The Little Gym is the world’s premier experiential learning and child physical development center for kids ages 4 months through 12 years. Each week, progressively structured classes and a positive learning environment create opportunities for your child to try new things and build self-confidence, all with a grin that stretches from ear to ear.

 

The Little Gym environment is fun, but our purpose is serious. For more than 35 years, our trained instructors have nurtured happy, confident kids through a range of programs including parent/child classes, gymnastics, karate, dance and sports skills development, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival Nights and Awesome Birthday Bashes.

 

 

 

The Little Gym International began as the idea of one man who wanted to do something significant for children. Robin Wes, a musician, former gymnast and kinesiologist, created The Little Gym concept in 1976 to help children develop vital motor skills in a fun, musical and noncompetitive environment. Robin envisioned a place where children could reap the benefits of physical activity, while enhancing their social, emotional and intellectual skills. Robin's non-competitive approach was unheard of back then. Revolutionary, even.

 

In 1992, the concept was franchised, spreading The Little Gym methods and results across the globe. Since then, we’ve honed the teaching methods Robin set into motion, structuring them into an expanded curriculum, with each class building on lessons learned in previous ones. Today, children around the world experience the positive benefits of The Little Gym programs.

 

Total Number of Units:	208
Franchised Units:	206
International Units:	60
Year Established:	1976
Franchising Since:	1992
Awards:	Top 50 Franchise 2009, 2008 & 2007 Franchise Satisfaction Awards Franchise Business Review Ranked #1 in Category 2010, 2009, 2008, & 2007 Franchise 500 Entrepreneur Magazine America's Top Global Franchises 2010, 2009, 2008 & 2007 Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006 & 2005 Entrepreneur Magazine Fastest Growing Private Companies in America 2009, 2008 & 2007 Inc. 5000 Top 50 Education Companies 2008 & 2007 Inc. 5000

 

 

 

The Little Gym is a leader in early childhood development. With over 30 years of experience, we have developed tried and true methods, training, and tools to successfully manage your business.

 

Choosing a franchise to invest in is a complex decision. You must feel comfortable and confident knowing your choice will meet all of your needs. And, frankly, awarding a franchise is a big decision for us. We spend a significant amount of time choosing the right owners to join our growing family. We don’t simply sell franchises; we award them.

 

Once we award a franchise, you have our commitment to help you thrive. Our team bends over backwards to provide the tools, training and support you need. That way you can focus on the parts of the business you love. Like helping a toddler with their first somersault. Guiding a youngster through her balance beam routine. And hearing the cheers of proud, happy parents.

 

Just as you strive to give children the best foundation for success, we strive to give you the same opportunity.

 

 

 

The Little Gym offers two business formats. The exact amount may differ from one gym to another, depending on several variables such as market size and facility size.

 

Total Initial Investment:	$147.5k -$294k
Franchise Fee:	$39.5k - $69.5k
Liquid Capital Required:	$75k - $100k
Net Worth Required:	$250k
Financial Assistance:	SBA Approved
Start-Up Capital:	$50k - $100k

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other The Little Gym franchise costs include lease and tenant improvements to the space, which The Little Gym® does not control or set. These costs must be calculated on a case-by-case basis. However, our Real Estate Department can help you find the best space and upgrades at the best prices. 

 

Typical financing through SBA requires 20-30% owner capital infusion. As such, we look for a prospective owner to have a net worth of at least $150,000 to $200,000 and liquid capital to invest of $75,000 to $100,000.

 

 

 

When you own a The Little Gym franchise, you are in business for yourself, not by yourself. We provide comprehensive support and innovative resources for both new owners and established members of our family. From training and consulting to manuals and tools, whatever you may need, we’ve got you covered:

All of the departments at the International headquarters are solely devoted to providing you with the tools and assistance you need to be a successful business owner. We continually create and refine innovative resources and turnkey tools. And our consultants are always available to answer questions and guide you on your journey. That way you can concentrate on more important things, like positively affecting the lives of children in your community.

Does Corporate Assist in Site Selection:	Yes
Does Corporate Provide Advertising and Marketing (Local, National):	Yes
Does Corporate Provide Continued Training:	Yes

 

 

 

Do I need experience in gymnastics or do I need to have been a prior business owner?
No. We will teach you our programs which are based on meticulously and professionally developed curriculum. You'll also learn how to properly work with children of all ages and how to recruit and train staff.

 

What kind of business background do I need to qualify for a franchise?
The Little Gym Franchise Owners have varied backgrounds, but all of them have enjoyed success of some kind in their professional lives. Strong people skills and a deep love of children are the most important qualities we look for in those looking to become a franchise owner.

 

Just like The Little Gym® members, our franchise owners come from all different backgrounds. Some were attorneys. Some doctors. Some teachers. Some moms. Others had careers in sales and marketing. Many were successful business owners. But they all shared something in common: the sense that "something was missing from their lives."

 

If that's how you feel, it's time for a career change. Join the family of committed leaders whose passion is helping children, making a difference in their communities, and having fun in the process.

 

 

 

Our franchise Real Estate Department’s knowledge and state-of-the-art research will give you the confidence to know you've selected the best available location for your new enterprise. They'll advise you on your lease, construction permits, licensing and zoning.

 

Our team will also advise you during the build-out, helping select qualified vendors and assisting with construction deadlines. They'll acquaint you with our interior design standards as well as the demographic and psychographic data which can affect your choices among our variable site options.

 

To ensure a timely opening, they'll coordinate with our internal departments for equipment ordering. Their goal is to quickly get you up and running to help you achieve early success.

 

Down the road, the real estate team can support you on a variety of questions including relocation, opening of additional facilities, territory analysis and development.

 

 

“This is the most rewarding career choice you could ask for. Running a The Little Gym requires a significant investment of money & time but you'll love every minute of it.”

 

“The Little Gym is clearly the market leader, and their knowledge of the industry is outstanding. We highly respect and value our relationship with the franchisor.”

 

“We have never looked back since the day we purchased our first territory. This is an honest, moral, well run franchise and worth every penny we invested and every dollar we pay in royalties.”

 

“As an owner and instructor, it is a great feeling to know that I am making a difference in the children that I teach. It makes me proud to know that I am part of the development of a wonderful human being.”

 

 

Top 35 Target Market Areas (Not in order of priority)

 

1. San Diego	6. Minneapolis	11. Michigan metro areas	16. Orlando	21. Louisville
2. Los Angeles	7. Chicago	12. Portland, OR	17. Nashville	22. Oklahoma City
3. Sacramento	8. Cincinnati	13. Miami	18. Milwaukee
4. Las Vegas	9. Indianapolis	14. Atlanta	19. Spokane
5. Kansas City	10. Detroit	15. New Orleans	20. Oakland