MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – Snap Fitness, the world’s largest and fastest growing franchise featuring compact, state-of-the-art fitness centers, announces the appointment of Alison (Ali) McElroy as general counsel of the company, effective June 2009.

McElroy, who most recently served as an attorney in the corporate group at Faegre & Benson LLP in Minneapolis, will be responsible for various strategic initiatives with Snap Fitness, including the company’s international expansion and general legal needs.

"With Snap Fitness’s shift into a new phase of profitable growth, Ali brings a wealth of experience as general counsel,” said Peter Taunton, Founder and CEO of Snap Fitness. “Her deep legal experience and sound business judgment make her an excellent choice which complements our senior team at this critical moment in Snap Fitness’s mission to become the world’s largest and fastest growing franchise in the multi-billion dollar fitness category.”

McElroy joined Faegre & Benson in 2005, where she advised clients on a variety of matters, including franchise and distribution law, international business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, and international corporate counseling. Prior to joining Faegre & Benson, she served as a judicial clerk for retired Chief Justice Kathleen Blatz of the Minnesota Supreme Court.

“Snap Fitness’s rapid growth, the quality of its leadership and the talent of its people have the company poised for continued success," McElroy said. “I couldn’t be more excited about joining such a dynamic brand and my new role in enhancing a franchise network that is poised for unparalleled growth.”

McElroy is a 2001 graduate of the University of Notre Dame and a 2004 graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School.