HASTINGS, Minn., Dec. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Anytime Fitness, the world's largest and fastest-growing co-ed fitness club chain, announced today the opening of its 2,000^th club in The Netherlands.  Founded in 2002, it took Anytime Fitness only 10 years to reach the 2,000-unit mark, less than half as long as other well-known franchises like Subway (23 years) and McDonald's (32 years). (See related info-graphic)

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://www.multivu.com/mnr/56352-anytime-fitness-opens-its-2000th-club-in-10-years

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121203/MM20781 )

"Some businesses focus on quick growth and others specialize in earning customer loyalty," said Chuck Runyon, Anytime Fitness CEO and co-founder.  "We take great pride in having achieved both of those accomplishments simultaneously.  We've done so by focusing first on the needs of busy people who simply want to lead a healthier lifestyle and then by providing our franchisees with the practical tools, technology and educational support to help members achieve their goals."

Anytime Fitness' 2000^th club and the eighth in The Netherlands opened in Neede, 90 miles east of Amsterdam. To mark the special occasion, Sinterklaas (the Dutch version of Santa Claus) joined Anytime Fitness mascot Captain Running Man and local dignitaries for a ribbon cutting and inaugural workout.

The Anytime Fitness business model, which features 24-hour access, affordable membership fees, a friendly club atmosphere and individualized fitness programs, has proven popular internationally in countries as diverse as Qatar, Japan, Australia and Spain.

"Wellness is something people seek no matter where in the world they live," said Petro Hameleers, Anytime Fitness' master franchisee for The Netherlands. "Fitness for everyone is a national focus in The Netherlands and people value the convenience and personal attention that they get from our staff."

Click here to view extended interview with Petro Hameleers.

A RECESSION-RESILIENT BUSINESS MODEL

Despite an uncertain global economy, Anytime Fitness has opened at least 250 new clubs worldwide in each of the last five years. In fact, a new Anytime Fitness gym opens every 36 hours and a new member joins every three minutes, bringing total membership to 1.5 million in 12 countries.

Along the way to its 2,000^th club, Anytime Fitness earned numerous accolades related to the strength of its business model and its rapid franchise growth.  Forbes magazine identified Anytime Fitness as a "Top franchise for the buck."  Entrepreneur magazine ranked Anytime Fitness #10 on its list of "Top Global Franchises."  CNN Money called Anytime Fitness one of "10 great franchise bets.

"We're extremely proud of the fact that we've been able to help so many entrepreneurs realize the dream of owning their own business, while creating a friendly and supportive club atmosphere for our members," said Dave Mortensen, President and co-founder of Anytime Fitness.

About Anytime Fitness

Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness is now the fastest-growing fitness club franchise in the world, with more than 1,500,000 members and 2,000 clubs worldwide. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Anytime Fitness prides itself on providing its members with convenient and affordable fitness options in friendly, well-maintained facilities which feature top-quality exercise equipment. Clubs are now open in 49 states, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Grand Cayman, Poland, the Netherlands, Qatar, Spain and Japan.  Join one club and use them all.  Members also enjoy free access to AnytimeHealth.com, the most comprehensive wellness website available.

SOURCE Anytime Fitness