Stride Fitness

Start Your Own Running Studio Franchise with Stride

The fitness industry is growing fast, and now might be the perfect time to open your own fitness studio! If you’re looking for a great franchise opportunity, Stride could be the perfect fit. Stride is an indoor running franchise that opened its doors in 2017 and began franchising in 2019. It's backed by Xponential Fitness, a well-known company in the fitness world.

Stride offers a unique concept: dedicated running spaces for people of all fitness levels, from walkers to runners. It's the only indoor running franchise in the country, and classes are led by certified running coaches.

Stride studios offer dynamic interval classes and a variety of running machines to help customers achieve their fitness goals. Workouts take place in a climate-controlled environment, making it a comfortable experience year-round.

Read on to discover what it takes to start a Stride franchise and why it's an excellent option for aspiring entrepreneurs like you.

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Why Choose a Stride Franchise?

Here are just a few reasons why opening a Stride studio might be the right move for you:

First Mover Advantage

Stride is a pioneer in the indoor running studio market. This means there’s less competition, giving you a chance to establish yourself as a leader in your community.

Extensive Support

Stride provides franchisees with the resources they need to succeed. This includes help with finding a location, securing financing, training, and more.

Scalable Model

You can start with one studio and expand your business if you choose. This means you can control your own growth and build a successful franchise empire.

Low Cost of Entry

Stride offers a relatively low initial investment, making it an accessible option for aspiring entrepreneurs. It also has strong profit potential.

High-Tech Equipment

Stride studios are equipped with top-of-the-line running machines and technology, including heart rate monitors and in-studio leaderboards. They use Art Woodway treadmills, known for their high quality and comfortable running experience.

If you have experience in the fitness industry or running a business, Stride could be the perfect next step in your entrepreneurial journey.

Exclusive Territories

Stride offers exclusive territories to its franchisees, meaning you won’t have to compete with other Stride studios in your area. This allows you to focus on building a strong customer base and growing your business without direct competition from other Stride franchises.

The size of your exclusive territory will vary depending on your location and the local population density.

Positive Franchise Reviews

Current Stride franchisees generally report positive experiences. They appreciate the support provided by the franchisor, including financial assistance and resources. They also enjoy the flexibility of running their studios and making their own decisions as business owners.

While you can choose to teach running classes yourself, it’s not required. You can focus on managing the business and growing your franchise. This flexibility allows you to pursue your entrepreneurial dreams.

Support Resources for Stride Franchisees

Stride offers a wide range of support to help its franchisees succeed.

Site Selection and Lease Negotiation

The Stride team will help you find the perfect location for your studio, based on factors like population and market research. They will also assist you in securing a lease and getting your studio up and running.

Grand Opening Support and Training

Stride provides support for your grand opening and training in safety and security procedures. You'll also have access to proprietary software, including an intranet platform and a regular newsletter from the corporate office.

Business Resources

Franchisees can attend meetings and conventions, and purchase supplies and resources at discounted rates.

Marketing Support

Stride provides marketing support, including ad templates and national and local advertising assistance. You'll also receive online digital marketing support, including email marketing and SEO assistance.

Loyalty Program

Stride offers a loyalty program and app to help you keep your customers coming back for more. You'll receive training on how to make the most of these tools.

Stride Franchise Costs

Like any franchise opportunity, there are costs associated with starting a Stride studio. The average initial franchise fee is $60,000. You'll need a net worth of around $500,000 and $100,000 in cash. Your total investment will range from $370,000 to $540,000.

While there is a financial investment involved, the initial cost is still reasonable compared to many other fitness studio franchises. Royalty fees are 7%, and advertising royalty fees are 2%. You can renegotiate these fees after 10 years.

Stride is committed to supporting its franchisees and making its opportunity accessible to a wide range of individuals. The low cost of entry and strong support system can help you achieve your franchise dreams.

Financial Assistance

Stride offers financial assistance through third-party lenders and financial institutions. These resources can help cover your franchise fee, accounts receivable, and payroll. With the potential for strong profits from a Stride franchise, you can often repay these loans over time.

Training and Certification

Stride provides extensive training resources for its franchisees, including on-the-job training and classroom training. You'll also have the opportunity to become a certified running coach through the Stride Certified Run Program.

This program will teach you how to lead running classes, practice safe running form, and motivate clients of all ages and fitness levels. While you can choose to become a coach yourself, you can also appoint certified coaches to your studio.

Stride is committed to providing its franchisees with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the fitness industry.

Is Stride Right for You?

If you’re passionate about fitness and want to start your own business, a Stride franchise might be the perfect opportunity for you. With its unique concept, strong support system, and low cost of entry, Stride can help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals.

Ready to explore more franchise options? Check out Entrepreneur’s other guides and resources for additional information on this topic.