Private fitness operators report 10% growth in memberships since 2022

Privately operated gyms and leisure facilities across the UK have seen a 10.2% increase in memberships since the beginning of 2022.

Data collected quarterly from January 2022 to December 2023 shows that there has been an overall increase of 345,958 members among private operators.

The first annual Private Sector Benchmarking report, published by industry body, ukactive, and data and insight specialist, 4Global, shows that the private sector also saw an increase in the number of sites and membership revenues.

The increases come despite the rising cost of living and energy prices.

The report is based on data collected in 2022 and 2023 from 12 private operators, representing 1,089 privately operated fitness and leisure facilities. The data shows the total number of clubs, number of members and membership revenue, as tracked each quarter. Other key findings include: • A net of 78 new clubs opened across the UK, representing a growth rate of 7.7%. • The greatest quarterly growth in facilities was seen between Q3 2022 and Q4 2022, with a net of 27 new clubs opening. • The number of members between Q1 2022 and Q4 2023 increased by 345,958 (10.2%). • Membership revenue across the same period rose by 22.4%.

Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, said: “These findings provide irrefutable evidence that people want to be more physically active and are prioritising their health by using gyms and pools.”