The report is the second commissioned by ukactive, following its debut last year. It has been produced in collaboration with Sport England and 4Global, with analysis provided by Grant Thornton UK.

The data covers a significant portion of the market, representing 74% of private operators, 85% of public operators and 88% of independent operators.

Key figures underline the sector’s strength. Total income has climbed to £6.5 billion, up from £5.7 billion in 2024. Club visits have increased by 10% over the same period, reaching 679 million and reflecting sustained demand across all age groups.

The sector is also delivering £7.5 billion in attributable social value through health and fitness, measured by improvements in life satisfaction and reductions in health conditions.

The number of clubs now stands at 5,842, marking a 4.2% rise since 2024.

Outgoing CEO of ukactive, Huw Edwards, said: 'Today’s report provides clear evidence that the UK is home to one of the strongest health and fitness sectors in the world and a much-needed success story for UK plc.

'Consumer demand for the services provided by gyms, pools and leisure centres is growing year on year and our members are rising to the challenge by investing in new clubs and services.

'The most exciting thing is the untapped potential to get millions more people active if the sector gets the right support from government to remove barriers to growth and help us reach more communities.'

Utku Toprakseven, chief development officer at 4Global, said: 'This year’s analysis highlights a maturing sector where operators are generating more value per member through more frequent usage, diversified offers and stronger alignment with consumer needs. At the same time, the data reinforces the critical role of the sector in supporting national health outcomes, with £7.5 billion of social value being generated through sustained participation.'

Rob Turner, partner in consulting at Grant Thornton UK, added: 'This sector is a key contributor to both the UK economy and the nation’s health. The growth in gym numbers and their rising popularity strongly support the Government’s Prevention Agenda and will, in turn, ease pressure on the NHS.

'Additionally, fitness spaces are evolving into key social hubs, with wellness becoming a core part of personal identity and more than just exercise. For public and private investors alike, this is a high growth market with significant long term potential.'

The UK Health & Fitness Market Report 2026 is sponsored by headline partners BLKBOX and Matrix, with contributing partners Precor and Technogym.