Jazzercise: Revolutionizing Fitness with Dance and Community

Jazzercise, a pioneer in combining jazz dance with exercise, has been a dynamic force in the fitness world since Judi Sheppard Missett launched it in 1969. Initially a dance class, Jazzercise has grown into an international fitness franchise, integrating dance with Pilates, yoga, kickboxing, and strength training to deliver an intense, full-body workout.

Each 55-minute class is crafted to burn up to 800 calories, helping participants build long, lean muscles while enhancing their mood. The workouts are continuously varied to keep them exciting and to avoid boredom and fitness plateaus.

Based in Carlsbad, California, Jazzercise began franchising in 1982, a pivotal move that propelled it into a leading dance fitness brand. This growth enabled the unique fitness and dance combination to reach a global audience, fostering a community that emphasizes physical health and a sense of belonging and accomplishment.

Jazzercise sets itself apart with its dedication to community and wellness. In addition to fitness classes, the company engages in philanthropic activities, having raised over $28 million for various causes and tackling childhood obesity through the Kids Get Fit program. These efforts reflect Jazzercise's mission to give back and leverage fitness for positive societal impact, transforming it from merely a workout into a life-enhancing movement.

Training 

Initial Training Program

The Initial Training Program encompasses comprehensive instruction in physiology and fitness, choreographed routines, business procedures, and the execution of Jazzercise classes. This training may be delivered entirely or partially online.

Franchisees are required to successfully complete this program within six months from the agreement date. There is no additional fee for the Initial Training Program, but franchisees are responsible for covering their own travel and living expenses associated with the training.

Refresher and Additional Training

Franchisees may be mandated to participate in refresher and additional training sessions for up to five days annually, as deemed necessary by the franchisor. The location for these training sessions will be specified by the franchisor. Franchisees are responsible for their own travel and living expenses related to these sessions.

Periodic Advice and Consultation

The franchisor offers ongoing support and training for the franchisee’s business, which includes maintaining and updating The Studio to help franchisees effectively run the Jazzercise Dance Fitness Program. This ongoing support reflects the franchisor’s dedication to providing continuous advice and consultation.

Territory Protection

Jazzercise does not grant exclusive territories to its franchisees. This means that franchisees do not have guaranteed exclusive rights to operate in a specific geographic area. Instead, multiple franchisees can operate in the same region, fostering a collaborative and competitive environment that can potentially benefit the overall brand presence in the area.

This approach allows for greater flexibility and scalability within the Jazzercise network, as it encourages franchisees to focus on offering high-quality classes and building a loyal customer base through excellent service and community engagement rather than relying on territorial exclusivity. This model has helped Jazzercise maintain a strong and vibrant presence in the global fitness market.