World Gym International has launched a strength-only gym concept, which it says will cater for a need to provide franchisees with the option of a smaller-sized footprint and strong unit economics.

Called World Gym Legacy, the concept is optimized for a smaller footprint and designed for markets where larger real estate and/or population demographics wouldn’t support a more traditional World Gym.

The model is based on providing a "serious training floor", consisting of a strength area and turf zone fitted with free weights, plate-loaded machines, cables, selectorized machines, racks and platforms.

There will only be a few pieces of self-powered cardio for warming up and cooling down purposes.

Each site will range in size from 7,500sq ft to 10,000sq ft and feature a "sleek new design and footprint", to eliminate wasted space and resources.

Targeting those focused on "training hard and getting results", each location will also feature a selfie room, providing a space with the right lighting and backdrops for posting across social media channels – without the risk of capturing others in the photos.

Jarrod Saracco, COO of World Gym International, said: “The world is changing, and so are the needs and demands of our consumers.

“Many have shifted to some sort of hybrid workout routine and invested in home fitness products, or have taken up running, pickleball and other outdoor activities, leading to a shift in what they are looking for in a gym membership.

"This new strength-focused gym model is a game changer with a lasting competitive advantage.”

“This new model allows for greater operational efficiency and drives profitability faster, allowing new franchisees to enter the fitness industry at a lower level of financial commitment.

"It also gives existing franchisees an additional opportunity to expand into different markets."

The launch of the new model is part of World Gym's aggressive expansion plan, with several new gyms currently in development across North America.

World Gym Legacy is the first of two new gym concepts being released by the group, which was established by Gold’s Gym founder, Joe Gold, in 1976.