Crunch Fitness Names Chequan Lewis CEO
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
Crunch Fitness has appointed Chequan Lewis as Chief Executive Officer, marking the first major leadership transition at the company in more than a decade.
The announcement was made at Crunch's 2026 Global Franchise Convention in San Antonio. Lewis succeeds Jim Rowley, who will remain with the company as Executive Chairman.
The transition comes during a period of significant growth for the brand. Crunch has expanded to more than 550 locations serving approximately 3.5 million members worldwide and has grown into a business generating an estimated $1.5 billion in systemwide sales.
Lewis joined Crunch as President and has worked closely with Rowley in recent years as the company expanded its franchise network, increased operational scale and invested in member experience initiatives.
As CEO, Lewis will oversee day-to-day operations, marketing, brand strategy and long-term growth initiatives.
"Crunch has never been stronger, and that strength reflects years of close collaboration with Jim, our franchise partners, and our teams across the brand, who have built something special over time," said Lewis. "I'm honored to step into the CEO role and continue that partnership, building on the foundation we've created together."
The appointment represents a succession plan years in the making. Lewis and Rowley have worked together throughout a period that saw Crunch strengthen its position within the high-value, low-price fitness segment while continuing to expand both domestically and internationally.
For franchisees, the transition signals continuity in leadership. Lewis has played a role in many of the operational and growth initiatives introduced during Crunch's recent expansion and has worked closely with franchise partners across the system.
Rowley, who joined Crunch in 2009, will remain actively involved in the business as Executive Chairman. In his new role, he will focus on long-term strategy, company performance and future growth opportunities.
Under Rowley's leadership, Crunch experienced substantial growth in membership, expanded its global footprint and secured a strategic investment from Leonard Green & Partners.
"Crunch is on a mission, and it takes thousands of dedicated people across our system to bring that mission to life every day," said Rowley. "Chequan and I have built a close, trusted partnership, which gives me real confidence in his leadership as he steps into the CEO role."
The announcement was delivered at the opening of what Crunch described as the largest franchise convention in the company's history, bringing together franchise owners, operators and industry partners from across its network.
The leadership change comes as Crunch continues to pursue expansion opportunities in a competitive fitness market, with Lewis now tasked with guiding the brand through its next phase of growth.
