The concept targets women who have not been to a gym before, and its success is in providing an environment that encourages privacy and convenience. "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," says CEO Daren Carter. "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."

Contours Express stands out from all other women's fitness concepts because it uses weight-based equipment instead of hydraulic-operated equipment. "Weight-based equipment creates both a positive and negative resistance," Carter explains, "which is better for building and retaining lean muscle, the key to developing a healthy metabolism." The network's fast-paced growth has led to the brand being ranked in the top 100 franchises in the US by Entrepreneur magazine, and it is currently negotiating further Master Franchise contracts in Sweden and the Middle East.

"The tremendous growth of our network has been possible because of the wide appeal of our franchise package," reflects Carter. "By combining a low set-up cost with no requirement for franchisees to possess previous fitness industry experience, the Contours Express franchise concept is incredibly popular with people seeking to invest in a franchise. This has enabled established Master Franchisees in Australia, Ireland and Great Britain to develop their networks very quickly."

A case in point, the Australian Master Franchise was granted to Australasia Franchise Group PTY Ltd. in January. The group, headed by Will Deane, has sold 10 franchise licences since, this year. "Will Deane is doing very well in a great market," Carter reports. "He is continuing to grow at a rate of two franchise licences sold per month."

The Irish Master Franchisee is achieving similar success with nine franchises sold, while GB Master Franchisee Jason Chong has sold two. "Contours Express provides you with the tools and systems needed to help you become successful," reflects Chong. "Master Franchisees do not need to be qualified personal trainers, rather Contours Express is seeking enthusiasm about fitness, an entrepreneurial spirit and a positive attitude. Using the top-quality equipment provided and the approach Contours Express teaches you, a busy and profitable network of franchised ladies fitness clubs is well within your reach."

Further network growth is taking place in Brazil (10 clubs now established), Panama (first club launched) and Canada (25 clubs). "This is a phenomenal business model that has exploded in the US and has universal application to women all over the world," adds Director of International Development Will Arvin. "Many of our franchisees are women who have gone into business for themselves and have been extremely successful. Women can empower themselves, have fun, help other women, and run a profitable business with minimal investment. In fact Contours Express requires one of the lowest investments in the franchise industry - franchisees can usually start for as little as US$40,000."

The brand's Mexican Master Franchise has been awarded to Iberoamerican Group, which will take over the seven Contours Express clubs already established in the country. "With Iberoamerican Group we will have excellent support and business development from an experienced team of individuals who bring a wealth of franchise experience to Contours Express in Mexico," comments Arvin.

The women-only express fitness concept is completely new to the South African market, and Contours Express has granted its Master Franchise rights to a group of individuals from Johannesburg who have extensive experience in the South African health club industry. "We are the first such company to enter the market there," adds Arvin. "We are now capturing the market and our Master Franchisees have already sold their first two franchises."

Contours Express is putting its focus into developing a Europe-wide presence. "We are intent upon expanding into Europe," emphasises Carter. "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 develop our concept in all EU markets."