Fitness International Shifts Focus to Club Studio
The gym operator is closing LA Fitness sites to expand its premium Club Studio brand throughout 2026.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Do you support the shift from budget-friendly fitness centers to higher-priced boutique gym concepts?
Fitness International has closed more than 20 LA Fitness locations in 2026 as it pivots toward a higher-end fitness model. The company is actively converting its existing gym sites into premium Club Studio facilities.
Why it matters
The shift reflects a strategic move to capture the boutique fitness market as interest in traditional big-box gym models like LA Fitness experiences a decline in visits. By replacing lower-cost options with premium clubs, the operator aims to increase per-member revenue.
Club Studio memberships range from $149 per month for a single location to $249 for nationwide access, a significant jump from LA Fitness memberships which typically cost less than $50 per month.
The players
Fitness International
This health and fitness company owns and operates the LA Fitness and Club Studio gym chains across the United States.
LA Fitness
A long-standing national gym chain known for its low-cost membership structure and traditional weight room configurations.
Club Studio
A higher-end fitness brand owned by Fitness International that focuses on boutique group classes and premium athletic amenities.
The details
Fitness International is redeveloping its physical footprint to feature boutique amenities like reformer Pilates, cycling, and boxing alongside standard gym equipment. This transition is designed to move the company's service offerings into a luxury category.
Timeline
Over 20 LA Fitness locations closed throughout 2026.
Fitness International plans to grow its Club Studio count to 50 locations by next year.
Market Landscape
Fitness International is responding to the competitive pressure from specialized boutique chains by consolidating its own premium service offerings. This strategy moves the firm away from traditional, high-volume gym operations to capture higher margins in the premium fitness sector.
Members accustomed to the lower price point of LA Fitness may face significant monthly cost increases if their local facility is rebranded as a Club Studio. Customers should evaluate whether the added boutique classes justify the transition from a $50 to a $149 monthly membership.
The takeaway
Consumers should review their current gym membership agreements to understand how potential rebrandings in their area might affect their monthly costs. Transitioning to a premium fitness model often necessitates a shift in budget as boutique offerings require higher monthly fees for access.
Further reading
For more on evolving fitness retail, visit the Openings & Closings section.
Live Poll
Do you support the shift from budget-friendly fitness centers to higher-priced boutique gym concepts?
