Evolution Of Gyms

The Budget Chain Gym, With Phil Learney

- Callum Taylor 

Gym memberships are on the rise. Unsurprisingly, statistics show that the biggest area of growth comes from the budget chain facilities. With their stack-them-high, sell-them-cheap business models, the popularity of these gyms has boomed, with many people choosing an affordable option. In fact, budget chains now account for an estimated 35% of all gym memberships.

The big players in this market; Pure Gym, The Gym Group and Xercise4Less, are now instantly recognisable brand names. A huge selling point for some of these places is that they are often open 24 hours. This gives those with a busy schedule, those who like to train discreetly, or shift workers the opportunity to train whenever they like. It’s easy to sign up online without ever having to talk to an actual human, you obtain a pin code for entry and you’re in! Classes can be booked via apps and personal trainers can be chosen from a selection of people offered in a drop down menu, each individual vying for your business.

But is this model detrimental to the industry as a whole, or rather a fair reflection of the demands of a busy modern-day society? Budget chains have been accused of tearing the soul from gyms, removing or reducing the interpersonal interaction, thus leading to a quieter, less motivating atmosphere. Less gym etiquette is often practiced leading to untidy gym floors, with weights left out and machines monoploised. Managers have been accused of not being as personally invested as someone who owns their own gym - and customers are often left to their own devices.

To gain further insight on this I sought an impartial view from someone who has been heavily involved in the industry for a number of years, top UK coach and founder of the Advanced Coaching Academy, Phil Learney.