We generally understand a boutique is a small exclusive business that offers a very specialized form of services or products. What began as a way to describe a small clothing store now gives definition to other business types such as hotels, advertising agencies and health clubs.
Today, when it comes to fitness centers, people want “specialty” from boutique studios that focus on quality over quantity! Why not give them the membership they want this year? Or, maybe its time to buy a boutique fitness franchise for yourself this year!
“The free-standing boutiques will continue to evolve now that they have made an inroad in our industry. The boutique concept is here to stay, at least for now, and has raised the bar for the big-box clubs to emulate their good qualities (high-end physical environment, connected community, perceived excellence of instruction and customer loyalty).” (1)
In an article written by Grace DeSimone, editor of the American College of Sport Medicine's Resources for the Group Exercise Instructor, she comments that she is, “not surprised, that group training has climbed up the trend list this year. I credit the onslaught of fitness boutique studios dedicated to a variety of group fitness classes ranging from indoor cycling to boot camp, obstacle courses, yoga, Pilates and ballet barre fitness programs. Boutique studios have taken what's old and made it new again by breeding small communities of like-minded people and bonding them through activity. It's like finding the right group to sit with in the high school cafeteria. You belong. You have friends. And guess what? You are cool.” (2) She adds that, “The interesting phenomenon this time around is that we have added technology and more athleticism, attracting a different breed of instructor. Say hello to your "hybrid trainer." This breed of fitness professional can train individuals, coach groups and motivate the masses.” (3)
Indeed, the fitness instructor has evolved. Many boutique fitness studios are now finding ways to utilize Virtual Class Instructors and Virtual Trainers. This is certainly a way to ensure that clients always receive quality instruction. HOTWORX pioneered the use of virtual instructors inside of an infrared sauna and uses rows of three person saunas within its unique 24 hour infrared fitness studio franchises.
HOTWORX is growing rapidly across the country because of its unique 24 hour boutique fitness concept. Customers love the fact that they can experience over 10 isometric and HIIT workouts in an intimate small group environment 24 hours a day, and with the added benefit of infrared!
Find the right boutique fitness studio, buy some gift certificates and maybe some mats, towels and yoga bags, then wrap them up and give the gift of boutique fitness this Christmas! There is no better gift than that of health to those you love.
Happy shopping, and Merry Fitness!
