HOTWORX welcomes new franchisees, Melanie and Jeffry Bartulla, who were awarded 1 franchise license for a studio that is currently in development in The Woodlands, Texas!
What originally motivated you to consider a business opportunity?
Several years ago we set out to diversify our income sources and have spent several years just kind of browsing and waiting for the right opportunity to present itself. We always kind of felt like "when it presents itself we will know it's the right opportunity.
"What led you to explore franchising rather than an independent business?
As two busy individuals with different career paths, we always felt like there were pros and cons to both a franchise and an independent business. For us, the franchise would provide a level of support you can't always get or find with an independent business venture. Being busy individuals, that was a check for us in the "pros" box. We also really liked the idea that a franchise would already have a brand established.
What was your initial impression of your first HOTWORX session?
I reluctantly went to my first session after being asked by multiple friends to try it. I was a runner and was content with running by myself. The thought of going to a sauna to workout with friends wasn't as easily a draw for me, BUT I went finally and I remember being surprised at how hard it was on me even though I ran out in the Texas heat. It was a good kind of challenge though, but what really surprised me was how great I felt the next morning. I didn't feel run down and as tired as I did running in the heat and humidity. I was sold at that point. It took me several months to convince Jeff to give it a try. He liked the idea of sitting in a sauna but not working out in one. But after watching me go several mornings each week he decided to give it a try. I sold him on the idea that even if he just wanted to sit there, he could. But once he got in a sauna with me his competitive side kicked in and he was on a mission to be able to complete a session too.
How was your experience going through the HOTWORX Discovery Process?
Mandy was great to work with. She was informative and always willing to answer questions and follow up. We went into Orientation Day feeling like we really had so many of our questions answered.
How would you describe your Orientation Day and meeting the HOTWORX Executive Team?
I really enjoyed meeting everyone and hearing their bios and how they have grown within the company. It helped reinsure me that we had made a good decision and had a good support system to help us navigate through everything.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs considering the opportunity to franchise with HOTWORX?
Do your research, know what support you will have and what the brands success rate has been so far, and go workout in a HOTWORX, give it a try. If you can see yourself wanting to work out there then there is a good chance you will find success in it. The path to success is members and positive experiences. If you love it and you speak honestly of it, you will have no problem inviting potential new members to try it and signing them up. I have worked out with a lot of trainers and coaches. The best workouts and the best experiences came from those that were inspirational and positive.
What are the top 3 reasons you chose to franchise with HOTWORX?
One of the reasons is that what HOTWORX offers is a unique product that I think just about anyone of any fitness level can find value in and can do on some level at their own pace. Another reason is the support system that is there to help guide you and has a proven track record. Lastly, I have always had a passion for fitness. It's a huge part of my life. When I tried HOTWORX for the first time and got hooked I was instantly wishing I would have thought to open the one I am a member at. That inspired me to dig more into the franchise opportunity.
What excites you the most in offering HOTWORX to your community?
I truly think just about anyone can find a benefit that's good for them whether it's the infrared, the workout or just being in a sauna. In talking to my friends and neighbors about what they love about it I hear all kinds of benefits. I think a studio in an area that doesn't have one provides the opportunity for more people in that community to find how HOTWORX can benefit them.
What goals do you plan to accomplish in your first year as a HOTWORX franchisee?
We are already in site selection and we were pre-approved for our SBA Loan before we ever even got to orientation. We hope to stay ahead of our plan and be open with a really good number of members and a well trained staff that truly enjoys working at a HOTWORX.
How will HOTWORX help you achieve your personal and professional goals?
On a personal goal level, it's going to allow me to grow something I am passionate about, fitness! As a professional goal, it's accomplishing that goal of diversifying. It's taken us several years to find the right fit for us. While I will be more of the day in and day out operations, Jeff will lend support while growing his career outside of our HOTWORX franchise.
Congratulations, Melanie & Jeffry, and welcome to the HOTWORX team!
Looking for a new business opportunity and want to learn more about HOTWORX?
Visit hotworx.net/franchising.
