The challenging economy has taken its toll on businesses nationwide in the last couple of years. But as hundreds of businesses have struggled to stay afloat, one local franchise continues to show signs of success. The Little Gym, which has locations in the Mount Pleasant area, ranked No. 1 in the Children's Fitness category in Entrepreneur Magazine's Top Franchises List, otherwise known as Franchise 500. This is the fourth consecutive year the franchise company has earned this ranking. 'We are pleased to be recognized with our parent company as a leader in this category because it reinforces that parents are seeing the benefits of what we offer their children,' said Paul Dickison of The Little Gym International.

 'And, while Mount Pleasant-area parents know The Little Gym as a great place for children, they should also know that our children's fitness and skill development concept is also receiving recognition on a national level.'

The magazine also noted the overall strength of children-focused franchising, calling The Little Gym a leader in the growing children's services segment. According to Dickison, its programs are curriculum-based and make skill-building fun for students and parents alike. Individualized attention builds the students' confidence and lays the foundation for success in other arenas of life, Dickison added.

The Little Gym offers classes for children from four months of age to 12 years. Programs range from parent/child classes in early motor skill development to grade school gymnastics, sports skills development, karate, cheerleading and dance. These programs are built on a structured curriculum where kids progressively build skills, thus leading to enhanced self-confidence and socialization.

For more information about The Little Gym, contact: Chris Cannavaro, The Little Gym of Summerville, at 843-851-2950; Gerald Moore, The Little Gym of Mt. Pleasant, at 843-881-8988; or Kathy Cannavaro. The Little Gym of Charleston: at 843-851-2950.