Crunch, the health club chain best known for making serious fitness fun through unique programming and cutting-edge training, announces the opening of its newest franchise location at 196 Alps Road, Athens, GA.

Anticipated to open in the fall of 2016, Crunch Athens will bring its 'No Judgments' philosophy and fusion of fitness meets entertainment to the diverse and spirited community with memberships starting at just $9.95 a month. 

The health club will be in the heart of Athens at the Beechwood Promenade shopping center on the southwest corner of Alps Road and South Broad Street; located directly behind Fresh Market, the former BodyPlex Fitness space will undergo a $1 million renovation before opening later this year. Conveniently located for University of Georgia students and faculty and the surrounding community, the world class gym promises to cater to all levels of fitness. This 30,000 square foot facility will boast state-of-the-art cardio and strength training equipment, tanning and HydroMassage®, full-service locker rooms complete with showers and changing rooms, a functional training area, and Kid's Crunch childcare services.

Crunch is known for its innovative group fitness programming and will offer a full roster of approximately 50 classes per week. Classes include BodyWeb with TRX, Zumba, Cardio Tai Box, Yoga Body Sculpt, BOSU Bootcamp, Fat Burning Pilates and more in a brand new group fitness studio. Additionally, Crunch's trademark indoor cycling classes will run in the club's dedicated Ride studio.

Those looking for one-on-one guidance at the gym can participate in CAMP CRUNCH, a program that gives members the opportunity to work with an expert trainer. Trainers develop personalized plans to help members meet their individual fitness goals through signature small group training, cutting-edge personal training and comprehensive nutrition programs.

Co-owners Brian Hibbard, a former CPA and the founder and franchisor of South Beach Tanning Company, and John Armatas, former executive at YMCA, are excited to bring their franchise and wellness experience as the first high value, low price national fitness brand to enter the Athens market. "We talked to all the chains and even considered using our own extensive infrastructure to do something ourselves, but the decision to go with Crunch was crystal clear.  We couldn't be happier with the brand and their team and are honored to be a part of their explosive growth," Hibbard said. "We're passionate about this industry and making fitness an enjoyable part of members' lives. We believe in keeping membership costs affordable and taking the stress out of fitness so our members can just have fun," Armatas added.

The team has secured further development rights in Georgia and Alabama and looks forward to expanding in the coming years.