2000
17
$578,000
$30,000
$1,200,000
No
Charter Fitness offers a compelling franchise opportunity in the thriving U.S. fitness industry. With a focus on affordability, community engagement, and operational efficiency, Charter Fitness provides a scalable business model tailored for entrepreneurs seeking a low-cost, high-return investment in the health and wellness sector. Their commitment to delivering a clean, comfortable, and convenient workout experience positions them as a strong contender in the competitive fitness market.
Affordability: Basic memberships start at just $10 per month, attracting a broad customer base.
Proven Financial Performance: Franchise units average over $1 million in annual revenue, with EBITDA margins exceeding 30%.
Scalability: The franchise model is designed for growth, with opportunities across the U.S.
Community Focus: Emphasis on local engagement and member satisfaction enhances brand loyalty.
Operational Efficiency: Streamlined operations ensure consistent service quality and cost control.
Charter Fitness, now known as CFX Fitness, is a prominent health club franchise that has evolved significantly since its inception. Founded in 2000 as Cardinal Fitness, the company underwent a rebranding in 2008 to become Charter Fitness, reflecting its commitment to providing affordable and accessible fitness options to a broader audience.
Founders and Leadership
The company was established by a group of entrepreneurs passionate about fitness and community well-being. Under the leadership of CEO Dan Collins, Charter Fitness has grown into one of the Chicago area's largest and fastest-growing health-club businesses.
Franchising Journey
Charter Fitness began franchising in 2011, expanding its footprint across the United States. The franchise model focuses on offering clean, comfortable, and convenient workout experiences with best-in-class fitness equipment at affordable prices, starting as low as $10 per month.
Rebranding to CFX Fitness
In 2021, Charter Fitness rebranded to CFX Fitness to better align with its evolving brand identity and to appeal to a broader demographic. The rebranding was part of a strategic move to modernize the brand and enhance its market presence.
Market Presence
As of 2025, CFX Fitness operates 17 locations throughout the Chicagoland area and South Bend, Indiana. Each club is open 24/7, offering top-of-the-line equipment, free weights, group training, and personal training to meet diverse fitness goals.
Mission and Values
CFX Fitness is dedicated to serving communities by providing a clean, affordable, and customized fitness experience, leading to healthier and happier lifestyles for all members. The brand emphasizes community involvement and strives to create an inclusive environment where individuals at any stage of their fitness journey feel welcome and supported.
Future Outlook
With a strong foundation and a commitment to innovation, CFX Fitness is poised for continued growth and expansion. The franchise's focus on affordability, quality, and community engagement positions it well to meet the evolving needs of fitness enthusiasts across the United States.
CFX Fitness offers a comprehensive support and training program designed to equip franchisees with the knowledge and tools necessary to operate a successful fitness club. From the initial stages of launching a new location to ongoing operational assistance, CFX Fitness ensures that franchisees receive continuous support to maintain high standards and achieve business growth.
Pre-Opening Support
Site Selection and Lease Negotiation: Assistance in identifying optimal locations and negotiating lease terms to secure a favorable site for the fitness club.
Facility Design and Build-Out: Guidance in designing the layout and overseeing the build-out process to create an inviting and functional fitness environment.
Vendor Relationships: Support in establishing relationships with equipment suppliers and other vendors to ensure timely delivery and installation of necessary assets.
Initial Training Program
Operational Procedures: Training on day-to-day operations, including member services, facility maintenance, and staff management, to ensure smooth and efficient functioning of the club.
Software Systems: Instruction on utilizing proprietary software for member management, billing, and reporting, facilitating streamlined administrative processes.
Sales and Marketing: Education on effective sales techniques and marketing strategies to attract and retain members, including the use of promotional materials and digital marketing tools.
Ongoing Support
Field Operations Support: Regular visits and consultations from field representatives to provide guidance on operational challenges and opportunities for improvement.
Marketing and Advertising: Access to a comprehensive marketing toolkit, including advertising templates, promotional materials, and digital content, to support local marketing efforts.
Purchasing Co-Op: Participation in a purchasing cooperative to leverage collective buying power for equipment and supplies, reducing costs for franchisees.
Online Support Portal: Access to an online portal offering resources such as training modules, operational manuals, and best practice guidelines, available 24/7 for franchisee convenience.
Staff Training and Development
Personal Trainer Certification: Opportunities for staff to obtain certifications and participate in ongoing education to enhance service offerings and maintain high standards of fitness instruction.
Customer Service Excellence: Training programs focused on delivering exceptional customer service, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for members.
Community Engagement
Local Marketing Initiatives: Support in planning and executing community events, promotions, and partnerships to build brand awareness and strengthen ties with the local community.
Member Retention Strategies: Guidance on implementing programs and initiatives aimed at retaining members and encouraging long-term commitment to fitness goals.
1. Passion for Fitness and Health
The ideal franchisee has a genuine interest in health, wellness, and fitness.
They are motivated to promote a healthy lifestyle within their community.
Personal enthusiasm for fitness helps in leading by example and engaging with gym members effectively.
2. Business or Management Experience
Prior experience in business management, retail, or service industries is highly desirable.
Skills in operations, staff management, budgeting, and customer service help ensure smooth daily operations.
Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to make data-driven decisions and manage growth.
3. Leadership and People Skills
Ability to recruit, train, and retain motivated staff.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build a welcoming environment for members.
Leadership qualities that inspire both employees and clients, fostering loyalty and a positive culture.
4. Financial Capability
Must have sufficient liquid capital and net worth to meet the franchise’s financial requirements.
Ability to cover initial franchise fees, facility build-out costs, equipment purchases, marketing budgets, and working capital.
Comfortable managing operational expenses until the club reaches break-even, typically within 18–24 months.
5. Location Preference & Market Understanding
Ideal franchisees are interested in operating in suburban or urban locations with strong community engagement.
Understanding of the local market demographics, including fitness demand, competition, and community needs.
Committed to tailoring marketing strategies and promotions to the local population.
6. Commitment to the Brand & Operational Standards
Dedicated to maintaining the high standards of service, cleanliness, and safety established by CFX Fitness.
Willing to follow the franchise system, training programs, and operational guidelines to ensure brand consistency.
Open to ongoing learning, continuous improvement, and adapting to evolving fitness trends.
7. Long-Term Vision and Community Focus
Franchisees should see this as a long-term business investment, not a short-term venture.
Interest in engaging with the local community, hosting events, and building a loyal member base.
Focused on member retention and delivering value, not just immediate revenue.
| Financial Component | Details / Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $578,000 – $1,200,000 |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | $250,000 – $600,000 (includes equipment, interior setup, signage, and facility improvements) |
| Marketing Budget | $10,000 – $25,000 initially, with ongoing local marketing recommended |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 (to cover salaries, utilities, and operating expenses until break-even) |
| Royalty Fees | Percentage of gross sales (specific rate disclosed in Franchise Disclosure Document – typically ~6–8%) |
| Expected ROI | Average EBITDA: $305,027 per mature location |
| Break-Even Time | 18–24 months, depending on location, membership base, and operational efficiency |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Membership fees, personal training services, group classes, retail sales of supplements and fitness merchandise |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Requirement | $300,000 |
| Minimum Net Worth Requirement | $750,000 |
| Franchise Units in USA | 17 locations as of 2025 |
