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The Little Gym International offers little ones the chance to dance, kick, shout, and tumble. This aptly named company offers fitness and development programs for kids aged four months to 12-years-old. The programs are designed to build motor skills and foster social interaction in a fun, non-competitive environment. Instructors teach activities such as gynmastics, karate, music, and dance. The company also offers an overnight camp on select Fridays and Saturdays for member children, marketed as Parents' Survival Night. Founded in 1976 by kinesiologist and educator Robin Wes, The Little Gym operates about 300 franchises throughout the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Reflecting the state of the economy, The Little Gym’s growth ranking dropped from #55 to #133. However, the company did open some locations internationally this year. Its financial strength ranking also rose, from #276 last year to #229.

The majority of people on The Little Gym’s management team are former franchisees of the company. Perhaps that’s one reason why The Little Gym ranked in Franchise Business Review’s 2009 Top 50 listing for franchisee satisfaction.

The company is on the SBA Franchise Registry, which can make it easier for franchisees to find financing.

Last Year's AllStar Rank: 112

Full Disclosure Award
This company gets a nod for disclosing financial performance representations in Item 19 of its Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). For an explanation of why this is important, read The Importance of Item 19 in the Franchise Disclosure Document.