2021
150
$374,000
$49,000
$885,000
No
OHM Fitness is revolutionizing the fitness industry with its innovative approach to Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) workouts. Founded in 2021 by Doug Payne, a seasoned entrepreneur with a track record in scaling brands like Massage Envy, European Wax Center, and Orangetheory Fitness, OHM Fitness opened its first studio in Scottsdale, Arizona, in August 2022. The company began franchising in 2022 and has since expanded rapidly across the United States, with over 150 studios in development .
At the core of OHM Fitness's innovation is the proprietary EMPower Suit, a wireless EMS bodysuit that delivers electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contractions. This technology allows members to achieve the results of a traditional 2-hour workout in just 25 minutes, making fitness more efficient and accessible. The studios offer an immersive experience with curated music and lighting, creating an energetic environment that motivates members.
Innovative Technology: Leverage cutting-edge EMS technology to offer high-intensity, low-impact workouts that deliver rapid results.
Proven Business Model: Benefit from a franchise system developed by experienced entrepreneurs with a history of building successful brands.
Scalable Growth: Join a rapidly expanding network with a development pipeline of over 150 studios across the U.S.
Multiple Revenue Streams: Generate income through in-studio memberships, retail sales, and potential at-home fitness solutions.
Community Impact: Be part of a brand that promotes wellness and positive energy, fostering inclusive fitness communities.
Established Year: 2021
OHM Fitness was founded in 2021 with a mission to make cutting-edge Electro Muscle Stimulation (EMS) workouts accessible to everyone. Unlike traditional gyms that rely solely on standard exercise equipment and personal training, OHM Fitness leverages EMS technology to provide highly efficient workouts in a fraction of the usual time.
Founders: Doug Payne, Eric Hamann, and Steve Belknap
Doug Payne – A seasoned entrepreneur with extensive experience scaling national franchise brands such as Massage Envy, European Wax Center, and Orangetheory Fitness.
Eric Hamann & Steve Belknap – Co-founders who brought in complementary expertise in operations, fitness technology, and business development.
Franchise Units: Over 150 studios in development across the U.S. (including states like Arizona, New Jersey, Kansas) with a focus on expanding into high-traffic urban areas. The rapid growth demonstrates both the market demand for EMS-based fitness and the scalability of the franchise model.
Brand Journey & Company History:
OHM Fitness began by introducing EMS technology, previously limited to high-end personal training or physical therapy, to the mass market.
The first studio opened in Scottsdale, Arizona, in August 2022, quickly gaining recognition for its innovative 25-minute workouts that replicate results of traditional 2-hour sessions.
The franchise model launched shortly after, allowing rapid nationwide expansion.
Ownership & Corporate Structure: Privately held, with a focus on franchising and strategic partnerships to accelerate growth.
Market Presence & Industry Category:
OHM Fitness operates in the fitness and wellness industry, specifically in the niche of EMS-based studios.
The brand positions itself as a premium, technology-driven fitness solution, catering to time-conscious consumers seeking fast, effective workouts.
It differentiates itself from traditional gyms by combining high-tech EMS equipment with a curated fitness experience, including music, lighting, and personalized training.
Other Information:
OHM Fitness emphasizes community and wellness, encouraging members to adopt healthier lifestyles while enjoying an engaging, social fitness environment.
The company continues to innovate with proprietary EMPower Suits, offering wireless EMS technology for safe, full-body muscle stimulation.
OHM Fitness is recognized as a rapidly growing franchise opportunity in the U.S., appealing to both fitness enthusiasts and entrepreneurs seeking a scalable business model.
OHM Fitness offers comprehensive support and structured training to ensure that franchisees can operate their studios efficiently and profitably. The support system is designed to cover every stage of the franchise lifecycle, from pre-launch planning to ongoing operational assistance.
Before opening a studio, OHM Fitness guides franchisees through:
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation: Assistance in choosing prime locations with high foot traffic, demographic fit, and visibility. Guidance is provided for lease agreements to secure favorable terms.
Studio Design & Build-Out: Consultation on interior design, layout, and equipment placement to ensure an optimal member experience and operational efficiency.
Local Market Analysis: Data-driven insights on local competition, target demographics, and pricing strategies to maximize studio performance.
Permits & Licensing: Guidance to navigate local regulations, business licenses, and health & safety compliance.
Franchisees receive in-depth training covering all aspects of studio management:
EMS Technology Training: Hands-on instruction on the proprietary EMPower Suits and EMS systems to ensure safe and effective use.
Day-to-Day Operations: Training on member onboarding, scheduling, staff management, and maintaining high service standards.
Financial & Business Management: Guidance on budgeting, revenue tracking, and optimizing operational efficiency.
Staff Recruitment & Training: Support in hiring qualified trainers and staff, including standardized training materials and certification programs.
OHM Fitness provides extensive marketing assistance to help franchisees attract and retain members:
Grand Opening Campaigns: Comprehensive launch support including local advertising, social media promotion, and PR strategies.
Digital Marketing Guidance: Templates, strategies, and advice for social media, email campaigns, and paid advertising to grow membership.
Brand Assets & Collateral: Access to professionally designed marketing materials, signage, and merchandise to maintain a consistent brand identity.
Promotions & Retention Strategies: Guidance on loyalty programs, referral incentives, and member engagement tactics.
OHM Fitness ensures that franchisees and their teams remain up-to-date with industry standards:
EMS Certification & Safety Training: Continuous education for trainers on EMS best practices, safety protocols, and new techniques.
Workshops & Webinars: Regular sessions on fitness trends, operational improvements, and marketing innovations.
Knowledge Base Access: Online portal with training manuals, operational guides, and troubleshooting resources.
OHM Fitness provides continuous assistance to franchisees to help optimize performance and expand business:
Dedicated Franchise Support Team: Ongoing consultation from experts in operations, marketing, technology, and business growth.
Performance Reviews & Analytics: Regular check-ins to monitor studio performance, member satisfaction, and revenue trends.
Technology & Equipment Updates: Guidance on software updates, new EMS technology releases, and equipment maintenance.
Networking Opportunities: Access to franchisee conferences, peer-to-peer mentoring, and sharing of best practices.
OHM Fitness is seeking motivated, business-savvy individuals who are passionate about health, wellness, and innovation in the fitness industry. The ideal franchisee is someone who can combine entrepreneurial drive with a commitment to providing a superior fitness experience through EMS technology.
Business Experience: Franchisees with prior experience in business management, retail, or service industries—especially fitness, wellness, or hospitality—are best positioned for success.
Leadership Skills: Ability to hire, train, and manage a team of trainers and administrative staff efficiently.
Decision-Making & Problem-Solving: Confident in making strategic decisions, managing operational challenges, and adapting to evolving market trends.
Health-Conscious Mindset: A strong personal interest in fitness, wellness, and innovative exercise solutions is highly valued.
Member Engagement: Ability to motivate and inspire members, fostering a welcoming, energetic, and community-focused environment.
Commitment to EMS Training: Willingness to learn and master proprietary EMS technology to ensure safe, effective workouts for all members.
Investment Readiness: Franchisees must have the financial resources to meet the initial investment requirements (total investment ranges from $374,000 – $885,000).
Long-Term Planning: Ability to manage working capital, royalty fees, marketing budgets, and operational expenses while aiming for sustainable growth.
High-Traffic Location Preference: Ideal candidates seek locations in urban or suburban areas with health-conscious, affluent demographics.
Growth Mindset: Interest in scaling the business through multiple locations or expanding revenue streams (e.g., retail, at-home EMS solutions, corporate wellness programs).
Motivated & Goal-Oriented: Driven to achieve business targets, maintain high operational standards, and grow the franchise in alignment with brand goals.
Customer-Centric Approach: Committed to delivering exceptional service and creating an engaging studio experience for every member.
Adaptability & Resilience: Ability to navigate challenges, adapt to trends, and continuously improve operations.
Key Takeaway:
The ideal OHM Fitness franchisee is a financially capable, motivated entrepreneur with a passion for fitness, strong business acumen, and a commitment to delivering a premium EMS fitness experience. Candidates who embody these traits are more likely to succeed in managing a thriving, profitable OHM Fitness studio and contributing to the brand’s national growth.
| Category | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $374,000 – $885,000 (depending on location, studio size, and build-out costs) |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $49,000 |
| Startup Package | $125,000 – $150,000 |
| Lease Deposit & 3 Months’ Rent | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Build-Out & Studio Improvements | $75,000 – $400,000 |
| Signage | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Decorating, Furniture & Furnishings | $35,000 – $65,000 |
| Computer / POS System | $7,500 – $10,000 |
| Other Equipment | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Utility Deposits, Business Licenses & Prepaid Expenses | $500 – $5,000 |
| Insurance (3 months’ premium) | $500 – $5,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $20,000 – $40,000 |
| Additional Funds (3-month operating reserve) | $25,000 – $70,000 |
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | 6% of gross revenue |
| Marketing Contribution / Fund | Typically 2% – 3% of gross revenue |
| Break-Even Time | Estimated 12 – 24 months (varies by location and market demand) |
| Expected ROI | Profitable within first 2 years depending on operational efficiency and location |
| Potential Revenue Streams | - Membership fees (EMS workouts) - Retail sales (fitness apparel, accessories, supplements) - Corporate wellness programs - At-home EMS technology packages |
