Can the Bft initial training program be completed virtually?
Bft Franchise · 2025 FDDAnswer from 2025 FDD Document
rning Management System and other written materials as training materials.
Pre-Opening Instructor Training – Pre-Opening for Initial Authorized Instructors
In addition to completing the Initial Training Program, as appropriate, you must ensure that any individuals that are expected to provide Approved Services at your Studio, participate in and complete the Pre-Opening Instructor Training that, as of the Issue Date, is at least partially provided online. In successfully completing the Pre-Opening Instructor Training, each individual will be considered an Authorized Instructor. We estimate that the Pre-Opening Instructor Training will include approximately 17 hours of online instruction and 16 hours of in-studio
training, for a total of 33 hours (not including the additional 8 hours that must be completed by each Head Coach). A "Head Coach" is an individual who (1) attends and completes Pre-Opening Instructor Training and the Fundamentals Training Program; and (2) is otherwise approved by us as a Head Coach. Our then-current criteria and conditions for an individual who desires to become a Head Coach will be set forth in our Learning Management System. Currently, our Pre-Opening Instructor Training is held virtually, but we may require you to attend an inperson training in the future.
Our Fundamentals Training Program is an instructor onboarding training for all instructors you and other System franchisees engage to work at a Studio location. Each instructor will complete onboarding training videos and testing via an online training program, using a training manual prepared specifically for the Fundamentals Training Program.
Source: Item 11 — FRANCHISOR'S ASSISTANCE, ADVERTISING, COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND TRAINING (FDD pages 37–50)
What This Means (2025 FDD)
According to Bft's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, the Pre-Opening Instructor Training is partially provided online. The document states that currently, the Pre-Opening Instructor Training is held virtually, but Bft may require attendance at an in-person training in the future.
Specifically, the Pre-Opening Instructor Training includes approximately 17 hours of online instruction and 16 hours of in-studio training, totaling 33 hours. An additional 8 hours must be completed by each Head Coach. The Fundamentals Training Program will continue to be provided virtually as well.
For prospective franchisees, this means that while a significant portion of the Pre-Opening Instructor Training can be completed online, there is also a requirement for in-studio training. Additionally, Bft retains the right to mandate in-person training in the future, so franchisees should be prepared for potential travel and associated costs. The virtual component offers flexibility, but the blended approach ensures hands-on experience, which is common in fitness franchises to maintain quality and brand standards.