RECAP: This Week’s Top Fitness Industry News Stories

It’s been a busy week in the fitness industry. Several acquisitions, expansions and partnerships were announced from all across the country, and it can be hard to keep track of all the deals being made.

Fortunately, we’re in “the know” and we’re here to help. Below, you’ll find a list of the biggest and most relevant top news stories this week in the fitness industry.

Fitness Connection Expands into Austin, TX

Fitness Connection announced on Tuesday, December 12 it is has opened a new, 55,000-square-foot gym in Austin. This facility offers no long-term contracts and monthly dues that start as low as $10.

That starting price covers a wide array of amenities, including a brand-new workout space, state-of-the-art locker rooms and equipment, a large strength training area, kids’ club with a movie theater and women’s workout area. The gym also features a sauna, basketball courts, and a variety of group exercise classes that includes BODYPUMP, Zumba, kickboxing and yoga.

Fitness Connection has been rapidly expanding in Texas. This is the second location to open in the Austin area.

The fitness chain is offering prospects a free 5-day pass to drive memberships.

“We offer the free trial because we’re confident Fitness Connection delivers an experience like no other gym,” said Phil Howard, the CEO of Fitness Connection, in a statement. “Our impeccable facility offers something for everyone, and our dedicated staff is committed to helping our members take that first step to achieving their fitness goals.”

TSG Invests in Sunshine Fitness

TSG Consumer Partners, formerly the majority owner of Planet Fitness, announced it has acquired the majority stake in the Planet Fitness franchisee Sunshine Fitness Management, LLC. Sunshine Fitness opened the first franchised Planet Fitness facility back in 2003, and has since grown to 31 locations across Florida, Georgia and Alabama.

After acquiring the majority stake in Planet Fitness back in 2012, TSG has spent the past five years building the brand that it is now known for today. In May 2017, TSG exited the investment and has now partnered with Sunshine Fitness in hopes of replicating that success.

“We’re excited to be partnering with a top-tier consumer expert like TSG, who has an extensive track record in supporting and building world class brands, as well as an intimate knowledge of Planet Fitness,” said Shane McGuiness, co-CEO of Sunshine Fitness, in a press release concerning the news.

Xperience Fitness Inks Deal for 3 New Clubs

Xperience Fitness announced on Monday, December 11 that it will be opening three new locations in Minnesota in 2018. This expansion coincides with major renovations to its three current locations in the Twin Cities.

The company has signed leases for a 55,000-square-foot facility in Roseville; a 45,000-square-foot facility in Coon Rapids; and a 40,000-square-foot facility in Apple Valley.

Xperience prides itself on creating a first-class atmosphere at an affordable price. The club offers the same amenities as higher-priced, big-box gyms, but at just $10-a-month for basic membership.

With the addition of these three new clubs, Xperience will operate 16 total clubs (13 in Wisconsin, three in Minnesota) by the middle of 2018. With plans to add two new facilities next year, that total club count should be pushed to 18 by the end of 2018.

The fitness chain is overseen by active partners Jon Barton, the club’s CEO, and Tom Davidson, chief financial officer. Xperience Fitness transitioned from Gold’s Gyms in 2012.

“We are excited to grow our brand in the Twin Cities market,” said Barton, in a statement. “We are in a great position to be able to benefit from the availability of new big-box vacancies caused by the transition occurring in retail right now. Each of these new facilities in the Twin Cities is in an area of the market that we do not currently reach. Our team is excited to expand on our mission to help as many people as possible get moving in the Twin Cities.”

EverybodyFights Expands to Midwest

EverybodyFights announced on Tuesday, December 5 it is expanding into the Midwest with the opening of a flagship facility in Lexington, Kentucky. The fitness brand was founded by George Foreman III, the son of heavyweight champion George Foreman Sr.

The Lexington location will join several company-owned locations in Boston and one location in New York City.

EverybodyFights Kentucky will be the company’s first partnership location, and is a partnership deal with Royce Pulliam.

“After 25 years in the business, I’ve seen different concepts come and go,” said Pulliam, in a press release concerning the partnership. “I understand the difference between trendy outliers and experiential game changers. The future of fitness is providing an authentic experience with an approachable brand. EverybodyFights is all of the above and we are excited to partner with George and his team of professionals. EverybodyFights is the most meaningful new brand in fitness today. We all fight daily for something in life — what do you fight for?”

The 9,000-square foot facility will open in spring 2018.