Top 10 Fitness Club Brands in Germany – 2024 Market Analysis

The European fitness industry reached record highs in 2024, recovering strongly from the pandemic slump. Total membership across Europe grew to 71.6 million in 2024 (up from 67.7 million in 2023) (Europe's Fitness Market Keeps Growing. It's Likely Just Scratching the Surface - Athletech News). 

Industry revenues in Europe climbed about 10% to €36 billion in 2024 (Europe's Fitness Market Keeps Growing. It's Likely Just Scratching the Surface - Athletech News), exceeding the last pre-pandemic peak. Major markets like Germany (11.7 million members) and the UK (11.5 million) led in absolute size (Europe's Fitness Market Keeps Growing. It's Likely Just Scratching the Surface - Athletech News), each now roughly back to pre-2020 membership levels. This reflects a robust rebound as consumers return to gyms in large numbers.

Germany remains the single largest fitness market in Europe by membership, with 11.71 million members recorded at the end of 2024 (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung). 

This represents a +3.6% annual growth, marking a full recovery to pre-COVID participation. German gym penetration is estimated around 14% of the population, on par with the UK and higher than the 8–9% European average (Fitness Industry 2025: Key Trends & Statistics  | PerfectGym Blog) (Europe's Fitness Market Keeps Growing. It's Likely Just Scratching the Surface - Athletech News). 

Annual industry revenue reached €5.82 billion (net) in 2024, a new all-time high (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung). Notably, the average monthly gym membership fee in Germany has risen to about €46.95 (gross), with chain gyms averaging ~€38 (gross) per month (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung) – indicating both customer willingness to invest in fitness and operators’ pricing power.

Several industry dynamics have underpinned this growth. First, there is a sustained consumer focus on health and wellness: gyms have solidified their role as “reliable partners” in health promotion and preventative care (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung). 

About 43% of German fitness facilities now offer corporate health programs for companies (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung), integrating fitness into workplace wellness. Second, the sector has shown economic resilience – demand for fitness remains strong despite broader economic challenges (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung). 

Third, digitalization is accelerating: roughly 24% of gym contracts in Germany were signed online in 2024 (up from 14% a year prior) (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung), and many operators have introduced apps and hybrid offerings. This blend of robust consumer interest and adaptive business strategies has fueled the market’s return to growth.

Another key trend has been consolidation and scaling among gym operators (detailed in the next section). Large gym chains and franchisors expanded aggressively in 2023–2024, both organically and via acquisitions. Europe saw over a dozen major M&A deals in 2023 alone (Fitness Industry 2025: Key Trends & Statistics  | PerfectGym Blog), reflecting high investor confidence in gym chains. 

In the German market, the big operators captured most of the post-pandemic growth, as we will see with the Top 10 brands. Meanwhile, smaller independent studios have faced tougher competition. Overall, the stage is set for fewer, larger players commanding a growing share of Europe’s push toward 100 million health club members by 2030 (Europe's Fitness Market Keeps Growing. It's Likely Just Scratching the Surface - Athletech News).

A Decade of Growth and Consolidation in Germany (2014–2024)

Over the past decade, Germany’s fitness club landscape has undergone significant consolidation. Large fitness chains grew much faster than the rest of the market, resulting in a massive shift in market share. In 2014, the ten largest operators accounted for only about 27% of all gym members in Germany (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

By the end of 2024, the Top 10 operators hold nearly half of all members (~46%) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). In absolute terms, their combined membership more than doubled – from roughly ~2.5 million in 2014 to 5.4 million in 2024 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung) – even as total national membership grew more modestly. 

Figure 1 illustrates this consolidation: the Top 10’s share of total memberships expanded from about one-quarter to almost one-half over the decade.

Figure 1: Top 10 operators’ share of total gym memberships in Germany, 2014 vs 2024. In 2014, the leading chains held just 27% of memberships, whereas by 2024 they command ~46% – nearly half of the market (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This reflects rapid growth of large chains outpacing the rest of the industry.

This concentration was driven by both organic expansion and mergers/acquisitions. According to industry surveys, the largest fitness companies added around 2.9 million members since 2014, while the rest of the market barely kept pace or even saw declines in some segments (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

The Top 10 operators collectively expanded their club count from just under 900 locations in 2014 to almost 1,600 in 2024 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). In other words, the big chains opened or acquired approximately 700 new gyms in Germany over ten years, even as the total number of facilities nationwide remained relatively flat (~9,127 clubs in 2024, vs ~9,000 in 2014) (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung). 

The average club size (by membership) for these top operators has also grown. In 2014, an average Top 10 club had ~3,400 members, already well above the industry-wide average. Today, an average Top 10 club has about 3,400 members as well – roughly three times the member count of the average German gym (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This gap underscores how large-format, high-volume gyms have become the dominant model.

Indeed, low-cost high-volume chains led the growth. Many of the Top 10 brands operate in the budget segment, using large footprint gyms to enroll thousands of members at affordable rates.

For example, FitX (now the #2 operator) averages about 9,500 members per club – one of the highest in Europe (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). In contrast, smaller independent gyms or specialized studios often have just a few hundred members. 

Figure 2 compares the approximate membership per location for the Top 10 operators. Chains like FitX and McFIT (RSG Group) reach over 6,000–9,000 members per club on average, whereas even other top franchises (clever fit, EASYFITNESS) operate with ~1,500–2,500 members per club. This polarization in scale has widened in the past decade.

Figure 2: Average number of members per gym location for Germany’s Top 10 operators (2024). High-volume budget chains like FitX achieve ~9,500 members per club – far above the Top-10 average (~3,400) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

RSG Group (McFIT/John Reed) and FIT/One also exceed 6,000 members per club on average. By contrast, franchise networks such as clever fit and EASYFITNESS have ~1,800–2,300 members per club, and specialized or regional players (e.g. Kieser Training, ACISO’s Injoy network) are on the lower end.

Major operators used acquisitions and new concepts to fuel growth. 

In 2014, the market was dominated by one giant – McFit (RSG Group) – which alone comprised over 40% of the Top 10’s members at that time (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Over the next decade, RSG continued to expand (including internationally), but several new players surged up the ranks. 

FitX, for example, was a relatively small newcomer in 2014 with under 100k members; it grew more than tenfold to over 1 million members by 2024 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). FitX wasn’t even in the Top 10 a decade ago – now it is the second-largest chain in Germany. 

Other fast-rising groups include the BestFit Group (now branded “all inclusive fitness”), which did not exist in its current form in 2014 but is now a Top 5 operator after a series of mergers (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), and the LifeFit Group, which formed by consolidating premium clubs and is rapidly scaling (more on these below).

Meanwhile, established chains pursued diversification and acquisitions. RSG Group (which owns McFIT) introduced new club concepts – High5 (2015), John Reed (2016), and John’s Bootcamp (2018) – to broaden its appeal beyond the original low-cost McFIT model (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

RSG’s most significant move was the acquisition of Gold’s Gym in 2020, a famous global brand, adding a franchise network of ~3 million members worldwide to its portfolio (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This made RSG a global player. Others took a franchise route: clever fit and EASYFITNESS aggressively expanded their franchise networks, together now operating over 640 gyms in Germany (nearly 40% of all Top 10 facilities) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Large fitness investors also entered the German market – for instance, Nord Holding has backed BestFit Group since 2013, and Waterland (a private equity firm) acquired LifeFit Group in 2023 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), facilitating faster expansion through capital injection.

This consolidation has squeezed mid-sized operators and increased the dominance of big brands. Many independent gyms joined franchise systems or were bought out. Even Migros (Switzerland’s retail giant) attempted to build a German fitness foothold by acquiring the INLINE/Injoy franchise system and creating the ACISO Group, which itself went through further acquisitions and a PE buyout (details below) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

By 2024, seven of the Top 10 operators in Germany can be considered low-cost or value-focused chains, and the remaining three (LifeFit/Fitness First, Kieser, Pfitzenmeier) compete by specializing in either premium services or health niches. The market has clearly stratified: a few large budget chains capture mass-market demand, while a handful of differentiated players carve out sizeable segments.

Looking ahead, consolidation is expected to continue. The Top 10 operators collectively grew memberships by +6.8% in 2024 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), outpacing the overall market growth. Based on their current expansion plans, the Top 10’s member count and market share will likely keep rising in 2025 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Many of these companies have active development pipelines (new club openings) or are pursuing further acquisitions. In fact, some major deals were announced in early 2025 – for example, LifeFit Group’s takeover of FIT/One (ranked #9) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). Such moves will shuffle the rankings and concentrate the market even further. 

New challengers (including foreign entrants) could also emerge, but any newcomer must achieve scale rapidly to compete with the entrenched giants. In summary, the past decade transformed Germany’s fitness industry from a fragmented market into one dominated by a few powerful brands – a trend that shows no sign of slowing down.

Top 10 Fitness Club Operators in Germany (2024)

By the end of 2024, the ten largest fitness club brands in Germany served 5.40 million members across nearly 1,600 gym locations (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). Table 1 below ranks these Top 10 operators by membership size. All ten achieved membership growth in 2024, ranging from mid-single-digit to double-digit percentages – notably, LifeFit Group posted the fastest growth, followed by BestFit (“all inclusive fitness”) and clever fit (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). The profiles that follow detail each operator’s scale, recent performance, and strategic highlights.

Table 1: Top 10 Fitness Club Brands in Germany (2024) – Ranked by number of members. (Membership figures are as of end 2024. “Clubs” indicates number of gym locations in Germany.)

Sources: Company reports and industry analyses (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung) (Unternehmen | EASYFITNESS). Estimates (est.) are analyst estimates based on available data and recent growth rates. FIT/One’s member count (~220k across DACH) and club count (33 in Germany) are prior to its 2025 merger with LifeFit (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland).

1. RSG Group (McFIT, John Reed, Gold’s Gym, etc.)

RSG Group is the long-standing market leader in Germany’s fitness industry, with around 1.4 million members nationwide (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). Founded by Rainer Schaller and originally known as McFIT, the company has evolved into a multi-brand global fitness empire. 

In Germany, RSG operates approximately 200–230 clubs under various brands, including the flagship McFIT gyms (high-volume, low-cost fitness centers), the stylish John Reed Fitness clubs (which blend fitness with music and design), and a few Gold’s Gym locations (acquired and introduced in recent years). McFIT remains the core of RSG’s membership base, but the diversification into new concepts has been a key growth strategy.

Over the past decade, RSG Group defended its #1 position through continuous expansion. It grew membership steadily (even as it already had a huge base) and added new facilities across Germany and Europe. Importantly, RSG didn’t rely only on organic growth – it also made bold acquisitions. 

In 2020, RSG acquired Gold’s Gym, the iconic American fitness franchise, in a landmark deal (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This gave RSG access to Gold’s Gym’s brand and franchise network (around 3 million members globally), strengthening its international footprint. 

On the home front, RSG launched innovative club formats: the budget functional fitness concept High5 (2015), the upscale nightclub-themed John Reed Fitness Music Clubs (2016), and the boutique HIIT studio John’s Bootcamp (2018) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). These sub-brands allowed RSG to tap different customer segments while leveraging its scale.

Tragically, in late 2022, founder Rainer Schaller passed away in an accident (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). However, RSG’s new management (Hagen Wingertszahn and Dr. Jobst Müller-Trimbusch) has continued on Schaller’s expansion path (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

In 2023–2024, RSG undertook a major “modernization offensive” for McFIT clubs, investing hundreds of millions of euros to upgrade facilities and retain its large membership base (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This reflects a recognition that market leadership must be defended through continual improvement, especially as competitors raise their game. 

RSG Group’s strategy is clear: maintain scale advantages (it is still the largest player by far), innovate offerings (diverse club concepts from low-cost to boutique), and capitalize on global opportunities (through Gold’s Gym franchising and international gyms). In 2024, RSG’s German membership grew modestly (mid-single-digit percentage) to ~1.4 million – solidifying a share of about 12% of the entire German market. The company’s revenue in Germany is estimated around €250 million annually (Fitness Industry 2025: Key Trends & Statistics  | PerfectGym Blog), making it one of the country’s top fitness companies by revenue as well. 

After 20+ years in operation, RSG’s McFIT brand is almost synonymous with budget fitness in Germany, and the Group’s continuing investments suggest it intends to keep that crown in the years ahead.

2. FitX

FitX is Germany’s fastest-growing major fitness chain of the past decade. As of 2024, FitX has reached 1.0 million members – crossing the one-million milestone for the first time (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung) – across its 105 clubs in Germany (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

This Essen-based company opened its first gym in 2009 and has since exploded in scale, now ranking #2 in the country. FitX’s entire business centers on the high-volume, low-cost model: it builds large fitness studios On average, a single FitX gym hosts about 9,500 members – likely the highest members-per-club figure in Europe (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). By focusing on big-format gyms with extensive equipment, 24/7 hours, and low prices, FitX has tapped into tremendous latent demand.

FitX’s growth numbers are striking. It grew from <100,000 members a decade ago to 1 million in 2024 – a >10x increase (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). In doing so, FitX leapfrogged other chains; it wasn’t among the Top 10 in 2014, yet by 2022 it had already overtaken most competitors to become the second-largest operator (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

In 2024 alone, FitX added roughly 100k members (around +10% growth), reflecting strong post-pandemic recovery and perhaps some market share gains from smaller gyms. The company also opened new clubs, reaching 105 locations nationwide (it has been opening ~5-10 clubs per year in recent years). 

Notably, FitX achieved this growth organically (through new openings and member acquisition), not via mergers. Its strategy of standardizing large, attractive gyms across Germany has built a powerful brand among budget-conscious fitness consumers.

A special move in 2024 was FitX’s decision to raise its membership fees – a first in its history. Effective that year, the monthly fee for new members was increased from €24 up to €29, and even long-time existing members (some paying as low as €15 from early years) were brought up to €24 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Despite initial fears, this price adjustment did not slow membership growth noticeably; instead, it has boosted revenue and signaled that FitX is confident in the value it provides. The price hike narrows the gap to the market leader (McFIT), indicating that FitX is closing in on RSG Group’s dominance (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

In a symbolic example of the rivalry: in Mannheim, the newest FitX club (opened 2024) is on the same street and only 400 meters away from a McFIT, directly competing for the same clientele (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung).

FitX’s competitive strengths lie in its uniform quality (modern, spacious clubs), low price, and community feel (they often run member events and have a youthful brand image). The company’s slogan “For All of Us” emphasizes inclusivity and no-frills training. 

By 2024, FitX has essentially saturated many large cities, so future growth may come from penetrating smaller cities or possibly international expansion. For now, FitX is firmly the #2 player in Germany. 

With its revenue and profits growing (thanks to scale and the fee increase), FitX is well-positioned to continue challenging RSG. The chain’s rise also exemplifies the broader shift in Germany toward low-cost fitness: together, RSG and FitX now account for 45% of all members among the Top 10 operators (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), showing how two budget giants now dominate the landscape.

3. clever fit

clever fit is the largest fitness franchise in Germany and ranks as the third-biggest operator overall by membership. In 2024, clever fit’s membership is estimated at around 800,000 members (just under the 1-million mark) across its extensive network of 434 studios in Germany (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Founded in 2004, clever fit pioneered the franchise model for low-cost gyms in Germany – allowing individual entrepreneurs to open gyms under the clever fit brand and system. This model led to rapid expansion, especially in medium-sized towns and suburbs where the franchisees could cater to local demand. 

By 2023, clever fit had the most gym locations of any chain in the country (439 clubs as of that year) (Germany: leading fitness operators by clubs 2023 - Statista), slightly more than McFIT’s company-owned count.

Despite having more locations than anyone else, clever fit’s total membership is slightly lower than FitX’s because each clever fit club is typically smaller (many are ~800–1200 m² facilities) and serves about 1,500–2,000 members on average. The franchise approach also leads to variability – some clever fit studios in big cities rival McFIT in size, while others in small towns are more limited. 

Nonetheless, the collective brand has huge reach. clever fit’s strategy has been to provide a solid, affordable gym template that franchise partners can roll out quickly. It offers low monthly dues (often ~€25) and reasonable equipment quality, targeting the mainstream fitness consumer. The franchisor company supports marketing and national advertising (clever fit is a well-known name through TV commercials and sports sponsorships in Germany), helping franchisees attract members.

Over the last decade, clever fit grew steadily and was for a time the #2 player (by number of clubs and sizable membership). However, in recent years its membership growth has been more modest relative to chains like FitX – partly because some markets are saturated and partly because the pandemic hit many individual franchise gyms hard (forcing temporary closures and some franchisees to drop out). 

Still, clever fit managed to increase membership in 2024 (mid-to-high single digit growth) and continue opening new franchise gyms. It has also expanded internationally (franchise outlets in countries like Austria, Switzerland, and even as far as the Middle East), though the core remains in Germany.

One notable trend is consolidation among franchisees. Some multi-unit franchise partners of clever fit have accumulated dozens of studios, essentially becoming mid-sized operators themselves. This hints that clever fit’s network might eventually experience mergers at the franchisee level. 

For now, clever fit remains a potent force: it accounts for the single largest share of gym locations in Germany and roughly ~15% of all top-10 chain members. Combined with its fellow franchise rival EASYFITNESS, these two franchisors operate 640 clubs (40% of Top 10 facilities) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), firmly entrenching the franchise model in Germany’s fitness fabric.

In summary, clever fit’s key strengths are its massive geographic coverage and recognized brand, especially outside the biggest cities. It provides a way for towns to have a budget gym without a corporate giant needing to build it. 

As a result, clever fit has a resilient business, though it faces more competition now from both budget chains and micro-studios. The chain has started introducing 24/7 access and other improvements to keep pace. While it was overtaken by FitX in total members, clever fit is still the backbone of the franchised gym segment and will remain a Top 3 player due to its sheer footprint.

4. EASYFITNESS

EASYFITNESS Franchise GmbH has quickly risen to become the fourth-largest fitness chain in Germany, with 470,000 members training across 205 clubs by the end of 2024 (Unternehmen | EASYFITNESS). 

As the name suggests, EASYFITNESS is a franchised fitness concept similar to clever fit, targeting the low-cost market with a simple, value-oriented gym offering. Founded in 2008 in Hanover, EASYFITNESS started smaller but in recent years has significantly expanded its reach, opening many new franchised clubs. In fact, it has been one of the fastest-growing franchise gym systems: for example, from 2018 to 2024 it roughly doubled its number of studios (105 to 205) and grew membership from 260k to 470k (Unternehmen | EASYFITNESS). This rapid growth propelled EASYFITNESS into the Top 5, surpassing some older mid-market competitors.

The typical EASYFITNESS club is a mid-sized facility (often 500–1500 m²) offering the essentials: strength and cardio zones, sometimes a small functional area or sauna, all presented with a modern but no-frills “lifestyle” vibe. Pricing is competitive (advertised from ~€24.99/month) (Unternehmen | EASYFITNESS) (Unternehmen | EASYFITNESS). 

EASYFITNESS differentiates itself with a bit of branding flair – it uses bright green in its logo and decor, and markets a “lifestyle and sport” philosophy to make fitness feel approachable (Unternehmen | EASYFITNESS). Many clubs operate extended hours (some 24/7), and the franchise emphasizes consistency in equipment and service. The model has appealed to franchise investors, including some former McFIT or FitX managers who opened their own EASYFITNESS gyms in smaller markets.

By 2024, EASYFITNESS reached 450,000+ members and 200+ clubs, milestones it proudly highlights on its website (EASYFITNESS - Dein Fitnessstudio | EASYFITNESS). Its rise has been particularly notable in Northern and Eastern Germany, where it filled gaps in areas with fewer big-chain outlets. Strategically, EASYFITNESS focused on towns and suburbs that were perhaps too small for McFIT or FitX, thereby encountering less direct competition. This allowed many franchisees to capture local market share effectively. The combined muscle of the network is now significant – EASYFITNESS and clever fit together cover much of Germany outside the biggest metro centers.

In 2024, EASYFITNESS opened around 20 new clubs (EASYFITNESS - Dein Fitnessstudio | EASYFITNESS) and grew membership roughly +10%, a testament to continued franchise interest. The company projects further expansion to 350 studios and 700k members by 2030 (Unternehmen | EASYFITNESS), which would firmly cement its top-tier status. 

Challenges ahead include maintaining quality across a dispersed franchise network and differentiating from the very similar clever fit. But given its trajectory, EASYFITNESS has established itself as a major national gym brand. It is now firmly among the Top 10, with its 470k member count not far behind the larger corporate chains. In the Top 10 ranking by membership, EASYFITNESS’s success underscores the viability of the franchise model in scaling a fitness brand in Germany.

5. All Inclusive Fitness (BestFit Group)

All Inclusive Fitness – until recently known as the BestFit Group – is the fifth-largest fitness operator in Germany, with over 400,000 members in 2024 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). Unlike the chains above, this is not a single-brand chain but rather a consolidated group of several gym brands assembled by an investor. 

Backed by private equity firm Nord Holding since 2013, BestFit Group grew through acquiring and merging regional gym chains. Its major components include jumpers fitness and Ai Fitness, two discount gym brands that merged in 2020 under BestFit’s ownership (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

In early 2025, the group unified its portfolio under one consumer-facing brand: “all inclusive fitness” (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This rebranding retires the separate logos of jumpers, Ai Fitness, and the original BestFit clubs, aiming to create a single national brand identity.

As of 2024, the group operates about 135 clubs across Germany (BestFit Group continues to grow: edelhelfer beratung). These clubs are mostly in the low-cost segment, similar in concept to FitX or clever fit (24-hour access, large gyms with extensive equipment, basic classes, etc.). The geographic distribution is quite spread, with a historical concentration in western and southern Germany where jumpers and Ai had their bases. 

The membership growth of BestFit Group has been very strong in recent years: the group added tens of thousands of members via acquisitions and also through organic post-merger improvements. In 2024, membership grew by high-single digits percentage, making it one of the top growth performers (second only to LifeFit) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). By year-end, “all inclusive fitness” (BestFit) had roughly 420k members, putting it just behind EASYFITNESS in size.

The group’s strategy has been explicitly growth-by-acquisition. Notable timeline: Nord Holding created the platform in 2013, added EuroFit and others in subsequent years (BestFit Group continues to grow: edelhelfer beratung), then the transformative merger of jumpers and Ai Fitness in October 2020 (BestFit Group continues to grow: edelhelfer beratung). 

Jumpers and Ai were both sizeable discount gym chains; their combination immediately boosted the group into the upper ranks of the market. After that, BestFit Group continued to snap up independent clubs – for instance, in 2024 it acquired 8 additional gyms from smaller operators (including some clever fit franchises and local brands) to reach 135 locations (BestFit Group continues to grow: edelhelfer beratung). 

By keeping these acquired clubs and new openings under one management umbrella, the group realized economies of scale (shared marketing, unified membership systems, etc.). The final step was to rebrand all clubs as “all inclusive fitness” in early 2025 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), to present a cohesive brand to consumers and likely simplify national marketing.

“All inclusive fitness” positions itself as a fast-growing discount fitness chain that offers a bit of everything (hence the name). The brand suggests that one membership gives access to all facilities and services (which typically include weight training, cardio, some functional training, basic classes, tanning or massage beds as extras, etc.). 

By integrating multiple legacy brands, the BestFit Group is now a prominent competitor to the likes of McFIT, FitX, and the franchise players. It is a prime example of investor-led consolidation in the German fitness space – effectively rolling up regional gyms into a national powerhouse. As of 2024, the group’s focus is on digesting recent acquisitions and growing its member base per club. 

With Nord Holding’s backing, further acquisitions can’t be ruled out. All Inclusive Fitness (BestFit) is on track to continue climbing the ranks, especially if any of the larger players falter or if it finds another chain to merge with. Right now, it solidly occupies the middle of the Top 10, with momentum on its side.

6. LifeFit Group (Fitness First, Elbgym, etc.)

LifeFit Group is a major fitness operator focusing on the premium and high-value segment of the market. 

In 2024 it ranked #6 with an estimated ~380,000 members across Germany. LifeFit Group was formed in 2018 and rapidly grew by uniting several well-known fitness brands under one umbrella. Its flagship brand is Fitness First Germany – once the country’s top premium gym chain – which LifeFit acquired and now operates (~78 Fitness First “RED” clubs for full-service value and 33 “BLACK” clubs for premium). 

Additionally, LifeFit Group runs boutique and specialty brands like Elbgym (a small premium gym chain in Hamburg), Barry’s Bootcamp Germany (high-intensity boutique studios), The Gym Society (personal training studios), and others. Through acquisitions, it also integrated clubs from Smile X and In Shape, rebranding many of them into Fitness First by 2023.

By late 2023, LifeFit Group had “over 120 clubs” and “more than 340,000 members”. The growth strategy intensified when private equity firm Waterland acquired LifeFit Group in 2023 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Waterland had prior fitness industry experience (they were an early investor in Basic-Fit and also own a stake in Urban Sports Club). With new capital, LifeFit immediately looked to expand: in early 2024, it bought 19 clubs from another operator (MA Holding) to add ~40k members to Fitness First (Germany's LifeFit Pushes Expansion, M&A - Fitt Insider). 

Then in February 2025, LifeFit announced the takeover of FIT/One, a major low-cost chain (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This acquisition, expected to close in 2025, will add Fit/One’s 33 German clubs and ~220k members to LifeFit (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland) (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland). 

Once merged, LifeFit Group will operate ~210 clubs and serve over 650,000 members (including some corporate/aggregator memberships) in Germany and Austria (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland) – likely jumping it to the #4 position by size.

In 2024, even before the Fit/One deal, LifeFit Group was the fastest-growing top operator in percentage terms (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). Its member count grew roughly 15% year-on-year, thanks to acquisitions and strong retention in its clubs. LifeFit sets itself apart from the mostly budget-focused Top 10 by emphasizing quality and service. 

Fitness First clubs offer extensive amenities (group classes, pools or wellness areas in some locations, personal training, etc.) at a higher price point (~€50–70/month), targeting professionals and enthusiasts. 

Kieser Training (the #7 player) is another premium/health brand, but LifeFit covers a broader spectrum of offerings under one group. The strategy is to be a “fitness and health platform” that can cater to multiple market segments – from high-end (Fitness First Black, Elbgym) to mid-market (Fitness First Red) to boutique (Barry’s) and now, with Fit/One, even the low-cost segment. This multi-segment approach is unique among the Top 10.

LifeFit Group’s trajectory shows how international investors are reshaping the German market by consolidating well-known brands. The group has also pushed innovation in programming (e.g., launching new class concepts at Fitness First, integrating digital apps for members). With over 1,500 employees and significant capital behind it, LifeFit aims to reach 250 clubs by 2028 (a 79% increase from 140 clubs in 2024) (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland). 

Achieving that would likely require more acquisitions or aggressive expansion into new markets (the Fit/One deal also marks LifeFit’s expansion into Austria). In summary, LifeFit Group is a rising powerhouse that resurrected and modernized legacy brands (Fitness First) and is now leveraging acquisitions to scale. In 2024 it held around 7% of Top 10 members (and ~3% of all gym-goers in Germany), with that share set to increase markedly after integrating Fit/One. LifeFit’s presence in the Top 10 underscores that premium and full-service clubs still command a significant membership alongside the low-cost giants.

7. Kieser Training

Kieser Training is a unique player in the Top 10 – it’s a specialized fitness franchise that focuses on medically oriented strength training. 

In 2024, Kieser Training had approximately 300,000 members (estimate) and 116 training centers in Germany (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), placing it 7th in membership rank. Unlike typical gyms, Kieser centers are smaller, clinic-like studios that offer supervised high-intensity strength workouts, often targeting back pain prevention and rehabilitation.

Founded in Switzerland in 1966 by Werner Kieser, the brand expanded into Germany decades ago and became popular for its evidence-based, no-frills approach to strength training. A typical Kieser Training customer might be older than the average gym-goer or someone referred by a doctor – the model is half fitness, half healthcare.

Kieser’s inclusion among the top operators shows the breadth of the German market. While it has far fewer members per site (~2,500 on average) than the big chains, its large number of locations (via franchising) gives it a substantial total membership. 

Over the last ten years, Kieser Training has steadily grown but at a controlled pace. It appeals to a specific segment that values time-efficient training and health outcomes over the entertainment or social aspects of modern gyms. Many Kieser studios have only machines, no music, and a sparse, clinical environment. Trainers are well-qualified, and members typically do a 30-minute circuit of strength machines once or twice a week. This model yields very loyal members (length of stay is high) but obviously doesn’t attract the masses looking for full-service gyms.

In terms of strategy, Kieser Training has doubled down on its health positioning. Its motto in Germany – “Es wird die Zeit kommen, in der Kieser gebraucht wird” (“The time will come when Kieser is needed”) – reflects a belief that as the population ages and prevention becomes crucial, demand for supervised strength training will rise (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Indeed, with Germany’s demographic trends, this niche could expand. Kieser has been refining its offerings (for example, introducing new machine circuits, offering check-ups, etc.) to maintain its reputation as a healthcare provider in fitness. Some German health insurance providers even reimburse Kieser membership fees partially, validating its quasi-medical status.

While Kieser’s membership took a hit during the pandemic (as older clients stayed home), it rebounded in 2023–2024. The franchise has also refreshed branding and marketing to attract a somewhat younger audience (40-somethings, not just seniors). However, compared to the dynamic growth of budget chains, Kieser’s growth is modest – it expanded its network slightly and likely saw a low-single-digit membership increase in 2024. Its stable presence in the Top 10 (it has been among the top operators for many years) shows consistent performance rather than explosive growth. 

Kieser Training’s success factors are trust, specialization, and quality of service. It occupies an important niche as the “health-first” gym option. In the Top 10, it is one of only two brands (the other being LifeFit’s portfolio) that cater above the low-cost level. For investors and industry watchers, Kieser demonstrates that specialized concepts can scale nationally and retain a solid member base even in the era of ultra-cheap gyms.

8. ACISO Group (Injoy, ELEMENTS, etc.)

The ACISO Group is a somewhat atypical entry in the Top 10 – it’s not a consumer-facing gym chain per se, but rather a fitness franchise and consulting conglomerate that aggregates several brands. 

Ranked #8, ACISO’s various franchise networks together account for roughly ~250,000 members in Germany (estimate) and around 150 clubs. ACISO was formed through a series of acquisitions initiated by the Migros Group (Switzerland’s largest retailer) and later continued by private equity. The backbone of ACISO is the INLINE/Injoy franchise system – a network of independent mid-market gyms (often called fitness and health centers) under the Injoy brand, which Migros acquired in 2016 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

Injoy has around 130 franchise clubs in Germany. Migros also had its own premium clubs brand ELEMENTS, with a handful of high-end clubs in cities like Munich. In 2019, Migros (through ACISO) acquired Greinwalder & Partner, a German fitness consulting firm that worked with many gyms (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung).

By 2022, Migros decided to exit, and ACISO was sold to Lafayette Mittelstand Capital (a German PE firm) (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). Under Lafayette, ACISO went on to buy a corporate fitness specialist FITCOMPANY in 2022 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), the German/Austrian clubs of Scandinavian chain Actic in 2023 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung) (Actic had about 11 clubs in Germany), and at the end of 2024 it acquired DANTRIM, another corporate fitness provider (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

These moves indicate ACISO’s focus on the B2B and franchise sector of fitness: it now encompasses franchise gyms (Injoy, FT-Club, etc.), premium clubs (Elements), and corporate fitness services (FitCompany, Dantrim), plus offers consulting to independent club owners.

In terms of membership, ACISO’s contribution comes mainly from the Injoy franchise gyms. Many Injoy clubs are medium-sized facilities with a focus on guided training and wellness; they might each have 500–2000 members. 

Summed up, Injoy and affiliated franchises likely have ~100k+ members. Elements clubs are premium and smaller in number (their few thousand members are relatively high-paying). Actic’s acquired clubs added some thousands of members as well. It’s likely that ACISO’s total “membership” count around 2024 (if one sums all member bases of affiliated clubs) is in the mid-to-high six figures, putting it in the Top 10. The industry typically counts them because ACISO is the operator or franchisor behind these members.

Strategically, ACISO aims to be the leading platform for independent fitness clubs – offering them franchise branding, sales training, marketing support, and corporate client access. By combining multiple services, ACISO can help smaller gyms compete in the market (for example, hooking them into corporate fitness networks to get more members). 

The recent acquisitions of corporate fitness companies (FitCompany and Dantrim) highlight the growing importance of corporate partnerships in the gym industry. ACISO now claims a strengthened “position as provider in the corporate fitness and health management field” (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), essentially bridging the gap between companies and local gyms.

While ACISO’s growth is not very visible to consumers (since it’s not one chain expanding, but rather backend integration), it has been eventful behind the scenes. The group’s formation is a story of consolidation: Migros’s attempt to unify fragmented players, then a resale to a new investor who continued the roll-up. In 2024, ACISO likely saw moderate membership growth as franchise clubs recovered from COVID and corporate deals ramped up. The group will possibly try to expand its franchise network further (recruit more independent gyms to join Injoy or other brands) or even launch new franchise concepts.

In summary, ACISO Group in the Top 10 reflects the aggregated strength of many independent gyms working under common systems. It ensures that the mid-market clubs and smaller city fitness centers still have representation among the giants. With about 8% of Top 10 members, ACISO’s network is a reminder that not all of the market is dominated by single brands – alliances of independent gyms can also form a large bloc. As the industry evolves, ACISO will be the vehicle for many such gyms to remain competitive via collective resources.

9. Pfitzenmeier Fitness Group (Regional)

Tied for ninth place is the Pfitzenmeier Group, a regional fitness club empire operating in the Rhine-Neckar metropolitan region of southwest Germany. Pfitzenmeier’s clubs together have on the order of ~200,000 members (estimate) across 51 facilities (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung).

What makes Pfitzenmeier notable is its regional focus – unlike all other Top 10 players, it operates solely in one area (primarily around the cities of Mannheim, Heidelberg, Karlsruhe, etc.). Over decades, the Pfitzenmeier family built a network of clubs with a reputation for quality and variety. The group runs multiple gym brands to target different market segments in their region:

• Fitness Park Pfitzenmeier – large upscale fitness and wellness centers (typically 4,000–6,000 m²) offering extensive amenities (pools, saunas, classes, etc.). These are premium clubs catering to those who want a full-service health club experience.

• Pfitzenmeier Premium Resorts – even higher-end clubs (flagship locations with spa and luxury services).

• VeniceBeach – a sub-brand of lower-cost, youth-oriented gyms. These clubs (named after Venice Beach, CA) are more comparable to McFIT or FitX in pricing and vibe, attracting a younger demographic with modern equipment and music.

• FitCamp – smaller fitness studios providing basic gym access at budget prices (a bit like a micro-gym).

By diversifying its offerings, Pfitzenmeier Group has managed to dominate its local market at all price levels. A customer in that region might start at a low-cost FitCamp, then “upgrade” to a VeniceBeach or even a Pfitzenmeier Premium club as their needs or budget change. Importantly, the Pfitzenmeier brand is well-trusted locally – it’s a family business that has been around since the 1970s, so it carries a legacy.

In 2024, Pfitzenmeier Group’s membership grew modestly, recovering from pandemic impacts. The company is committing to further development: it announced a €50 million investment plan over the next three years for upgrading facilities and possibly new projects (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

This is a substantial sum for a regional operator and indicates they see long-term demand in their area. Given the group’s tie rank at #9, it has remained in the Top 10 through sheer stronghold of a prosperous region (Rhine-Neckar has a few million inhabitants). 

Pfitzenmeier’s strategy seems to be continuous improvement and staying ahead of any potential outside competitors entering their territory. Indeed, big chains like McFIT or FitX have relatively few clubs in that region because Pfitzenmeier’s presence is so entrenched.

One should note that Pfitzenmeier’s average members per club is fairly high (~3,900 by estimate), since many of its premium clubs have thousands of members, and even the VeniceBeach gyms might each have 2,000–3,000 members. 

This underscores that a well-executed regional strategy can yield clubs as large as national chains. The group’s vertical integration (operating different brands) also resembles a microcosm of what LifeFit Group does nationally, but Pfitzenmeier does it all within a radius of roughly 100 km.

In summary, Pfitzenmeier Group stands out as a regional champion. It shows that not all Top 10 operators are nationwide; a family-run business with deep local knowledge can capture a significant membership base. 

Pfitzenmeier’s commitment to quality (especially with its premium resorts) gives it pricing power and loyalty, while its introduction of discount sub-brands shows adaptability. The group will likely remain a dominant player in its region, and by extension, keep a spot among Germany’s top operators. Its success story might not be easily replicable elsewhere, but it highlights the importance of knowing one’s market and building a strong brand reputation.

10. FIT/One (pre-merger)

Sharing the ninth rank is FIT/One, a high-volume discount gym chain that, until its recent merger, was an independent competitor in the German market. FIT/One had about 220,000 members and 45 clubs across Germany and Austria as of 2024 (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland) (approximately 33 clubs in Germany, 12 in Austria (LifeFit Group expands into Austria with its largest transaction to date)). 

The chain was founded in 2014, with the first FIT/One megaclub in Stuttgart, and expanded rapidly with the ambition to go head-to-head against McFIT and co. FIT/One is known for its huge, state-of-the-art facilities – many of its clubs are 4,000–5,000+ m², featuring extensive equipment, multiple training zones, sometimes even extras like boxing rings, basketball courts, or small pools, all for a budget price (often under €30 a month). The brand’s marketing was stylish and aggressive, aiming to attract serious fitness enthusiasts and beginners alike with an “all-in-one” experience (hence the name).

In the late 2010s, FIT/One made headlines by opening some of the largest gyms in Germany, for example a 8,000 m² club in Munich. This strategy helped it sign up a lot of members per club – the chain averaged ~6,000+ members per gym (similar to McFIT’s averages). 

By reaching ~200k members, FIT/One broke into the Top 10 despite having far fewer locations than franchise networks or older chains. Its presence was mostly in major cities (Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, etc.) and some large towns. The chain also expanded into Austria quickly, entering Vienna and other cities.

However, the growth came with challenges: operating such large clubs is capital-intensive, and the pandemic period was especially rough on FIT/One’s cash flow due to lockdowns of huge facilities. By 2022–2023, industry rumors suggested FIT/One’s owners were seeking investors or an exit strategy. 

This culminated in LifeFit Group’s decision to acquire FIT/One in 2025 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). LifeFit’s owner, Waterland, already had a minority stake in FIT/One from 2020 (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung), so the full takeover was a logical step. 

For FIT/One’s members, this means the clubs will be integrated into Fitness First (LifeFit’s main brand) going forward (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland). Essentially, the FIT/One brand is set to be phased out post-merger, and its clubs rebranded (LifeFit indicated that FIT/One’s modern large clubs align well with the Fitness First RED concept) (Merger of FIT/One and LifeFit Group contractually sealed | Waterland).

Up through 2024, though, FIT/One was operating as an independent chain, and it grew membership modestly that year (all clubs reopened post-COVID and regained members). The chain’s strategy of offering “premium for the price of discount” attracted many customers – for example, some FIT/One clubs offered amenities like women-only areas, functional training zones, and even childcare, uncommon in low-cost gyms. 

This blurred the line between budget and mid-range, putting competitive pressure on everyone. In cities where it opened, FIT/One often triggered price wars or forced renovations from rivals.

Now, with the merger, 2024 effectively marked the final year of FIT/One as a standalone entity. It tied with Pfitzenmeier at ~200k members for #9. The chain’s legacy is that of a bold challenger that grew quickly and shook up markets, demonstrating that there was room for another major low-cost player – until consolidation caught up. 

From an industry perspective, FIT/One’s rise and absorption by LifeFit highlights the trend: even successful new entrants often choose to merge with larger groups to sustain long-term. For the Top 10 ranking, it means one less independent name going forward, but at its peak FIT/One certainly earned its spot with its colossal clubs and strong following.

Conclusion & Outlook

The German fitness club market in 2024 is dominated by ten players who serve almost half of all gym members in the country (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). This concentration has been driven by the powerful growth strategies of the Top 10 brands – from aggressive expansion of low-cost chains to savvy consolidation of existing clubs. 

The market dynamics observed (budget chains thriving, franchises expanding, premium segment reinventing itself through consolidation) indicate that scale and brand recognition are more important than ever in the post-pandemic era. Investors have played a key role in this transformation, fueling mergers like jumpers+Ai (BestFit Group) and Fitness First+Fit/One (LifeFit Group). As a result, Germany’s fitness landscape has shifted from a highly fragmented mix of local gyms to an integrated structure where large operators set the tone in pricing, innovation, and customer experience.

Looking ahead, we expect the Top 10’s share of the market to continue increasing in 2025. Several developments are already underway: LifeFit Group’s absorption of Fit/One will instantly boost its ranking and could spark competitive responses from others. 

The newly rebranded All Inclusive Fitness (BestFit) may seek further acquisitions to challenge for a top 3 spot. Franchise networks like clever fit and EASYFITNESS are likely to keep growing their club counts (Germany still has some under-served areas, and also opportunities abroad). 

On the other hand, we may see new contenders trying to enter the Top 10. For instance, Basic-Fit – Europe’s largest chain – thus far has a minimal presence in Germany, but it might accelerate expansion in the coming years. Also, pure digital fitness platforms (e.g. Urban Sports Club, recently acquired by a corporate wellbeing firm (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung)) could indirectly influence the market by shifting how memberships work (aggregator models).

A significant trend to watch is the interplay between healthcare and fitness. As noted, concepts like Kieser Training and corporate fitness providers (now under ACISO) emphasize health outcomes. 

The German industry is working to integrate with the healthcare system (e.g., seeking insurer reimbursements, positioning clubs as preventive health centers) (Membership numbers in fitness clubs back to pre-covid levels: edelhelfer beratung). This could bring new revenue streams and member segments into clubs, benefiting those operators that are prepared (likely the larger ones). 

The Top 10 operators, with their resources, are in a good position to implement such initiatives – whether it’s specialized equipment, staff training, or partnerships with health insurers. In contrast, smaller independent gyms might struggle to meet the required standards without joining a network.

In conclusion, the Top 10 fitness club brands in Germany at end-2024 present a picture of a robust, maturing industry. They have driven membership back to pre-COVID highs and beyond, and set new records in revenue and scale. 

For investors and industry insiders, the key takeaways are clear: market leadership is being solidified by those who innovate and consolidate. We see a positive outlook as these operators continue to grow – potentially exceeding 6 million combined members by 2025 if current growth rates hold (Top 10 Fitness Operators in Germany: edelhelfer beratung). 

While challenges such as economic fluctuations or high competition persist, the German fitness market’s recent performance demonstrates resilience. The top brands are not just surviving; they are thriving, and in doing so, are reshaping the fitness experience for millions of Germans – from casual gym-goers to dedicated health enthusiasts. 

The next few years will likely reinforce this pattern, with the biggest players getting even bigger, and the entire industry inching closer to that ambitious goal of 100 million European fitness members by 2030 (Europe's Fitness Market Keeps Growing. It's Likely Just Scratching the Surface - Athletech News), with Germany contributing a substantial share.