METHODOLOGY & DEFINITIONS
Research & Validation Workflow
Operator Audit Files Analyst Validation
Self-Service Site Reviews
AI-Supported Research
Continuous UK Gym Database
Annual Market Report
Market Scope, Definitions & Data Standards
To be included within this report, a facility must provide cardiovascular and/or resistance-based tness equipment available to the general public on either a membership or pay-and-play basis. Included facility types: ● Private health clubs ● Low cost gyms ● Public leisure centres ● Local authority tness facilities ● Multi-purpose tness clubs with gym provision ● Educational establishments with public access gyms
Leisure DB applies a layered multi-source veri cation methodology across all core datasets. Data may be validated through direct operator submissions, self- service audit responses, of cial operator websites, booking systems, social media activity, pricing checks, public announcements and analyst review. The 2026 report also expands coverage across a number of emerging categories including padel provision, reformer Pilates, wellness and recovery spaces, health services, rehabilitation provision and digital infrastructure. As several of these categories represent newer areas of research, sample coverage may vary between sectors and operator types. Where relevant, charts and analysis include annotations identifying reduced sample representation. Leisure DB’s methodology is designed not as a static annual audit, but as a continuously maintained market intelligence platform, combining operator participation, analyst expertise and AI-supported research to provide a more accurate and research-grade view of the sector.
The report does not include: ● Corporate-only gyms ● Boutique studios ● Personal training studios ● Circuit-only concepts ● CrossFit-only facilities ● Outdoor gyms
● Hotel gyms without public access ● Specialist single-activity concepts without general gym provision ● Educational establishments without public access gyms
Examples include concepts such as F45, Barry’s, 1Rebel and similar boutique or specialist formats.
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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2026
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