India’s fitness economy is emerging as one of the world’s fastest-growing markets, with revenue expected to more than double from INR16,200 crore (US$1.9 billion) in 2024 to INR37,700 crore (US$4.5 billion) by 2030. That represents a robust 15% compound annual growth rate, according to the new India Fitness Market Report 2025 produced by Deloitte India in collaboration…
Note: Two celebrations of life for Rick Caro are still planned. One will occur at 9:30 a.m. on November 7 at Lotte Palace, Villard Ballroom in New York City. A remembrance will be held from 9:30-10:30 a.m. followed by a brunch that will last until noon. Please RSVP to ensure enough space is available for all who want…
The global fitness industry, which was once regarded simply as a hobby or discretionary spending, in 2024 continued to expand its role as an essential part of public health and the economy around the world. Reaching historic highs, memberships climbed 6% year-over-year, revenue increased an average of 8%, and the number of fitness facilities expanded…
The Health & Fitness Association (HFA) is accelerating its international momentum with the return of Hans Muench and Leila Timergaleeva as ambassadors. Together, they bring decades of experience, deep regional ties, and a shared commitment to advancing the goal of the HFA to protect, promote, and grow the global fitness industry. Hans Muench (left) and…
The first half of 2025 showed that more Americans than ever are making fitness a regular part of their lives, as visitation numbers continue to grow year-over-year (YoY). Compared to the same period last year, the number of visits to US commercial gyms, studios, and other fitness facilities rose 3.5%, and monthly visits per user…
In recent years, the health and wellness industry has undergone a remarkable transformation. Once focused solely on fitness and appearance, it now embraces a broader, more holistic view of personal well-being. People increasingly recognize the benefits of physical activity not just for the body, but for long-term health, mental clarity, and disease prevention. This growing…
Luke Carlson founded Discover Strength 20 years ago with a radical premise: treat exercise professionals as legitimate healthcare providers rather than entry-level service workers. His approach elevates fitness professionals while establishing credibility with medical professionals. At Discover Strength’s studios, team members aren’t just personal trainers—they’re recognized as exercise physiologists, professionals on par with allied healthcare…
Prolonged isolation, excessive screen time, and lack of community meeting places have created a loneliness crisis around the world. This isolation, a result of the lingering habits and psychological effects of pandemic lockdowns, have people craving social connection and interaction with people in person instead of texting and Zoom calls. The US Surgeon General called…
Obesity has become a pressing issue that not only affects individual health but also US national security. About 68% of active-duty US military personnel are overweight or obese, and a staggering 57% of Americans aged 18-25 face similar challenges, impacting recruitment for all branches of the military. These figures, highlighted in a letter from the…
The Gallup Family: Christina, Carla, Derek, and Tyler Derek Gallup knows first-hand the challenges many face with mental illness. A fitness industry veteran and the former executive vice president of UFC Gym, Gallup endured a series of personal losses during the Covid pandemic. Among them was Carla, his wife of 30 years, who lost her…
The recently released European Health & Fitness Market Report 2025, a collaborative effort between EuropeActive and Deloitte, indicates that the fitness industry in Europe is still on a growth trajectory. The report, the 12th edition in the series, presents a comprehensive overview of the sector, highlighting key trends, consumer behaviors, and investment activities shaping the…
The health and fitness industry took over Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, last week, flooding the offices of senators and representatives with 125 industry leaders urging co-sponsorship of the Personal Health Improvement Today (PHIT) Act and inclusion of it in the Reconciliation Bill that Republicans in the House of Representatives are putting together. The group…