According to the latest 2025 HFA Global Report released by the Health & Fitness Association (HFA), China’s Lefit (HILEFIT) has secured a place among the world’s top five fitness chains, with more than 1,800 locations as of the end of 2024. In addition, Lefit’s registered membership base has exceeded 14 million, ranking second globally.

The HFA report points out that traditional gyms have long relied on selling high-value, long-term prepaid cards to generate cash flow rather than focusing on improving services and member retention. This model has triggered a widespread trust crisis in recent years. The report describes China’s current fitness market phase as a “return to value,” with the industry shifting back toward its core business essence—creating real value for users.

In mature markets such as the United States, Anytime Fitness leads the global ranking with more than 5,000 locations, while Planet Fitness, with a base membership fee of just $10 per month, operates nearly 3,000 facilities. In China, Lefit—pioneering the subscription-based monthly payment model—has already surpassed 2,000 locations and is advancing toward its ambitious target of “10,000 stores across 100 cities.”

As the first mover and leader of the monthly subscription model in China, Lefit replaced multi-year contracts with flexible monthly payments, giving choice back to users and pushing the industry toward a healthier, more sustainable business cycle.

Beyond pricing, Lefit has also redefined the role of small gyms, coaches, and class services. By leveraging a digital industry operations platform, a multi-brand portfolio, and a partner-driven expansion model, Lefit has achieved rapid growth and helped rebuild consumer trust.

The company has also launched its “New Decade for Fitness Coaches” initiative, outlining six distinct career development paths for trainers. This effort addresses one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: the high turnover rate of skilled coaches.

Currently, Lefit operates more than 2,000 gyms across over 40 Chinese cities. At its 10th anniversary event in April, Lefit introduced a multi-scenario brand portfolio. Anchored by its core “National Fitness Gym” Lefit Fitness, the portfolio now extends into multiple sub-brands, including:

• FEELINGME: high-standard personal training studios
• RECORE: large-format next-generation fitness clubs
• LOVEFITT: specialty strength-training gyms
• YOGA POD: professional yoga and Pilates studios
• FitTribe: functional training and athletic community spaces

This diversified approach positions Lefit to serve a broad spectrum of users—from mainstream fitness enthusiasts to advanced and niche training needs—cementing its place as one of the most dynamic players in the global fitness industry.