Tumbles: Redefining Kids’ Fitness and Learning Through Play

Tumbles is an innovative children’s franchise that combines physical activity with education through its unique gym and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) programs. Established in 2015 by entrepreneur Manish Vakil, the concept was born from his vision of merging fitness and early education into a single, engaging environment for kids.

Vakil’s experience running separate businesses in children’s fitness and education led to the creation of Tumbles, offering a seamless solution for parents seeking holistic child development. The brand stands out by integrating developmental play with structured learning, helping children grow both physically and intellectually.

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Tumbles launched its franchising program in 2016. The franchise offers activities designed around key developmental milestones, with a focus on helping kids build confidence, improve coordination, and spark curiosity.

Tumbles is committed to addressing childhood obesity and encouraging healthy, independent exploration. Its safe, colorful, and clean facilities provide the perfect space for kids to move, learn, and grow—all while having fun.

Training

Tumbles offers a comprehensive suite of training programs designed to prepare franchisees and their key staff for successful business operations. These programs address both the initial setup phase and ongoing management of the business.

1. Pre-Opening Training
   Tumbles provides standard pre-opening training to the franchisee’s Principal Executive and the Director who manages daily operations. This training takes place at a designated Tumbles facility and covers business fundamentals and operational procedures. Although there is no fee for the training itself, franchisees must cover all travel, lodging, meals, and related expenses.
2. New Franchisee Training Program
   The Principal Executive and Director are required to complete this training to the franchisor’s satisfaction at least four weeks prior to opening. This program includes instructional materials such as manuals, CRM videos, STEAM curricula, and hands-on practice. The training is led by experienced staff, and its duration and content may vary based on the experience of the attendees.
3. On-Site Opening Assistance
   Tumbles supports new franchisees during their grand opening with at least two days of on-site training and operational support. This ensures the franchise starts off on solid ground and adheres to system standards from day one.
4. Post-Opening Training and Support
   Post-opening, the franchisor may require additional training for the Principal Executive or other employees at any time and in any format. These may include remote or in-person sessions, and Tumbles reserves the right to charge a reasonable fee for these programs.

Territory Protection

Tumbles provides its franchisees with a defined Protected Territory within which they are granted territorial protection from internal brand competition. Once a location is approved, the franchisor commits not to license or establish another Tumbles outlet within that area, provided the franchisee remains in full compliance with the agreement.

Typically, the territory will include a population of at least 6,000 children and an average household income of $55,000 or more, often defined by ZIP codes or a radius around the business location.

Despite this protection, Tumbles retains broad rights to compete indirectly within the Protected Territory. This includes licensing and operating businesses under different trademarks, and selling similar products through alternative channels such as online platforms, catalogs, or third-party retailers.