Gail Hodge, a franchise owner and operator of Shapes Fitness for Women in Sarasota, Florida, shares what makes the gym unique.
The Details
- Year founded: Shapes Corporation was founded in 1983 in the Tampa Bay area. It became a franchise entity in October 2013.
- Number of locations: 11 open franchises nationwide
- Brand description: Shapes is a unique, boutique-style women’s gym specializing in helping women in all phases of their life. Shapes created an environment where women can feel comfortable and enjoy the company of other women who have similar goals. Staff is comprised of caring experts who are highly motivated to help members achieve their personal goals.
- Mission or vision statement: Shapes provides an atmosphere to support and inspire women of all ages and fitness levels to live a happy and healthy life. We strive to make a difference throughout the community by changing women’s lives in a positive way.
Key Differentiators
- Women-only, full-service gym equipped with a separate free weight area, cardio area, group fitness studio, locker room with showers and sauna, full line of strength training equipment, functional training studio, and a kids club.
- Smart Start member integration program.
- Boutique-style, private and personable atmosphere.
- Monthly progress health assessments.
- 30-minute express circuit training.
- Free-standing small group studio within the gym.
- Programming designed to bridge the gap between the first-timer and a life-long member.
Unique Programs & Amenities
- Active Aging programming.
- Kids Zone.
- Open seven days a week.
- 30-plus group fitness classes weekly.
- Customized programs based on members’ needs.
- Solution-oriented programming.
- Personal training specializing in functional training.
- Variable intensity interval training for Active Agers.
- Unique dance programs focused on women’s empowerment.
- Elite small group training.
- Corrective exercise programming with myofascial and trigger point therapies.
- Programs offering constant progression within one facility.
Best Piece of Advice
“The best piece of advice I can give is to be in constant communication and engagement with your members and staff. Whether it be online, social media posts, email communication and surveys, texts with motivational tips, or in-person in the club, be consistent with your message. My members appreciate my personal attention — I call them all by name — and my engagement with them, with my focus being on their fitness goals.”
