This fitness industry news roundup covers major growth milestones, mergers and expansion moves from CR Fitness, Playlist and EGYM, Fitness World Canada and more.
From major membership milestones and billion-dollar tech consolidation to aggressive expansion plays and new leadership-focused media, this week’s fitness industry news highlights the scale, sophistication and momentum shaping the market. Here’s a look at the developments club operators should have on their radar.
Playlist and EGYM Announce $7.5 Billion Merger Backed by $785 Million in New Funding
Wellness technology leaders Playlist and EGYM have agreed to merge in a deal valued at $7.5 billion, supported by $785 million in new equity funding. Led by Affinity Partners and backed by Vista Equity Partners, Temasek and L Catterton, the combined company aims to unify software, connected equipment, consumer platforms and corporate wellness solutions into a single global wellbeing ecosystem. Together, the companies generated more than $800 million in net revenue in 2025 while maintaining strong profitability and growth.
Fitness World Canada Commits $50 Million to National Expansion and Franchise Launch
Fitness World Canada announced a $50 million investment to accelerate national growth and launch its first-ever franchise program. As part of a five-year strategy, the company plans to open 25 corporately owned clubs across Canada while simultaneously building a franchise network, positioning the brand as a growing force in the competitive Canadian fitness market.
CR Fitness Holdings Surpasses 1 Million Members
CR Fitness Holdings, one of the largest and fastest-growing Crunch Fitness franchise groups, has surpassed 1 million members nationwide. The milestone reflects both the group’s rapid expansion and the continued strength of the Crunch brand. CR Fitness Holdings currently operates 93 locations across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, with additional expansion underway in Arizona and other markets.
Planet Fitness Reports Strong Year-End Performance
Planet Fitness closed out 2025 with continued momentum across membership, sales and expansion. The brand grew its membership base to approximately 20.8 million members as of December 31, 2025. Full-year system-wide same-club sales increased 6.7 percent, while expansion remained steady with 181 new clubs opened during the year, including 23 corporate-owned locations. By year’s end, Planet Fitness operated a total of 2,896 clubs globally.
Club Solutions Launches New Weekly Podcast Focused on Fitness Research and Leadership
Club Solutions has launched The Research Debrief, a new weekly podcast series designed to bridge the gap between exercise science and real-world club leadership. Co-hosted by Luke Carlson, founder and CEO of Discover Strength, and Rachel Chonko, editor-in-chief of Club Solutions, the 20-minute episodes translate current fitness research into practical, actionable insights for club operators and leadership teams looking to make smarter strategic decisions.
