Crunch Fitness Flexes into Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 Top 20

NEW YORK, NY – January 20, 2026 – Crunch Fitness has muscled its way into the upper echelon of the franchise world, securing the #20 overall spot in Entrepreneur's highly coveted 2026 Franchise 500® list. The high-value, low-price gym operator made a significant 12-spot jump from its previous ranking of #32, cementing its status as a powerhouse not only in fitness, where it ranked #2, but across the entire franchise industry.

For 47 years, the Franchise 500® has served as a benchmark for franchise excellence, analyzing over 150 data points to identify brands that thrive in dynamic markets. "For 47 years, the Franchise 500 has been the gold standard for identifying franchise excellence," said Jason Feifer, Entrepreneur's editor in chief. "This year's ranking proves that the best brands don't just survive changing markets; they thrive in them."

Crunch's dramatic ascent is a direct reflection of a milestone year marked by strategic investment, rapid global expansion, and significant product innovation, demonstrating a formula that is resonating with both franchisees and a growing international member base.

A Blueprint for Accelerated Growth

At the heart of Crunch's recent success is a potent combination of financial backing and aggressive expansion. A strategic investment from private equity firm Leonard Green & Partners has unlocked a new chapter of accelerated growth, providing the capital to fuel the brand’s ambitious plans. This financial strength is a key pillar of the Franchise 500® evaluation, and Crunch's performance metrics bear out the effectiveness of this partnership.

In the past year alone, the company expanded its global footprint by an impressive 16.8%, adding 71 new locations. It now serves over 3.5 million members across more than 550 gyms worldwide, a significant increase after recently racing past the 3-million-member mark. This rapid scaling is set to continue, with the company announcing plans to open approximately 100 new gyms globally in 2026.

"It's an honor for us to receive Entrepreneur's recognition as one of the leading fitness brands in franchising," said Jim Rowley, CEO of Crunch Fitness. "As the original 'No Judgments' gym, we have defined the high-value, low-price fitness sector. This year's ranking is a testament to the commitment of our franchisees, corporate team, team members at our gyms, and millions of loyal members around the world."

This growth trajectory places Crunch in a formidable position within the competitive fitness landscape. While Planet Fitness reportedly holds the top spot in the fitness category, Crunch's rapid climb indicates it is quickly closing the gap and challenging established leaders.

Innovating the Member Experience with 'Crunch 3.0'

Beyond sheer numbers, Crunch is investing heavily in the evolution of the gym experience itself. The company has begun rolling out 'Crunch 3.0,' an innovative new gym design concept that re-imagines the fitness space to meet the holistic wellness demands of modern consumers. The first of these next-generation gyms debuted in East Plano, Texas, showcasing a significant upgrade.

The 'Crunch 3.0' model features redesigned lobbies and reception areas for a more welcoming entry, along with expanded functional training zones equipped with indoor turf and an improved HIITZone™. The design also incorporates more strength training equipment, including Olympic lifting platforms, to cater to serious lifters.

Perhaps the most significant innovation is the introduction of a dedicated "Relax & Recover®" wellness studio. This space moves beyond traditional exercise, offering members access to amenities like Hyperice massage equipment, red light therapy, and infrared saunas. This focus on recovery aligns with a broader industry trend toward comprehensive wellness and provides a premium experience that elevates the brand beyond its low-price tag.

"As we celebrate this year's ranking, we want to recognize the operational excellence of Crunch franchisees and team members, and the legendary experiences we create at our gyms," said Chequan Lewis, President of Crunch Fitness. "Growth is on the other side of legendary experiences. We are here to deliver both."

Global Ambitions: From New York to New Delhi

Crunch's growth strategy is not confined to North America. The brand has embarked on an aggressive international expansion plan, most notably launching a major franchise initiative in India. With plans to open at least 75 clubs across the country, starting with its first location in Noida, Crunch is making a serious bid to capture a share of the burgeoning South Asian fitness market.

This move into India complements an already robust international presence, with gyms operating in Australia, Canada, Spain, Portugal, Costa Rica, and Puerto Rico. This global footprint, spanning 41 U.S. states and eight countries, demonstrates the adaptability of the Crunch model. By successfully translating its unique blend of fitness and entertainment to diverse cultures, the company is positioning itself as a truly global fitness brand.

The 'No Judgments' Advantage

The foundational element tying all these strategies together is Crunch's signature 'No Judgments' philosophy. More than just a marketing slogan, this ethos of inclusivity is a core business driver that has cultivated a loyal and diverse community. By creating a welcoming environment for people of all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels, the brand has successfully differentiated itself in a crowded market.

This philosophy is particularly appealing to Millennial and Gen Z consumers, who prioritize authenticity and community in their brand choices. The focus on making fitness fun and accessible removes the intimidation factor often associated with gyms, fostering better member retention and word-of-mouth growth. This welcoming atmosphere is a key component of the "legendary experiences" the company's leadership aims to create with every check-in.

However, maintaining this high standard of experience across a rapidly expanding network of over 550 franchised locations presents its own set of challenges. As with any large-scale franchise system, ensuring consistent operational execution and customer service at every local gym is a continual focus. While the corporate vision is clear, the real-world delivery of the brand promise ultimately rests in the hands of hundreds of individual franchisees and their teams around the globe, a crucial factor as Crunch Fitness continues its impressive climb.