Arbitration Victory Clears the Way for D1 Training’s Continued Growth
D1 Training can turn its attention back to franchise expansion after securing a favorable decision in a legal dispute with a former franchisee.
Independent arbitrator John T. Blankenship denied every claim brought against the fitness company, concluding that allegations of fraud and misrepresentation had not been proven.
The dispute was initiated by Alex Nicholas, the former owner of a D1 Training location in Naples, Florida. Nicholas filed a lawsuit against D1 Sports Franchise in April 2025 through a Tennessee court.
The matter later proceeded to arbitration. After hearing the case over four days in February, Blankenship delivered his ruling on May 18, bringing the dispute to an end.
Brand Leadership Refocuses on the Franchise System
For D1 Training, the decision removes a legal distraction at a time when the company is working to improve its franchise operations and athlete programs.
CEO Will Bartholomew said the organization remains focused on helping franchise owners succeed, improving the experience offered to athletes and building a stronger overall brand.
That focus is important for any growing franchise system. Expansion depends on more than awarding new territories. Franchisors must also provide owners with practical guidance, effective marketing resources, reliable operating systems and continued education.
D1 Training says these areas remain central to its approach. Franchisees receive business coaching and operational support intended to help them develop sustainable local facilities while following the brand’s training standards.
New Programs Add Value for Owners and Athletes
The fitness franchise has introduced several performance-based initiatives that may help franchisees strengthen their services and attract athletes seeking measurable results.
D1 Verified is one example. The coach-certified system assesses athletes ages 14 to 18 and monitors their progress over time. It gives young athletes and their families a clearer view of how training is influencing speed, strength and overall performance.
Another initiative, the Athlete Performance Index, uses standardized combine-style testing to evaluate key athletic measurements. Each athlete receives a rating on a five-star scale, with results compared against college recruiting benchmarks.
The brand is also strengthening its certification process for coaches. More consistent training standards can help improve service quality, support athlete development and create a recognizable experience across independently operated franchise locations.
D1 Training Builds on an Established Fitness Model
D1 Training was established in 2002 and has since developed into a national fitness franchise serving youth and adult athletes.
Its workouts follow a coach-led format inspired by Division I collegiate strength and conditioning programs. Although the system is rooted in competitive athletics, its programs are available to people with different ability levels and fitness goals.
The company was founded by former University of Tennessee football player Will Bartholomew. He played alongside Peyton Manning, was a member of Tennessee’s 1998 national championship team and became team captain in 2001. His professional football opportunity ended after an injury following his signing with the Denver Broncos.
That experience eventually helped inspire a business focused on bringing high-level athletic training to a broader audience.
D1 Training has since earned recognition within both the fitness and franchise industries. Now that the arbitration has concluded, the company is positioned to concentrate on its next stage of franchise development, owner support and program innovation.
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