student-and-miss-america-hopeful-fights-disease-and-focuses-on-fitness/ BOSTON – June 08, 2009 Brooke Kilgarriff, an aspiring Miss Minnesota, fights polycystic ovarian syndrome by focusing on health and fitness. Kilgarriff selected Fitness Together, Back Bay in Boston to help reach her fitness goals and prepare for the upcoming Miss Minnesota pageant June 20.     Kilgarriff, a student at Boston Conservatory, unexpectedly gained 20 pounds her first semester of college despite good eating and fitness habits. Following a doctor visit, she was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a disease that alters hormone levels in women. Kilgarriff learned a common side effect of PCOS is weight gain.  After struggling alone to loose the weight, Kilgarriff joined a Fitness Together studio in her hometown of St. Paul, Minn. while home from school. Because she found the one-on-one personal training in a private setting beneficial, she sought out a Boston studio within the franchise network when she transitioned back to college. There, she was not only able to achieve her goals of toning muscle and losing weight to prepare for upcoming pageants, but she also regained her health.  Largely due to her Fitness Together, Back Bay-created training sessions and nutrition plan, Kilgarriff was taken off Metformin, a prescription medicine to help manage PCOS. She credits the personal attention and strong motivation from the Fitness Together, Back Bay team as a important part of her support system in fighting this illness and staying positive during her hectic and stressful college life.  “Brooke puts her whole heart into her training sessions,” said Mike Morris, owner of Fitness Together, Back Bay. “She walks through the door with a great attitude and is an amazing young woman. We are so proud of all she has achieved and look forward to seeing her pageantry advance to the highest level where she can serve as an inspiration and role model to others.”  Kilgarriff, who currently holds the title of Miss Twin Cities for 2009, spent this past academic year preparing for her next level of competition, Miss Minnesota, and dreams of progressing to the Miss America pageant in 2010. As part of her training Kilgarriff visited Fitness Together, Back Bay three to four times per week. Now back in St. Paul, she trains on her own using the workouts and nutrition plans her Fitness Together, Back Bay trainers prepared for her.  “I am so happy with the results I achieved training at Fitness Together, Back Bay,” she said. “I am swimsuit-ready for my upcoming pageant, but also have truly made a life change where fitness, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle will always be part of my life. I thank the team at Fitness Together, Back Bay for holding me accountable, making my training sessions a priority, and more importantly for their consistent encouragement and support.”  Kilgarriff plans to resume training at Fitness Together, Back Bay when she returns to school.  Fitness Together, Back Bay is located at 36 Newbury Street, 3rd Floor in Boston and is an independently owned and operated franchise of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation.  About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. There are now 471 Fitness Together franchised locations sold throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/boston-area-college-student-and-miss-america-hopeful-fights-disease-and-focuses-on-fitness/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-names-rob-duke-director-of-it/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – June 3, 2009 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world’s largest wellness company, has named Rob Duke director of information technology (IT). In his role, Mr. Duke is responsible for maintaining and supporting the corporate technology infrastructure of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training franchise, and affiliated company, elements therapeutic massage, inc., a massage therapy franchise. Mr. Duke’s responsibilities include implementation and support of the Mind Body Online retail software, the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) Management System and other information systems used by the concepts. In addition, Mr. Duke provides franchise support, assisting with technology-related questions and issues.  "As Fitness Together continues to grow, it’s important to maintain technical direction and consistency within our concepts,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. “Rob’s role will ensure we are providing the network with superior technical support.”  Prior to joining the Fitness Together team, Mr. Duke served as director of IT for Spicy Pickle Franchising, Inc., a Denver-based company. There he developed and implemented an in-house IT department that prior to his employment had been outsourced to several vendors. He also served as help desk and IT solutions manager for Champps Entertainment for five years where he was instrumental in internalizing the company’s help desk, and where he developed training and implementation documentation for corporate support teams and end users.  About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world’s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-names-rob-duke-director-of-it/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-corp-targets-investors-from-mexico-for-franchise-expansion-in-texas/ Fitness giant works with State of Texas Economic Development Divisionto connect with foreign investors in Mexico. HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – May 21, 2009 Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, the world’s largest business of personal trainers, is working with the State of Texas’ Division of Economic Development’s office in Mexico City to target international investors from Mexico interested in buying franchise opportunities in Texas. The State of Texas is one of the top-ranked global destinations for foreign direct investment, bringing more than $7 billion in foreign investments in 2008. “We’re a rapidly growing franchisor with 471 locations sold and Texas offers a perfect setting for entrepreneurs and business candidates from Mexico who want to be part of the American Dream,” said Craig Day, the Texas area developer for Fitness Together. Prospective franchise buyers will travel from Mexico to meet with Fitness Together at the Mission of Mexican Entrepreneurs in San Antonio n June 24 – 26. With 18 franchises sold across Texas and 15 studios in operation, Fitness Together plans to license as many as 20 franchises a year to serve the growing demand for one-on-one personal training with residents across the state. Having successfully expanded the franchise concept to several international countries, the Texas initiative marks the first time the franchisor is showcasing the opportunity for international investments coming into the United States. Fitness Together was able to target this audience through the International Business and Recruitment (IBR) program that the State of Texas Economic Development Division spearheads. The IBR, which markets the State of Texas as a business location, gives companies the opportunity to promote their products and services to international buyers through trade missions, trade shows, seminars and inbound buyer missions. “Inquiries from Mexico have shown that the interest in Fitness Together and the success of our franchise network is popular,” said Day. “And with existing locations across Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio and College Station, we have a very strong foundation that we can build upon with additional available territories.” According to Day, the investment level of $132,000 - $312,000 to open a Fitness Together studio is appealing to people in Mexico who are already successful in business and can meet the financial requirements for a franchise. About Fitness Together: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal fitness training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. There are now 471 Fitness Together franchised locations sold throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Thu, 21 May 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-franchise-corp-targets-investors-from-mexico-for-franchise-expansion-in-texas/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-promotes-kristine-fisher-to-vp-of-human-resources/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. April 24, 2009  Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world’s largest wellness company, has promoted Kristine Fisher from senior director of human resources to vice president of human resources. In her new role, Fisher leads the human resources department for both Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training franchise, and affiliated company, elements therapeutic massage, inc., a massage therapy franchise. She is responsible for overseeing human resources, training programs and communication processes for the concepts. "Kristine works with our most valuable resource our people. She joined us in October of last year and has made significant contributions to the business in support of our franchisees, said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. Her skills and expertise as a valuable member of our executive team will provide the ongoing leadership necessary to continue to move our businesses forward. Fisher has a total of 11 years experience in human resources, and prior to joining the Fitness Together team she served as the senior manager/human resources business partner for Denver-based Quiznos Subs. Fisher is a member of the Society for Human Resources Management and holds the designation of Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR). About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world’s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. ###   Fitness Together Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-promotes-kristine-fisher-to-vp-of-human-resources/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/steve-lichtman-ft-owner-nominated-for-man-of-the-year-in-boston/   FITNESS TOGETHER OWNER NOMINATED FOR MAN OF THE YEAR BY THE MASSACHUSETTsCHAPTER OF THE LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY Boston, MA - March 2, 2009 The Massachusetts Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society will be honoring the two top fundraisers of the ten week Man & Woman of the Year campaign on May 30 at the Westin Waterfront Boston Hotel. Beginning with a Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, March 21, candidates spend ten weeks raising funds to advance the Society's mission. Every dollar raised counts as one ?vote.? The male and female candidates with the most votes will be awarded the title of 2007 Man & Woman of the Year at a Grand Finale Celebration on Wednesday, May 30. Candidates compete in honor of the Society's Boy & Girl of the Year, local children who are survivors of blood cancers and who are sources of inspiration. "Participation in Man & Woman of the Year is a great way for candidates to gain personal and professional exposure in the Boston community," said Sharon Klein, the Massachusetts executive director. Lifestyle Fitness Corp President, Steve Lichtman was nominated by his peers to run for Man of the Year. ?Both my mom and dad died from blood cancer diseases within the past four years, so this is very personal for me.? I thought, ?How can I leverage my business and personal relationships to raise money for cancer research? We have more than 200 clients at our three Fitness Together personal training studios, so I said, let?s enlist them to help us!? "The idea behind Cardio for a Cure is that our clients and friends are raising money to help others while getting healthy for themselves. Personally, I have committed to doing over 100 miles of cardio during this campaign. I am asking my friends and business associates to donate $1 for every mile I have committed. Having many people contribute to Cardio for a Cure will help us reach my personal goal to raise $50,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I invite the entire public to join us in raising money. Call me or see us at our Fitness Together locations in Dedham, Norwell or Westborough, MA to sign up and participate." About Lifestyle Fitness Corp and Fitness Together Lifestyle Fitness Corp. owns Fitness Together personal training studios on Rte. 1 Dedham, Rte. 53 Norwell and Rte 30 in Westborough, MA. Fitness Together is unlike any gym. There are no lines, no waiting for equipment and no unwanted stares. With private training suites and the full attention of a personal trainer, the client will experience the Fitness Together motto of ?1 Client ? 1 Trainer ? 1 Goal? Our holistic approach to fitness combines strength training with cardio and proper nutrition to help our clients look and feel better than they ever have before. Personal trainers are available six days a week, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information or to make a donation to ?Cardio for a Cure? visit our websites: www.ftdedham.com, www.ftnorwell.com, www.ftwestborough.com or contact Steve Lichtman at 781-572-1002. About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. Fitness Together was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are over 300 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Israel, Ireland, and Canada and nearly 480 scheduled to open. Fitness Together Franchise Corp. also includes Elements Therapeutic Massage. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, headquartered in White Plains, NY, with 66 chapters in the United States and additional branches in Canada, is the world?s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. The Society?s mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin?s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, the Society has invested more than $486 million in research specifically targeting leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma. Last year alone, the Society made more than 812,000 contacts with patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals. For more information about blood cancer, visit www.LLS.org or call the Society?s Information Resource Center (IRC), a call center staffed by master's level social workers, nurses and health educators who provide information, support and resources to patients and their families and caregivers. IRC information specialists are available at (800) 955-4572, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.   Fitness Together Mon, 02 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/steve-lichtman-ft-owner-nominated-for-man-of-the-year-in-boston/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-names-dr-janet-brill-director-of-nutrition/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. February 16, 2009 Fitness Together Franchise Corp., the world's largest business of personal trainers, has named famed author, speaker and media spokesperson Janet Brill, Ph.D., as director of nutrition for the organization. One of the most noted experts on diet, nutrition and fitness, Brill has entered into an exclusive relationship with Fitness Together and its growing network of almost 500 fitness studios to provide services for a proprietary nutrition and wellness program that franchisees will be able to offer their clients. Janet has earned a reputation as a health and wellness expert across the country, and we are extremely excited to welcome her to the Fitness Together family," said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. She is an accomplished leader in her field, and her position with Fitness Together means introducing the heightened role that diet and nutrition assume when getting in shape the healthy way. A regular in the media, Brill is an authority on the topics of obesity and cardiovascular disease prevention. She has been a frequent guest nutrition expert on Lifetime Television?s ?The Balancing Act. She also has been quoted in scientific journals as well as mainstream press, including: the International Journal of Obesity, the ACSM Health & Fitness Journal, Shape, Prevention, Men?s Health, First for Women, Woman's World and more. As director of nutrition for Fitness Together, Brill will work closely with its franchisees to create a science-based nutrition program for their clients designed to promote health and to reduce the risk for major chronic diseases. "Fitness Together is committed to bringing fitness and nutrition together to help our franchisees? clients reach their highest goals,"Jervik said. Our franchisees offer their clients the best fitness expertise in our industry with personal trainers, and Janet will introduce the best complimentary diet and nutrition information for a truly balanced program. Brill holds master's degrees in dietetics and nutrition and exercise physiology and a doctorate in exercise physiology. She is a licensed and registered dietitian and has certifications from the American College of Sports Medicine, National Strength and Conditioning Association and Wellcoaches, Inc. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal fitness training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. There are now more than 490 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Sat, 14 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-names-dr-janet-brill-director-of-nutrition/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-launches-national-marketing-campaign/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - February 5, 2009 Fitness Together Franchise Corporation has launched a national brand marketing campaign, giving the franchise network a new image and bold tools to communicate with high-end consumers who want to meet and exceed their fitness goals and live a healthier life. This campaign truly sets us apart from the fitness competition and speaks to what makes us different, unique and ultimately successful in helping our clients redefine themselves,? said Sue Beranek, vice president of marketing and brand strategy. Based on extensive brand research with consumers, the company identified its target audience as those who purchase luxury goods. The new marketing campaign speaks directly to them with a tone that is smart, honest and unapologetic. Fitness Together defines a real specialty, giving every client a one-on-one workout with a personal trainer in a private studio,"said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of parent-company Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. "This marketing initiative delivers that message in a big way and on a grand scale for an experience that has attracted thousands of loyal customers, but treats each one as the only one.? Aimed at a national audience, the franchise chain with more than 490 studios unveiled the campaign that uses a sense of humor to break the ice and introduce fitness in a whole new way. Ad concepts include: ?Stop Blaming It On The Dryer. Nothing gets you back into your skinny jeans faster than a personal trainer in a private studio.? And, ?The more you work out, the weaker his knees get. Positive reinforcement. Just one of the many benefits of personal training.? All elements of the campaign are punctuated with the line ?Personal Training Gets Results.? The creative designs, which use strong photos and attention-grabbing words, have already become a high-profile gateway to educating people on the benefits of a fitness partner that offers privacy, dignity and the individual attention of an experienced personal trainer that come together to deliver results. Additionally, the campaign drives home the point that Fitness Together is an entirely different experience from working out in a big box gym. Complete with a redesigned Web site, in-store displays, print ads, outdoor boards and direct mail pieces, the new marketing campaign introduces a new edge for the Fitness Together brand along with a call to action for the general public to seek real solutions for their health and wellness hurdles. Designed by Sukle Advertising & Design in Denver, the goal of the campaign is to captivate an audience and then deliver the greater message of the Fitness Together motto: 1 Client 1 Trainer 1 Goal. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. There are now more than 490 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Thu, 05 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-launches-national-marketing-campaign/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-receives-2008-new-sales-award/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. Feb. 19, 2009 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the parent company of two concepts, Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., a massage therapy franchisor, received the 2008 New Sales Award at the Rocky Mountain Excellence in Franchising banquet. The New Sales Award was based on the total number of franchises sold in 2008. Fitness Together Franchise Corporation sold 49 locations and elements therapeutic massage sold 38 locations for a combined winning total of 87 franchises sold. “Despite the economy, we have had a great year,”said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. “We have continued selling franchises and opening studios for both concepts at a rapid pace in an effort to fulfill the growing demands of people seeking healthier lives. We are honored to win this award, and we look to continue growing our Colorado-based business throughout the nation and internationally.” The award is presented by the Rocky Mountain chapter of the International Franchise Association’s Franchise Business Network Program. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world’s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Mon, 02 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-receives-2008-new-sales-award/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-ranks-100-on-the-franchise-500/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - January 15, 2009 Fitness Together Franchise Corp. has been named to Entrepreneur magazine's 30th annual Franchise 500 ranking of the top franchise opportunities, published in the January 2009 issue. The list honors franchise concepts that offer the best opportunities for success based on criteria such as financial strength, stability, growth rate and size of system. Fitness Together ranked #100 on the list. This is the company's fifth consecutive year to appear on the Franchise 500. We are honored to be named among the industry's best, said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Despite the troubled economy, Fitness Together has continued to grow and establish itself as a leader in the fitness industry. And our annual ranking to the Franchise 500 is a true affirmation of our stability. The company opened 77 new locations in 2008 and took in more than $100 million in system wide revenues for the year. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. There are now more than 400 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-ranks-100-on-the-franchise-500/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail// HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - December 11, 2008 Pete Piranio, franchise owner of three Wisconsin Fitness Together personal training studios, was named recipient of the Annual Achievement Award for the national chain. Pete runs three outstanding Fitness Together studios and serves as a role model for the entire network, said Jeff Jervik, CEO and president of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. His leadership as area director for Minnesota and Connecticut as well as in his own studios made him a great choice for this year's top honor given out by the company. The Annual Achievement Award honors the Fitness Together franchisee or employee who made the greatest contribution related to the success of the organization during the past year. Piranio was instrumental in the creation of the Fitness Together Higher Learning program that provides franchise owners additional training, support and education to promote their studio?s success. Piranio owns Fitness Together studios in Brookfield, Wauwatosa and Delafield, Wisconsin and has been with the franchise network since 2001. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail// http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/amy-frank-lewallen-wins-franchisee-of-the-year-2008/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Dec. 10, 2008 Amy Frank-Lewallen, franchise owner of Fitness Together of Issaquah, Wash., has been named the Franchisee of the Year for the national chain. Amy has demonstrated her keen business sense and superior knowledge of the fitness industry, turning in a fantastic year for her business and for the greater national Fitness Together brand,? said Jeff Jervik, CEO and president of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Amy has built a tremendous team of professionals and a gorgeous studio, and she has also become a role model as we continue to grow the franchise network to more locations across the U.S. Frank-Lewallen has been with Fitness Together for five years and is a true fitness enthusiast. She is a two-time Boston Marathon qualifier and finisher and looks to compete in her first Ironman Triathlon. And it is through her Fitness Together studio that her enthusiasm for exercise and healthy living is passed on to a growing list of customers. As part of the largest business of personal trainers, Frank-Lewallen specializes in giving clients an individual workout with her team of personal trainers. "Fitness is my passion. I love seeing people get excited about changes in their bodies, and I am happy to call owning a fitness studio my career," Frank-Lewallen said. "Fitness Together has a wealth of successful studio owners, so I am truly honored to be named Franchisee of the Year." Fitness Together of Issaquah is located at 660 NW Gilman Blvd. Suite C-1 in Issaquah and currently employs six certified personal trainers. The studio includes three training rooms, and the location is open six days a week to work around customers busy schedules. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world's largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/amy-frank-lewallen-wins-franchisee-of-the-year-2008/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/best-turnaround-franchise-award-for-keoni-subioni/   Keoni Subioni Receives Best Turnaround Franchise Award From Fitness Together HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Dec. 10, 2008 In a year when national headlines have reported the downfall of businesses, Keoni Subioni of Honolulu has defied the economy and trumped the odds to receive a national honor for doing just the opposite. As the franchise owner of Fitness Together of Honolulu and part of the world?s largest business of personal trainers, Subioni recently received the Fitness Together Best Turnaround Franchise Award for the national chain that includes 415 locations. Keoni truly deserves this award, said Jeff Jervik, CEO and president of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Because of his determination and business savvy, Keoni was able to take a struggling franchise and turn it into one of the network's most profitable locations. Subioni has been with Fitness Together for 3 years and operates the location with his wife Rose. "In the last year we have made a lot of changes at Fitness Together of Honolulu," said Subioni. "We increased our marketing efforts, offered special promotions and packages and worked hard to provide our clients the best training services out there. I am truly honored to be recognized with this award." Fitness Together of Honolulu is located at 2851 E. Manoa Road Suite 1-204 660 in Honolulu and currently employs 4 certified personal trainers. The studio includes 2 training rooms, and the location is open seven days a week to work around customers? busy schedules. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/best-turnaround-franchise-award-for-keoni-subioni/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/vetfran-to-offer-franchise-ownership-to-former-military/ Fitness Together Celebrates Veteran's Day And Joins VetFran to Offer Franchise Ownership to Former Military HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Nov. 10, 2008 Colorado-based Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization is celebrating Veteran's Day tomorrow as one of the newest corporate members of the U.S. VetFran program. Sponsored by the International Franchise Association, VetFran is a nationwide initiative for participating franchise organizations to offer their best financial incentives to U.S. military veterans who wish to purchase a franchise. "The VetFran program is a perfect way to give back to the men and women who protect our country and the free enterprise system under which we operate," said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. "They have given their lives in service to our nation, and this is our chance to honor them and provide a career opportunity for a life out of uniform when that service is done." Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage will offer a $5,000 discount on their franchise fees to military veterans who qualify through the VetFran program. More than 1,300 veterans have purchased a franchise through VetFran. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, inc., www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Sun, 30 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/vetfran-to-offer-franchise-ownership-to-former-military/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/scaling-up-in-a-down-market/   Fitness and Massage Franchises Realize Growth in Slow Economy HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Oct. 13, 2008 The International Franchise Association (IFA) reports there are now about 3,000 different franchise concepts, each competing for the attention of people who want to own their own business. According to a survey conducted by Franchise Media Update Group in San Jose, California, new inquiries from people interested in buying a franchise business opportunity are down 48%. However, Colorado-based Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world?s largest wellness company, continues to defy the odds with record interest among potential franchisees. With its two franchised business models: Fitness Together (www.fitnesstogether.com), the world's largest personal training organization; and elements therapeutic massage (www.touchofelements.com), a massage therapy concept, this wellness company is poised to grow its franchise network to over 1,000 locations in the next 24 months, up from the 705 locations sold to date. "Not only did we realize an increase in the number of people interested in our franchise brands in 2007 over 2006, but we've already surpassed those 2007 numbers in the first three quarters of this year," said Samuel Hirschberg, vice president of franchise marketing for Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. Fitness Together Franchise Corporation began franchising small personal training studios in 1996, offering every customer a tailored workout with his or her own personal trainer. The company has awarded more than 600 franchises and now has 419 fitness studios open in five countries. The franchisees employ more than 3,000 fitness trainers who are responsible for providing professional personal training services to nearly 20,000 clients each week. elements therapeutic massage, Inc. began franchising in November, 2006 and has become one of the fastest-growing franchise concepts in America. The massage therapy franchisor has sold more than 100 franchises in 18 months and now has 55 franchised massage studios open in 19 states. "I believe our success comes from more people interested in looking better, feeling better and taking better care of themselves which is causing the wellness industry to show growth," Hirschberg said. "The growing wellness industry combined with entrepreneurs who have a passion for helping people live a better quality of life through their own franchise business is a winning formula." About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/scaling-up-in-a-down-market/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-unveils-the-insider-s-guide/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Oct. 9, 2008 It's a booming company in a down economy and a record number of people want to be part of it. So, Colorado-based Fitness Together, part of the world's largest wellness company, has released a free report entitled The Insider's Guide to Owning a Fitness Franchise. The report can be downloaded at http://www.fitnesstogether.com/report. There are really no secrets to how we continue to defy the odds in today's market, said Samuel Hirschberg, vice president of franchise marketing for Fitness Together. ?We?ve built a national reputation with locations that offer one-on-one fitness training to every single client. And while the economy tries to get back in shape, we?re doing that every day with the most important asset anyone can have their health. "The Insider's Guide to Owning a Fitness Franchise" answers all of the frequently asked questions about the Fitness Together opportunity, including: the obligations for obtaining the right to use the franchisor?s name, the costs associated with the franchise, the quality controls that the franchisor maintains to ensure its brand, and more. And for the all-important question about why someone would want to buy a franchise versus run an independent business, Fitness Together looks inward for the answer. "Clients are attracted to Fitness Together because they are paired with an expert personal trainer who can guide them toward their health and fitness goals," said Hirschberg. "Our franchise owners are attracted to our business model because of a proven and repetitive franchise system that can guide them toward their career goals." Fitness Together, which has awarded more than 600 franchises, now has fitness studios across five countries and a lion?s share of the personal training niche in the $14 billion health and fitness industry. That has fed the growing pipeline of franchise prospects looking for a solid business that also doesn?t require reinventing the wheel. Fitness Together began franchising personal training studios in 1996, offering every customer a tailored workout with their own personal trainer. The company now has 419 fitness studios open nationwide. The franchisees employ more than 3,000 fitness trainers who are responsible for providing professional personal training services to nearly 20,000 clients each week. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Thu, 09 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-unveils-the-insider-s-guide/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/ft-and-etm-take-top-spots-on-aol/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Sept. 30, 2008 Health and fitness companies are taking on the cheeseburger, according to a new AOL ranking of top searches for franchise opportunities. AOL Search recently released its most searched for franchise opportunities. The list contained the top 10 most searched for business opportunities in the competitive franchise arena, which included such well known brands as McDonald's, Subway and Dennys. But the growing Colorado-based Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness company, also made the list with its two franchised business models: Fitness Together (www.fitnesstogether.com), the world's largest personal training organization; and elements therapeutic massage (www.touchofelements.com), a massage therapy concept. "Businesses that offer fitness services and the opportunity to live a healthier lifestyle have never had more interest of those who want to own their own franchise," said Scott Wendrych, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. "In today's economy, people want proven brands for career opportunities that also promote a better society. Today, we are realizing a record number of new people interested in owning their own Fitness Together or elements therapeutic massage business." Fitness Together began franchising small personal training studios in 1996, offering every customer a tailored workout with his or her own personal trainer. The company has awarded more than 600 franchises and now has 419 fitness studios open nationwide. The franchisees employ more than 3,000 fitness trainers who are responsible for providing professional personal training services to nearly 20,000 clients each week. elements therapeutic massage, Inc. began franchising in 2006 and has become one of the fastest-growing franchise concepts in America. The massage therapy franchisor has sold more than 100 franchises in 18 months and now has 55 massage studios open in 19 states. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchisor established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchisor that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 700 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10. Fitness Together Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/ft-and-etm-take-top-spots-on-aol/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-announces-executive-promotions/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Sept. 2, 2008 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. (FTHI), the world's largest wellness organization, recently announced the following promotions and organizational changes to better support the expanding franchise network. Kevin Betts has been promoted to chief operations officer of Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage. He will oversee the support team and operational services for both brands. Betts previously served as president of Fitness Together. He began his career with Fitness Together as a personal trainer at the store level more than 15 years ago and has grown alongside the organization. Scott Wendrych has been promoted to chief sales and marketing officer for Fitness Together and elements therapeutic massage. Wendrych previously served as president of elements, a concept he helped to launch. Prior to that he was a director of franchise sales for Fitness Together. And before that, he began his career with Fitness Together as a franchisee. Tom DeLosa has been named to the new position of sr. vice president of operations for Fitness Together and elements. DeLosa started with the company as a personal trainer 12 years ago. He worked his way up through management and most recently served as vice president of operations for Fitness Together. Sue Beranek has been hired as the vice president of marketing brand strategy for Fitness Together and elements where she will focus on branding and customer marketing. With more than 20 years of marketing experience, Beranek began her career as a national accounts director and served as vice president of marketing at Champps, Quiznos, VICORP Restaurants, Inc. and Taco John's International. "This is an incredible executive team of talent and leadership that will benefit our entire franchise network," said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. "I applaud their abilities to champion our ever-growing organization and carry out our vision in business and wellness."About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 600 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-announces-executive-promotions/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/sue-beranek-hired-as-vice-president-of-marketing-brand-strategy/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. – Sept. 2, 2008 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world’s largest wellness organization, recently announced the following promotions and organizational changes to better support the expanding franchise network. Sue Beranek has been hired as the vice president of marketing brand strategy for Fitness Together and elements where she will focus on branding and customer marketing. With more than 20 years of marketing experience, Beranek began her career as a national accounts director and served as vice president of marketing at Champps, Quizno’s, VICORP Restaurants, Inc. and Taco John’s International.  “This is an incredible executive team of talent and leadership that will benefit our entire franchise network,” said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.  “I applaud their abilities to champion our ever-growing organization and carry out our vision in business and wellness.” Fitness Together Tue, 02 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/sue-beranek-hired-as-vice-president-of-marketing-brand-strategy/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-named-to-inc-5-000-list/   Wellness organization one of America's fastest-growing private companies  HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Aug. 27, 2008 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization, has been named to Inc. Magazine's Inc. 5,000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies for 2008. Honored for the second consecutive year, Fitness Together Holdings posted 220.7% growth last year and exceeded $15 million in revenues for the parent company. The business was ranked #34 in Denver, #74 in the health industry and #1,705 of all companies in the country. "This is a huge compliment to our team and the franchise brands that we continue to grow on a national and global level," said Jeff Jervik, president and CEO of Fitness Together Holdings. The company manages two franchise concepts: Fitness Together, the largest business of personal trainers in the world, and elements therapeutic massage, a massage therapy franchise. In the less than two years, elements has expanded to 20 states and recently awarded its 100th franchise location. "The Inc. 5,000 has proven an invaluable tool for anyone seeking an understanding of the most important part of the economy, the entrepreneurial part," said Inc. 5,000 Project Manager Jim Melloan. Supporting that statement, Jervik said, "We are proof that private companies can thrive and good business ideas can become international realities. And with a foundation unlike any other, we expect to grow our franchise network to 1,000 locations by 2010."About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.:  Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 600 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Wed, 27 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-holdings-inc-named-to-inc-5-000-list/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-sells-600th-franchise/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Aug. 26, 2008 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization, has sold its 600th franchise. The milestone went to franchisee Matt Goldmark, who plans to open a Fitness Together studio in New York City. It marks the latest addition to the rapidly-growing personal training concept, the largest of its kind in the world. "I am thrilled to be part of a national brand raising the bar in the fitness industry," said Goldmark. "As one of the largest metropolitan cities in the world, New York caters to an active population that thrives on fitness. I look forward to being part of Fitness Together's growing reputation in the city and bringing its personalized services to even more clients." Specializing in helping clients achieve their fitness goals through personal training, Fitness Together has locations in 39 states as well as Canada, Costa Rica, Ireland and Israel, and has provided millions of fitness sessions, giving each customer expertise and guidance from his or her own personal trainer. "With our 600th sale, we are in a better position now more than ever to help people get active and live healthier lives," said Kevin Betts, chief operations officer of Fitness Together and sister-concept elements therapeutic massage. "Anyone can be physically fit if they have a personalized plan for achieving their goals in the right setting and at their own pace." Fitness Together opened its first franchise in 1996 and plans to open 1,000 studios by 2012. About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage www.touchofelements.com, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 600 franchises across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-sells-600th-franchise/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-names-jeff-jervik-president-and-ceo/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - May 28, 2008 Fitness Together Franchise Holdings, Inc. has named Jeff Jervik to the position of president and CEO effective immediately. Jervik succeeds Rick Sikorski, the company?s founder, who will become chairman of the board.Jervik will lead the overall strategic direction of the world?s largest wellness company, including the growth and support of Fitness Together (www.fitnesstogether.com), a personal training fitness franchise, and elements therapeutic massage (www.touchofelements.com) , a massage therapy franchise. Together, the franchise network comprises more than 500 franchisees across five countries."This is an exciting time to be guiding this company," Jervik said. "I am joining an incredible team and championing the leading brands in the wellness industry. Both offer nothing but opportunity on the road ahead."Jervik brings more than two decades of franchise experience to his new role. Most recently he served as executive vice president of operations for Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Inc., and was responsible for the operations of 114 company and 292 franchised locations with system-wide sales of $800 million.Previously, Jervik served as operating partner for Papa John?s in Hawaii where he grew the market to 17 locations and hundreds of employees.Prior to that, Jervik's career also included 14 years in the PepsiCo organization where he held several positions culminating with his title as national vice president of operations for Pizza Hut, Inc. As national vice president of operations, he directed more than 22,000 employees and franchise associates.Jervik received his BA in business and education from Dakota Wesleyan University. He is married and has two daughters.About Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.: Based in Highlands Ranch, Colo., Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., is the world?s largest wellness organization. The parent company oversees Fitness Together Franchise Corporation, a one-on-one personal training fitness franchise established in 1996, and elements therapeutic massage, a massage therapy franchise that began franchising in 2006. Today, the combined franchise network includes more than 500 franchise locations across the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 24.    Fitness Together Wed, 28 May 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-names-jeff-jervik-president-and-ceo/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/wellness-franchise-reports-growth-for-2008/ Highlands Ranch, CO - April 8, 2008 Fitness Together Holdings, Inc.. (FTHI) announced today a record number of new franchise sales. March 2008 represented the company's biggest month of the year in terms of franchise units sold, up 53% over February, 2008. February realized a 30% increase of units sold over January, the month prior. FTHI offers two franchise models to entrepreneurs in search of a franchise opportunity in the wellness industry. Founded in Scottsdale, AZ in 1983, FTHI's first business model is Fitness Together, which provides one-on-one personal training services in private suites. Fitness Together began franchising in 1996, and today the company has over 400 franchise locations in operation in 41 states and five countries. Fitness Together employs approximately 3000 personal trainers responsible for helping an average of 20,000 clients per week. Fitness Together has an additional 98 locations scheduled to open in the coming months.FTHI's second business model is elements therapeutic massage, which specializes in high-end massage services provided at a convenient, affordable price point. Founded by certified massage therapist Michele Merhib (CMT) in 2000, elements began franchising in 2006 and quickly sold 85 units.FTHI had one of the company's strongest months in history, selling 20 franchises in March of 2008. "Entrepreneurs looking to serve the wellness industry, either in fitness or therapeutic massage are the ideal fit for our business models," reports Sam Hirschberg, Vice President of Marketing for both Fitness Together Franchise Corporation and elements therapeutic massage, inc."We teach entrepreneurs at Franchise University how to put administration, operations and marketing systems to work for their business, rather than spending countless hours micro-managing," reports Hirschberg, who joined FTHI in 2007 after handling online and print marketing for the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), a school located in southern California with students in 84 countries. "Empowering franchisees to implement a systems-driven approach to daily operations combined with an aggressive marketing plan in their community are main reasons why our organization is experiencing such rapid growth," Hirschberg said.About Fitness Together Franchise Corp. Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training.. Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. There are now 400 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland and Canada and another 98 scheduled to open. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 303.663.0880 ext. 10.About elements therapeutic massage, inc.: elements therapeutic massage is following the same model as Fitness Together, and was created in 2000 by founder, Michele Merhib. The company started franchising in 2006 under Fitness Together Holdings, Inc. For more information about elements therapeutic massage, visit them online at www.touchofelements.com or call 303-663-0880 ext. 24.   Fitness Together Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/wellness-franchise-reports-growth-for-2008/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-opens-400th-franchise/   HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - Feb. 25, 2008 The company milestone went to the newest Fitness Together studio, located at 18027 Suite 103 Calle Ambiente in San Diego. The franchise is owned by Brian Mahoney and is the latest addition to the largest personal training organization in the world.  "I am thrilled to be part of a national brand raising the bar in the fitness industry," said Mahoney. "This location marks my third Fitness Together studio and I look forward to bringing our services to even more residents in the San Diego area." Specializing in helping clients achieve their fitness goals through personal training, Fitness Together has locations in 42 states as well as Canada, Costa Rica, Ireland and Israel, and has provided millions of fitness sessions, giving each customer expertise and guidance from his or her own personal trainer. "With our 400th location, we are in a better position now more than ever to help people get active and live healthier lives," said Kevin Betts, president of Fitness Together. "Anyone can be physically fit if they have a personalized plan for achieving their goals in the right setting and at their own pace."Fitness Together opened its first franchise in 1996 and plans to open 1,000 studios by 2012. About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. Fitness Together, founded by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are now 400 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada and another 108 scheduled to open. Fitness Together Franchise Corp. also includes Elements Therapeutic Massage. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.   Fitness Together Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-opens-400th-franchise/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-opens-350th-franchise/ HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. - (July 24, 2007) Fitness Together Franchise Corp. announced that it has opened its 350th franchise in Danville, Calif. The studio, located at 480 Suite B1 San Ramon Valley Blvd in Danville, is owned by Greg and Gina Thurston and is the latest addition to the largest personal training organization in the world. ?We are thrilled to be part of a national brand raising the bar in the fitness industry,? said Greg Thurston.Specializing in helping clients achieve their fitness goals through personal training, Fitness Together opened its first franchise in 1996 and recently announced the sale of its 500th franchise.With franchise locations in 42 states as well as Canada, Costa Rica, Ireland and Israel, Fitness Together has provided millions of fitness sessions, giving each customer expertise and guidance from his or her own personal trainer.?With our 350th location, we are in a better position now more than ever to help people get active and live healthier lives, said Rick Sikorski, president and CEO of Fitness Together. Anyone can be physically fit if they have a personalized plan for achieving their goals in the right setting and at their own pace.Sikorski added that Fitness Together plans to open 1,000 studios by 2012. The company?s motto is: 1 Client. 1 Trainer. 1 Goal.About Fitness Together Franchise Corp.: Established in 1996 in response to the growing demand for personal fitness training, Fitness Together offers the latest in one-on-one personal training. Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world's largest wellness organization. Fitness Together, founded by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are 350 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Costa Rica, Israel, Ireland, and Canada and another 160 scheduled to open. Fitness Together Franchise Corp. also includes Elements Therapeutic Massage. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 Ext. 10. ### Fitness Together Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-opens-350th-franchise/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/-1/ Cross country expansion continues Highlands Ranch, CO - January 22, 2007 Fitness Together, the world's largest personal training organization, opened 29 studios in the last quarter of 2006, a 16% increase over the same period the previous year. The announcement was made by Fitness Together CEO Rick Sikorski. In all, 91 studios were opened in 2006. At each, certified personal trainers conduct one-on-one private personal training sessions with clients by appointment only. Costs for training packages vary depending on client needs. Fitness Together's trainers develop individually customized, results-oriented programs to help clients achieve their goals through weight and resistance training, muscular endurance, muscular training and nutrition counseling. Trainers also guide clients in weight loss management. "Our growth across the country reinforces our mission of becoming the world's leader in wellness," said Fitness Together CEO Rick Sikorski. "We look forward to opening at least 120 studios in 2007." Fitness Together opened studios in the following states: Arizona: Cottonwood PlazaCalifornia: Mill Valley, Laguna NiguelConnecticut: New CanaanFlorida: Orlando, Coconut Grove, NaplesIllinois: Plainfield, Winnetka, Highland ParkIsrael: Yehud Kansas: Overland ParkMassachusetts: MiddletonMichigan: Grand Rapids Nebraska: OmahaNew Jersey: Freehold, Red Bank, Lake ComoNew York: Lake Grove North Carolina: Plaza Millwood South Carolina: Summerville Tennessee: Belle Meade, KnoxvilleTexas: Dallas, San Antonio Washington: Woodinville Three studios opened in New Jersey during the last quarter of 2006. Fitness Together Freehold, which is located at 3585 Route 9 North, Freehold, NJ is owned by Wayne and Cathy Matus and was opened on December 15. Construction of the 1,200-square-foot studio was done by Kimco Contracting. The studio has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Wayne Matus manages the studio. For additional information about Fitness Together Freehold, visit www.ftfreehold.com. Fitness Together Red Bank, opened on November 1, is located at 25 Mechanic Street, Red Bank, NJ and is owned by Doreen and David Bridgman. Doreen also manages the site. The studio, which is 1,200-square-feet, has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Fitness Together Lake Como, a 1,000-square-foot, two-room studio, is located at 1719 Main Street, Suite 101, Lake Como, NJ. Michael and Susan Keenan own the studio, which was built by Joseph Louro Construction Co. The studio opened on November 20. Rita Jagodizinski and Camelia Herdon own and manage the New Canaan, Conn. studio, opened on October 18. The studio is located on 33 East Ave, New Canaan. The 1,800-square-foot studio has three fully equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Mike Vodola was the studio contractor. Chris and Kelly Mockerman own and manage the Grand Rapids, Mich. studio, which opened on October 23, at 1144 #7 East Paris SE, Grand Rapids. The 1,200- square-foot studio has two fully equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Orion Construction built the studio. A 1,280-square-foot Fitness Together opened in Middleton, Mass. on November 22. It is located at 149 South Main St., Suite J, Middleton, and has two fully-equipped training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Greg Ross owns the studio, and Alyssa Douglass is the regional manager. Glenn Beard owns and manages the newly constructed Fitness Together East Orlando, which is located at 11317 Lake Underhill Road, Suite 500, Orlando, Fl. Wilson & Co. constructed the 1,600-square-foot studio, which has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. The studio opened on December 11. Eddie Rodriguez owns the new Fitness Together in Coconut Grove, Fla. Nick Clark manages the studio at 3333 Rice Street Unit 101, Coconut Grove. The 1,284-square-foot studio has two fully equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Candas Construction was the contractor. Another Florida studio opened in Naples on December 18. Fitness Together North Naples is located at 2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 1106, Naples, Fl. Dr. T. Foster Bryant and Rob Finne own the studio, and Finne will manage it. The 1,320-square-foot studio, which has three fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area, was built by DeAngelis Diamond. On December 18, Nathan Toensing opened a 1,400-square-foot studio at 13717 South U.S. Route 30, Suite 11, Plainfield, Ill.Capstone Construction built the studio, which has two private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. For additional information on Fitness Together Plainfield, visit www.ftplainfield.com/studio. Steve and Lisa Mills own the Winnetka, Ill. Fitness Together, which is located at 546 B Lincoln Ave., Winnetka. Capstone Construction built the 1,500-square-foot studio, which has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Richard Kudronowicz manages the studio, which opened on November 13. On December 1, David Conine opened the doors to the Highland Park Fitness Together, located at 806 Central Ave., Highland Park, Ill. The 1,800-square-foot studio is has three fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Glenn Vance manages the studio, which was built by Capstone Construction. Chris and RexAnne Pfister own and manage the Central Overland Park Fitness Together, which is located at 8764 West 95th Street, Overland Park, KS. The 1,652-square-foot studio has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Maurer Construction built the studio, which opened on December 11. Larry Feinman opened the Mill Valley, CA studio located at 765 East Blithedale Ave., Mill Valley, on November 27. The 1,278-square-foot studio has two fully-equipped private training rooms and is managed by Dan Kimak. John Regino Construction built the studio. Debbie Peters owns the Laguna Niguel, CA studio that opened on October 9. The studio is located at 30051 Alicia Pkwy., Laguna Niguel. The 1,500-square-foot studio has three fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Arnett Construction built the studio. Keith Duke owns and Eugene Parris manages the Belle Meade, TN studio oat 5133 Harding Rd., Suite B-1, Nashville. The 1,300-square-foot studio has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. The Hannah Company built the studio which opened on October 2. On October 16, Craig Collier opened the Knoxville, TN studio located on 11521 Kingston Pike in Knoxville. The 1,600-square-foot studio, which Collier also manages, has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Total Construction Services built the studio. Andi Golden and Sarah Swaim co-own the Cottonwood Plaza, AZ studio, which opened on October 26. Swaim manages it. The studio is located on 7266 N. Oracle Rd, Tuscon. The 1,200-square-foot studio has two fully equipped private training rooms. Advanced Renovations built the studio. The Dallas, TX Fitness Together, which opened on October 16, is owned and managed by Woody Glass and Larry Johnston. The 1,587-square-foot studio is located on 6814 Snider Plaza, University Park, and has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. C2 Construction built the studio. Also in the Lone Star State, Fitness Together opened on December 18 in San Antonio, TX at 1207 North Loop 1604 West, Suite 119, San Antonio. Zack Marks owns and manages the 1,620-square-foot studio, which has three fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Damian Smith owns and Nick Ryan manages the Omaha, NE studio, which opened on October 16. The studio is located at 17525 Gold Plaza, Suite 101, Omaha. The 1,344-square-foot studio has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. TH Contracting did the construction. Roger Wanner opened the Lake Grove, NY studio on October 16 at 2758 Middle Country Rd., Suite 201, Lake Grove. The 2,035-square-foot studio has three fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Matassa Construction built the studio. Amir Alroy and Sagi Halevy own and manage the Yehud, Israel studio, which opened on October 16. The 1,743-square-foot studio, located at 54 Haazmaut Street, Yehud, has three fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Dumar Company built the studio. Courtney McLeod owns and manages the Summerville, SC studio, opened on October 18. The studio is located on 717 Old Trolley Rd. Suite F, Summerville. The 1,500-square-foot studio has two fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Residential & Commercial Specialists built the studio. Fitness Together Plaza Millwood, NC is owned and managed by Billy Ellifrits. The studio opened on November 20 at 1318 Central Ave., Ste. E2, Charlotte. It measures 1,650-square-feet and has three fully-equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Mansel/Contractors built the studio. Brian Wehner and Amy Lewellan own Fitness Together Woodinville, WA. Rebecca Fischer manages the studio, which opened on November 9. The studio is located on 14215 NE Woodinville Duvall Road, Woodinville. Wilcox Construction built the 1,125-square-foot studio, which has two fully equipped private training rooms and a cardiovascular area. Fitness Together has franchises in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Washington, D.C., Wisconsin and Wyoming. Studios recently opened in Costa Rica and Israel. About Fitness Together:  About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., the world?s largest wellness organization. Fitness Together was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are over 300 Fitness Together franchise locations throughout the United States, Israel, Ireland, and Canada and nearly 480 scheduled to open. Fitness Together Franchise Corp. also includes Elements Therapeutic Massage. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 10.    Fitness Together Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/-1/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/having-trouble-sticking-to-your-resolutions-ft-can-help/   Fitness Together’s experts share tips to help you stay on track Highlands Ranch, CO - November 13, 2006 Personal trainers at Fitness Together, the world’s largest personal training organization, know how difficult it is to stick to a plan especially when that plan comes in the form of a New Year’s resolution. That is why the private one-on-one training sessions offered at Fitness Together training studios are so effective the personal relationship between the client and trainer is a powerful motivator. Fitness Together’s trainers develop individually customized, results-oriented programs to help clients achieve their goals through weight and resistance training, muscular endurance, muscular training and nutrition counseling. Trainers also guide clients in weight loss management. Our trainers hold each of their clients accountable - to themselves. Each client is required to keep daily journals to track their fitness and nutrition goals. Thousands of people across the country have seen incredible results as a result of our trainers maximum focus on each client, said Kevin Betts, Vice President for Fitness Together. Mr. Betts shares the following tips to stay on track with your New Year’s resolutions: Surround yourself with a support group who knows what you are trying to accomplish. That group will encourage you to do and be -- your best. Schedule your workouts into your day just like you would a meeting. If a workout is already part of your schedule, you will be more likely to keep the appointment.  Instead of setting one large goal, set up smaller goals that are both realistic and attainable. Small accomplishments along the way will feel significant and give you more confidence to go after the next one. Post your goals where you can see them every day. Too often people write their goals down, tuck them away and never look at them again. Put them on the fridge, in your office or your car. They will be gentle reminders to take steps toward accomplishing them. After each workout, write down how you feel, what you did for weight training, how much cardio you did and what you ate. Writing it down helps you stick to the plan. Keeping a journal will help you feel accountable.  Find a workout buddy (co-worker, spouse, child, etc.) so that you are both holding each other accountable. A workout buddy will continually encourage you. You can also hire a personal trainer who understands the difficulties in sticking to a plan and can help you keep motivated and performing at your absolute best. ? Ask friends and family for workout clothes, shoes or accessories as gifts for special occasions, like a birthday or other celebratory holiday. You will feel a sense of obligation to use these items. You can then let those friends know how their gift helped you reach your fitness goals or maintain your resolutions. ? Share your resolutions with others - friends, family, co-workers, etc. It?s a great first step to making your goals a reality. And remember to celebrate your successes by sharing your accomplishments with this same group of people. There are currently 280 Fitness Together franchise locations open throughout the United States, Israel, Ireland, and Canada and another 180 scheduled to open. Fitness Together has franchises in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Washington, D.C., Wisconsin and Wyoming. There are also studios in Canada, Ireland and Israel. A number of sites are currently under development in Costa Rica. About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Holdings, Inc., and Fitness Together Franchise Corporation. The franchise corporation, which was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. Fitness Together Franchise Corp. also includes Elements Therapeutic Massage. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 23.   Fitness Together Mon, 13 Nov 2006 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/having-trouble-sticking-to-your-resolutions-ft-can-help/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-named-one-of-entrepreneur-magazine-s-top-franchises/ Fitness Together gains muscle and proves endurance Highlands Ranch, CO - October 13, 2006 Fitness Together, the world's largest personal training organization, is currently ranked #96 as Entrepreneur's America's Top Global Franchises. The franchise corporation was ranked #178 last year in this category. The announcement was made by Fitness Together Franchise Corp. CEO Rick Sikorski. Fitness Together has 261 franchises in the United States, up from 176 in 2005. There are three franchises in Canada. It placed #53 out of 100 ?Fastest-Growing Franchises? for 2006. To date, more than 470 studios have been sold. By the end of 2008, Sikorski expects to sell 850 studios. ?In our efforts to become the world leader in wellness, this recognition by one of the country?s premiere business publications reinforces our growth strategies and vision. We are delighted to receive this acknowledgment by a preeminent business resource,? Sikorski said. Fitness Together has franchises in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Washington, D.C., Wisconsin and Wyoming. A studio is currently under development in Costa Rica. About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation. The franchise corporation, which was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are currently over 400 Fitness Together franchises throughout the United States as well as sites in Israel, Ireland and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 23.   Fitness Together Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-named-one-of-entrepreneur-magazine-s-top-franchises/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/scott-thompson-ad-of-ny-named-rising-star/   Scott Thompson, Area Director of New York for Fitness Together, Named ?Rising Star- Westchester's Forty Under Forty Yonkers, NY - May 10, 2006 Scott Thompson, Area Director of New York for Fitness Together, the world's largest personal training organization, was named a winner of the ?Rising Star- Westchester?s Forty Under Forty? by The Business Council of Westchester. Thompson, 27, is among the youngest of this year?s winners. He was honored for his professional accomplishments, leadership qualities and outstanding success. The Business Council of Westchester?s program to honor business leaders throughout Westchester is modeled after the national business recognition program, Forty Under Forty. On June 8, forty awards will be given to young men and women who exemplify professional or entrepreneurial skills and have demonstrated leadership, foresight and a vision for the future of Westchester. Thompson has a strong track record of growing his company. Before moving to New York in October 2005 and taking the position as Area Director of New York, Thompson owned a Fitness Together franchise in Dedham, Mass. He oversaw daily operations, sales and marketing, and facilitated employee and customer relations. Under his leadership, Fitness Together was featured in The Boston Globe?s Business Digest and on Channel Five?s Chronicle as Boston?s ?Hottest Trend? for fitness. Fitness Together was recently ranked #118 in Entrepreneur magazine?s 27th Annual Franchise 500?. To date, Thompson has facilitated the purchase of six sites in Westchester County and Long Island and has pending sales for 10 other sites around the state. Thompson is a member of I9Sports League, an amateur men?s basketball league; the International Health & Racquetball Spa Health Association; the National Strength & Conditioning Association; and the Business Council of Westchester. The company's main headquarters are located at 9092 Ridgeline Blvd., Suite A, Highlands Ranch, CO; their New York satellite office is located in Yonkers, NY. For additional information, visit www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880. About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation. The franchise corporation, which was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are currently over 400 Fitness Together franchises throughout the United States as well as sites in Israel, Ireland and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 23.   Fitness Together Wed, 10 May 2006 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/scott-thompson-ad-of-ny-named-rising-star/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-to-celebrate-first-westchester-county-studio-opening/   Fitness Together to Celebrate First Westchester County Studio Opening Scarsdale, NY- May 2, 2006 Fitness Together, the world's largest personal training organization, today announced that it will host a grand opening celebration on May 18, 2006, from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Fitness Together, 450 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, NY. Health experts will share tips and techniques for healthier living, and a ribbon cutting at 7pm by Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner will commemorate the studio?s opening. Open to the public, the event will serve as a forum for fitness demonstrations, educational sessions and an opportunity to ask questions of well-rounded experts in a variety of health-related fields. Attendees who sign up for personal training packages will receive special rates and can enter to win a Total Body Transformation, which will include a laser hair removal package worth up to $1,000 from Completely Bare; a complimentary cosmetic consultation and in-office whitening procedure from The Dental Design Center, a $1,200 value; and a spa package from Enhance Spa. Steve DiLauro, general manager of Fitness Together in Scarsdale, said that he is looking forward to opening the doors of Westchester County?s first Fitness Together studio. ?We are looking forward to meeting our fellow community members. We know that those who get involved with Fitness Together are dedicated to making a positive change in their lives,? he said. This event will give us the opportunity to bring in local and regional experts to supplement the lifestyle our clients want to live. We are looking forward to helping our guests achieve their personal fitness and healthy living goals.? Dr. Marlene Peltz, Scarsdale, professor of Health and Nutrition in Aging at Marymount Manhattan College and professor of Health Psychology at Touro College, has worked extensively to help students and her private practice clients optimize their health through an understanding of how the body works. She works with people to learn how to prevent disease and enjoy the great rewards of a healthy body and lifestyle. Dr. Peltz will address the overall benefits of a healthy lifestyle and tips on how to accomplish health goals. Mount Vernon-based Scott E. Weiner, www.scotteweiner.com, stress reduction trainer and certified hypnotist, will present effective techniques to maintain focus for high levels of results, tips for cutting down on non-productive stress, and ideas for proactively preventing stress. He will introduce hypnotic relaxation techniques through relaxing guided imagery and calming visualization. Dr. Kerry Miller of New Fairfield, Conn., a treating physician at Greenwich Sports Medicine, Greenwich, is fully credentialed in Active Release Techniques and nationally board certified in the practice of chiropractic and physiotherapy. She is also a Certified Strengthening and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and is currently pursuing post-graduate work in Medical Acupuncture and rehabilitation. Dr. Miller has provided treatments to high school, Division I NCAA and Olympic-level athletes. Dr. Christopher Mah of Staten Island, also a treating physician at Greenwich Sports Medicine, is ART credentialed in both spine and lower extremity and is a Certified Kinesiotaping practitioner. He is also certified in the Graston technique. He received his Doctor of Chiropractic and Master Degree in Nutrition at the University of Bridgeport. Christopher previously served as a Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Golf Conditioning Specialist. He holds a variety of certifications and has worked with a wide variety of patients from post-operative seniors to elite athletes alike. Doctors Miller and Mah will address how to keep one?s body injury-free. They will discuss overuse injuries, available treatments and common strategies to preventing them. Linda Arpino, MA, RD, CDN, is a spokesperson for the New York State Dietetic Association and president of the Westchester Rockland Dietetic Association President. Fitness Together Scarsdale is located at 450 Central Park Ave., Scarsdale, NY 10583. For additional information, please call 914.723.1810 or log onto www.fitnesstogether.com. About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation. The franchise corporation, which was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are currently over 400 Fitness Together franchises throughout the United States as well as sites in Israel, Ireland and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 23.   Fitness Together Tue, 02 May 2006 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-to-celebrate-first-westchester-county-studio-opening/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/construction-begins-on-fitness-together-scarsdale/   Scarsdale, NY and Highlands Ranch, CO - February 21, 2006 Fitness Together, the world?s largest personal training organization, today announced that it has broken ground on its first site in Westchester County. Kenneth Fin and Linda Chung own the site, and Scarsdale resident Steve DiLauro will manage it. Clean up of the 2,200-square-foot site began last week and is scheduled to open in March 2006 at 450 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale. It replaces Great Frame Up. Mike Grant, owner of Boston-based GCS Contracting and the soon-to-open Fitness Together/Mount Kisco, will develop the Scarsdale site. Fitness Together/Scarsdale will have three private training rooms, two offices and a full bathroom. Fitness Together/Scarsdale will incorporate one-on-one private personal training sessions with its members. Costs for training packages will vary depending on client needs. Fitness Together?s trainers will develop individually customized, results-oriented programs to help clients achieve their goals through weight and resistance training, muscular endurance, muscular training and nutrition counseling. Trainers will also guide clients in weight loss management. DiLauro will manage the daily operations of the business, sell personal training packages and conduct personal training sessions. DiLauro said that there will be no group classes on the premises, as Fitness Together conducts private individual sessions. We are dedicated to helping each and every individual with establishing and achieving their personal fitness goals by adhering to our motto: 1 Client + 1 Trainer + 1 Goal,? he said. ?And we are truly excited to set the standard here in Westchester for Fitness Together.? There are currently three sites in New York, including Tribeca, Manhattan; Roslyn, Long Island; and Woodbury, Long Island. Other sites are slated to open in Commack, Setauket and St. James, Long Island and in Mt. Kisco. About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation. The franchise corporation, which was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are currently over 400 Fitness Together franchises throughout the United States as well as sites in Israel, Ireland and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 23.   Fitness Together Tue, 21 Feb 2006 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/construction-begins-on-fitness-together-scarsdale/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-names-area-director-of-new-york/ Yonkers, NY and Highlands Ranch, CO - November 16, 2005 Fitness Together, the world's largest personal training organization, today announced that it has named Scott Thompson Area Director of New York. As Area Director, Thompson will be responsible for establishing Fitness Together franchises in and around the state by helping to select sites, conducting lease negotiations and identifying the proper staff and trainers. There are currently three sites in New York, including Tribeca, Manhattan; Roslyn, Long Island; and Woodbury, Long Island. Two sites are slated to open in Scarsdale and Commack, Long Island. Before moving to New York in October 2005 and being named to his new position, Thompson was a Fitness Together franchisee. He owned a site in Dedham, Mass. and oversaw daily operations, sales and marketing, and facilitated employee and customer relations. Fitness Together was featured in The Boston Globe?s Business Digest and on Channel Five's Chronicle as Boston's Hottest Trend for fitness. New York is a fertile market for the customized, personalized setting of our sites. Having served as a franchisee, I know what components are necessary to run a successful business. I am looking forward to matching the right business people with the right personal trainers and to establishing Fitness Together?s reputation in the New York market, he said. A graduate of Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, Mass., Thompson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education with a concentration in exercise science. Thompson lives in Yonkers and is originally from Brockton, Mass. Thompson is a member of I9Sports League, an amateur men?s basketball league; the International Health & Racquetball Spa Health Association; and the National Strength & Conditioning Association. About Fitness Together: Fitness Together is part of Fitness Together Franchise Corporation. The franchise corporation, which was founded in 1996 by fitness leader Rick Sikorski, is built on three main foundations: strong corporate support, proven operating systems, and excellent leaders. There are currently over 400 Fitness Together franchises throughout the United States as well as sites in Israel, Ireland and Canada. For additional information, log onto www.fitnesstogether.com or call 877.663.0880 ext. 23.   Fitness Together Wed, 16 Nov 2005 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/fitness-together-names-area-director-of-new-york/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/fitness-together-personal-training-partners/   LifeFitness "When we need cardiovascular equipment, barbells, plates, racks and dumbbells we turn to the best, LifeFitness. The National Sales contact, Dean Kato, is efficient and understands the needs of our growing company." Phil Kaplan "In an industry that needs leadership Phil has been one of the best. His books, tapes, and seminars are invaluable to the fitness professional. Phil is one of the pioneers who has allowed others to make a career out of personal training." Paramount "Paramount Fitness has a long history of building quality exercise equipment. This family owned business has been a pleasure to work with. A special thanks to Chris Babecky, who represents their company so well." ISSA Since 1988 the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) has provided certification and continuing education to over 80,000 fitness professionals. ISSA certifications are recognized worldwide. From their flagship Certified Fitness Trainer program (CFT), to Sports Conditioning to Youth Fitness, ISSA offers nine certification programs and dozens of continuing education courses. For more information on the ISSA, please visit: www.issaonline.com or call 800-892-ISSA (4772). Perform Better Perform Better knows fitness equipment for functional training, full body training, and rehabilitation. Jim Giroux and their knowledgeable staff offer great products and service and expert advice to help our Fitness Together owners provide the best personal training in the world. Fitness Together Wed, 01 Jun 2005 00:00:00 -0600 /news/detail/fitness-together-personal-training-partners/ http://corp.fitnesstogether.com/news/detail/-2/   Are We There Yet? Or: How Long Does it Take to Reach My Fitness Goal? The human body likes activity. In one to two weeks you are rewarded with increased energy and better sleep. At the same time the body also likes to conserve energy. The body needs to be convinced that you are serious about cleaning up your nutrition and increasing your physical activity level.   One way to convince your body to change is to exercise frequently and intensely enough to force a response. If you only exercise two times per week the body does not really have to adapt to anything. Because there is a long time between workouts there is ample time for the body to recover. Infrequent exercise sessions tell the body that you are not serious and therefore there is no need to use a lot of energy adapting.   Weight loss depends on frequency, intensity, and mode of exercise. Cardiovascular exercise is an important part of any weight loss or health goal. A healthy cardiovascular system decreases the risk for chronic disease and supports recreational activities. But it is just as important to include strength training to maintain and/or increase muscle. Muscle is very important for overall bone health (in both men and women), injury prevention, calorie usage, and shape.   The minimum number of exercise sessions needed is three per week at an intensity level of moderate to high for 60 minutes per session. If you are serious about long term weight loss and health then you will need to include cardiovascular activity and strength training. It is important to address both of these exercise components in addition to flexibility.   Weight loss also depends on sound nutrition. Many people try to lose weight through cutting down what and how much they eat. For many this works very well until the body adapts to the new calorie level and stops weight loss. The amount of calories that are cut can be very difficult to maintain for long and soon old habits return. That is why it is much more effective to combine moderate exercise and moderate calorie restriction to lose weight.   A balanced program of exercise, flexibility, and nutrition is the best plan for weight loss and health. You have to set reasonable goals and plan ahead in order to achieve your best. It is never too late to start your journey to better health. Fitness Together Sat, 22 Jan 2005 00:00:00 -0700 /news/detail/-2/