One of the country’s biggest gym and health club chains, Viva Leisure, is facing an uprising from dozens of franchisees amid claims of unconscionable and unfair conduct.

The Australian Financial Review can reveal that a group of 53 franchisees representing 64 outlets sent a legal letter and a draft statement of claim to the ASX-listed Viva Leisure outlining a series of concerns, including a deteriorating relationship between franchisees and Viva Leisure largely based on a change to the franchise agreement.