Our Story: Building a Healthier Community for Everyone
At Franklin, Clayton, and Murphy Health & Fitness, our goal is simple: Results for Everyone. We are passionate about providing every member—regardless of age, ability, or fitness level—the tools, support, and environment needed to reach their full potential.
Our journey began in 1988 when Dr. Ed Morris saw a need for a community fitness center that went beyond exercise, focusing on overall health and wellness. After tragically losing his father to a heart attack when he was just 12 years old, Dr. Morris was inspired to become a doctor, and his passion for preventive health through exercise was ignited.
Back then, Franklin had no indoor swimming facilities and no medically supervised exercise programs. Dr. Morris and a group of local investors came together to change that. They built Franklin Health and Fitness to give local families affordable access to high-quality fitness programs and facilities. The vision was to create a place where fitness and health were accessible to everyone in the community.
Since opening, Franklin Health and Fitness has grown, adding modern equipment, diverse classes, and comprehensive programs to meet the needs of our members. In 2003, Ed and his wife Barbara became the sole owners, with their son Rodney Morris taking over as General Manager in 2008. Rodney and his wife Maura took ownership of the facility in 2013, continuing the family legacy.
Inspired by the success in Franklin, Rodney and Maura expanded their vision of providing health and wellness services to other communities. Clayton Health and Fitness opened in 2017, followed by Murphy Health and Fitness in 2018. These centers were built with the same goal: to offer excellence in fitness facilities, programs, and services, ensuring that members of all fitness levels can achieve their health and fitness goals.
Today, our fitness centers are more than just places to work out—they are places where people connect, grow, and thrive. Our team is committed to offering friendly, professional service that makes every member feel welcome. From the moment you step through our doors, our dedicated staff is here to make your fitness journey both fun and rewarding.
Whether you’re an athlete training for your next challenge or someone looking to live a healthier life, our mission is to support you every step of the way. With a variety of equipment, classes, and amenities like pools, saunas, and personal training, we strive to create a space where everyone can achieve results.
Join us at Franklin, Clayton, or Murphy Health & Fitness, and let’s work together toward a healthier future.