UK Fitness Boom: What the 2026 UK Active Market Report Means for Energie Fitness

The latest report from ukactive confirms what many in the industry have already been feeling: fitness in the UK isn’t just recovering, it’s booming. 

For brands like Energie Fitness, this surge represents more than just positive headlines. It signals a powerful shift in how people view health, wellbeing, and the role gyms play in everyday life. 

A record-breaking year for the UK fitness industry 

The UK Health & Fitness Market Report 2026 reveals some of the strongest figures the sector has ever seen: 

• 12.2 million people are now gym members in the UK 

• 18% of the population holds a membership - an all-time high 

• 679 million gym visits were recorded in 2025, up 10% year-on-year 

• The market is now worth £6.5 billion, showing continued financial growth 

These aren’t small gains - they reflect a long-term behavioural change. More people are prioritising fitness as a core part of their lifestyle, not just something they do occasionally. 

Fitness is now a lifestyle, not a trend 

One of the most important takeaways from the report is how the role of gyms is evolving. 

Fitness facilities are no longer just places to work out - they’re becoming community hubs that support multiple aspects of life, from social interaction to mental wellbeing. 

In fact: 

• 62% of consumers are motivated by trying new activities 

• 49% value making connections and friendships through fitness 

This shift aligns perfectly with the approach at Energie Fitness, where community, inclusivity, and accessibility sit at the heart of every club. 

Why this matters for Energie Fitness members 

At Energie Fitness, this growing demand translates directly into better experiences for members. 

As the industry expands, so does the quality and variety of fitness offerings—from functional training and group classes to recovery and wellbeing spaces. 

More importantly, the data reinforces that gyms like Energie Fitness are playing a critical role in supporting long-term health, not just short-term goals. 

The sector is now generating an estimated £7.5 billion in social value, helping improve life satisfaction and reduce health conditions across the UK. 

That’s a powerful reminder that every workout contributes to something bigger. 
 
Energie Fitness Chief Operating Officer, Richard Smith states: “The latest UK Active Report highlights the scale of opportunity within the fitness sector and reinforces what we see across our network every day; a growing demand for inclusive, community-focused fitness. With more people than ever prioritising health and wellbeing, it gives us real confidence as we continue to scale the Energie Fitness brand and invest in future growth, expanding into new communities and supporting more people on their fitness journeys.” 

A growing opportunity for franchise expansion 

The continued growth of the fitness sector also highlights a major opportunity for franchise expansion.  

With: 

• A rising number of gym users 

• Increasing demand across all demographics 

• Strong investor confidence in the market 

Brands like Energie Fitness are well-positioned to expand into new communities and deliver high-quality, accessible fitness experiences at scale. 

This is already being seen across the network, with new clubs opening and existing franchisees continuing to grow their portfolios. 

The bigger picture: a healthier nation 

Perhaps the most significant insight from the report is the broader societal impact. 

With one in four adults still considered physically inactive, the fitness industry has a vital role to play in improving public health. 

Gyms are no longer just businesses - they are part of the solution to some of the UK’s biggest health challenges. 

The 2026 report makes one thing clear: 

The UK fitness industry is stronger, more relevant, and more impactful than ever before. 

For Energie Fitness, this is an exciting moment - an opportunity to continue growing, innovating, and supporting more people on their fitness journeys. 

Whether you’re a member, a prospective franchisee, or simply someone looking to get started, there’s never been a better time to be part of the Energie Fitness community.