2008
16
$136,000
$49,500
$476,000
No
If you’re looking for a franchise opportunity in the fitness industry that blends serious results with community-driven culture, then the HEW Fitness brand stands out. HEW Fitness (formerly known as Hard Exercise Works) delivers high-intensity, strength-based interval group training in a welcoming environment where every member is part of the “HEWman” community. With a growing footprint across the USA and an emphasis on transformation—not just of bodies but of lives—HEW Fitness positions itself as more than a gym: it’s a destination for lasting fitness change, daily energy, supportive culture, and a business model designed for growth. Whether you’re an investor seeking a scalable fitness concept or an entrepreneur eager to lead a community-centric fitness brand, this franchise offers the tools, brand clarity, and market momentum to make an impact.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Boutique, strength-based fitness is among the fastest-growing segments of the health club market. HEW positions itself to capitalize on this shift by offering efficient 45-minute, coached classes designed to deliver real results.
The HEW brand emphasizes community, motivation, and inclusive energy: not just workouts, but a culture where members from diverse backgrounds feel welcome, challenged, and supported.
A proven franchise model with over 16 operating locations already and a clear roadmap from pre-launch, marketing, operations through to growth. HEW offers a turnkey entry into the fitness franchise space.
Multiple revenue streams and high-value demographics: strength training appeals to a broad cohort—moms, professionals, first-responders, athletes—and HEW’s programming is designed for repeat attendance and strong member retention.
National brand potential: Though still growing, HEW has strong foundational branding and an evolving story, and is poised for further expansion across the USA. That gives early franchisees the possibility of regional leadership and territory advantage.
Established Year & History: HEW Fitness traces its roots back to 2008 when the concept was launched under the name Hard Exercise Works. The brand later re-branded as HEW Fitness to reflect a more inclusive, community-oriented vision.
Founders & Ownership: The brand was co-founded by Randall Greer, who as a franchise owner and leader of the brand has shared insights into its culture shift from competition to community.
Franchise Journey & Units: HEW began franchising around 2010. As of recent data, the brand has approximately 16+ operating locations.
Market Presence & Industry Category: HEW sits in the boutique fitness and group training category of the health & wellness industry. It is positioned to capitalize on a multi-billion-dollar U.S. fitness market with steady growth.
Brand Journey & Differentiators: What began as high-intensity training has evolved into a structured, coached model emphasizing strength, functional movement, community, and transformation. HEW emphasizes “no teammate left behind” and a “HEWman” community mindset.
Pre-Launch & Site Selection
Assistance with site selection and lease negotiation to secure a suitable location in your market.
Construction and build-out guidance: floor-plan design, equipment specification, branding, and interior design aligned with the HEW aesthetic.
Opening strategy support: grand-opening marketing, membership drives, and community activation with help from the HEW support team.
Operational & Academic Training
Initial classroom and on-the-job training (around 40 hours each).
Coaching certification and programming training for franchisees and coaching teams, including instruction on HEW’s strength-based interval workouts, functional fitness programming, member experience, and safety.
Ongoing operational support through field operations consultants, regular check-ins, franchisee peer networks, and annual conventions.
Marketing, Growth & Member Retention
Centralized marketing templates and strategies, including social media campaigns, email marketing, website guidance, and localized promotional materials.
Proven membership models and programming to drive attendance, increase retention, and encourage referrals.
Support for local fundraising and community engagement events, highlighting HEW’s focus on community leadership and charitable involvement.
Ongoing Business & Growth Support
Monthly consultations and performance reviews to help optimize staffing, scheduling, membership tiers, cost control, and profitability.
Access to proprietary software, intranet portals, operational manuals, and membership-management systems.
Opportunities for multi-unit ownership once the initial location is established and successful.
HEW Fitness seeks driven individuals who want to lead a meaningful business centered on health, energy, and people.
Entrepreneurial Mindset: Ideal for those wanting to own and operate or oversee a boutique fitness business actively.
Passion for Fitness & Community: Owners should have a genuine interest in wellness, movement, and helping others transform their lives.
Business Acumen: Experience in management, operations, or customer service helps. Owners should be comfortable with budgeting, staff management, and local marketing.
Investment Capability: Must have sufficient liquid capital and financial stability to support the business through the initial ramp-up period.
Location Preference & Market Fit: Ideal locations include suburban or urban areas with strong fitness-minded populations.
Culture-Fit & Leadership Style: Franchisees should be approachable, community-driven leaders who embody HEW’s values—Hard work, Energy, Acceptance, Relationships, and Teamwork.
Initial Investment Range: Approximately $136,000 to $476,000, depending on location size, lease terms, and build-out.
Franchise Fee: Around $49,500.
Minimum Liquid Capital / Net Worth: Recommended minimum liquid assets of $150,000 and net worth of $200,000.
Royalty Fee: Around 5% of gross sales, plus an additional 1–2% marketing fund contribution.
Training Fees: Included in the initial franchise package.
Revenue Potential: Top 50% of mature HEW locations have reported average annual gross revenues of approximately $500,000.
Break-Even Time: Typically within 24 to 36 months, depending on market, management efficiency, and membership build-up.
Potential Revenue Streams:
Monthly and annual membership fees
Personal training sessions and coaching programs
Branded retail merchandise
Nutrition programs or workshops
Corporate wellness partnerships and community events
Working Capital & Infrastructure: Estimated working capital requirement is between $30,000 and $70,000, covering payroll, marketing, and initial operations.
Marketing Budget: Franchisees should allocate a portion of their budget for local SEO, community events, and digital advertising to build early traction.
