Key Fitness Industry Strengths Driving Its Growth

After a challenging few years, the fitness industry has rebounded with revenue almost back to pre-2019 levels. This recovery and growth is due in no small part to the industry’s inherent strengths. Understanding what’s driving this positive trajectory and influencing consumer behavior is key to long-term success for fitness businesses.

In this article, we outline the key strengths of the fitness industry that are driving its expansion and success.

We’ve spent 15+ years working in the fitness industry, from leading gym chains to global equipment manufacturers, so know the market inside-out. We proactively study the ever-changing landscape, highlight new trends, and analyze the big players, so that you don’t have to. For the last 5 years, we’ve shared this expertise with the wider industry through our Research Reports which are available to purchase.

2024 Fitness Industry Report

The most comprehensive & up-to-date report on the fitness industry available. Includes revenue, growth, future outlook plus much more.

Analyzing The Fitness Industry’s Strengths

Exploring the fitness industry’s strengths is an essential step in developing a solid business strategy. For both new startups and established fitness businesses, understanding the broader industry is an essential part of market research. Analyzing its strengths is the first step in conducting a fitness industry SWOT analysis that provides an overview of a sector.

Strengths are the internal attributes that give a business or industry a competitive edge. They’re the positive factors that contribute to its success. 

Identifying strengths can help fitness businesses with…

• Sustained Competitive Edge: By continually emphasizing and building on strengths, fitness businesses can maintain and even enhance their position in the market.
• Opportunity for Growth: Identifying industry strengths opens up new opportunities for growth and expansion.
• Higher Customer Satisfaction: When a fitness business leverages its strengths, it can deliver superior services and experiences, leading to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Improved Profitability: Knowing your strengths aids decision-making about where to invest time, money, and resources for maximum profitability.
• Enhance Marketing and Branding: Highlighting strengths in marketing campaigns can help attract new clients, customers, and gym members. 

So, what are the key fitness industry strengths driving its growth and how can you tap into them?

Growing Demand

One of the most significant strengths of the fitness industry is the increasing demand for fitness products and services worldwide. What’s behind this demand? Well, several factors are combining to drive it…

Health Consciousness

More people are becoming aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This awareness is being fueled by a deluge of information now available on the internet, social media, and through public health campaigns. According to McKinsey, an impressive 40% of people now consider wellness a top priority in daily life.

Aging Populations

As populations around the world age, there’s a growing need for fitness solutions that cater to older adults. Many seniors are looking to stay active and healthy as they age, leading to an increased demand for age-appropriate fitness programs and equipment.

The SilverSneakers program in the U.S. is a perfect example of a successful fitness initiative targeted at older adults, offering fitness classes and activities designed to improve their health and well-being. Businesses that can tap into the active aging market will have a rapidly growing customer base for years to come.

Lifestyle-Related Health Issues

With the rise of sedentary lifestyles and ultra-processed foods, health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease have sadly become more prevalent. According to the World Health Organization, 28% of the global population doesn’t do enough physical activity. This rises to 38% in the UK and 53% in the USA.

The increase in lifestyle-related diseases is prompting more people to seek out fitness solutions to prevent and manage these conditions. It’s also driving interest in preventative programs from medical insurance companies, corporate employers, and investors. Fitness businesses that can develop effective offerings for lifestyle diseases will be well-positioned for growth.

Diverse Market

The fitness industry’s ability to cater to a wide range of demographics is another major strength. Whether it’s age, fitness level, or personal interests, there is something for everyone in the fitness world.

Age

From children’s fitness programs to senior wellness classes, the industry offers options for all age groups. For instance, programs like CrossFit Kids focus on making fitness fun and engaging for children, while senior-focused classes at community centers provide low-impact exercises tailored to older adults.

Fitness Levels

Whether someone is a beginner just starting their fitness journey or an advanced athlete looking to take their training to the next level, the fitness industry has options to meet their needs. Personal trainers, group fitness classes, and online coaching programs all offer tailored solutions based on individual fitness levels. This personalization is often key to consumer engagement and loyalty long-term.

Interests

The sheer variety of fitness activities available is staggering. From traditional gym workouts and group fitness classes to more niche activities like circus workouts and plogging, there’s something to suit every interest. This diversity helps ensure that the industry remains dynamic and appeals to a broad consumer base. It also offers creative business opportunities for those looking to ride the wave of emerging fitness trends.

Other Fitness Industry Strengths

Learn more about the other strengths driving the fitness industry’s success in our 2024 research report. Beyond people becoming more health-conscious, aging populations, lifestyle diseases, and its diverse appeal, the fitness industry has several other strengths going for it.

Tech advancements are having a huge impact on the market and offer exciting opportunities for businesses that can adapt quickly. Consumer buying habits are also evolving in a way that gyms and product manufacturers must pay attention to. Learn more in our Fitness Industry Report.

2024 Fitness Industry Research Report

This is the most comprehensive and up-to-date fitness industry research report available. Unlike others, you get extended access to the 2024 edition, including any updates that are made as new market data becomes available. Ideal for business planning and strategic marketing, the 90-page report includes;

• Fitness industry revenue & growth by market segment
• Comprehensive fitness market SWOT analysis
• Gym market size, growth & membership statistics
• Online & virtual fitness market developments
• Financial information for the largest club operators globally
• Biggest & fastest growing fitness franchises
• Insights into the boutique fitness studio & personal training segments
• Latest industry trends & how to capitalize on them
• Growth markets, segments & audiences including Millennials
• Data on fitness tracker, app & equipment segments
• Outlook & evidence-based predictions for the future of the industry
• 14-day money-back guarantee, no questions or hassle.

2024 Fitness Industry Market Report NEW