"Studies show that the majority of women prefer to exercise and are more comfortable in an environment designed specifically for them," reports Will Arvin who, as President of US fitness club franchise Contours Express, oversees a network of over 500 franchised locations. "Many women do believe in the benefits of participating in exercise and would like to be involved, but are prohibited by such factors as cost, lack of time, commitment and feeling uncomfortable. At Contours Express we eliminate these reasons by providing a comfortable environment; a non-intimidating, fun and enjoyable atmosphere; and a fast and effective 29-minute exercise programme."

The Contours Express network has grown both domestically, since its launch in 1998, and internationally, with Master Franchisees operating in 13 countries throughout Central & South America, Canada, South Africa, Australia, Spain, Ireland and the UK. With six more Master Franchisees preparing to launch, and ranked 89th in America's Top Global Franchises by Entrepreneur magazine this year, the future growth of this international brand is assured.

"The women's only fitness scene is new and previously untapped," Arvin reflects. "It is a fast growing industry around the world with global applicability to women. Contours Express offers a low cost franchise allowing a larger number of prospective franchisees an easier way to start their own business. The concept is well suited to towns with populations too small to support a full-scale, coed gym. Our 16-piece training circuit alternates strength training machines with aerobic stations. A cue tape keeps members moving through the circuit at a fast pace while a fitness trainer provides motivation. After only 29 minutes, members of all fitness levels have strengthened, shaped, and toned all their major muscle groups, worked their cardiovascular system, and burned up to 600 calories."

Contours Express utilises exclusive weight bearing equipment which places it ahead of the market in terms of quality - a factor that has a bearing on its ability to generate repeat business. "Although more expensive than hydraulic equipment, the value of providing both positive and negative weight resistance can't be measured in just dollars and cents," says Arvin. "We feel it is critical to provide an easy-to-use workout that can grow with each member."

The Master Franchisee's main role is to develop a network of sub-franchised Contours Express Fitness Centres. "The Master Franchisee earns a percentage on the turnover generated by their network in return for providing training and support to their franchisees," explains Arvin. "The fitness centres generate income from membership fees, monthly dues and pro shop sales. We have created a franchise model for individuals interested in working for themselves and in their communities. Also, we're particularly pleased that, to-date, over 85 per cent of the franchises are owned by women, providing them with business opportunities and allowing them to help other women who are dedicated to improving their health. Another positive trend is that 50 per cent of all our franchisees have opened more than one unit."

Greece Master Franchisee Nikos Kouremenos opened his pilot in March, having completed his Master training at the US head office last October. "I'd been looking for a new opportunity, and my research into Contours Express provided a very good response," he reveals. "In the fitness industry you need to specialise and market to specific target groups."

With an 18 year background in the fitness industry, including management of health and fitness clubs and latterly fitness club consultancy, he is well qualified for an opportunity which, due to the comprehensive training, doesn't require a fitness industry background. "The training is very good and you can learn the equipment and exercises very easily," says Kouremenos. "The main focus is the acquisition and retention of members. It's very important to develop the brand strength, and that's something we're working on with the press here. Our focus is on positioning our brand as representing 'exercise, fitness, toning and weight loss'. We are educating the Greek marketplace about our concept."

Kouremenos has begun speaking to potential franchisees, and plans to have four to five franchise operations up and running by the end of the year. "We have had 85 applications for franchises, including 35 as a result of our first appearance at a franchise exhibition, including some from Cyprus," he relates. "Our goal is to reach 150 sites in Greece, plus a further 15 to 20 in Cyprus, which we are planning for over a seven to 10 year time frame."

Emphasising the suitability of the Master Franchise for individuals without fitness industry experience, Contours Express is seeking motivated, energetic individuals willing to follow a proven system. "The investment requirement for a National Master Franchise can be as low as US$50,000," reveals CEO Daren Carter. "This is a phenomenal business model that has exploded in the US and has universal application to women all over the world. We are intent upon expanding into Europe. We are involved in discussions with several prospects for Master Franchisees for several Western and Eastern European countries, and welcome interest from serious candidate individuals and companies who want to develop our concept in all EU markets."

Add German Master Franchisees Markus Engel and Frank Sentner: "Contours Express will grow throughout Europe in the next five years. The idea behind women-only gyms is very powerful, and Contours Express has built a very powerful system to match."