India’s largest chain of health clubs, Talwalkers, has announced ambitious plans to open 20 new sites this year.

As part of the venture, the chain has signed a US$1m agreement with Nautilus and has already ordered 110 treadmills, 115 ellipticals and 40 steppers and bikes.

Nautilus will also provide strength equipment, benches and freeweights and full product training to gym staff for 18 months.

The new clubs will be basd in major retail malls across the country and offer spa services, treatment rooms, and a snack and juice bar as well as a gym.

Larger sites will also features a Talwalkers retail store, and the group has signed an exclusive distributor agreement with Nautilus for its premium home gym brands.

Talwalkers currently runs 38 clubs with a total of 50,000 members and plans to grow to more than 100 sites.

The expansion programme is being carried out in partnership with Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited.