The State of the UK Fitness Industry Report 2025, unveiled by market intelligence expert Leisure DB and made available to everyone free of charge.
State of the UK Fitness Industry Report 2025
CONTENTS
STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
WELCOME TO LEISURE DB’S STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INTRODUCTION FOREWORDS
PUBLIC SECTOR DEFINITIONS
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102
INDUSTRY VIEWS
UK GYMS – OVERVIEW
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UK GYMS – BY REGION
Leisure DB is the leading independent data specialist in the UK leisure sector, providing robust market intelligence and analysis across the full scope of an increasingly diverse industry. For over 30 years, our reports have provided UK operators, suppliers, investors, consultants and government bodies with invaluable analysis of sector performance and trends. The data and insight we provide enables businesses across the sector to make strategic decisions with precision and confidence – suppliers and operators, independents and multi-site operations, public and private, direct and through leisure consultancies. We believe deeply in the importance of our sector. We’re here to help it grow. Find out how we can help your business achieve its potential – see page 160. We are for the industry, by the industry.
TOTAL MARKET UK FITNESS MARKET
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OPENINGS & CLOSURES
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SECTOR TRENDS
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125
OPENINGS & CLOSURES
MANAGEMENT MODELS
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132
PRIVATE & PUBLIC SECTORS
TOP 10 OPERATORS
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UK GYM LOCATIONS
LEISURE DB REPORT METHODOLOGY
PRIVATE SECTOR DEFINITIONS
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REPORT PARTNERS
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UK CLUBS – OVERVIEW
OUR EXPERT TEAM
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160
UK CLUBS – BY REGION
WORK WITH US
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161
OPENINGS & CLOSURES
OTHER LEISURE DB PRODUCTS
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SECTOR TRENDS
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TOP 30 OPERATORS
84
TOP 10 OPERATORS
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INDEPENDENTS & CHAINS
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LOW-COST OPERATORS
INSIGHT & ANALYSIS
Woven throughout this year’s report are operator and thought leader interviews, for insight into the story behind the statistics. Our thanks go to everyone for their time and willingness to share their expertise and experiences.
50
106
DR DAVINA DENISZCZYC – NUFFIELD HEALTH
PETER BUNDEY – GLL
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117
ALUN PEACOCK – JD GYMS
TOM FAIREY – ALLIANCE LEISURE
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KAREN WILKINSON – BANNATYNE
DUNCAN JEFFORD – EVERYONE ACTIVE
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SHAFIQ AHMED – NRG GYMS
BELINDA STEWARD – PLACES LEISURE
© Leisure DB. All rights reserved unless otherwise agreed in advance by Leisure DB. No part of this report may be sold. If any data or information from the report is shared or referenced, Leisure DB must be attributed and the State of the UK Fitness Industry Report 2025 quoted as the source.
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
We provide the data that lets you make decisions with confidence Important business decisions should never be based on guesswork. For the UK’s fitness and leisure industry, Leisure DB is the trusted, independent provider of clarity. However large or small your business, and whatever your sector, we unlock the power of data to help you make better decisions, better investments, better strategies for success. ● Imagine pinpointing the precise, perfect location for your next gym. ● Imagine having a directory of businesses most likely to purchase from you. ● Imagine really knowing your target audiences and exactly where they are.
CUSTOMER PROFILING
Who does your facility most appeal to, where can you find more of these individuals locally – and how many more – and what can you say to interest them?
SITE ANALYSIS Have you found the perfect site for your new facility – will you get enough members and should you proceed? Have you really hit maximum membership at your existing club?
MARKET DATA
What’s happening in your market right now? Where are the opportunities for your brand? What are the trends and the success stories? How do you grow?
INDUSTRY REPORTS
How big is your sector, what is it worth, how are key players performing, what are the market trends – and what do the experts think?
Leisure DB’s unparalleled market intelligence unlocks all of this – and more.
We can answer all these questions, and many more. Let us help you make strategic decisions with confidence. leisuredb.com
FOUNDER FOREWORD
RECORD-BREAKING YEAR SIGNALS A NEW ERA FOR THE FITNESS INDUSTRY
It gives me the greatest pleasure to read this report and see the key industry metrics reaching an all-time high. The growth in member numbers, market value, and penetration has exceeded that of any previous year. At the end of March 2025, the total number of gyms open stood at 7,202, just less than the previous peak recorded in 2019. In the last 12 months these gyms have gained over half a million more members (0.6m) while market value rose by over 500 million to reach £6.5 billion. Penetration has increased from 15.9% to 16.6%, another all-time high. Last year, thanks to the support of our partners who agreed with us that the democratisation of independent data would be one of the key pillars for sector growth, we took a bold step. Over 40,000 report interactions and the most heartwarming feedback confirmed our belief that agenda-setting, high-impact reporting should be freely accessible. For the second year in a row, I’m proud and pleased to make this report available to everyone interested in growing the sector. Once again, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading the interviews with operators, suppliers and influential voices. They offer unique insights that I believe you will also find fascinating. Behind the scenes, it has been a year of development. One of my pet-projects has been the Monthly Market Tracker (visit our website for details), which reports changes as they happen. By combining artificial intelligence, machine learning and human insight, we now monitor all openings, closures and brand changes across the sector, making this the only daily tracker of its kind. We are also expanding the scope of what we track. As the sector matures, we are building a national framework to provide evidence of the positive impact physical activity has on health. This future, more granular reporting will help deliver robust benchmarking to stakeholders. With over 40 committed partners, an expanding team and a new platform, we’re delivering more insights more often. After almost 40 years of data gathering and analysis, one truth remains: you can never have too much data. This was particularly evident during the pandemic, when hospitality venues could argue for reopening ahead of sports, leisure and fitness sites due to a lack of sector-specific data. This year marks a turning point in both data supply and demand. As our reports and insight services grow, so too does our annual conference and year-round initiative, EVOLVE. This event has doubled in size each year since its inception and is developing into a continuous movement, fueling deeper conversations at roundtables, stronger connections over breakfasts in the bakery, lunches on the terrace and dinners thanks to NatWest. All of it builds toward a shared momentum. I could not be more pleased, and the industry should be too. Enjoy the read.
The growth in member numbers, market value, and penetration has exceeded that of any previous year, with all three surpassing the high of 2019
No excuses, no compromises, just precision. Make the right choice from the start and choose the alpha in body composition analysis. Meet the alpha now: secaTRU.com/alpha MEET THE ALPHA
DAVID MINTON Founder, Leisure DB
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
CHAIR FOREWORD
‘TAIN’T WHAT YOU DO, IT’S THE WAY THAT YOU DO IT! AND THAT’S WHAT GETS RESULTS!
We are all obsessed with data! On its own, data is interesting. While collecting data for data’s sake gives an impression of value, it is meaningless without a purpose. We need to provide a reason and purpose for the collection of data and as the wonderful jazz standard goes – ‘Tain’t what you do, it’s the way that you do it!’ The interpretation of data is where the real value is! In the past, in gauging the success of our precious industry, we have focused on the number of members and the number of gyms, plus the value of each membership. These matrices are important indicators, but the real value of data will come when we can use it to understand the real value to our members and users and use that information to refine and improve our product offerings for the benefit of our existing market and to attract new markets. We have industry data, the next stage is customer/user and behaviour data! The development of AI tools will expand both the availability and the quality of the data we can and will collect. It is vital that we understand what information we, as an industry, need to provide a better product for the UK population, to help the health and wellbeing of the nation and to build a robust and profitable industry. To achieve this, we have expanded our data questions to try and build a wider understanding of the needs of our existing and future clients. As a fresh challenge, it would be interesting to try and build an understanding of the overused words ‘Wellness’ and ‘Wellbeing’ and what data needs to be analysed to build an industry standard? Our annual reports on the industry have been produced for over 25 years, with our methodology continually refined and developed during that time. Our research combines telephone and desk-based methods, operator submissions, and direct online uploads from gyms. We have prioritised direct contact with as many of the 7,000+ facilities as possible, alongside desktop research, to develop a comprehensive understanding of growth patterns and facility availability across the UK. I would like to acknowledge and congratulate ukactive and Sport England on the recent release of their report on the fitness industry using direct data feeds from the major operators. It’s encouraging to see growing momentum in the sector, with more organisations and operators stepping forward to share insights and data. The increased visibility and collaboration across the industry are vital to its continued growth and evolution, and we welcome every contribution that helps drive the conversation forward. Our independent report endorses and supports the findings of the ukactive report. When a Bill is put to the House of Commons & the House of Lords, the minister presenting the Bill will eventually bring the debate to a conclusion by saying, “I commend it to the House”. In my case, “I commend this report to the Industry”.
The real value of data will come when we use it to understand the value to our members and refine our offerings to attract new markets
DAVID TURNER Chair, Leisure DB
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
THE FUTURE OF FITNESS IS WELLNESS
WIN BIG IN THE WELLNESS SHIFT HOW RECOVERY SERVICES CAN DOUBLE YOUR MARKET
With a single strategic move, you can double your market potential. That may sound bold, but the numbers don’t lie: by adding wellness and recovery services to your facility, you unlock new revenue streams and secure long-term relevance in a shifting industry. Consider these figures from Statista: Year Global Fitness Industry Global Wellness Industry 2017 $87.23 billion $4.2 trillion 2028 (est.) $1.4 trillion $9 trillion By 2028, the wellness industry is expected to outpace fitness nearly sevenfold. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a consumer pivot from aesthetics to healthspan. People want to live better, not just longer, and they’re taking more responsibility for their wellbeing, turning to proactive, lifestyle-based solutions. Wellness modalities once seen as niche, like infrared saunas, cold plunges, hyperbaric chambers, and compression therapy, are now flooding social media feeds and piquing mainstream interest. Consumers seeking better sleep, pain relief, or more energy aren’t searching ‘gym near me’, they’re searching ‘infrared sauna’, ‘red light therapy’, and ‘cold plunge’. The US is already witnessing a surge in wellness-first concepts. Franchises like StretchLab, Restore, Perspire Sauna, The Covery, and The Plunge are expanding rapidly, while independent wellness centres are gaining traction. Forward-thinking gym chains are responding. Planet Fitness, Crunch, LA Fitness, and EoS Fitness are integrating massage chairs, HydroMassage, red light therapy, cryotherapy, and other recovery tech into their offerings. These services support premium upsells, new membership tiers, and stronger retention. Independent operators have a significant opportunity to differentiate by doing the same, offering short-term wellness programmes that address real-world issues like diabetes, poor sleep, fatigue, anxiety, and chronic pain. These programmes attract a broader audience and foster deeper engagement that turns into long-term membership. Since the fitness industry’s formal start in the 1970s, the UK’s gym membership penetration rate has only reached 16.6%. In the last 30 years, while market penetration has doubled, the number of fitness offerings has quadrupled. Traditional fitness alone is no longer enough to capture or retain market share. Wellness and recovery is the Blue Ocean. Step outside the crowded competitive space and meet consumers where their needs are. When you help people feel better, function better, and live better, you don’t just gain a new member, you create a lifelong advocate.
‘Make Yourself Healthy Again’ by Casey Conrad is a ground- breaking guide that explores the most effective natural healing modalities, empowering you to restore vitality, balance, and wellness from within.
Wellness and recovery is the Blue Ocean CASEY CONRAD International Author and Consultant
Understand the principles of energetic wellness and recovery.
›
Discover modalities being added to facilities to attract new prospects and add revenue from existing members.
›
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON NOW SCAN QR CODE TO BUY YOUR COPY TODAY
PLUS! GET CASEY’S SELLING WELLNESS VIDEO MINI SERIES SCAN THE QR CODE FOR YOUR COPY
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
THE LONGEVITY GOLDRUSH A NEW FRONTIER IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY
The fitness industry is undergoing a radical transformation, shifting from traditional gym routines to a data-driven and personalised ecosystem rooted in longevity science. This is not just a passing trend; it marks a fundamental change in how we view health and wellness. We are facing a healthspan crisis. Today, 27% of the world’s population lives with multiple chronic conditions, and obesity affects around 65% of people in the US and UK. A sedentary lifestyle is making this worse, with people in developed countries spending an average of 20% of their lives in suboptimal health. In the US, life expectancy has continued to decline since 2021. Research efforts like the Longevity Consortium and the Human Longevity Project are pushing boundaries, identifying clinical biomarkers of ageing. There is growing global momentum behind preventative healthcare, with policy shifts such as MAHA (Make America Healthy Again) leading the way. Since 2013, researchers have identified twelve hallmarks of ageing that show potential for reversal. High-profile figures such as ageing researcher Dr David Sinclair, rejuvenation advocate Bryan Johnson, and science communicator Dr Andrew Huberman are drawing attention to the consequences of unhealthy ageing. The fitness industry has a major role to play in addressing this issue. While traditional healthcare systems often fall short in supporting lifestyle change, the fitness sector can bridge that gap. Many diseases could be prevented through simple behavioural changes, yet across the EU, only 0.65% of GDP is spent on preventative care. Even when advice is given, 85% of people fail to act on it due to a lack of ongoing support and community. Focusing on longevity, rather than just aesthetics, opens the door to a new customer base. Today’s fitness advice can be powered by cutting-edge tools like blood biomarkers, genetic testing and wearables that offer deep insight at accessible price points. Precision medicine is no longer out of reach. Personalised fitness is now informed by real-time data. Blood tests can uncover nutritional or hormonal imbalances, wearables monitor recovery, heart rate variability and sleep quality, and DNA testing helps identify how individuals should train or eat based on their genetic makeup. These tools work together to create feedback loops that guide tailored planning. AI is enabling personalised coaching, nutrition support and workout planning around the clock. Recovery is finally being recognised as a vital part of performance. Readiness scores from wearables allow users to make smarter training decisions, recognising that gains happen through proper rest as much as effort. But while tech is driving change, human connection remains essential. Community- based health apps such as Holohabits are helping to build accountability and engagement, which are often missing from self-managed wellness journeys. The future of fitness is not just about being active. It is preventative, holistic and deeply personalised. The fitness industry is perfectly placed to lead the longevity movement by uniting science, technology and real human support. The longevity goldrush has arrived, and the industry must meet the moment to help people live longer, healthier lives.
The fitness industry is perfectly placed to lead the longevity movement by uniting science, technology and real human support
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
Your portal to transformation education from most of the best Speakers in the Fitness Industry.
The fitness industry is on the cusp of a profound transformation, not just driven by science and technology, but by a growing human need for purpose, sustainability, and emotional connection. This is not a fleeting trend. It’s a fundamental shift in how we understand health, success, and what it means to thrive. I began my career in 1989 as a personal trainer and Reebok Step instructor. Since then, I’ve worked around the world helping people improve their health, mindset, and performance. In the mid-90s, I came to a powerful realisation: information alone doesn’t change lives. Behaviour does. That insight led me to develop a behavioural-based weight loss programme, later acquired by BUPA and implemented by several major health and fitness brands across the UK. That lesson is more relevant than ever. We are not just facing a health crisis. We are facing a behavioural and identity crisis. Millions of people know what they ‘should’ do, but they’re disconnected from why it matters. We are surrounded by tools and tips, yet struggle to follow through. We need to stop and reflect on the playing field we’re operating in. We need to consider what people are truly thinking, feeling, and going through behind closed doors. And we need to truly explore the deeper relationship people have with health, wellbeing, and themselves. Because unless we help them shift that relationship, wellness will remain an aspiration, not a lifestyle. Modern healthcare systems are reactive, not proactive. That leaves a vital gap. One the fitness industry is uniquely placed to fill. Through behavioural coaching, identity work, and intentional habit design, we can empower people to move from survival mode to a life of self-leadership and intention. Technology has a role to play. Tools like wearables, DNA testing, and AI-based programmes offer real-time insight into recovery, sleep, and optimal training. But insight without interpretation is wasted. We must use tech as a support, not a substitute, and always return to real human connection as the catalyst for change. Fitness professionals must evolve from instructors to coaches of intentional living. The future isn’t just about fitness plans. It’s about helping people see who they want to become and guiding them there with presence, patience, and purpose. Community, coaching, reflection, and recovery are not extras. They are essentials. The more we help people pause, reflect, and realign, the more likely they are to create lasting transformation. The future of fitness is not just about being active. It is behavioural, emotional, and deeply personal. The next frontier is here. It begins not with action, but with reflection. Let’s meet it with clarity, courage, and compassion. THE FUTURE IS INTENTIONAL A NEW ERA FOR THE FITNESS INDUSTRY ROOTED IN PURPOSE, BEHAVIOUR, AND WELLBEING
Welcome to the VirtualRoadshow.App… Welcome to the future of fitness education.
Have you ever gone to a conference and seen a great presentation and gone back to your Club and tried to describe what you learned to your staff, and something seemed to be missing in your description? Well, with the VirtualRoadShow.APP you can literally show them, pause and discuss, rewind, fast forward. Stop… and then it’s there to be viewed again and again for a refresh, or new hires. You’ve literally got a 24-hour Conference in the palm of your hand…
Scan the QR code, register online in the Virtual Store at www.VirtualRoadShow.online, download the .APP, log in and start your £1 Try All today.
Information alone doesn’t change lives – behaviour does PETE COHEN Performance Coach, Author & Keynote Speaker
Every Thursday at noon GMT one of our presenters, trainers or coaches from the world of fitness deliver unrivalled guidance, advice, training and support on building, growing, and scaling your gym business. From leadership, to coaching, to marketing, to sales, and beyond. ✓ Hours and hours of Actual Experience… condensed down into one-app. over one hour. ✓ Designed to help you and your staff learn, how you want, when you want! ✓ Scan the QR code, download the app and start your £1 trial today. ✓ All presentations are archived within the app so as well as a weekly live stream, you and your team will get access to the Virtual Roadshow archive.... A library of limitless advice, guidance and support that builds week on week as content is added... ✓ View them on your phone or tablet 24/7 - 365 days a year.
We virtually bring the industry to you with A I… Actual Intelligence
Our Current Alumnus of presenters, educators and trainers in our Speakers Bureau include:
Pete Cohen
Frank Furness
Doug Miller
Bryan O’Rourke Dr Mark Slavin
Justin Tamsett
David Minton Colin Milner
Casey Conrad
Laurie Metrick
Lexie Griffiths
Alan Leach
Adrian Marks
Dr. Paul Bedford
Fred Hoffman
Sandy Coffman Hans Muench
Herb Lipsman
Dave Stalker
Benny Price
Joanne Groves
Richard Boyd
Bobby Cappuccio Michael Scott Scudder
Dan Lynch
Jon Nasta
Lesley Aitken
Ray Gordon
Derek Barton
Ulf Bengtsso
Peter Webb
Cristophe Andanson Henrik Gockel
Jarrod Asracco
Rob Lander
Our Speakers Bureau have over 1,000+ YEARS of Actual eXperience.
Our aim is to help you improve the fiscal fitness of your fitness business!
www.VirtualRoadShow.online
Doug@VirtualRoadShow.online
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
FITNESS AS A FORCE FOR NATIONAL HEALTH AND ECONOMIC RENEWAL
The fitness industry stands at a pivotal juncture, poised to redefine its role and become a central pillar in both national healthcare and economic strategy. The evidence is compelling. Integrating fitness into healthcare systems not only enhances individual wellbeing but also contributes significantly to economic productivity and reduces healthcare costs. It’s not rocket science. It’s health and fitness science, and the proof is there to support it. Economically, the sector has demonstrated robust growth, reflecting a growing public commitment to health and fitness. This is supported by both this year’s State of the UK Fitness Industry Report and the latest findings from ukactive and Sport England. Beyond economic contributions, fitness plays a vital role in public health. Physical inactivity is linked to one in six deaths in the UK and costs the economy £7.4 billion each year, including £900 million to the NHS (UK Government, 2022). Embedding fitness into healthcare can help mitigate these costs by preventing and managing over 20 chronic conditions, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The mental health benefits are equally important. Regular physical activity has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood and enhance cognitive function. Awareness of these benefits is growing, with 82% of UK adults recognising the importance of physical activity for mental health and overall wellbeing (Mental Health Foundation Report, 2024). This positions fitness professionals as vital contributors to both preventative and therapeutic care. The rise of health coaching within the NHS illustrates the increasing recognition of lifestyle interventions in managing long-term conditions. The number of health coaches has grown from 60 in 2020 to over 1,100 in 2025, contributing to better patient outcomes and potential savings of more than £2 billion annually in emergency admissions (Financial Times, May 2025). This trend highlights the opportunity for fitness professionals to play a more integrated role in healthcare delivery. To fully realise this potential, systemic change is needed. That includes formal recognition of fitness professionals within healthcare frameworks, the development of standardised training and certification, and the creation of clear referral pathways between healthcare providers and fitness services. We must also expand beyond the traditional portfolio. Services such as bone density scanning, skin health checks, red light therapy, whole-body vibration and mindfulness are all within reach. These additions support wellbeing and strengthen the economic sustainability of fitness businesses. By embracing a broader, more connected model of health, we can build a stronger, more resilient society. It’s not about being louder. It’s about being united, aligned and ready to lead.
Integrating fitness into healthcare systems not only enhances wellbeing but also significantly reduces costs and boosts national productivity
GLEN THURGOOD Chief Strategy Officer, Leisure DB
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
SCAN IT. WORK IT. TRACK IT. REPEAT.
DRIVING GROWTH THROUGH PERSONALISATION, DATA & CONNECTIVITY
After several challenging years and thanks to the industry’s collective innovation, adaptability and resilience, fitness is once again on the up, and we have every reason to be optimistic. More consumers than ever are prioritising their health and wellbeing, choosing to invest in gym memberships despite the rising cost of living. The recent UK Health and Fitness Market Report 2025, published by ukactive, shows the sector has achieved its highest-ever penetration rate, 16.9%, with membership income rising by £1.4bn in 2024 compared to 2022. The report also highlights that young adults face fewer barriers to joining gyms than older generations, suggesting the growth trajectory is likely to continue. There are other reasons to be hopeful. The current government has openly acknowledged the NHS is unsustainable without reform and has committed to prioritising community-based, prevention-over-cure solutions. This is another considerable development for the industry, as it has long been acknowledged that structured, community-first physical activity can play a huge role in improving lives, and government recognition of this will only help the industry advance further. The sector has also grown wiser. COVID-19 exposed the commercial vulnerability of a purely bricks-and-mortar model. In response, operators embraced technology, adopting digital solutions to stay connected to members. This shift has fast-tracked digital maturity and encourages operators to embrace digital ecosystems that place the consumer at the centre of their personalised fitness and wellbeing journey. To build on momentum and maximise impact, the sector must now focus on three key areas: Personalisation: Every individual entering a facility should receive a hyper- personalised activity programme tailored to their goals, performance levels and lifestyles. Programmes should be progressive, with regular performance feedback to encourage long-term engagement. AI integration, such as EGYM’s Genius, makes this possible and effective at scale. Data-driven outcomes: Performance data not only motivates individuals, it also enables the sector to demonstrate collective, evidence-based outcomes. Through effective data collection, we can observe the significant benefits of targeted interventions for people living with long-term conditions. This evidence is key to convincing the government of the critical role the fitness sector can play in public health. Connectivity and interoperability: Members must sit at the centre of a connected, open ecosystem that enables seamless interoperability of multiple brands, all working together to deliver a truly holistic approach to fitness and wellness. EGYM has always pioneered this open-partnership approach, creating environments that provide individuals and operators with the best-in-class across multiple functionalities. EGYM is committed to supporting the sector’s growth and achieving our shared mission to get more people, more active, more often.
Optimise processes, redefine strength training and harness the power of AI for results that make a difference. Only with the latest EGYM innovations.
Personalisation is no longer a luxury – it’s the expectation
STEVE BARTON Country Director, EGYM UK
FIND OUT MORE
uk.egym.com I sales@egym.com
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
In today’s crowded fitness landscape, shaped by wearables, wellness trends and endless data streams, people are struggling to make sense of their health. Despite the volume of tools and advice, many still find it hard to achieve real, lasting progress. At MuhdoHub, we believe that the key to progress is clarity. That’s why we’ve focused on developing personalised, science-led solutions rooted in epigenetics. With over 70,000 tests completed globally, we’re helping individuals understand how daily habits affect their genetic expression and overall wellbeing. Unlike static DNA tests, our approach is dynamic. We track how factors such as stress, sleep, training and nutrition influence biological markers like inflammation and cellular ageing. This gives people a clearer picture of how their health changes over time, not just a snapshot. A core part of our platform is Maisie, our AI Health Coach. She interprets biological data and provides tailored guidance on nutrition, supplementation and exercise. As people’s goals or circumstances evolve, so does the advice they receive. I often explain when asked about our approach that we’re helping people understand that health isn’t fixed; it evolves with their lifestyle and choices. We also work with fitness professionals, providing tools to help them deliver more personalised programmes. Access to biological profiles allows trainers to strengthen client relationships, improve outcomes and offer more targeted support. Our supplement range is designed with the same scientific foundation. Each formulation targets genetic pathways linked to energy, longevity and recovery, supporting the individual’s wider health plan. Scientific credibility is central to everything we do. We collaborate with leading institutions such as Oxford University and King’s College London to ensure our methods are accurate, clinically relevant and evidence-based. Today, more than 250 clinics and hospitals worldwide are using our solutions. The demand for personalised, data-driven health planning continues to grow, and we see this as a necessary evolution in how we approach fitness and preventative care. We are not here to add more information for people to sift through. We are here to offer practical insight that supports informed, personal decision-making. That is what clarity looks like. CLARITY IN THE CHAOS HOW MUHDOHUB IS TRANSFORMING FITNESS THROUGH DNA AND EPIGENETICS
We’re helping people understand that health isn’t fixed; it evolves with their lifestyle and choices JAMES BROWN Director of Nutrigenetics & Co-Founder of Muhdo Health
We re not sorcery. We re science. We re not chaos. We re clarity. We re not ageing. We re longevity. We re not fine lines. We re full potential. We re not belief. We re biology. We re not the future. We re already here.
Join the health revolution.
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
GROW YOUR CLUB WITH ACTIONABLE INSIGHTS ATTRACT AND RETAIN WITH STUDIO-LED SOLUTIONS Group exercise is undergoing a rebirth, as the category evolves to appeal to new audiences with exciting new formats. Les Mills is leading the revolution by helping clubs secure the next generation of members, with increased lifetime value. Discover how your club can win in the New Age of Group Training. Every decade or so, studio innovations come along that completely change the game. Often, it’s a product or style of training but when it transforms the entire category, that’s when things get really exciting. Modern consumers – particularly Gen Z – are experiencing unprecedented levels of isolation, and demand for live fitness experiences is at an all-time high. Clubs have a huge opportunity to turbocharge growth by leaning on the most engaging elements of the club – especially the studio. Class participants attend more frequently, have a higher lifetime value and refer more friends to your club. But the old rules of group exercise no longer apply. New consumers coming into fitness are blighted by conflicting interests – they crave community but need help finding it and getting started. How can operators bridge the gap and help modern consumers by supporting their need for guidance and new ways to work out together? Enter Group Training – where the best of traditional group exercise (community, motivation, results) is blended with new innovations, including added personalisation, fresh music and movement patterns, dynamic environments and frictionless instructor recruitment journeys. We’re in the motivation business – and we never stop striving to create better experiences to keep members coming back. This is why we’re innovating our Les Mills program offering to usher in the New Age of Group Training. Our new group training concepts are designed to attract fresh faces into the studio. Whether that’s because they’re laser-focused on the lure of the squat rack, or they simply haven’t found the right program for them, the New Age of Group Training reframes the whole concept of what group training looks like to die-hard gym floor fans. The path from the gym floor to the studio is paved with gold. Are you ready to boost lifetime value by helping more members make the journey from gym floor to studio? If you’re looking for support with how to get started driving growth in your club, visit the Les Mills Insights Hub and check out our Growth Guide and other free resources.
THE 360 ° SOLUTION
The path from the gym floor to the studio is paved with gold MARTIN FRANKLIN CEO – Europe, Les Mills
FOR YOUR CLUB
YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS – LET’S TALK.
At LES MILLS, we obsess about creating fitness experiences people fall in love with – making exercise more motivating and more enjoyable. That’s why everything we do is designed to get members through your doors and keep them coming back. With over 55 years of experience, Les Mills is here to help you build scalable group training success - ultimately driving more profit. Explore a partnership that provides you with industry-leading solutions: science-backed workouts, thousands of world-class instructors Omnifitness options, expert consultation, and more.
FIND OUT MORE: lesmills.com/uk
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
As the UK fitness landscape continues to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and an increasing appetite for flexible, high-quality solutions, diversification has emerged as a key strategy for sustainability and growth. For companies operating at the intersection of commercial and at-home fitness, staying attuned to market shifts is essential, and PSLT is no exception. This year, PSLT has undertaken a strategic expansion that reflects broader trends in the industry: a move toward more inclusive, tech-integrated and value-driven offerings. While maintaining its core pillars, including Product, Service, Logistics and Trade, the company has broadened its product portfolio to address emerging needs across the fitness spectrum. A significant element of this growth is the introduction of equipment from DHZ, a brand recognised globally for delivering reliable, aesthetically designed commercial gym solutions. As an official UK distributor, PSLT is now able to offer fitness facilities access to robust, high-performance equipment with an emphasis on both quality and affordability. This dual demand is becoming increasingly important in today’s economic climate. Simultaneously, PSLT has entered the connected fitness market through the addition of the SPLAN Fitness Mirror, designed to meet the growing consumer appetite for interactive, at-home and commercial fitness experiences. With real-time feedback, guided workouts and immersive content, the SPLAN Mirror represents a step forward in the fusion of fitness and digital engagement. These developments align with a broader industry trend: the integration of traditional fitness infrastructure with digital innovation. By combining proven performance equipment with emerging technologies, PSLT is positioning itself to support a more diverse range of fitness environments, from boutique and large- scale gyms to digitally enabled home setups. This evolution is not merely about expanding inventory. It signals a long-term commitment to remaining relevant in a competitive and fast-changing market. As fitness operators and consumers alike seek more tailored, efficient and engaging solutions, companies that can offer both breadth and depth in products, service and strategy will be the ones helping to define the future of the industry. With a solid foundation, an expanded offering and strong partnerships, PSLT reflects a growing emphasis on adaptability, innovation and customer-centricity. Adaptability and innovation aren’t optional. They are the future of fitness. These are the qualities shaping the next chapter of fitness in the UK. THE INDUSTRY IS EVOLVING, AND SO ARE WE PSLT ADAPTS TO MARKET SHIFTS WITH INCLUSIVE, TECH-DRIVEN FITNESS SOLUTIONS
Adaptability and innovation aren’t optional – they’re the future of fitness GRAHAM BERTRAND Founder, PSLT
PSLT ARE ALWAYS HERE FOR YOU. UNBEATABLE COMMITMENT AND TRUSTED PROVIDER.
PRODUCT
SERVICE
NATIONWIDE COVERAGE, FULL SERVICE CONTRACTS TO ONE OFF VISITS. FROM ELECTRICAL, UPHOLSTERY, REPAIRS AND GENERAL ASSET MANAGEMENT.
EXCLUSIVE UK PARTNER TO DHZ STRENGTH PRODUCTS & SPLAN FITNESS MIRROR REMANUFACTURED KIT AND CUSTOMISATION OPTIONS.
TRADE
LOGISTICS
TRADE IN ANY FITNESS KIT.
RELOCATION AND REMOVAL OF PART OR FULL FACILITY.
www.pslt.co.uk
Sales@pslt.co.uk
01282 969616
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
Meet Your New Club Management Team Here at Ashbourne, we work with thousands of clubs across the UK and Ireland with a simple goal of offering a truly all-in-one gym management service that reduces admin for your staff, increases your earnings and helps you focus on giving your members the support they need to thrive.
LET’S EVEN THE PLAYING FIELD GIVING INDEPENDENT GYMS THE TOOLS TO COMPETE SMARTER
Gym owners know all too well how tough it can be competing with the rise of low-cost, big-name chains. At Ashbourne, we see it first-hand. Our own test club, The Fit Club Redditch, sits just down the street from a major budget operator, so we see the battle up close every day. But rather than see this as a losing fight, we believe there’s real opportunity here. When you understand why members choose a local club, not just over cheaper chains, but even staying away from gyms entirely, you can build something truly lasting. We’re committed to making real insights available to independent gyms, not just relying on gut instinct. The better we understand member behaviour, the stronger the whole industry becomes. And we’re proud to be a part of that journey. Smarter decisions make stronger gyms. We believe that the right information, at the right time, changes everything. That’s why we’re investing heavily in technology like NFC (Near Field Communication), which makes gym access easier and more secure, while also giving gym owners a clearer picture of how members are using their facilities. The data we’re gathering is already helping gyms make better decisions. For example, we know Tuesdays are the busiest days (especially 5 to 7pm), while Sundays tend to be the quietest. Around 75% of members visit twice a week, but about 5% struggle to attend even once. Many owners might sense these trends already from experience and instinct, but seeing the data tailored to their own club empowers them to adjust schedules, staffing and programming more confidently. We’re also tuned into the wider industry conversations. With 40% of non-members feeling gym membership is a luxury, and more than half, especially women, experiencing ‘gymtimidation’, these challenges can’t be ignored. That’s why we openly share our findings with our partner gyms and collaborate with groups like Leisure DB and The Gym Owners Forum. It’s about getting practical, usable knowledge into the hands of the people who need it most. Growing, learning and sharing. At Ashbourne, we believe sharing knowledge is just as important as collecting it. That’s why we’re learning from clubs not just in the UK and Ireland, but also in Norway, Greece and the US. Every market offers fresh ideas, and we’re committed to bringing those lessons back to support independent gyms at home. Ashbourne’s mission has always been simple: help independent gyms not just survive, but truly thrive, now and for decades to come.
The better we understand member behaviour, the stronger the whole industry becomes
TOBY WASSELL Head of Business Development, Ashbourne Owner, The Fit Club, Redditch
PAYMENT COLLECTION
We directly handle your direct debits and payments to collect your monthly memberships and give you regular cashflow. We don’t combine with any third parties, we handle it all. GYM SOFTWARE Our gym software allows you to see real time results of your members, payments and the freedom to instantly communicate with your customers through email or SMS. COMPLETE SUPPORT Our team is just a phone call away for both you and your members to handle everything; From payments, to technical help and assistance with all aspects of managing your gym.
01564 393 116 sales@ashbournemanagement.co.uk
www.ashbourne-memberships.com
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
Leisure centres play a vital role in supporting whole communities, from early years through to later life. But I often ask myself, are our gyms truly meeting that need? Or are we overlooking the diversity of people they’re meant to serve? In my work supporting strategic planning with councils across the UK, we map user data to understand how well facilities are reaching different groups. The results show real strengths, especially among women and families, but they also reveal where we’re falling short. What’s clear is that most users prefer to stay local. In urban areas, around three- quarters of users live within ten minutes of their centre. Even in rural settings, the average travel time is still under fifteen minutes. This highlights just how important local provision is, and how vital it is that what’s offered truly reflects the needs of the community. Women are well represented in most council-run facilities. In fact, they often make up the majority of users. That’s a positive contrast to wider national trends. The sense of safety, social connection and routine offered by gyms and group classes clearly resonates with many women. But the picture shifts when we look at older adults and young people. Among those aged 45 and up, particularly the over 65s, representation drops significantly. This is despite an ageing population and growing awareness of how essential active ageing is. And while swimming remains popular among under-15s, many centres lose momentum with 15 to 24-year-olds, even though Gen Z is showing strong interest in mental wellbeing and social movement. Gyms are evolving. They’re becoming more social and integrated into everyday life. Health partnerships are expanding, and many newer designs now include community zones, coworking areas and flexible spaces that blend wellness with day-to-day relevance. Our survey insights show that accessibility, cost and time availability remain top considerations for most. But when it comes to engaging less active populations, particularly older adults, the offer needs to go deeper. These individuals are looking for more than just a place to work out. They need the right kind of classes, support, and spaces that accommodate varying energy levels and mobility needs. And interestingly, cost is often not the biggest barrier for older users. A lack of confidence or relevant options tends to be more limiting. By 2042, over one in five UK residents will be aged 65 or older. If we continue treating older adults as one uniform group, we risk getting it wrong. Their needs are varied and evolving, and our approach must reflect that. If we want to create leisure spaces that truly serve every age and every stage, we need to base our decisions on real-world data and the lived experiences of the people we serve. EVERY AGE, EVERY STAGE RETHINKING THE GYM OFFER TO MEET LOCAL DEMAND AND MAXIMISE RETURNS
Our survey insights show that accessibility, cost and time availability remain top considerations for most
BUILT FOR INTENSE WORKOUTS Take your facility to the next level with the Vapor Series. Designed and built to withstand the toughest workouts, each piece provides users with the high-performance and unique features they demand to ensure they’re pushed to their limits.
LISA FORSYTH Managing Director, Max Associates
For more information contact True GB Tel: 01509 369110
Email: support@true-fitness.uk Web: https://www.true-fitness.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/true-fitness-gb
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
INDUSTRY VIEWS
LEADING THE CHANGE BUILDING A MORE INCLUSIVE, RESILIENT FITNESS SECTOR
The UK fitness and leisure sector stands at a crossroads. Faced with skills shortages, funding pressures and widening inequalities, we cannot afford to stand still. At The Fitness Group, we believe quality education is the key to building a stronger, more inclusive industry and meeting these challenges. Expanding access to accredited qualifications is crucial if we are to future-proof the workforce. Through initiatives like our partnership with Active Lincolnshire’s Skills Fund, we are helping to remove barriers to entry and support a more diverse and representative generation of fitness professionals. As Emma Tatlow, Chief Executive of Active Lincolnshire, commented: “By working together to invest in skills, we are creating new opportunities for individuals who might not have considered a future in fitness, and strengthening the sector for the long term.” Research from Sport England shows that just 4% of fitness professionals identify as from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background, compared to 14% of the general population. These figures reflect a broader issue in physical activity engagement, where ethnic and religious minorities face systemic barriers, ranging from exclusionary policies to microaggressions and overt prejudice within sporting environments. To help address this gap, we are in the process of launching a CPD course on Tackling Ethnic and Religious Inequalities in Sport and Fitness, equipping professionals with the skills and cultural competence to work inclusively with people from all backgrounds. We also recognise that staying on the front foot is vital when it comes to fitness qualifications. As demand grows for specialisms like Pilates instruction and working with pre and post-natal women, we are committed to developing new qualifications and CPD pathways that ensure fitness professionals are equipped to serve rising demand. Recent launches include a course on Menstrual Cycle Awareness in Training which has received CIMSPA endorsement, with further developments underway, including a new course exploring the Gut Microbiome and Human Health. Supporting the health of the industry workforce itself is just as important. Our partnership with Myzone, aimed at promoting workplace wellbeing, reflects a wider commitment to embedding mental health support as a core part of professional development. There is no denying the challenges facing the fitness and leisure sector today. However, there is also a huge opportunity. By investing in people through education, inclusive practice and collaboration, we can unlock fitness and leisure’s full potential to strengthen communities, improve public health and drive sustainable growth. A stronger, more inclusive fitness industry will not happen by chance. It will be built by those who choose to innovate, act with integrity, and drive real impact. At The Fitness Group, these are the values we stand by, and we are proud to work alongside others who share our vision for a more diverse, inclusive and thus more resilient fitness sector.
We’ve become a one-stop shop for asset management, with a system that makes the whole process easier and more transparent for operators STEVEN DICK Co-Founder & Director, The Fitness Group Education
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
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