Fitness International, the parent company of various fitness brands including LA Fitness, has recently completed the acquisition of 35 XSport Fitness health clubs located in Illinois, New York, and Virginia. This strategic move is in line with the company’s efforts to consolidate its presence in the health and fitness industry, and to elevate the member experience at its numerous establishments.
As an established entity in the big-box fitness sector, Fitness International operates more than 700 sites spanning 27 states and Canada. Of particular note, LA Fitness boasts a substantial and dedicated membership base, with its Esporta club witnessing a remarkable surge in visits, registering a growth of over 750% in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels. With the recent acquisition, the company intends to revamp and rebrand the XSport Fitness locations under its existing banners, in order to provide members with an enhanced and uniform experience across all its clubs.
The fitness landscape is undergoing a transformation, with competitors intensifying their efforts to augment the overall member experience. For instance, Equinox has introduced Function diagnostics, while Life Time has enlisted the expertise of sports personalities such as Andre Agassi and Ryan Lochte for specialised sports clinics. Meanwhile, Crunch Fitness has ventured into unique offerings such as pickleball classes in collaboration with Break The Love, and various private equity-backed chains are looking to expand their market presence. The industry is also witnessing strategic partnerships and mergers, such as the recent collaboration between Anytime Fitness and Orangetheory Fitness to form a franchise supergroup.
In addition to these developments, Fitness International has ventured into the boutique fitness space with its Club Studio concept, straying from traditional practices. This multi-modality group fitness facility, which includes a recovery area and medspa, has already seen a successful launch in 2023, with 14 studios either open or in development. This bold move underpins the company’s dedication to accommodating diverse fitness preferences and offering a comprehensive experience for its members.
It is clear that the health club industry is undergoing a significant transformation. As a prominent player in the market, LA Fitness is strategically investing in territorial expansion, facility upgrades, and overall member experience to maintain a leading position in this evolving landscape. With mounting competition and evolving consumer preferences, it is crucial for fitness operators to consistently deliver added value and enhance the overall experience for their members.
In summary, Fitness International’s acquisition of XSport Fitness and its venture into boutique fitness exemplify the company’s proactive approach in adapting to the changing fitness industry. This move not only solidifies its position in the market but also reflects its dedication to providing innovative and inclusive fitness solutions for its members. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be intriguing to observe how these developments shape the future of health and fitness.