Fitbox
Fitbox Markengruppe is a German fitness company based in Berlin that operates franchise networks of both EMS-based and classic training studios. The company was founded in 2011 and its activities include supervised EMS (electrical muscle stimulation) training as well as related programmes and studio concepts such as Fitomat, Kreuzretter and a weight loss programme named Slimbox.
History
Fitbox was founded in 2011 by Ingo Huppenbauer and Björn Schultheiss. The first studio opened in the Munich district of Pasing. Between 2012 and 2014, four additional company-operated studios were established in Berlin.
A franchise system was introduced in 2015, followed by the opening of additional locations in Germany and in other countries, including Austria. Between 2015 and 2018, reported revenue increased from €0.85 million to €9.66 million. By 2022, the network included more than 100 studios, over 10,000 members and around 400 employees. By 2026, the total number of Fitomat studios in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland had increased to 223. In the same year, Fitbox was awarded the title Digital Champion by Focus Money and Deutschlandtest.
Training and brands
Training sessions are organised by appointment and are conducted individually or in small groups. Programmes may combine EMS-based exercises with endurance training, strength training and basic nutrition guidance. Individual studios are operated by franchise partners.
The basis of the training concept is electrical muscle stimulation (EMS). Participants wear a vest with integrated electrodes while performing guided exercises, during which electrical impulses activate multiple muscle groups. Training takes place individually or with small participant groups and sessions may include strength- and endurance-oriented exercises.
Alongside EMS-based training, the company offers related programmes and studio formats. Fitomat is a franchise fitness studio format introduced in 2022. The first location opened in Rhede under the name Fitty and was renamed Fitomat later the same year, followed by the opening of additional locations in Germany. Fitomat studios operate with a largely automated model. Access to the studios is provided via a mobile application using digital codes. Members can also use the app to access training plans and information about the equipment. Locations often offer extended opening hours, including 24-hour access in some cases. On-site staff presence is limited and coaching or personal training is available during scheduled times or on request.
Slimbox is a programme that combines structured nutrition plans with EMS-based training sessions. It was presented in 2019.
Kreuzretter offers appointment-based back training sessions using treatment benches that apply electrical impulses to the back muscles. Sessions are carried out individually.