Anytime Fitness Co-Founders to Receive John McCarthy Industry Visionary of the Year Award
March 13, 2009
HASTINGS, Minn.—(BUSINESS WIRE)—A simple idea backed by a visionary business model has helped propel Anytime Fitness Inc. to unprecedented industry success. Company co-founders Jeff Klinger and Chuck Runyon will be honored for their achievements with the 2009 John McCarthy Industry Visionary of the Year Award presented by the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA). The award presentation will take place during IHRSA’s 28th Annual International Convention and Trade Show, which will be held March 16-19 in San Francisco, Calif.
“We’re extremely honored to receive this award and it confirms what Chuck and I recognized early on about what consumers want in a health club,” said Jeff Klinger, Anytime Fitness CEO and co-founder. “When it comes to fitness, people want flexibility and convenience in an inviting, hassle-free atmosphere. Our ability to deliver that is at the core of our growth and continued success.”
The John McCarthy Industry Visionary of the Year Award is presented to the individual(s) who has made an unprecedented or unique contribution to the advancement of the club industry as a whole. Anytime Fitness recently celebrated its 1,000th club opening and is the first co-ed fitness franchise to achieve this milestone.
“Anytime Fitness has found tremendous success by providing something everyone values – convenience,” said Joe Moore, President and CEO of IHRSA. “It is one of the first criteria people consider when choosing a health club, and Anytime Fitness has done a great job of uniquely capitalizing on this demand.”
In a market environment where many businesses are holding steady or downsizing, Anytime Fitness continues to grow. The key has been simultaneously keeping members and franchisees satisfied. In addition to providing a convenient fitness option in a small, friendly atmosphere, members appreciate monthly dues that are typically about half of what bigger clubs charge.
A high level of satisfaction among Anytime Fitness franchisees also is contributing to the company’s continued growth. Franchise owners are attracted to Anytime Fitness’s proven business model, which focuses on smaller, more efficient gyms and cutting out expensive amenities such as pools and basketball courts. In addition to providing a scaled-down, yet high quality workout experience, franchisees benefit from state-of-the-art entry systems and security features, thus allowing them to operate remotely and with a minimal staff.
About Anytime Fitness
Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness is now the fastest-growing fitness club franchise in the world, with more than 1,100 clubs currently open in 47 states nationwide. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Anytime Fitness prides itself on providing its members with convenient and affordable fitness options in friendly, well-maintained facilities which feature top-quality exercise equipment. State-of-the-art security and surveillance systems ensure member safety even during unstaffed hours at the clubs.