Olympic champion Sir Mo Farah has launched URUNN, a new AI-powered running app co-founded with Adam Clarke and FitTech company WithU. Designed for runners of all levels, URUNN delivers personalised training plans, real-time coaching, and elite-level insights to help users run stronger and smarter.

Samsung announces plans to acquire Xealth, a digital health platform used by over 500 U.S. hospitals, in a move to integrate wearable tech with clinical care and expand its connected health ecosystem.

Onelife Fitness announces plans to open 15+ clubs in the Raleigh-Durham market, beginning with a 58,000 sq. ft. location in Durham-Chapel Hill. The expansion signals continued investment in large-format, full-amenity health clubs aimed at capturing growth in high-demand suburban regions.

Hims & Hers enters Canadian market with a digital weight loss program leveraging generic semaglutide, signaling increased competition and accessibility in the growing GLP-1 and obesity treatment sector.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit has vacated the FTC’s “Click-to-Cancel” rule, a major policy win for the fitness industry. Backed by two years of advocacy from the Health & Fitness Association, the ruling removes burdensome cancellation mandates and reinforces the importance of practical, consumer-friendly policies.

Club Pilates teams up with Disney for its first film collaboration, launching a nationwide campaign tied to Freakier Friday. Themed classes, a premiere sweepstakes, and brand activations aim to boost engagement and visibility across the fitness and entertainment industries.

Ladder launches Team Endure, a new strength program led by Jennifer Jacobs, as part of its expanding coach-led platform. With over $100 million in funding and projections to exceed 400,000 members by 2025, the company continues to scale structured, results-oriented training for the modern fitness consumer.

GymNation launches “The Coolest Class in Dubai,” a temperature-controlled HIIT workout designed to help members stay active through extreme summer heat. With strong demand and a ballot-based registration system, the innovative concept blends performance, novelty, and climate-smart programming to boost member engagement and retention.

WeightWatchers expands its partnership with Novo Nordisk to improve access to FDA-approved Wegovy for weight loss. The collaboration includes a limited-time price of $299, integrated pharmacy fulfillment, and a commitment to real-world research combining GLP-1 treatment with lifestyle support.

Syntis Bio raises $33 million in Series A funding to advance its oral SYNT platform, including SYNT-101 for obesity and SYNT-202 for rare disease. With additional NIH grant support, the company aims to transform weight loss and metabolic health treatment through non-invasive drug delivery.

The Health and Fitness Association expresses disappointment after the Senate-passed reconciliation bill excludes the physical activity HSA provision. Modeled on the bipartisan PHIT Act, the measure would have allowed Americans to use pre-tax dollars for fitness expenses—supporting preventive care, reducing healthcare costs, and making healthy living more accessible.

World Gym International signs a Master Franchise Agreement with Flag Holding LTDA to expand to 50 locations in Brazil, marking a major step in the brand’s global growth strategy.

Barry’s announces leadership transition as it plans to double its global footprint. Joey Gonzalez becomes Executive Chairman, while JJ Gantt steps in as CEO to lead the next phase of strategic growth.

Zumba Cruise returns in 2026 after a seven-year break, offering a branded fitness experience at sea with top instructors, themed workouts, and global community engagement aboard the Norwegian Pearl.

Pvolve has been ranked No. 78 on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® list in the Top New & Emerging Franchises category. The recognition reflects the brand’s recent growth, hybrid service model, and expanding footprint in the boutique fitness sector.

Novo Nordisk has ended its collaboration with Hims & Hers, citing concerns over compounded versions of Wegovy®. The decision follows scrutiny around patient safety and regulatory compliance in the telehealth weight loss space.

The American College of Cardiology has released new clinical guidance that positions GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide as a first-line option for treating obesity—without requiring prior failed attempts at diet and exercise. With cardiovascular risk reduction now a central goal, this shift may influence how the fitness industry supports members using medical weight-loss therapies.

Solace House and Solace New York are partnering to embed free, confidential mental health services into a Manhattan-based gym. As more fitness operators explore integrated wellness offerings, this initiative reflects a growing industry shift toward supporting both physical and mental health within club environments.

A proposal to allow Health Savings Accounts to cover gym memberships and fitness expenses is not currently included in the Senate tax package, but there is still time to act. As Congress finalizes the bill, the fitness industry is making a final push to get this provision added. Operators and members are being urged to contact lawmakers now.

VAURA Pilates expands into California with new franchise opportunities, bringing its immersive, performance-focused reformer Pilates experience to the U.S. market. With locations in New York and Austin, the brand is targeting rapid growth in major cities across North America.