2026 State of the UK Fitness Industry Report

THE MARKET WE’VE BUILT

Private vs Public Split

PRIVATE VS PUBLIC SHARE SHIFT



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MARKET SHARE BY SECTOR

The UK tness market continues to be dened by a clear and continuing divide between private and public provision. While both sectors play a critical role, growth in recent years has been increasingly driven by private operators, who now account for a larger proportion of sites and a disproportionately higher share of members and overall market value. This imbalance becomes more pronounced when moving from gym numbers to members and value. The private sector captures a greater share of both, reecting stronger pricing, higher utilisation and a more commercially driven operating model. In contrast, the public sector maintains a broader access role, with lower average fees and a greater focus on community provision. Over time, this has created a structurally imbalanced market in which private operators lead on growth and commercial performance, while public facilities remain essential for accessibility and health outcomes. For operators and policymakers alike, the implication is clear: the future of the sector will depend on how these two models continue to evolve alongside each other, rather than converge.

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Gyms

Members

Market value

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STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2026

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