Empowering Athletes and Fitness Enthusiasts: A Comprehensive Look at D1 Training.

By Ricardo Fontana
Published April 23, 2025

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Have you ever walked into a gym that feels more like a hangout spot than a place for real progress? Many fitness centers emphasize group classes or generic machines, leaving athletes and fitness-minded individuals without the structure they need. That’s where the D1 Training Franchise steps in, a franchise that combines science-based programming, high-level coaching, and a performance-driven culture.

Many fitness centers emphasize group classes or generic machines, leaving athletes and fitness-minded individuals without the structure they need. That’s where D1 Training steps in a franchise that combines science based programming, high-level coaching, and a performance driven culture.

D1 Training offers structured, Division 1 style athletic training for everyone from youth athletes to adults looking to reclaim their edge. It delivers measurable, long-term results rooted in athletic principles not short-term fitness fads. Whether it’s a child building sports fundamentals or an adult pursuing peak performance, D1 creates an environment where real progress happens.

In this article, we’ll explore D1’s foundation, mission, franchise model, and what daily life looks like as an owner. If you’re an entrepreneur eyeing the fast-growing fitness industry or a former athlete ready to turn your passion into a business, this brand offers a standout opportunity. From its coaching methodology to franchise support systems, D1 Training proves that athletic excellence can scale and succeed in today’s market.

Where Elite Training Meets the General Public.

Most people think elite athletic training, the kind reserved for college or pro athletes only happens inside private sports facilities or with expensive personal trainers. D1 Training breaks that barrier, offering the structure, discipline, and performance methods of NCAA Division 1 programs to the general public.

Founded by Will Bartholomew, former University of Tennessee football captain and 1998 National Champion, D1 Training brings the same science based programming he experienced at the collegiate level to communities nationwide. With a system that has helped produce 90+ NFL draft picks and over 2,000 college scholarship athletes, the brand combines proven results with broad accessibility.

But D1 isn’t just for aspiring pros. Its facilities welcome youth, adults, and families providing structured group workouts and a clear path to fitness improvement. The brand’s signature 5 to 8 week training phases promote consistent progress and measurable outcomes, boosting both member satisfaction and retention.

With partnerships like the Manning Passing Academy and features in national media including Men’s Health, D1 Training is positioned as a standout in the boutique fitness space. Its mission? To transform Division 1–level athletic development into a supportive, results-driven experience for everyone.

Named a Top 10 Fitness Franchise by Entrepreneur, D1 Training continues to draw interest from business minded entrepreneurs seeking a proven concept with performance at its core. Whether you’re passionate about sports or focused on fitness franchising, D1 offers a scalable, purpose-driven business model that delivers results for its members and its owners.

Background & History: From College Championship to Franchise Powerhouse.

The story of D1 Training begins with its founder, Will Bartholomew, and his experience at the highest level of collegiate athletics. As captain of the University of Tennessee football team that won the 1998 national championship, Bartholomew saw firsthand the power of structured, science based strength and conditioning programs. What he also saw was a gap those high-caliber methods weren’t available to everyday people.

Motivated to change that, Bartholomew launched the first D1 Training facility to bring Division 1 style training to a broader audience, including youth athletes, amateur competitors, and even professional players.

Milestones and Growth

Early 2000s: D1 Training introduced its signature 5 component workout model, featuring dynamic warm ups, performance focused workouts, core training, conditioning, cooldowns, and mental preparation.
Following Years: The brand earned endorsements from sports organizations and became a go to name in athletic training. As its reputation grew, so did its circle of support professional athletes began investing in D1 facilities as owners and ambassadors.
Recent Accolades: National media and fitness authorities took notice. Men’s Health named D1 one of the Top 30 Gyms in America, and Entrepreneur recognized it as a top fitness franchise. Collaborations with the NFL, the Manning Passing Academy, and premier sports brands solidified D1’s industry credibility.
Where It Stands Today: With over 40 pro athletes involved as facility owners and a track record that includes more than 90 NFL draft picks, D1 Training has evolved into a respected leader in sports performance and fitness franchising. Its model blends elite-level training with broad accessibility offering a unique business opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about athletics, fitness, and community impact.

Services & Programs: The Pillars of D1 Training’s Success.

What sets D1 Training apart in the crowded fitness landscape is its commitment to science-backed, structured programming. Instead of the typical “Workout of the Day” or trending routines, D1 delivers progressive, periodized training cycles usually 5 to 8 weeks in length designed to build strength, improve athletic performance, and deliver measurable results.

A dynamic warm up, followed by performance and strength training, then core and conditioning, and concluding with a cooldown to promote recovery and flexibility. This format ensures that members train with purpose not just intensity.

Key Training Programs at D1 Training.

Scholastic Training (Youth & Teen Athletes)
Designed for ages 7 to 18, these programs focus on developing speed, strength, agility, and sports-specific skills. Many young athletes who train at D1 go on to earn collegiate scholarships, showcasing the program’s long-term impact.
Adult Training
Group workouts and small-team formats offer adults, especially former athletes, a high-energy environment to build strength, boost endurance, and improve cardiovascular health, all within a motivating team setting.
Pro Training
Elite sessions tailored for college athletes prepping for combines, professional players in the off season, or pros maintaining peak form. With clients from the NFL, MLB, and more, D1’s professional training is trusted at the highest levels of sport.
Personal Training
For those who want individualized focus, D1 offers one-on one sessions tailored to personal fitness goals such as weight loss, rehab, or muscle gain. Even these sessions follow the brand’s structured, science-driven approach for consistent results.

Why Structure Matters in Athletic Training.

Many fitness centers promise “athlete-style” training but few back it with consistent programming developed by nationally recognized speed and strength experts. At D1 Training, every workout is part of a bigger plan. Whether you’re a 12-year-old basketball hopeful or a 50-year-old seeking functional strength, D1 delivers a clear, guided path to progress.

Mission, Vision & Values: The Drive Behind D1 Training’s Elite Performance.

At the core of D1 Training is a purpose-driven commitment to excellence, performance, and community. More than a gym, D1 is a training environment built to unlock athletic potential at every level from kids developing basic coordination to professional athletes refining their peak form.

Mission: To provide a results-driven training environment that helps individuals of all ages from youth athletes to professionals reach their highest level of athletic performance.
Vision: To become the nation’s leading destination for structured, progressive workouts that mirror the intensity, discipline, and results of Division 1 college athletics.
Core Values That Set D1 Training Apart
1. We Stand Above The Competition: With training rooted in proven Division 1 systems, D1 delivers serious, science backed programs not passing fitness trends.
2. We Train the Whole Family: From age 7 to adult, D1 offers multi-generational programs designed for every life stage and fitness goal.
3. We’re Rooted in Athletic History: Founded by a former national championship football player, D1’s culture is built on discipline, teamwork, and performance excellence.
4. We Build Community: Training at D1 means being part of a team. The brand fosters a strong sense of camaraderie that keeps members motivated and engaged.
5. We Strive for Excellence: Through ongoing innovation, updated programming, and elite coaching standards, D1 continually pushes to deliver the best performance training in the industry.

Unique Features & Benefits: Beyond the Typical Gym.

While many gyms and boutique fitness studios offer generalized programs or trend-driven workouts, D1 Training delivers a results-oriented, performance-based model built for long-term success—for both members and franchise owners. Here’s how D1 Training goes beyond the typical gym:

1. Turnkey Franchise Model

D1 Training offers a fully supported franchise experience. Owners never need to create workout plans, programming is developed and regularly updated by a national coaching panel. The corporate team also provides assistance with marketing, hiring, staff training, site selection, and facility build-out, ensuring new owners are set up for success from day one.

2. Credibility and Professional Athlete Involvement

This isn’t just another gym, it’s a brand trusted by professionals. More than 40 pro athletes own or operate D1 facilities, and the company maintains strategic partnerships and endorsements from major sports organizations. That credibility translates into trust, both in the industry and with local communities.

3. Periodization and Science-Backed Training

Unlike random daily workout challenges, D1 relies on a periodized training system. Each 5- to 8-week cycle focuses on building speed, strength, endurance, and power reducing injury risk and enhancing athletic performance through structured progression.

4. Flexible Ownership Models

D1 Training appeals to a wide range of entrepreneurs by offering two paths to ownership:

– Owner-operator model for hands on involvement

– Semi-absentee model for investors who hire managers to run day-to-day operations

This flexibility allows owners to scale or stay engaged, based on their goals and time commitment.

5. Multiple Revenue Streams

While memberships are the foundation of the business, D1 Training offers diverse income opportunities through group training, private sessions, youth athletic camps, professional athlete facility rentals, and community partnerships. This multi layered model helps increase profitability and brand presence year-round.

By combining professional level training with a proven franchise system, D1 Training stands out as a franchise opportunity built on results, reputation, and long term potential.

Daily Operations: Life as a D1 Training Franchisee.

D1 Training offers two flexible ownership models semi absentee and owner operator allowing franchisees to choose the level of daily involvement that best fits their lifestyle and business goals. Both models benefit from strong corporate support, but they differ in how hands-on the franchisee needs to be.

Semi-Absentee Model (~15 Hours/Week Minimum)

Ideal for entrepreneurs managing multiple investments or maintaining another career, the semi-absentee model focuses on high-level oversight rather than day-to-day operations..

Monitor KPIs & Scorecards: Tracking key metrics like membership sales, class attendance, and operational performance via corporate-provided dashboards.
Community Engagement: Attending local networking events and partnering with youth sports leagues to build visibility and brand loyalty.
Financial Oversight: Managing payroll, budgeting, and cash flow—often with the help of a facility manager.
Corporate Collaboration: Participating in monthly brand-wide training calls and attending D1’s annual franchise summit for continued education and networking.

Owner-Operator Model (Full-Time)\

This model is designed for franchisees who want to be directly involved in the facility’s day-to-day success. In addition to the responsibilities above, owner operators take on:

All the Above, Plus:
- Administrative Management: Overseeing membership systems, class scheduling, payroll processing, and general back-office functions.
- Staff Leadership: Hiring, training, and managing coaching staff while ensuring alignment with D1’s programming standards and brand culture.
- Sales & Outreach: Personally handling local marketing, building relationships, and converting leads into active members.
- Facility Oversight: Managing daily operations on-site, interacting with members, and occasionally participating in training sessions to maintain strong community ties.
- Support & Resources: No matter which model you choose, franchisees benefit from daily access to performance data, marketing tools, and expert guidance from the D1 corporate team.

Whether you’re managing from a distance or coaching from the floor, D1 Training gives you the tools and systems to run a professional, scalable fitness business with confidence.

D1 Training Ownership Models at a Glance.

Task	Semi-Absentee	Owner-Operator
Time Commitment	~15 hours/week (minimum)	Full-Time (30–40 hrs/week or more)
Sales & Marketing	High-level oversight, sponsor events; staff handle day-to-day	Directly manages community outreach, membership sales
Staff Management	Typically hires a manager to oversee coaches	Daily involvement in hiring, training, scheduling
Financial Oversight	Reviews reports, sets budget goals	Directly manages finances, payables, membership structures
Customer Interaction	Limited, unless engaged in brand events	Active presence in the facility, networking with members

Key Buying Points for Prospective Franchisees.

1. Structured, Science-Based Fitness.

Unlike many fitness models reliant on trend or hype, D1 Training’s programming draws on established athletic conditioning principles. This fosters long-term membership growth and strong credibility in local athletic communities.

2. Partnerships & Endorsements.

From the Manning Passing Academy to NFL player involvement, the brand’s national alliances elevate it above local competition. Partnering with recognized institutions can make local marketing easier, as credibility is already established at the national level.

3. Multi-Generational Appeal.

While many gyms target single demographics—like children’s sports or adult CrossFit—D1 Training welcomes everyone from 7-year-olds to professional athletes. This diversity fosters broad brand loyalty and potential for cross-promotional membership packages.

4. Inc. 5000 Recognition.

Appearing on Inc. 5000’s list of fastest-growing private companies underscores the business’s potential. Franchisees benefit from a proven track record of scaling effectively while maintaining operational excellence.

5. Already Built Workouts & Marketing.

Owners needn’t be sports scientists themselves. All workouts come from the brand’s national head speed and strength coaches. Meanwhile, the company’s marketing support helps owners craft consistent outreach campaigns.

The Estimated Initial Investment of a D1 Training Franchise.

Type of Expenditure	*Low Estimate ()**	*High Estimate ()**
Initial Franchise Fee	$59,500	$59,500
Opening Support Fee	$29,500	$29,500
Initial Marketing Spend	$10,000	$20,000
Leasehold Improvements	$0	$382,609
Real Estate Services	$5,000	$5,000
Furniture & Fixtures	$4,000	$8,000
Equipment	$0	$75,000
Cardio Equipment	$0	$16,341
Opening Inventory & Supplies	$2,500	$2,500
Computer Equipment & Software	$5,000	$6,000
Training Expenses	$250	$1,600
Three Month’s Rent	$0	$32,073
Professional Fees, Permits & Licenses	$4,000	$6,000
Insurance Premium (Approx.)	$7,000	$12,000
Additional Funds (3 months)	$35,000	$55,000
TOTAL ESTIMATED INVESTMENT	$161,750	$711,123

Data is based on the company’s Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Fees, costs, and figures are estimates and may vary based on location and other factors.

This spread in initial cost underscores how location, facility size, and local construction expenses can significantly affect final investment. Some owners opt for brand-new builds or extensive remodeling, while others find existing commercial spaces that need minimal changes.

Day in the Life: Combining Athletic Passion with Smart Business.

Owning a D1 Training franchise is more than running a fitness facility it’s about channeling your passion for athletic performance into a structured, community driven business. Each day brings a balance of leadership, strategy, and connection with both your members and your team.

Here’s what a typical day as a D1 Training franchise owner might look like:

Engaging With Members: Whether you’re on-site full-time or occasionally dropping in, member engagement is a key part of the experience. You might greet young athletes arriving after school, adults attending evening workouts, or even collegiate or pro athletes looking to maintain off-season conditioning.
Tracking Key Performance Metrics: As a business owner, you’ll regularly review your KPIs—from membership growth and session attendance to average revenue per member. Quick team meetings help address performance goals and fine-tune both operations and member experience.
Building Community Connections: Community involvement is central to D1’s brand. You might meet with high school athletic directors, sponsor a youth sports league, or attend a local networking event. These efforts help position your facility as a hub for serious training and trusted local partnerships.
Strategizing Program Rollouts: Although D1’s corporate team handles workout programming, franchisees play a key role in planning how to roll out new training cycles. Communicating upcoming phases to your members keeps them engaged and reinforces D1’s commitment to long-term athletic development.

Running a D1 Training facility means combining your love of fitness with real business ownership. With strong brand support, performance data at your fingertips, and a community-focused mission, it’s a chance to lead with purpose while growing a business that changes lives.

Potential Challenges and Their Solutions

While D1 Training offers strong corporate support, even the most well-established franchise models come with a learning curve. Understanding potential challenges and how the brand helps you overcome them is key to long-term success as a franchisee.

Educating the Market: Broadening Appeal Beyond Athletes: One common misconception is that D1 Training is only for elite or aspiring athletes. As a franchise owner, part of your role involves community education showing that D1’s structured programs are just as effective for adults seeking fitness gains as they are for teens pursuing scholarships.

By highlighting youth development programs and adult fitness options, you can demonstrate how D1 serves a wide range of goals and lifestyles.

Hiring Qualified Coaches: Finding the Right Talent: Because D1 Training delivers advanced athletic training, hiring experienced and credentialed coaches is critical. While this may seem challenging, the brand offers support through:

– Standardized program curricula

– Onboarding tools and brand training systems

– Ongoing guidance on sourcing and retaining qualified staff

This infrastructure helps you build a team that aligns with D1’s performance-focused mission.

Location Requirements: Securing the Right Space: D1 Training typically requires 5,000+ square feet of space to accommodate its performance zones and specialized equipment. However, franchisees are not alone in the process. The brand’s real estate team offers expert guidance on:

– Demographic targeting

– High-visibility locations

– Optimal layouts for workout flow and member experience

Standing Out in a Crowded Market: In markets saturated with big-box gyms and low cost fitness centers, some consumers may question why they should invest in D1’s training. The answer lies in value, not price.

Franchisees are encouraged to communicate what makes D1 different:

– Periodized, science-based programs

– Elite coaching standards

– Proven outcomes, including members earning college scholarships or achieving dramatic fitness transformations.

This approach positions D1 as a high-impact alternative to generic fitness solutions.

Owning a D1 Training franchise means stepping into a premium fitness space with a clear differentiation strategy and a brand that equips you with the tools to overcome obstacles and build long term success.

Real-Life Impact: Transforming Athletes, Adults, and Entire Communities.

Behind every D1 Training location is a growing list of inspiring success stories. From youth athletes to working professionals, D1 helps members achieve physical breakthroughs and often, personal transformation.

A 12 year old basketball player sharpens her vertical leap and earns a spot on a competitive team. An adult member commits to group classes, shedding weight and building strength in a motivating, team based atmosphere. A college football recruit fine tunes his 40 yard dash just weeks before the NFL combine. These are everyday moments at D1 and they happen inside a training environment that mirrors the accountability and camaraderie of a collegiate weight room.

For franchise owners, the payoff goes beyond monthly membership revenue. Many describe the most fulfilling part of ownership as witnessing the impact firsthand watching shy teens develop confidence, adults reclaim their athletic potential, and families embrace fitness as a lifestyle. It’s this human connection, layered over a scalable business model, that makes D1 Training more than just a gym. It’s a platform for long-term community change and personal pride in what the brand helps people achieve.

Why Now Is the Right Time to Invest in a D1 Training Franchise.

1. Surging Demand for Athletic & Youth Training.

Youth sports participation is booming, and parents are increasingly willing to invest in specialized training to help their children excel, particularly those with goals of earning scholarships or making competitive teams. At the same time, more adults are replacing solo workouts with functional, group based training that offers structure, motivation, and community.

2. Expanding Brand Recognition with Room to Grow.

D1 Training is a respected name in athletic circles but it’s still expanding. That means new franchisees can leverage the credibility of an established brand while tapping into untapped markets where high-performance training is in demand.

3. Strong Corporate Support & Franchise Culture.

Franchisees benefit from a supportive ownership community and consistent access to brand resources. From monthly calls and an annual summit to ongoing education and R&D, D1 Training equips owners with the tools to evolve, lead, and thrive in a competitive market.

4. Scalable Business Model with Multi Unit Potential.

Once a franchisee finds success with one location, there’s clear potential to expand. Many owners go on to operate multiple facilities across a region, with each site run by a local general manager. It’s a flexible model that supports regional growth and long-term ownership goals.

With rising demand, a scalable structure, and strong brand momentum, D1 Training offers a timely and compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs ready to lead in the fast-growing world of athletic performance franchising.

Is the D1 Training Franchise right for you?

D1 Training has established itself as a standout in the fitness franchise space, blending Division 1 level athletic training with a scalable, community-based business model. Founded by a national championship football player, the brand brings elite performance standards to the mainstream serving everyone from young athletes and fitness-focused adults to professional sports talent.

What sets D1 apart is its foundation in science-backed programming, its reputation in athletic circles, and its turnkey support for franchisees. With prebuilt training cycles, corporate marketing resources, and both semi absentee and owner-operator models, entrepreneurs can enter a thriving market with confidence and flexibility.

From national media recognition to a track record of transforming athletes at all levels, D1 Training is more than just a gym, it’s a performance franchise with real impact. Whether your goal is to develop future champions or create a supportive fitness hub for your local community, this franchise delivers a structured path to purpose and profitability.