The health and fitness market in Canada continues to grow as there’s an increasing awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. According to Statista, the market’s “total revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate of 9.62%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$161.50m by 2027.”
Gym franchises are included in this market as they offer a variety of fitness services, such as gym memberships, personal training, group fitness classes, and more. These franchises have become increasingly popular among Canadian entrepreneurs since they’re easy to start, they can implement lucrative subscription models, and they come with the benefits of franchise ownership, namely a well-known brand and a proven business model. Many gym franchises also offer the reward of engaging with the community. Different types of gym franchises include:
- 24-hour fitness centers
- Boutique fitness studios
- Luxury gyms
- CrossFit boxes
- Family fitness centers
- Women-only gyms
- Personal training studios
- Specialized fitness centers
3 Key Trends in the Canadian Gym Franchise Industry
#1 – Increase in Popularity of Boutique Fitness Studios
A boutique fitness studio is one that specializes in a specific type of workout such as high intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, pilates, cycling, and more. With a growing emphasis on personalized fitness, this type of gym has grown wildly popular. GlobeNewsWire reported that “the global boutique gym studios market was valued at US$34.35 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$54.81 billion by 2029.”
A few reasons for this growth in popularity include:
- More personalized workout
- Specialized training program
- Dedicated instructors & quality instruction
- Engaging workout environment
- Community-oriented experience
#2 – Integration of Technology
“In an era where staying connected and accessible is paramount, Canadian fitness businesses are harnessing the power of technology to supercharge their operations.” Canfitpro
Technology is making an impact in the fitness world as gyms incorporate digital tools such as mobile apps for booking classes, tracking workouts, and managing memberships. Additionally, the COVID pandemic led to an increase in virtual and on-demand workout options. Individuals are also utilizing wearable fitness technology, like smartwatches and fitness trackers, to personalize their fitness.
#3 – Strong Emphasis on Holistic Wellness
The broader understanding that health and fitness goes beyond just physical exercise has led to an increased consumer demand for comprehensive wellness solutions in Canada. This cultural shift has motivated gyms to expand their services to include additional wellness programs addressing mental health, nutrition, and overall lifestyle. A few examples of this include:
- Mindfulness & meditation classes
- Nutritional counseling
- Wellness workshops
Interested in Buying a Gym Franchise in Canada?
If you’re hoping to join a gym franchise or any other franchise in Canada, let FranNet help you find the right opportunity. Our expert franchise consultants will evaluate your goals and skills and match you with a brand that fits. They’ll walk you through the process of purchasing a franchise from start to finish at no cost to you. Schedule your free consultation today!