UFC Gym Expansion, Policy Changes, and What’s Next
In 2024, the fitness industry experienced significant growth and transformation, with UFC Gym expanding its global footprint, discussions around fitness policies gaining traction, and major strides in health advocacy. This year has been pivotal, with fitness industry news capturing these key developments as they reshape both business expansion and the relationship between fitness and public health.
UFC Gym’s Global Expansion
UFC Gym’s expansion in 2024 saw significant achievements, with growth across both domestic and international markets. Domestically, the gym chain opened 10-11 new locations, including a standout in Hendersonville, Tennessee, which launched with nearly 3,000 members. Internationally, UFC Gym’s footprint continued to grow, with Pakistan and Indonesia being the latest countries to join its network. This brings the brand’s presence to 42 countries, where it is now opening an average of one gym per week.
The global growth included the addition of 35-40 new locations in 2024, with significant activity in Southeast Asia, where markets like Macau are emerging as key growth areas. Macau is preparing for its first UFC Gym, coinciding with a recent UFC fight hosted in the region, demonstrating the brand’s alignment with the UFC’s expanding global influence.
Despite these successes, some international markets, such as Taiwan, are still recovering from the lingering effects of COVID-19. This highlights the varied pace of recovery and underscores how UFC Gym continues to adapt to local conditions while leveraging its global momentum.
The PHIT Act and the Trump Administration's Potential Impact on Fitness
The PHIT (Personal Health Investment Today) Act, which aims to make fitness more affordable by allowing tax deductions for physical activity expenses, gained renewed focus during discussions about the Trump administration's potential influence on fitness policy. Advocates like Adam Sedlak, CEO of UFC Gym, have expressed optimism that the administration, supported by influential fitness proponents like Dana White and Robert Kennedy Jr., could prioritize physical activity on a national scale.
The relationship between Dana White, the UFC President, and the Trump administration is seen as a potential channel to promote fitness-forward policies. Dana's personal transformation through disciplined fitness habits and his visible leadership in the industry amplify the conversation. His story underscores the broader impact of prioritizing fitness, which advocates argue should be incentivized through measures like tax deductions.
Robert Kennedy Jr.'s dedication to fitness and nutrition further bolsters this narrative. Advocates emphasize the importance of leaders who "live it" when shaping health policy, contrasting this with past administrations where fitness advocacy was perceived to lack credibility.
This alignment of leadership experience, advocacy, and political opportunity has fueled hope for meaningful progress. The industry is increasingly unified around promoting fitness and well-being, setting the stage for what could be a transformative era in U.S. fitness policy.
2024 Wins & 2025 Industry Outlook
Mike Goscinski, Vice President of Government Affairs with the Health and Fitness Association (HFA), formerly IHRSA, reflects on the association’s 2024 accomplishments and provides a glimpse into the fitness industry’s future in 2025. Mike discusses significant topics including the potential impact of the Trump administration on fitness policy, gyms’ involvement in the GLP-1 conversation, and the importance of investing in data and research to unite the industry. He also shares an exciting preview of next year’s trade show and its implications for fitness businesses.
Policy Changes for Public Health and Accessibility
The fitness industry is focusing on advocating for policy changes to position gyms as vital to public health, particularly in managing chronic conditions like obesity. Efforts are underway to have fitness memberships covered by Medicare and Medicaid, alongside the use of weight-loss drugs, to support long-term health. At the state level, nearly 50 legislative victories have been achieved, while national efforts are led by organizations like the HFA, which provides resources and unites stakeholders.
Global collaborations, including with the Global Health and Fitness Alliance, aim to emphasize the public health benefits of physical activity. Recent industry growth, reflected in higher gym membership and class participation, highlights a cultural shift toward preventive health. The fitness sector is committed to making physical activity more accessible and influencing policy for better health outcomes.
Fitness Industry Progress and What Lies Ahead
Looking ahead to 2025, the fitness industry is filled with promising advancements in global expansion, policy reform, and a stronger focus on preventive health. With continued progress in fitness-related legislation and cultural shifts, the industry is setting the stage for an exciting year of change and innovation in the fitness sector. Stay tuned for the latest updates in fitness news, as these major developments continue to drive business growth and reshape the vital connection between fitness and public health.
