Contours Express is a weight-loss & fitness franchise developed in the US which provides women with a comfortable and relaxed environment for exercising. With obesity now a recognised and growing problem in many countries, the company is identifying niche markets for its 29 minute workout programme in North and South America, Europe and Australasia through its ongoing master franchise expansion.

Franchised in the US in 1998, Contours Express has developed into a 320-strong network of franchisees throughout its domestic market, reporting more studios opening each week. The company has also established international operations, with 17 Canadian, seven Mexican and two Brazilian centres in operation. This year the company has signed master franchisee agreements with individuals in Australia and Great Britain.

The British master franchisee is former financial adviser Jason Chong. "Various fitness industry reports have identified that at least 60% of the British population is overweight or obese," states Chong. "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. 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."

Chong is confident that the brand is ready to take on the British market having formulated the franchise operation with the expert advice and guidance of lawyer David Bigmore, and franchise consultants Franchise Development Services. "We're looking for steady growth in the first year of around six quality franchisees," Chong reveals. "Over 1,000 units can be sustained in Britain and we will maintain consistent growth building a network of franchisees that will lead this niche market. This franchise is ideally suited to exclusive territories of 50,000 people, but it can be operated successfully with a population base as low as 10,000."

Franchisees operate from studio premises providing members with a no-nonsense workout plan designed to tone and shape muscles as well as improve flexibility and cardiovascular health, resulting in lost inches and pounds. The 16-piece exercise system alternates resistance training machines with aerobic stations, and a cue tape keeps members moving around the circuit. "The opportunity to positively influence women and change their lives is truly rewarding," reflects US franchisee Mary Schrad. "Daren Carter, CEO and founder, has perfected this workout based on women's physiology. The weight stacked machines designed for a woman's body combined with cardio workout equates to an efficient and effective workout. Results are tremendous! My only regret is that I did not jump on this opportunity earlier. It is fun and everyday I get to help people improve themselves."

As Chong explains, what sets Contours Express apart from other fitness and weight-loss franchises is its gym equipment. "We use weight-based instead of hydraulic-operated equipment. Weight-based equipment creates both a positive and negative resistance, which is better for building and retaining lean muscle - the key to a healthy metabolism. Users can select the weight they want, increasing its resistance as they advance through the fitness programme. Contours Express is registered with the Fitness Industry Association and is a member of the International Franchise Association. We will be applying for membership with the British Franchise Association."

Jason Chong approached the Contours Express master franchise with extensive financial and advisory experience gained from an eight year career at accounting firms PricewaterhouseCoopers and Ernst & Young. He is a qualified member of the Certified General Accountants Association of Ontario, Canada. During his professional career, Chong advised businesses in numerous industries, providing in-depth analysis of the operations and future prospects of companies, and assisting in the turnaround of financially distressed operations. After leaving the professional advisory field, Chong's enthusiasm for health and fitness led to him successfully completing the American Council on Exercise's Certified Personal Trainer programme, and gaining membership of the UK Register of Exercise Professionals.

However, neither franchisees nor master franchisees need fitness industry experience to develop the concept. "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."

Professional training is provided to master franchisees in the US covering the weight-loss plan, sales, recruitment, membership retention, use of equipment and basic fitness training. Master franchisees also receive materials to provide their franchisees with, including easy-to-use workbooks, manuals and videos covering business operation, sales and marketing, member service, nutritional guidance and exercise principles. "We never expected to get involved in a franchise or the fitness business," reflect US franchisees Betsy Ludwick and Jill Petter. "But when we tried to find a workout that fit our needs and goals we couldn't find it. We have found that Contours Express has a plan for business and fitness and when the plan is followed it works. We have three clubs open and plan to open three more. It has far exceeded our expectations."

It is the role of the Contours Express master franchisee to be dedicated to supporting franchisees, Chong reassures. "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."