Brighton, UK – Fitness First, a popular gym located on Queen’s Road in Brighton, has announced its immediate and permanent closure, leaving its members and staff in shock. The gym ceased operations on Tuesday, January 28th, 2025, after days of rumors circulating among its community. The closure impacts approximately 1,250 members, more than a dozen staff members, and around 20 group fitness instructors.
Sudden Closure Sparks Outrage and Confusion
The abrupt closure of Fitness First has been met with frustration from its members. Many members expressed their dismay on social media platforms, highlighting the lack of prior notice from the company. Some members had recently purchased memberships, some even on the day before the closure, and were left feeling betrayed by the sudden announcement. The lack of communication from Fitness First prior to the closure has fueled anger among its now-former patrons.
Landlord Dispute Cited as Reason for Closure
In an email sent to members shortly after local news outlets contacted the company, Fitness First cited a disagreement with the landlord as the primary reason for the closure. The email stated, “Despite our best efforts to work with the landlord to keep the club open, we regret to inform you that Fitness First Brighton will permanently close its doors on Tuesday 28 January. This was a very difficult decision and one that has not been made lightly. Unfortunately, circumstances beyond our control have left us no other option.”
Lack of Maintenance Hints at Deeper Issues
The sudden closure followed weeks of complaints regarding the gym’s facilities. Members had been reporting issues with the hot water, water fountains, and sauna, which had not been addressed by the management. Many now see these maintenance issues as a sign of the larger problems that ultimately led to the gym’s closure.
Impact on Members and Staff
The closure has not only impacted the members but has also left the staff and instructors in a precarious situation. With little to no notice, staff members are now facing unemployment, adding to the distress caused by the sudden shutdown.
Membership Refund Process
Fitness First has stated in its email to members that monthly membership refunds will be processed automatically within two to three weeks. Members who have prepaid for longer-term memberships are required to contact the Membership Services team to request a partial refund.
Retrieving Personal Belongings
The gym has allowed members to retrieve their personal belongings from the club by 8 PM on the day of closure. Staff members have been directed to assist members in the process.
Broader Industry Challenges
The closure of Fitness First in Brighton is not an isolated incident. The fitness industry has been facing significant challenges in recent years, exacerbated by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, rising energy costs, and changing work patterns.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
The pandemic forced numerous gyms and leisure centers across the UK to close, leading to substantial financial losses. Many facilities have struggled to recover from the loss of revenue due to lockdowns and capacity restrictions. A survey from ukactive, an industry body, estimated that around 400 gyms, pools and leisure centres were forced to close due to financial pressures caused by the pandemic.
Rising Costs and Changing Work Patterns
The fitness sector is also facing pressure from rising energy costs, increased staffing costs, and the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. Additionally, the trend of hybrid working has reduced footfall in city center gyms, leading to financial strain. As people work from home, inner-city gyms are struggling to attract new members, and this has been cited as a contributing factor in recent Fitness First closures.
Fitness First’s Restructuring Efforts
Fitness First has been attempting to restructure its business to address these challenges. This has included plans to renegotiate rents with landlords and potentially reduce the number of its clubs. In 2023, the company was reportedly working on a financial restructuring plan that involved potential closures and significant rent reductions across its remaining sites. A number of sites have already closed within the last year.
The Future of Fitness in Brighton
The closure of Fitness First has left a gap in Brighton’s fitness community, but numerous alternatives are available for those looking to continue their fitness journey.
Alternative Gyms and Fitness Centers
Brighton offers a range of fitness facilities, including:
- Freedom Leisure Centres: With seven gyms across Brighton and Hove, including the large Withdean Sports Complex. These centers offer a wide range of facilities, classes, and equipment.
- The Gym Group: Known for its affordability and accessibility, offering 24/7 access in many locations.
- Underground Gym: An independent gym that has expanded to Newhaven and Tunbridge Wells.
- TheBox Brighton: A boutique boxing-inspired gym.
- Platinum Health and Fitness: A premium gym located in Newhaven.
- Sport Brighton Facilities: The University of Brighton offers fitness facilities at its Falmer campus, which include a gym and activity studios.
Local Reactions
Members have expressed a desire for local independent gyms that foster a sense of community and are in keeping with the “Brighton ethos.” They are seeking alternatives to what they consider to be “faceless budget gyms” and emphasizing the importance of personalized fitness experiences.
Conclusion
The sudden closure of Fitness First in Brighton underscores the precarious state of the fitness industry amidst various economic and societal changes. While the immediate impact is the loss of a gym and the disruption of people’s routines, the event also serves as a reminder of the broader challenges and shifts within the fitness sector. Brighton’s fitness community, though temporarily shaken, has access to multiple alternative options, and it remains to be seen how these facilities will accommodate those displaced by the Fitness First closure.
