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From 24/7 gyms to high-tech training and boutique studios, these 20 brands’ innovation, accessible models and forward-thinking approaches will define the industry in 2026.
The fitness and personal training industries in the United States are worth $41 billion and $11 billion, respectively, making health clubs, gyms and personal training franchises attractive investments for 2026. Given the health and wellness space has consistently grown in recent years, and consumers continue to place an emphasis on their wellness, investing in fitness and personal training franchises leading into 2026 remains a smart move.
Here are 20 of the top brands in the space to consider:
Fitness Premier is a community-focused, 24/7 gym concept that caters to members of different fitness levels and training goals. The emphasis on community, and Fitness Premier’s strategy of entering smaller, underserved markets, makes it a go-to for members seeking a truly supportive environment and appeals to franchisees seeking a more meaningful opportunity.
Workout Anytime is a convenience-focused model, providing 24/7 access to members so they can work out on their own schedules. This offers a simple, effective model for franchisees and brings a valuable resource to the communities it enters.
Fitness Factory Health Club provides a results-driven environment, leveraging technology and highly qualified fitness professionals to support the success of its members. With a range of training options available and a nutritious juice bar under the same roof, owners appeal to users who value convenience and are able to capture multiple streams of revenue with a single investment.
RockBox Fitness delivers a high-energy, full-body workout. The studio model appeals to people seeking a smaller-scale, community-focused option, and the mix of boxing and functional training allows RockBox to stand out in the industry, especially with those who are not interested in more traditional gym options.
Iron Bodyfit is an electro-muscle stimulation franchise that allows members to complete what amounts to a full-body workout in just 25 minutes. The model allows franchisees to appeal to busy members looking for the most efficient fitness option while staying at the forefront of the industry with novel technology.
ISI Elite Training is a model focused on group sessions that build strength and athleticism. With highly qualified coaches in a boutique environment, ISI Elite Training stands out in the communities it enters.
Built Phoenix Strong offers a holistic approach to fitness, largely inspired by the idea of rising through total transformation. The model focuses on small group training, nutrition and mindset coaching, helping members rebuild themselves in a supportive, personalized environment. This all-in-one, personalized model helps the brand stand out above impersonal big-box concepts.
MaxStrength Fitness is a personal training franchise that caters to those seeking “active aging” resources, providing time efficient high-intensity strength training and post-rehabilitation support to improve the quality of life of its members.
Vanguard Key Clubs offers a 24/7 secure access model that offers members flexibility to work out on their own schedules and the security to do so with peace of mind. The access model also leverages technology to keep overhead low for franchisees.
The Camp Transformation Center is a boot-camp-style gym that inspires and motivates members with both group training and nutritional guidance to create long-lasting lifestyle changes.
9Round delivers a kickboxing-themed workout that’s fast and effective. With a workout model that hinges on a 9-round circuit, members can show up and jump in at almost any point, making 9Round a great convenience option and helping franchisees to stand out among users that may be turned off by strict class schedules with hard start and stop times.
BODYBAR Pilates merges classic Pilates with a more modern, high-intensity approach. The dynamic model appeals to a wider customer base and creates a unique studio atmosphere that members are drawn to.
Burn Boot Camp has built a large, loyal following by focusing on high-intensity 45-minute workouts and a supportive community. With complimentary childcare on-site and an efficient workout model, Burn Boot Camp has become especially popular with busy parents.
Club Pilates makes reformer Pilates more accessible. With a range of class formats, Club Pilates caters to people of all ages, fitness levels and aspirations in a community-focused environment.
Crunch Fitness is built on a “No Judgments” philosophy. This, combined with a range of equipment — including cardio, free weights, machines and more — and group classes, appeals to a massive, diverse group of people.
F45 Training offers a 45-minute high-intensity interval training workout that focuses on functional movements and diversity in workouts, including cardio, resistance, hybrid and recovery. By offering a time-efficient model and a variety of workouts under a single roof, F45 can appeal to people who want to maintain steady results while embracing variety in their workouts.
Orangetheory Fitness is a leader in heart-rate-based interval training. The scientific approach that still offers variety in the workout, with members moving between the treadmill, rower and weights, attracts a loyal, data-driven group.
Pure Barre offers low-impact, high-intensity workouts. With small, isometric movements, the concept delivers real results without the harsh impacts other exercise modalities have on the body. The specialized model attracts a niche, highly dedicated member.
Rumble Boxing offers a group fitness experience that combines the intensity of boxing with the powerful benefits of resistance training. The brand boasts a “zero experience necessary” approach, broadening its potential member base and making the space more accessible than other options in the specialized fitness space.
The Hot Yoga Spot offers a range of yoga and fitness classes in a heated environment, catering to people of all experience levels. The accessible, community-focused model provides a welcoming space and can become a part of people’s regular routines with diversity in classes.
As health and wellness continue to be top priorities of consumers across a range of demographics, the fitness landscape of 2026 will be largely defined by a variety of options and the opportunity for users to personalize their experience. From EMS training to Pilates, these brands represent the future of the space and offer distinct pathways for entrepreneurs to grow.
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