D1 Training, Nashville, Tennessee, has received a strategic investment for an undisclosed amount from Princeton Equity Group, a franchise and multi-unit private equity firm, D1 Training announced in November. Princeton is partnering with D1 Training to accelerate the brand’s nationwide expansion in new and existing markets.
Founded in 2001, D1 Training has 61 locations open with more than 125 locations in development. It began franchising in 2017.
“The investment from Princeton is a testament to D1’s distinct brand reputation, our proven success, and strong growth potential in the fitness industry,” Will Bartholomew, CEO & Founder of D1 Training, said in the announcement. “The investment comes at a great inflection point for our business. We’ve seen significant growth since we started franchising in 2017 and are now looking to the next chapter. With this partnership, we are positioned for major expansion in both existing and new markets, while we make strategic investments to bolster our brand and support our high-powered franchisees.”
Princeton’s partnership with D1 Training brings additional resources to support its franchise network.
“We’re eager to build on the momentum of this partnership,” said Dan Murphy, chief operating officer of D1 Training. “Our strong culture and winning business model, paired with the backing of Princeton, provide huge opportunities for growth. We have a platform positioned for accelerated development and we look forward to welcoming new franchise partners to join our D1 family.”
D1 has trained over 100 NFL Draft picks, 3,000 collegiate athletes, and 100,000 scholastic athletes per year. The brand’s 5-Star Training Program is derived from Division 1 strength and conditioning programs, maximizing results for athletes ages seven and up. All D1 Training locations offer three core training programs: Scholastic (Rookie, Developmental, Prep, and Overtime), Adult, and Pro (College and Professional). Each fitness program is based on five athletic tenets: dynamic warm-up, performance, strength, core and conditioning, and cool down. D1 Training also offers one-on-one training with world-class coaches.
The brand was recently ranked in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500, named a top 30 gym in America by Men’s Health Magazine, and appeared on The Inc. 5000. D1 Training has been endorsed as an approved training facility by the NFL Players Association and is a preferred partner of the National Academy of Sports Medicine.