Ninja Nation, the US-based operator of obstacle course gyms, is looking to take the concept global through franchising.

Targeting the family market, Ninja Nation facilities are equipped with a variety of obstacles catering for "ninjas of all ages and skill levels", with the aim of providing a space to "play, train, and compete". Each site also organises group fitness classes for adults, such as the HIIT-based H.E.R.O. Fit.

Ninja Nation currently has seven sites across the US with more in its development pipeline.

The company was launched partly on the back of the success of American Ninja Warrior – a hugely popular TV sports entertainment competition – which had increased interest in obstacle courses as an activity.

According to founder Wayne Cavanaugh, the company has ambitious growth plans.

"When I started the company, I sensed there was a huge unmet need in the marketplace for a safe, fun and entertaining youth fitness alternative to traditional sports," Cavanaugh said.

"We've been blown away by the market demand at our current locations for the highly differentiated sport experience that we have created at Ninja Nation.

"We're looking forward to taking this the incredible Ninja Nation experience across the world with a talented group of franchisees who share our passion for youth fitness and positive community impact.

"We have the experience, the team and the plans in place to change over a million lives and we can't wait to continue our growth with the launch of our franchising programme."

Ninja Nation's leadership team is led by Cavanaugh, an entrepreneur who has experience in investing in and growing companies in several industries, including health and wellness.

Cavanaugh is joined by Geoff Britten – a champion and familiar face of the American Ninja Warrior programme, having featured in each of the 11 season of the show – and Lucas Clarke, the vice president of marketing.

"Our goal is to create over one million heroes," Cavanaugh added. "That’s one million kids and adults pushing their minds and bodies to limits they never thought possible and doing so in our arenas. Play, Train and Compete."