California’s In-Shape Family Fitness Expands to Tennessee
The Knoxville-based National Fitness Center and its seven clubs will become part of In-Shape, which has 63 California locations
In-Shape Family Fitness, a chain of California fitness and wellness centers, has acquired Knoxville, Tennessee-based National Fitness Center, growing its footprint to 70 clubs. It’s the fitness center’s first move into a state outside of its home base of California.
The deal follows the intended retirement of John Captain, National Fitness Center founder and CEO, who has led the fitness brand’s seven locations in the Knoxville area.
“For 36 years, I’ve poured my heart into building National Fitness Center into what it is today,” Captain said. “After a thorough selection process, I’m convinced our incredible team and engaged community of members will be in good hands with In-Shape and that they’ll maintain the standards and culture we’ve created. In-Shape is rooted in its communities and dedicated to serving them in the same way we are here in East Tennessee.”
Randy Karr, CEO of In-Shape Family Fitness, noted that the acquisition provides an opportunity to build on National Fitness Center’s strong foundation in Tennessee, which offers services and amenities that align with In-Shape’s presence in California, such as pools, spas, pickleball and tennis courts and 2,000 weekly studio fitness classes in 45 formats. Over half of the clubs feature massage or recovery services, and over 20 offer small group or personal training. Childcare is available at most locations, with additional select clubs offering swim lessons and children-based activities.
Similarly, many National Fitness Center locations boast indoor and outdoor pools, an indoor track, basketball and racquetball courts, Cardio Theaters, small group and personal training and stretch and recovery sessions. The health club brand also features enriched services for children, such as summer camps, Kids in Motion classes and free on-site childcare.
The National Fitness Center team will continue to be led by Lee Sloan, director of operations and sales, who will report to Jason Allen, senior vice president of operations and sales, and the rest of the executive team at In-Shape Family Fitness.
Captain will no longer be part of the company.
Earlier this fall, In-Shape Health Club merged with California Family Fitness to create In-Shape Family Fitness, resulting in 63 health clubs in California under the new brand. Karr said that move indicated a new mission for the health club brand and would set new standards for the fitness industry.
