The Inspiring Journey of a Fitness Empire!

Franchise Today

Meet Dave Mortensen, the visionary co-founder and president of Self Esteem Brands, who along with partner and co-founder Chuck Runyon, have taken the franchise world by storm with the renowned Anytime Fitness brand, now over 5,500 locations strong, across 41 countries! From being inspired by the structure of companies like Pizza Hut and McDonalds, to creating a global fitness phenomenon, Dave’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. He and Chuck transformed a college dropout story into a consulting firm, and then into a franchising legacy! Even in the face of adversity, like the sudden pivot during the COVID-19, Anytime Fitness demonstrated unmatched resilience, transitioning from celebrating major achievements to navigating a world in lockdown - and emerged stronger! Commitment runs deep, literally under the skin, with customers inking their allegiance at the brand’s very own tattoo parlor. With a diverse portfolio that includes Waxing the City, Basecamp Fitness, and The Bar Method, the focus remains on global expansion, now with more locations opening internationally than domestically. Pioneering the digital transformation of fitness, Anytime Fitness integrates cutting-edge Apple Fitness Plus content into their app, offering digital gym access and solidifying their bond with consumers. Dave celebrates the spirit of franchising and service-oriented brands, emphasizing the importance of listening to franchisees. With AI-driven personalization, the brand aims to revolutionize member motivation and health improvement. As for community impact, Dave is actively educating policymakers on the value of franchising and supporting both franchisees and franchisors. In a heartfelt conclusion, Dave encourages following your passions and is generously offering personal insights to those interested in the franchise industry.