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
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