Image: The club is Snap Fitness' first in the UK

Snap Fitness, the US-based fitness franchise founded in 2003, has made its first move into the UK market with the launch of a new 7,000sq ft (650sq m) club in Sittingbourne, Kent.

The group is the franchisor of more than 1,300 facilities around the world and is currently looking to expand across the UK, with plans in place for between 75 and 100 locations over the next five years.

A second club is expected to open in Milton Keynes in due course, with Snap Fitness joining forces with Jordan Fitness to supply its new gyms in the UK. Matrix and Octane Fitness will also provide equipment.

The Sittingbourne club has been equipped with kit such as Olympic discs, fit balls and mats, as well as a range of dumbbells that have been exclusively branded for Snap Fitness.

Snap Fitness facilities also include cardiovascular and strength equipment and is planning to offer group cycling classes and studio-based programmes such as Pilates in future.

The concept aims to offer an affordable option for gym users, with its members paying on a month-by-month basis and having no contracts. The Sittingbourne club is open 24 hours a day.

Emma Ashby, gym manager of Snap Fitness Sittingbourne, said: "Our clubs are perfect for new members looking to start a workout plan, or experienced exercisers interested in a fast, convenient and affordable workout."

Jordan Fitness sales director Zak Pitt added: "[Snap Fitness] brings a fresh and exciting new approach to the health and fitness club industry in the UK."

To read more about Snap Fitness' expansion into the Indian health and fitness market, see Health Club Management 2011 Issue 8, p52

To read the current issue of Health Club Management, visit www.healthclubmanagement.co.uk/magazine

Details: www.snapfitness.com (Snap Fitness UK club list)

Details: www.snapfitness.com (Snap Fitness UK expansion announcement)