Data Highlights

The global fitness industry continued to grow in 2025 despite a complex economy. Operators contended with sticky inflation, rising rents, and elevated energy costs compressing profit margins. As buildout expenses climbed, market consolidation and private equity investment accelerated, with major players absorbing multi-site networks to fuel expansion.

Even so, key markets posted all-time highs across key metrics, as industry leaders increasingly positioned themselves as partners in the broader healthcare ecosystem — a shift driven in part by the economic burden of sedentary lifestyles. The World Health Organization (WHO) projects physical inactivity will account for roughly 499.2 million new cases of preventable noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions globally between 2020 and 2030, costing public health systems an estimated US$300 billion over the period. Recognizing the industry’s growing role, several governments are now prioritizing national health agendas that incentivize physical activity.