#United States #New Orleans #fitness franchise #HOTWORX #Infrared Fitness

HOTWORX® Surpasses 900 Studios Worldwide

In a remarkable achievement, HOTWORX®, the innovative 24-hour infrared sauna fitness franchise, has announced that it has surpassed 900 open studios globally. This milestone is not only significant for the brand but also a testament to the rapid growth witnessed in the boutique fitness franchising sector. With more than 400,000 members enjoying the unique benefits of infrared fitness, HOTWORX is poised to reach its ambitious goal of 1,000 locations by spring 2027.

Founded in 2017, HOTWORX has quickly gained traction due to its unique offering that combines infrared heat with isometric workouts and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions. The brand’s innovative approach has seen it expand beyond the United States, establishing studios in Canada, Ireland, and Dubai, with upcoming ventures planned in Mexico and Kenya.

A Year of Expansion

The past year has marked a significant phase of growth for HOTWORX, largely driven by an increasing number of franchisee-owned studios and the brand’s entry into new markets, including its first studio in Alaska. This strategic expansion not only strengthens HOTWORX's presence but also exemplifies the success of its franchise model, where many franchisees begin as loyal members before transitioning into studio owners.

Stephen P. Smith, the Founder and CEO of HOTWORX, commented on the impressive growth: "Reaching over 900 studios and serving almost half a million members confirms that our franchise model is working effectively on a large scale. Many of our franchisees were once members who experienced the benefits of infrared training firsthand, making them passionate advocates for the brand."

Technological Innovations

2026 has been pivotal, with the largest wave of technology development in the company's history enhancing the member experience. Innovations include:

• - TrainingTRAX: An AI-driven personal training system offering tailored 90-day fitness plans.
• - SCAN24/7: A retail system allowing members to directly purchase merchandise through an app, making shopping more accessible.
• - INFO ZONE: A knowledge hub providing insights into infrared exercise, nutrition, and recovery strategies.
• - AI Coach Chat: An interactive feature supporting members in tracking fitness progress and advising on workout strategies.

These advancements ensure that HOTWORX studios remain efficient and enhance member engagement, making fitness both convenient and informative.

National Recognitions and Future Goals

The growth of HOTWORX in 2026 has brought national recognition, including:

• - Ranked No. 58 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 — a 37-spot jump from the previous year.
• - Named the No. 3 fitness franchise in Entrepreneur’s inaugural Top 10 Industry Franchise Rankings.
• - Secured a place on the Inc. 5000 list, noted for its significant growth among the fastest-growing private companies in the U.S.
• - Smith recognized as one of New Orleans CityBusiness’s Most Admired C-Suite Executives.

As HOTWORX ventures into the future, the focus shifts from merely proving the efficacy of infrared fitness to outright defining its category. Smith states, "With our recent successes, our goal is not just about expansion, but also about continually enhancing the member experience as we grow."

For more on franchising opportunities with HOTWORX, visit hotworx.net/franchising.

About HOTWORX®

Founded in Marrero, Louisiana, HOTWORX is breaking barriers in fitness with a revolutionary program that harnesses the power of infrared heat combined with focused workouts. With over 900 locations worldwide, the franchise continues to push the envelope in health and fitness, offering its community an immersive and transformative workout experience.