Iron 24: Revolutionizing Fitness with a Tech-Driven, Staff-Free Model

Iron 24 is an innovative fitness and recovery franchise founded in 2022 by a team of industry veterans. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the brand aims to simplify gym ownership and membership through advanced technology and a flexible, low-cost model.

The franchise offers a 24/7 gym experience where membership, access, and support are managed entirely through the Iron 24 mobile app. This tech-enabled approach eliminates the need for full-time staff, reducing overhead costs and allowing franchisees to operate with greater flexibility.

Iron 24's facilities provide a comprehensive fitness experience, including traditional strength equipment, cardio machines, functional training areas, and recovery rooms featuring infrared saunas, cryotherapy, massage beds, and red light therapy. Members can join instantly, access any location 24/7, and manage their membership without long-term contracts or hidden fees.

Training

Iron 24 provides a structured and detailed training program to support its franchisees in successfully operating their fitness centers. The training is composed of several key components:

1. Initial Training Program
   Franchisees, including the Designated Principal and Manager (if applicable), must attend and complete an initial training program to Iron 24’s satisfaction. This training may be provided in-person, virtually, or in a hybrid format. The franchisor covers the cost of training for up to three individuals, but franchisees are responsible for travel, lodging, and other expenses.
2. Replacement and Additional Manager Training
   If a Designated Principal or Manager leaves, the franchisee must promptly appoint a qualified replacement to undergo training. Iron 24 may allow franchisees to train replacements directly if they meet the franchisor’s standards; otherwise, the replacement must attend Iron 24’s formal training. The franchisee may incur per diem charges for this additional training.
3. Supplemental and Remedial Training
   Iron 24 can require or provide additional training if it deems a franchisee needs further support. Franchisees can also request such training, which, if approved, is provided at the franchisee’s expense, including per diem and travel costs.
4. Refresher Training and Conventions
   The franchisor may require attendance at annual conventions and refresher training sessions, typically lasting up to four days per year. These sessions are aimed at reinforcing system standards and updates, and costs for registration, travel, and accommodation are borne by the franchisee.

Territory Protection

Iron 24 grants each franchisee a defined Territory, typically ranging from a 1.5 to 3-mile radius around the franchised location, based on site-specific factors like population and demographics. Within this Territory, the franchisor agrees not to open or authorize another Iron 24 Center, provided the franchisee complies with the franchise agreement.

However, franchisees do not receive exclusive territorial rights and may still face competition from other franchisees or company-owned outlets. Although territorial boundaries are set and not altered during the agreement term, Iron 24 retains broad rights.

It can sell or distribute products through alternative channels such as e-commerce, mobile setups, or retail without using a franchised center, even within the defined Territory. Off-premises services by the franchisee are allowed only within their Territory and require prior written consent for anything beyond that area.