Fitness Industry Reports Record Q3 Growth and Rising Health-Tech Innovation
The fitness world is in the middle of a significant transformation. From packed gyms across the U.S. to groundbreaking partnerships between wellness and tech brands, the industry’s momentum shows no signs of slowing down. What’s unfolding isn’t just a rebound; it’s a redefinition of how people connect with health, movement, and community.
The latest fitness industry news tells a clear story: accessibility, innovation, and integration are driving this next chapter. Whether it’s through budget-friendly gyms, digital wellness tools, or global collaborations, fitness is becoming a natural part of everyday life. The result? A stronger, more connected, and more inclusive future for health and well-being.
U.S. HVLP Gyms Lead Surge in National Fitness Activity, HFA Reports Record Q3 Growth
Across the United States, gyms are buzzing again, and at levels never seen before. According to the Health & Fitness Association (HFA), national gym visitation hit record highs in the third quarter of 2025, led by high-volume, low-price (HVLP) and mid-tier fitness centers.
New data from HFA’s Fitness Industry Traffic Tracker (FIT Tracker) shows average facility visits climbed more than 4% from last year, reaching nearly 47,000 per location. HVLP gyms in particular have soared 22% above pre-pandemic visitation levels, while mid-priced gyms recorded their strongest third-quarter performance to date.
“The latest FIT Tracker results reinforce what we’re seeing across multiple HFA research initiatives as Americans continue to make fitness a consistent part of their lives,” said Anton Severin, vice president of research at HFA. “The combination of accessibility, affordability, and convenience is fueling strong engagement across much of the industry.”
People aren’t just joining — they’re showing up more often. Monthly visits per user have risen 2.5% compared to 2024, reflecting both new memberships and increased activity among regular gym-goers. The Middle Atlantic, Pacific, and Mountain regions led the pack, confirming a nationwide shift toward practical, value-driven fitness options.
The FIT Tracker, developed in partnership with Sports Marketing Surveys USA, a Buffalo Groupe company, and powered by Placer.ai, compiles anonymized traffic data from nearly 11,000 facilities nationwide, alongside HFA’s Fitness Industry Benchmarking Report and U.S. Health & Fitness Consumer Report provides a deep look into visitation, business performance, and the evolving habits shaping the modern fitness economy.
The full quarterly report is available to HFA members for free and to non-members for purchase at healthandfitness.org/publications.
This Week in Fitness Highlights Industry Innovations
Every week, This Week in Fitness: The fast-moving news show hosted by Krissy Vann and produced by All Things Fitness & Wellness — delivers a quick but powerful snapshot of what’s happening across the fitness and wellness world. In under 5 minutes, the show breaks down the latest stories redefining how people train, recover, and stay well.
This week’s episode features several standout developments. Hims & Hers Health launched a new specialty dedicated to perimenopause and menopause care, expanding access to affordable and personalized treatment guided by licensed providers. Kohler Health made its debut in the digital wellness space with its first smart device — designed to turn everyday routines into rich, data-driven insights that blend technology with lifestyle.
Meanwhile, a new ResearchAndMarkets.com report forecasts explosive growth in the global anti-obesity drugs market, jumping from $19.6 billion in 2025 to $104.9 billion by 2035, signaling major expansion within the metabolic health sector.
The Health & Fitness Association also announced that Gale Landers, founder of Fitness Formula Clubs, will be inducted into its Hall of Fame for his outstanding leadership and advocacy in the industry. And in brand news, Reebok and F45 Training have kicked off a multi-year global partnership covering footwear, apparel, and wearable technology — bringing together performance innovation and community-driven fitness.
Additional insights from the ABC Fitness Wellness Watch Report 2025 show that 57% of consumers join fitness communities mainly for connection, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge across gyms and studios. Over on LinkedIn’s Top Startups 2025 list, wellness continues to shine, with telehealth and better-for-you food brands standing out as some of the year’s most prominent innovators.
This Week in Fitness remains a must-watch for fitness professionals and enthusiasts looking to stay ahead of industry trends. New episodes drop weekly on all All Things Fitness & Wellness platforms.
The Road Forward for a Stronger, More Connected Fitness Industry
If there’s one thing this quarter’s numbers and headlines make clear, it’s that fitness is moving into a new era, one built on consistency, connection, and innovation.
From the surge of HVLP gyms to the rise of tech-powered wellness solutions, every part of the fitness industry is adapting to meet people where they are. What used to be a simple workout is now part of a broader lifestyle, blending physical activity with mental health, technology, and community.
Recent fitness news reflects a community that’s more engaged, more informed, and more connected than ever before. And as brands, gyms, and innovators continue to collaborate and evolve, the future looks brighter — not just for business, but for everyone striving to live healthier, more active lives.
