Gym Operator Insights Report 2025: UK Edition
This report is packed with unparalleled insights into the challenges that gym operators are facing in the UK. Plus, it features commentary from subject matter experts.
See how your business compares. Get your FREE copy of the report.
Challenges of running a gym business in the UK
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel like you’re going it alone as a gym operator. Facing challenges in isolation. Unaware that others are navigating exactly the same hurdles.
At Xplor Gym, we believe knowledge is power. And when knowledge is shared, it becomes unstoppable.
So, that’s why we set out to uncover the realities of running a fitness business. Helping you see where you stand and gain fresh perspective.
When we lift each other up, we all move forward.
With extensive insights from privately owned gym operators from across the whole of the UK and hot takes from industry experts, the report covers:
- Finances
- Tech
- Competition
- Sales & marketing
- The member journey
- And many more pressing challenges
The UK Gym Operator Insights Report 2025 is essential reading for anyone running a fitness business today. It shines a light on the very real challenges operators face, rising costs, staffing pressures, and fierce competition, while also showcasing the resilience and adaptability within our industry.
What makes this report invaluable is the depth of data and practical relevance. It’s not just informative, it’s a powerful benchmarking tool for gym owners looking to stay competitive and grow.
Neil Haughin, Founder & Director, Uplift Fitness Marketing
This report is essential reading for anyone in the UK fitness industry. It delivers clear, data-rich insights into the challenges gym operators face—from rising costs to tech adoption—and highlights the resilience and adaptability of fitness leaders.
The Xplor Gym report doesn’t just spotlight issues; it reveals opportunities and offers a valuable benchmark to help operators grow stronger, smarter, and more connected in 2025 and beyond.
Chloe Kinch, Director of Client Success, Proinsight
I wholeheartedly recommend this report from Xplor Gym. Having made it my mission to help members stick around since 2008, this piece of work resonates with me and my values, and will ultimately help more people to be fitter and healthier.
The data reinforces what we hear daily. But rather than just presenting the issues, the report provides actionable insights, backed up by commentary from real industry experts. I believe it will foster more sharing of data and connection opportunities, whether reaching out to the experts and companies supporting the report, or creating dialogue at industry events.
Guy Griffiths, Founder, GGFit
Xplor Gym’s report cuts through the noise with clear data on where gyms hurt - rising costs, stretched teams, slow follow-up - and shows operators you’re not alone.
The value is prioritisation: benchmark your operation, then fix the highest-return gaps first. Faster response, consistent onboarding, integrated tools your team will use (including time-saving AI!). A practical field guide for 2025 that turns challenges into an action plan.
Steffie Bryant, COO, Keepme
This report shines a clear light on what really matters for fitness businesses right now.
The insights are clear, relevant and grounded in reality, giving gym operators exactly what they need to make better decisions. It’s practical guidance backed by data to help operators grow stronger teams, boost performance and stay ahead in a competitive market.
Maddie Cummings, Recruitment Director, Love Recruitment
This report offers a clear, data-driven view of today’s fitness consumer — highlighting key motivations, barriers, and behaviours. It’s a valuable resource for operators looking to better attract, engage, and retain members. By applying these insights, businesses can shape more personalised, relevant experiences that truly resonate with their target audiences, driving stronger connections and long-term growth.
Amy Ritson, Partnerships Manager, Independent Gyms UK & Ireland
Exclusive insights from UK gym operators
Key findings from the report include:
- 9 out of 10 operators have seen costs rise year-on-year. Payroll & staff wages top the list of costs that have risen. Followed by business rates/taxes and cleaning & sanitation supplies
- Inability to meet salary demands tops the list of challenges when it comes to staffing. 26% of those with staff report this. When it comes to recruiting new staff, 56% of those who’d recruited since January 2024 struggled to find qualified candidates
- 57% of operators are not currently using AI within their business. The biggest barrier to using AI is lack of time to investigate options
- ¾ of operators face local competition. And over half have seen new clubs open within 5 miles since January 2024. 58% of those facing competition are trying to win the same demographics. Similarly, 58% report that members are switching to competitors
- 82% say retention is a challenge. Most cite keeping members motivated and resource limitations as the biggest retention headaches
Get your copy of the report for more detailed insights into all these findings and many more.
