2014 IHRSA Global Report offers useful and pertinent information

The health and fitness industry is doing quite well. One would be hard-pressed to argue against it. Recent reports, studies and research will prove that:

• revenue grew to $77.5 billion, up from $75.7 billion
• 3,000 clubs worldwide; last year the number was just over 150,000
• 32,150 facilities, a 2,000 increase
• 140 million club users, a huge jump from 131.7 million last year

It isn’t just about numbers. How about these accolades:

• A recent study said that fitness is the world’s biggest sport and there is still plenty of room for growth.
• Entrepreneur magazine placed Anytime Fitness at the top of its 2014 Franchise 500 list.
• Franchise Times named Snap Fitness and Founder and CEO Peter Taunton a Dealmaker of the Year in February 2014. 
• Anytime Fitness plans to open more than 1,500 clubs in the next five years; Planet Fitness added 50.

More on these findings, and what this means to the industry, can be found in one place – the 2014 IHRSA Global Report, which is now available in a PDF. The publication is the most up-to-date on the global fitness industry, consisting of an industry overview, research, and company and supplier profiles.

“There is no question that surpassing five billion health club visits is impressive,” said Joe Moore, IHRSA president and CEO. “It’s proof-positive that every day the health club industry plays an integral role in helping millions of people achieve their health and wellness goals.”

In the Industry Research section there are charts breaking down the number of clubs in countries, regions and the United States. There is also some extremely valuable research information (for the Americas) culled the IHRSA Trend Report.

• 40% left their last club due to price
• 64% go to a club to stay healthy

“Although there are many options besides joining a fitness club, it remains the one place where you can meet with others who share your passion for health and fitness and where social opportunities become available,” said Clive Caldwell, president and CEO of Cambridge Group of Clubs, and one of the several leading club operators interviewed in the report.

The 116-page 2014 IHRSA Global Report is available in print or PDF.

Comments

[Debra Atkinson]

Too much cost really is too little value. You are too expensive until they want you. We have a marketing and service gap.