Mid-market gyms feel the heat in Singapore's 'golden age' of fitness

In Singapore's fitness industry, mid-market gyms are facing challenges as boutique studios and budget 24-hour chains gain popularity. Sharon H, a personal trainer, offers clients the option to work out in ActiveSG gyms, her own home, or her flat. About half of her clients use her flat, while the rest train at ActiveSG gyms or in their homes.

The growing competition in the fitness market has led to the abrupt closure of True Fitness and True Yoga, two fitness studios in Singapore. The parent company cited unprecedented challenges, such as the rise of boutique studios, more residential gyms, and online training options. However, industry experts argue that the growing awareness of exercise's importance is the primary driver of this trend.

Sport SG data shows that 76% of residents exercised at least once a week in 2021, up from 66% in 2019. Fitness studio owners emphasize the importance of unique service offerings, such as personalized training and a strong sense of community, to stand out in the market. Large gyms with higher fixed costs, like True Fitness, struggle to remain profitable when utilization falls, while smaller gyms with a specialized focus and lean operating models are more resilient.