- VivaGym and Synergym merge, with the total number of clubs exceeding 450, covering Spain and Portugal. VivaGym will become the number one fitness operator in the Spanish market in terms of the number of locations.
- Strategic acquisition led by private equity fund Providence: Since receiving investment from Providence Equity Partners in 2024, VivaGym has been driven by a dual strategy of "organic growth + strategic acquisitions." This transaction is the latest implementation of this strategy, aimed at creating a large-scale, high-quality fitness platform.
- Highly complementary, benefiting members directly: Both operators focus on "high quality + low barriers" (affordable fitness). Post-merger, they can share resources, expand geographic coverage, and increase service offerings, generating stronger momentum for long-term growth.
VivaGym, the Iberian fitness operator backed by Providence Equity Partners L.L.C., has signed a binding agreement to acquire Synergym International, the Luxembourg-based holding company of Synergym Holding, a major Spanish gym chain operating more than 160 clubs. Subject to regulatory approval, the transaction will create a combined network exceeding 450 clubs across Spain and Portugal, establishing VivaGym as the number one fitness operator in the Spanish market by number of locations.
The acquisition is a cornerstone of VivaGym’s growth strategy, combining organic expansion with strategic acquisitions to build a larger, more resilient fitness platform. By merging two complementary businesses, the group will be better positioned to invest in innovation, enhance the member experience, and generate long-term value for stakeholders across the Iberian Peninsula.
“This is a landmark moment for VivaGym,” said Cristina Burzako, CEO of VivaGym. “This move builds on the strong momentum we have already achieved and allows us to accelerate our expansion strategy across the Iberian Peninsula. We are bringing together two highly complementary businesses to significantly broaden our reach and deliver a better experience to our members. With a wider network and enhanced capabilities, we are ideally positioned to continue improving our offering and drive the next phase of our growth.”
Members of both networks are expected to benefit from an expanded club footprint, improved geographic coverage, and a broader range of fitness services. The combined platform is set to leverage shared expertise and resources to capitalize on the long-term growth trends driving the health and wellness sector across the region.
“This acquisition is fully aligned with our strategy of building scaled platforms in attractive, high-growth sectors,” said Robert Sudo, Managing Director at Providence Equity Partners. “VivaGym has demonstrated strong capability in executing its expansion plans, and this transaction further strengthens its position in the Iberian fitness market. The business benefits from a structural societal shift toward investing in health and wellness, as well as growing demand for accessible and flexible fitness options — all within a market experiencing continuous growth in memberships and significant room for further expansion. We see substantial potential to continue growing the platform both organically and through targeted opportunities, and we look forward to continuing to work closely with Cristina and the team.”
“Joining VivaGym is the natural next step in what has been a remarkable journey of success and expansion for Synergym since we were founded in 2013,” said Jordi Bella, Director General of Synergym. “This transaction is the culmination of a chapter defined by growth, and we are proud to continue improving the lives of thousands of members through high-quality clubs featuring specialized training zones, cutting-edge equipment, and highly qualified teams.”
Since 2024, VivaGym has been backed by Providence Equity Partners, a leading private equity firm specializing in growth-oriented businesses in the media, communications, and education sectors. Synergym has received investment support from Growth Partner (since 2019), Oxy Capital (since 2021), and All Seas Capital (since 2024).
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals. VivaGym was advised by Boston Consulting Group, Deloitte, Uría Menéndez, and A&O Shearman. Synergym was advised by Houlihan Lokey and Garrigues.
About VivaGym
Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Málaga, Spain, VivaGym is a high-growth Iberian fitness platform offering high-quality gym facilities at accessible prices. The company provides a compelling value proposition combining modern facilities, an extensive range of group fitness classes, extended operating hours, and affordable, flexible membership plans — all supported by a highly industrialized operating model and attractive unit economics. For more information, visit vivagym.com.
About Providence Equity Partners L.L.C.
Providence Equity Partners L.L.C. is a leading middle-market private equity firm with deep sector expertise in media, communications, and education, focused on North America and Europe. Founded in 1989 in Providence, Rhode Island, the firm has invested over $40 billion across more than 180 portfolio companies, with investment teams based primarily in London, New York, and Boston. Through disciplined portfolio construction, prudent risk management, and a collaborative culture, the firm seeks to deliver strong results across market cycles.
About Synergym
Founded in Málaga in 2013, Synergym is one of Spain’s leading fitness operators and one of the country’s fastest-growing gym chains. The company offers accessible, high-quality fitness experiences through a flexible and affordable subscription model. Its clubs feature modern design, specialized training zones, state-of-the-art equipment, and a wide range of group fitness classes, supported by a highly qualified team.
