Core Viewpoint - The fitness industry, particularly gyms, is facing significant challenges leading to a high rate of closures, primarily due to the mismatch between consumer demand and the operational realities of gym businesses [5][17][34]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - Many established gym brands, such as 威尔仕, are struggling to survive in the current market [5][7]. - The phenomenon of gyms going bankrupt is common, with many consumers experiencing multiple gym closures [14][16]. - The fundamental issue is that the gym model is counterintuitive to human nature, as most people lack the self-discipline to maintain a consistent workout routine [19][21]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - A significant portion of the population does not require gym memberships to achieve fitness goals, as resources for self-guided workouts are widely available [21][22]. - The demographic of hardcore gym users is very small, with many opting for free public spaces to exercise instead [23][25]. - The high costs associated with gym memberships and personal training deter many potential customers, leading to a reliance on cheaper alternatives [26][27]. Group 3: Financial Viability - The operational costs of running a gym are substantial, including high rent, equipment costs, and utilities, making it difficult to sustain profitability [45][46]. - The reliance on selling personal training sessions for revenue is problematic, as many gym members do not attend regularly, limiting sales opportunities [49][50]. - The cash flow issues in gyms are exacerbated by the fact that many members do not utilize their memberships, leading to a lack of recurring revenue [36][38]. Group 4: Sales Practices - The pressure to sell personal training sessions has led to questionable sales tactics, where some trainers may exaggerate the necessity of their services [56][63]. - The disconnect between skilled trainers and sales ability results in a market where less qualified individuals may succeed in selling services over more knowledgeable trainers [58][62]. - The prevalence of negative experiences with personal trainers has tarnished the reputation of the industry, leading to a general distrust among consumers [67]. Group 5: Business Models - Some gym owners have adopted a "pump and dump" strategy, where they quickly sell memberships and then close down, leaving customers with unused services [70][72]. - The industry is characterized by a high turnover of new gyms, with many failing within the first few years of operation [72][73]. - The operational model of gyms is increasingly viewed as unsustainable, with many owners recognizing that long-term viability is unlikely [69][68].

Core Viewpoint - The fitness industry, particularly gyms, is facing significant challenges leading to a high rate of closures, driven by inherent human behavior and economic factors [2][4]. Group 1: Industry Challenges - Many gyms, including established brands, are struggling to survive, with a notable trend of closures [2][4]. - The fitness business model is fundamentally flawed as it relies on a small percentage of dedicated users, while the majority do not consistently attend [6][8]. - The high costs associated with running a gym, including rent, equipment, and utilities, make it difficult to maintain profitability [8][9]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Most individuals lack the self-discipline to maintain a regular gym routine, leading to a high number of unused memberships [5][6]. - The perception that gym memberships are necessary for fitness is misleading; many can achieve their goals through self-directed methods without incurring costs [5][6]. - The time commitment required for regular gym attendance is often unfeasible for many, particularly working professionals [8][9]. Group 3: Financial Dynamics - Gyms often struggle with cash flow issues, as the prepayment model does not guarantee ongoing revenue if members do not attend [8][9]. - The reliance on selling personal training sessions for profitability creates a conflict of interest, where sales tactics may overshadow genuine fitness guidance [11][12]. - The high initial investment in gym facilities and equipment does not translate into sustainable revenue, leading to financial instability [8][9]. Group 4: Market Trends - The fitness industry is witnessing a trend where new gyms may operate under a "pump and dump" model, quickly selling memberships before closing down [13]. - The market is characterized by a lack of trust, with many consumers associating personal trainers with aggressive sales tactics rather than professional guidance [11][12]. - The overall demand for fitness services exists, but the traditional gym model is not effectively meeting this demand [8][9].