Fitness Centers NAICS 713940

Feb 19, 2026 - Gym Layout Shifting to Member Experience Emphasis

• US fitness clubs are shifting from equipment-packed layouts to experience-driven design, reshaping member expectations and retention strategies, according to a report in Club Solutions. For example, leaders at VASA Fitness and Crunch Fitness emphasize open concepts, clear zoning, and visible amenities to boost engagement. VASA’s “mall of fitness” model and expanded turf zones encourage connection and ownership, while Crunch’s 3.0 model prioritizes flow, sightlines and shared warm-up areas to drive confidence and usage. Strength training now anchors larger, highly visible floors as members become more longevity-focused and results driven. Boutique-style studios offer specialized experiences at scale, improving accessibility and retention. Member lounges, recovery spaces near entrances, and flexible floor plans support community and adaptability. Sustainability investments such as LED lighting, Energy Star equipment, recycled flooring, and EV charging reflect rising consumer expectations. Collectively, these design shifts position experience, flexibility, and belonging as key competitive drivers in the evolving US fitness industry.
• US consumer sentiment weakened sharply entering 2026, creating headwinds for discretionary sectors like fitness, according to leading indicators. The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index fell 9.7 points in January to 84.5, down from 94.2, with the Expectations Index dropping to 65.1, well below the recession signal threshold of 80 and the lowest confidence level since 2014. Only 23.9% of consumers said jobs were “plentiful” (down from 27.5%), while 28.5% expect fewer jobs ahead. Plans to buy big-ticket items declined, and spending shifted toward lower-cost services. Similarly, the University of Michigan Index of Consumer Sentiment registered 57.3 in February, down 11.4% year over year and about 20% below January 2025 levels. Inflation expectations remain elevated at 3.5% (year-ahead). For the US fitness industry, weaker confidence, softer income expectations, and caution around discretionary spending could pressure membership growth, upgrades, and ancillary revenue in 2026.

• Strong consumer commitment to health and wellness is supporting a favorable outlook for the US fitness center industry heading into 2026, according to a nationwide survey from the Health & Fitness Association. The survey showed that 82 million Americans plan to prioritize health, fitness, and exercise goals, contributing to an estimated $60 billion in planned spending next year. Access to fitness facilities is critical, with 86% of Americans saying gyms, studios, or fitness centers will be important to achieving their goals, including 61% who say access will be very important. Fitness spending also appears resilient amid economic pressure: only 23% of consumers said they would cut fitness or exercise expenses if needed, compared with 44% for dining out and 36% for travel. Average planned spending among fitness-focused consumers is $733 per year, underscoring stable demand for memberships, classes, and related services.
• According to a report in Club Solutions, fitness trends for 2026 point to continued growth opportunities for the US fitness center industry as member demand shifts toward more personalized, data-driven, and experience-focused offerings. According to the American College of Sports Medicine’s annual survey of more than 2,000 fitness professionals, wearable technology again ranked No. 1, reinforcing the importance of integrating data into programming and coaching. Programs for older adults rose to No. 2, reflecting the influence of 73 million US baby boomers and supporting long-term membership stability. Exercise for weight management reached its highest ranking ever, while exercise for mental health climbed to No. 6, with nearly 80% of exercisers prioritizing mental well-being. Fewer than 30% of US adults meet strength-training guidelines, presenting upside for clubs expanding inclusive strength offerings. Overall, the trends favor gyms that invest in technology, active-aging programs, and community-oriented experiences to drive retention and revenue in 2026.