HOTWORX welcomes new franchisee, Dharmesh Mistry, with the purchase of a franchise license in New Jersey!
What lead you to explore franchise opportunities?
I’ve always had a strong desire to own my own business. Throughout the years I’ve researched all different types of businesses from A-Z. For one reason or another, I could not find the right fit for me. Even though I’m passionate about fitness and wellness, I did not limit my business research to only one industry. If I could find a profitable business model that’s in line with what I’m passionate about, then that would be a home run for me.
I attend franchise shows around my area on a regular basis. I always like to see what new business concepts are out there and use it as a learning opportunity with all the free seminars that are offered. During my visit to the International Franchise Expo at New York City last June, I had no intentions of speaking to any franchisors; I was there only to attend the seminars. I recently made a significant investment into a website business so I had no interest in purchasing a franchise anytime soon. For me to even consider another business venture at this time, it would have to be something that would knock it out of the ballpark, an opportunity too good to pass up.
As I was perusing the floor at the franchise show, I was drawn to this new infrared fitness concept. As a fitness enthusiast, I was curious to learn about it. I’ve never heard of infrared saunas before. I started talking to an energetic young lady named Bebe De Leon. She was explaining to me all the health benefits of infrared saunas. As a healthcare professional, I was thinking, “Hey this is really cool!” I could use a workout such as this with all of the injuries I’ve had and minor aches and pains that I experience as I’m getting a little older. Seemed like a great way to get an efficient workout that is not only effective but also very safe. I decided to give Bebe my contact info so I could learn more about this new business concept.
Can you describe your first HOTWORX session?
I did a Hot Pilates class with Steve Smith, CEO of HOTWORX. It was just as good or better than other Pilates classes I have taken in the past. My core was on fire for a couple days afterwards; the workout hit the deep muscle tissues of my core. It was a kick-ass workout! Furthermore, at the time I was nursing a sprained ankle. With the heat and increased blood flow, I was able to do the workout without any discomfort on my ankle.
How was your experience going through the HOTWORX Discovery Process?
Each week I met with Bebe to go over the different modules-Introduction, Fitness Innovation, Marketing and Branding, and Training and Support. I liked how each topic was separated by a week. It gave me a chance to absorb the information and think of questions to ask. Bebe was fantastic throughout the entire process. She answered all my questions effectively, and if she wasn’t sure she made an effort to find out the information.
After going through the modules, I wasn’t ready to set up a formal discovery day visit just yet. Since the concept was very new and only one studio was open at the time, I decided to wait and see how other franchisees perform before taking the plunge. There was no high pressure sales tactic from HOTWORX. They want you to take your time to do your due diligence and feel comfortable before taking the next step.
In September during Labor Day weekend, I decided to take a trip to Oxford, MS on my own to check out the studio. Luck would have it that Steve was going to be in Oxford that same weekend. Bebe arranged for us to meet. We did a workout at the studio in the morning and then enjoyed an unparalleled tailgating experience before an Ole Miss game. Steve had me chanting “Hotty Toddy!”
After the trip, I spent the next few months reaching out to franchisee owners to get their feedback. Across the board every franchisee owner expressed a strong belief in the business model and acknowledged that the HOTWORX team is supportive and cares about your success.
What was it like meeting the HOTWORX Executive Team at Discovery Day?
The Executive Team was extremely professional. They have a solid system in place. You can tell right away that they are not new to franchising. Every step of the process is worked out for you. No need to reinvent the wheel. Your job is to just execute the plan.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs considering the opportunity to franchise with HOTWORX?
If you’re passionate about fitness and wellness and have a desire to own a business then strongly consider HOTWORX. After researching a number of other fitness franchises, I felt that HOTWORX was the best fit for me.
Learn as much as you can about owning a business: go to franchise shows, attend seminars, read books, and talk to other business owners.
Read the weekly blog and news on the HOTWORX site. The team provides insightful information about the benefits of an infrared sauna workout as well as the direction of the company.
Perform an informal market test. Pitch the idea to people and see what sort of response you get.
If you’re still hesitant to pull the trigger after doing your research, ask yourself, “Is it due to fear?” There is no doubt that owning a business is a life changing event. The decision is not one you should take lightly. However, if it’s something you’ve been dreaming about for a long time and you know deep inside it’s something you want to explore, then don’t let fear hold you back. Our brains are naturally wired to think about everything that can possibly wrong; it’s a protective mechanism. Instead, rewire your brain-read or listen to something positive every single day. Think about all the possibilities that this business opportunity can offer you if things go right.
Expect a roller coaster ride with lots of ups and downs, but also realize that you’re not going along on this ride all alone. The HOTWORX team is there for you to make sure you get to your destination safely.
What are the top 3 reasons you chose to franchise with HOTWORX?
1. Novel fitness concept that will be a household name in the industry. This is an evolution in fitness that I want to be a part of.
2. The semi-absentee model seems feasible. With low overhead, small footprint, and minimal staff, I can maintain my full-time job while I grow the business.
3. The HOTWORX team has 20+ years of experience in franchising with solid systems in place. I know I’ll get the guidance and support that I need.
What goals do you have in bringing HOTWORX to your market?
- Be the first one to bring HOTWORX to New Jersey.
- Expand to multiple units across the state.
What are you most excited for in your first year as a HOTWORX franchisee?
- Learning how to start-up a business.
- Creating a positive impact in my community.
Congratulations, Dharmesh, and welcome to the HOTWORX family!
Looking for a new business opportunity and want to learn more about HOTWORX?Visit hotworx.net/franchising or call (504) 297-1HOT.
