Powell and Brodrick families to take over F45 Training

Sam and Abbi Powell have teamed up with Hannah and Jared Brodrick to take the group-training franchise from strength to strength.

The Peisley Street business had been on the market for several months, with current owner Corey Brown taking a step back to focus on his sports recovery business, Pro Recovery.

Mrs Powell, a teacher at St Mary's Primary School, and Mr Brodrick, head foreman at G.J. Gardner, will have the least hands-on roles.

Mrs Brodrick will handle administration and marketing, while Mr Powell will be the new head trainer.

Eventually one or two casual staff members will be employed to "fill in the gaps" for Mr Powell, during the Monday to Sunday group-fitness timetable.

The power partnership came about while the Powells were still living in Lennox Head, where both parties were employed as teachers.

Mr Brodrick, a friend since primary school at Catherine McAuley, called Mr Powell, who'd run personal training sessions since starting out at Orange City Fitness 11 years ago, with the offer to invest.

Before long he'd left his teaching job and the family was on its way home.

Mr Powell said even while teaching he'd run sessions from his garage as a side hustle.

"It's more aligned with my personal passion. I've got more of a drive to do it, particularly group fitness," he said.

"It's different people coming together to focus on a common goal. I get a kick out of seeing people achieve the targets they've set for themselves."

The Powells and Brodricks are not the first to realise the potential in F45.

The Australian-born brand - the F standing for 'functional' and the 45 for the duration of the workout in minutes - which was founded in Sydney in 2011 by equities trader Rob Deutsch, has spread to more than 37 countries, boasting more than 1320 franchises.

Mr Powell said short and sharp training had become a trend in the fitness industry.

"Getting away from that traditional 'jump on the treadmill and lift weights in the gym' it's a definite move away from that," he said.

The handing over of the keys will take place on February 1, its new owners will introduce the eight week challenge - which happens in every studio around the world four times a year - on February 3.

They are also inviting the public in on February 15, for a day of free classes.

Mr Powell said while the owners may have changed, the tried and tested method will remain the same.

"He's got it running well. We'll start with that and innovate," he said. "Nothing drastic will happen."