1. Shanghai Introduces Prepaid Regulations for Fitness Memberships
In response to widespread closures of fitness centers in recent years and the resulting consumer confidence issues, Shanghai has unveiled the "Implementation Measures for Supervision of Prepaid Consumer Operations in the Fitness Industry (Trial)," effective from March 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026. The regulation introduces a "three-limit" standard for prepaid funds, aiming to protect both consumers and operators. Key provisions include limiting single membership prepayments to 5,000 RMB for up to 24 months, session-based services (e.g., group classes and personal training) to 20,000 RMB for a maximum of 60 sessions, and general prepaid accounts to 5,000 RMB. Total prepayments from a single consumer across all categories must not exceed 20,000 RMB. These measures are expected to bolster trust and foster healthy industry growth.
2. Chinese Fitness Equipment Companies Shine at CES 2025
At CES 2025, the world’s largest tech exhibition, Chinese fitness brands made a strong impression. Over 1,200 Chinese companies participated, including prominent fitness brands like Speediance, Yesoul, KingSmith, Merach, Snailcle, RH Fitness, and Sunny Fitness. These companies showcased innovative products such as AI-driven treadmills and strength training equipment, highlighting advancements in intelligent and personalized fitness solutions. CES provided an excellent platform for Chinese companies to collaborate with international clients on smart product development, fostering global partnerships and innovation. While the technology drew global attention, critics like Matt Evans noted that AI still lacks the ability to fully replace human fitness trainers.
3. Johnson Health Tech Achieves Record Revenue in 2024
Global fitness equipment giant Johnson Health Tech reported a record-breaking December revenue of 7.6 billion TWD (approximately $246 million USD), marking a 46% month-over-month increase and a 37% year-over-year growth. Annual revenue for 2024 reached 47.8 billion TWD (approximately $1.55 billion USD), a 25% year-over-year increase, continuing its streak of seven consecutive years of record-breaking performance. Boosted by robust demand during the holiday season and the success of its BowFlex brand, Johnson’s home fitness equipment segment surged by 150% year-over-year in December. Looking ahead, Johnson plans to expand with new products like the high-end Matrix-Onyx series and optimize production capacity with the construction of its second factory in Vietnam.
4. iFIT and Flex Partner to Enable HSA/FSA Payments
iFIT has announced a collaboration with Flex, allowing consumers to use Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for purchasing fitness equipment from brands like NordicTrack and ProForm. This partnership leverages Flex’s API capabilities, enabling seamless integration and rapid deployment of HSA/FSA payment options. According to iFIT’s Chief Sales Officer Michael Maas, this initiative aligns with their mission to offer advanced, personalized fitness solutions while maximizing customer savings. Flex’s innovative payment solutions have already led to increased customer acquisition and revenue growth, demonstrating the potential for health-focused financial tools to transform the fitness retail landscape.
5. Inclusive Fitness Platforms Witness Exponential Growth
The global market for fitness platforms designed for individuals with disabilities is projected to grow from $3.39 billion in 2024 to $19.34 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 21.35%. These platforms are breaking traditional barriers by offering adaptive workout plans and accessible interfaces. Companies like Apple are leading this transformation with innovations such as the WheelFit Pro app for wheelchair users and Visual Beats for visually impaired individuals. These efforts not only enhance inclusivity but also emphasize the growing importance of digital fitness solutions in creating equitable health opportunities for all.
6. C+A Global Acquires Power Systems and Dynamax
C+A Global has expanded its health and fitness portfolio by acquiring Power Systems and Dynamax, renowned providers of fitness and athletic performance equipment. This acquisition complements C+A’s earlier purchase of Saris Cycling Group and its mobility solutions brand, Invacare. CEO Chaim Piekarski highlighted the deal’s alignment with the company’s commitment to advancing in the health and fitness sector. Power Systems General Manager Jason Eason expressed optimism, citing opportunities for exponential growth through C+A’s design expertise and global distribution network. Both brands are expected to benefit from C+A’s resources, enhancing their market presence and product offerings.
By Roger Yao from Shanghai, China
Stay tuned for more updates and insights from the fitness equipment industry in next week's report.
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