Five Reasons Entrepreneurs Continue To Bet On Will Bartholomew's Vision For D1 Training
More than two decades after opening the first D1 Training location, founder and CEO Will Bartholomew is still driven by the same mission that inspired the brand from day one: changing lives through coaching.
That mission has fueled D1's growth into one of the nation's leading athletic-based training franchises, with entrepreneurs across the country bringing the D1 model to their communities.
Appearing on The Future of Fitness Podcast, Bartholomew discussed what sets D1 apart in an increasingly crowded fitness industry, why coaching remains the brand's greatest competitive advantage, and where the company is headed next.
For entrepreneurs considering franchise ownership, here are five key takeaways from the conversation.
1. D1 Was Built Around Purpose, Not Fitness Trends
Many fitness concepts are built around the latest workout craze. D1 was built around a mission.
After playing football at the University of Tennessee, Bartholomew experienced firsthand how elite coaching and structured training shaped athletes far beyond physical performance. He envisioned bringing that same experience to everyday athletes in communities across America.
"This is more than just getting bigger, faster, stronger. It's about building your mind, your heart, and your soul," Bartholomew said.
That philosophy continues to guide every decision D1 makes—and gives franchisees the opportunity to build businesses that create meaningful impact in their communities.
2. A Proven System Creates Consistent Results
Successful franchises thrive on repeatable systems, and athlete development at D1 is built around a proven process.
Every athlete begins with an assessment, works alongside experienced coaches to establish goals, and follows structured eight-week training cycles with measurable benchmarks and regular reassessments. Educational resources through the D1 app further support athletes outside the facility.
For franchise owners, that means operating a business backed by an established training methodology that delivers measurable value for members while creating consistency across every D1 location.
3. Innovation Continues to Strengthen the Brand
D1 isn't standing still.
Bartholomew shared how the company continues investing in technology that will give athletes and parents deeper insights into long-term athletic development through verified testing, performance tracking, and predictive data.
"We're going to be able to take where a kid is in seventh grade and tell you exactly, 'This is what you're projected to be,'" Bartholomew explained.
For franchisees, ongoing investment in technology helps differentiate the D1 experience, strengthen member engagement, and reinforce the brand's position as a leader in athletic-based training.
4. Coaching Is the Heart of the Business
Equipment can be purchased. Technology can be replicated.
Great coaching cannot.
Bartholomew believes the relationships coaches build with athletes are what truly separate D1 from traditional gyms and many competitors in the fitness industry.
"My dream is for when athletes across the country go, 'When I got to D1 it's because of my coach,'" he said.
That commitment to developing outstanding coaches creates stronger member retention, lasting community relationships, and businesses that generate impact well beyond the walls of the facility.
5. Growth Is Measured by Community Impact
D1's expansion isn't simply about opening more locations.
The company's vision is to bring inspiring, high-quality coaching to communities across the country while helping athletes of all ages achieve their goals.
"We're on a mission to put inspiring and motivating coaching in every community in the country," Bartholomew said. "As long as you keep serving athletes first, you'll accomplish whatever mission you're on."
For entrepreneurs, that mission represents more than a business opportunity. It offers the chance to build a successful company while making a lasting difference in the lives of athletes, families, and the surrounding community.
As D1 continues to expand nationwide, the mission that launched the company more than 20 years ago remains unchanged: provide world-class coaching, develop better athletes, and positively impact every community the brand serves.
Listen to the full episode of The Future of Fitness Podcast to hear more from Will Bartholomew, and learn how D1 Training continues to redefine athletic-based fitness through coaching, innovation, and purpose.