Crunch Fitness CEO Jim Rowley Receives EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Recognition
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Crunch Fitness CEO Jim Rowley has been named an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 New York Award winner, adding another business leadership accolade to a career that has spanned the military, franchising and the fitness industry.
The award recognizes entrepreneurs and business leaders who have demonstrated sustained growth, innovation and long-term value creation within their organizations. Rowley was selected by an independent panel of judges that included previous award recipients, CEOs and business leaders.
Rowley currently leads Crunch Fitness, one of the largest gym franchisors in the world. The company serves approximately 3.5 million members across more than 550 locations globally and has continued to expand its footprint through a high-value, low-price model.
"I'm honored to receive this award and to join this community of bold business leaders and entrepreneurs," said Rowley. "Crunch debuted in 1989 in Greenwich Village, so this recognition in New York City is especially meaningful for us. This win reflects our commitment to our team, franchise owners and members. This is a proud milestone on our way to building a world with more Crunch."
The recognition places Rowley among a group of executives whose companies span industries ranging from technology and consumer products to healthcare and food service. Previous Entrepreneur Of The Year honorees have included leaders from organizations such as LinkedIn, Starbucks, KIND Snacks, Noom and The Farmer's Dog.
Before entering the fitness industry, Rowley served in the United States Marine Corps. More recently, he released a book titled Perspire to Greatness, which explores leadership, discipline and lessons learned throughout his career. According to Crunch, 50 percent of the book's profits will be donated to organizations supporting military veterans.
The award comes during a period of continued growth for Crunch and the broader fitness franchise sector. As operators compete for market share in an increasingly crowded fitness landscape, leadership and execution have become key differentiators among major brands.
As a regional winner, Rowley will now advance to consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 National Awards, which will be presented later this year. National winners become eligible for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year competition in 2027.
For the fitness industry, the recognition places another operator alongside leaders from larger business sectors, reflecting the growing scale and influence of health and fitness companies within the broader economy.
