Nevada Fitness acquires World Gym franchise rights

A Carson City-based corporation that operates five gyms in the area has a New Year's resolution: to become a World Gym.

On Jan. 1, Nevada Fitness will become a World Gym franchisee. World Gym International runs and franchises more than 300 health and fitness centers in about 30 states and 20 countries worldwide, according to Hoovers.com.

A World Gym spokesperson could not be reached for comment.

Nevada Fitness operates two gyms in Carson City, and one each in Minden, Reno and Sparks. The franchise rights, which owner Steve Main purchased about two months ago, should not affect the company's 200 full- and part-time employees.

New member fees might be one thing that change after the new year, a time when many make a New Year's resolution to get in shape.

"If you're a current member your monthly fee will not change," Main said Monday. "But if you're a new member it could be different."

Main will sell the company in early 2006, but he declined to comment further on the deal until it's complete.

The first Nevada Fitness club opened on Research Way in February 1995.

The Sparks club opened in late 1998, followed by the fitness center in Minden. Nevada Fitness acquired a branch in Reno, then opened the fitness center in South Carson City, off of Fairview Drive, in summer 2002.

Nevada Fitness bought the rights to use World Gym material, such as its name and logos. He said the change will allow the company to compete more effectively against other fitness centers.

"The main thing about any health club competing is the marketing and the service you provide. It's all about delivering your product to your target market."

Main, 43, has invested $300,000 in new cardio workout equipment for the five gyms. The purchase includes 40 new treadmills and 40 elliptical machines. The World Gym sign on the side of the building should be up by the first of the year, he said.

"We've prided ourselves in benefiting the community. The owners are still going to be people who live locally."

The Christian-based company has offered free membership to local clergy.

Main, of Carson City, plans to work on a book and consult for health clubs after the sale is complete.

• Contact reporter Becky Bosshart at bbosshart@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1212.