Franchise Attracts Investors With a Passion for Fitness
ISI® Elite Training is built on a strength-based, coach-led training approach that blends progressive strength, athletic movement, and conditioning in a structured group environment. The brand attracts franchise partners with a strong passion for fitness and performance who want to be actively involved in the business they build. These partners value discipline, accountability and culture, stay closely engaged in day-to-day operations, and are focused on building a strong, connected community and becoming a trusted presence in their local market. The owners featured here share how ISI® became both a smart business and a community they’re proud to call their own.
Denette Carte & Jason Adams, Cornelius, N.C., July 2023
Why ISI®? We were excited by the chance to be on the ground floor of an emerging brand with a clear vision and strong leadership. The strength-based training model aligned perfectly with our athletic backgrounds, and just as important, ISI® gave us the opportunity to open a facility in a community where we wanted to be actively involved — not just as business owners, but as contributors and neighbors.
Best Part: What we love most is the relationships and sense of community. Fitness is the foundation, but connection is the outcome. We get to serve people daily, support them through physical and mental growth, and watch confidence develop inside and outside the facility. Being part of that journey is incredibly fulfilling.
Biggest Surprise: One of the biggest surprises has been the constant attention required to keep everything clean, maintained and up to date. From equipment to facilities, there’s always something that needs attention. It reinforced how important consistency and high standards are in creating a great member experience.
Kendra Fuentes, Sandy Springs, Ga., April 2024
Why ISI®? I loved the growth phase that the brand is in and the overall support ISI headquarters provided us upfront. They made us feel very comfortable in the onboarding process as new business owners.
Best Part: I can be hands-on and involved in the day-to-day operations while getting to pursue my passions for helping others grow in their fitness journeys. It has been so great getting to build an incredible team.
Biggest Surprise: We heard from several people that you wouldn’t hit profitability in your first year of business, but to our shock (and delight), we hit our first profitable month in month 11! Aside from an amazing brand, ISI® Elite Training has the best franchise partners. Across the network, we are passionate and engaged!
Spencer & Hannah Thomas, Two studios in San Antonio, Texas, December 2023
Why ISI®? We saw an opportunity to deliver a truly high-quality product — one that prioritized performance, structure and results — at a level we felt could stand above anything else in the market. ISI’s programming depth and commitment to coaching excellence immediately stood out.
Best Part: What we love most is the people — both our members and our team. We get to create an environment that is welcoming but holds a high standard. Watching individuals grow physically, mentally and emotionally while being part of a strong community is incredibly rewarding. There’s also something special about building a team of coaches who care deeply about their craft and the people they serve.
Biggest Surprise: The biggest surprise has been the sheer shift in responsibility and time commitment, especially early on. Ownership requires a different level of leadership and long-term thinking than even high-level management roles. You’re constantly learning, adapting and being stretched in ways you don’t fully anticipate until you’re in it.
Learn more about the ISI® Elite Training franchise opportunity.
