The énergie group has launched a new budget gym concept for the UK market.

Unveiled at the National Franchise Exhibition in Birmingham in October, the concept, called Fitless, targets the conditioned health sector that wishes to exercise with less supervision for a lower cost. It is also positioned as a business opportunity for those wishing to position themselves competitively in the current economic downturn.

Jan Spaticchia, CEO of the énergie group, said: “If ever there was a product launched at the right time it’s Fitless by énergie. My team have carried out extensive research into both the US and European budget fitness club models. As a result, I am very confident that Fitless will become a very successful franchise for business owners looking for growth in our fast changing economy.

“Our well established énergie fitness club franchise is targeted towards the deconditioned consumer; typically our members have never belonged to a fitness club in the past.

"In contrast, Fitless is all about the conditioned market – existing health club members who recognise quality, but demand value for money.”

Working with énergie group’s membership management partner, Clubwise, a comprehensive online membership package has been developed that removes the need for much of the club based administration.

Members will either join online from home or via a terminal within the club.Membership will be offered as two options: either £14.99 via annual direct debit or a £149.99 annual payment.

All Fitless clubs will be supplied with the Precor equipment range. Spaticchia adds: “The énergie group sees the importance of quality equipment as essential.”