HOTWORX congratulates franchisee, Paulina Thomas, who was awarded a franchise license in the Columbus, GA (Opelika, AL) market and recently opened her Columbus, GA (Bradley Park) studio!
What originally motivated you to consider a business opportunity?
After working out at HOTWORX for the first time, I knew I had to be a part of this concept and become a franchisee. As a college and professional athlete, and currently a marketing professional, I felt confident that my athletic and promotional skills would be a good match with the HOTWORX concept.
What led you to explore franchising rather than an independent business?
The support and structure of partnering with a franchise is attractive, especially for someone who is new to running a fitness studio. In addition to the HOTWORX corporate staff, there’s a private Facebook group for new and existing franchisees that offers a great platform for additional support. So, not only do you have corporate support, you also have a very large team of other owners who are sharing best practices.
What was your initial impression of your first HOTWORX session?
100% Addicted. I’ve been an athlete my whole life, most recently a professional wrestler, and heated exercise helped me heal when I was injured. On top of that, I’ve become so bored with the typical workouts and don’t have the time or patience to be in an air-conditioned gym all day, feeling like I’m not making any headway. HOTWORX allows you to heat up your muscles and joints fast (a benefit for my chronic pain issues from professional wrestling) and provides an effective workout in 15-30 minutes. Plus, classes at regular gyms or studios are never at a time that works with my schedule, so having the freedom and flexibility of 24-hour access to HOTWORX is huge for me, and I know it is for many other busy parents and professionals!
How was your experience going through the HOTWORX Discovery Process?
This is a big decision for some people and you need to go through all the modules to be sure you are well-informed. I have to give kudos to Teresa who had a lot of patience with me. I mean, A LOT…
How would you describe your Orientation Day and meeting the HOTWORX Executive Team?
I was impressed by the expertise everyone showed. They have been doing this a long time and know what they’re talking about. It lent me even more confidence in my decision to move forward.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs considering the opportunity to franchise with HOTWORX?
This is a hard question. Everyone says do your homework (which is true), but I will say follow your passion and listen to your gut. Starting a business is always scary, but if you really believe in it, you have to do it. Your members will be able to tell. 😊
What are the top 3 reasons you chose to franchise with HOTWORX?
1. I’ve been obsessed with personalized medicine for a few years and through that I’ve learned about the extraordinary benefits of far infrared saunas on your entire body’s ecosystem. I can’t wait to educate more people about infrared workouts and benefits.
2. The HOTWORX model allows owners to keep their day jobs if they prefer, so committing to both is doable for me because of my rockstar General Manager and staff.
3. THE BRAND!! I LOVE SOME GOOD BRANDING!
What excites you the most in offering HOTWORX to your community?
For me, time and health are the two most important things we have in this life. HOTWORX brings a model that offers BOTH to people – MORE WORKOUT IN LESS TIME. I want to provide these priceless benefits to Columbus, GA.
What goals do you plan to accomplish in your first year as a HOTWORX franchisee?
I want to educate the community on the health benefits of infrared saunas and, in the process, gain a very strong following - one that will create a place where people can come together to be healthy, make connections, as well as create a thriving business for the long term.
How will HOTWORX help you achieve your personal and professional goals?
Having a place where members can get healthy, spend less time working out and get extra health benefits of infrared energy, all while providing another source of income for my family, will fulfill both for me.
Congratulations, Paulina, and welcome to the HOTWORX team!
