What Is 24 Hour Fitness

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Last updated: April 15, 2026

Quick Answer: 24 Hour Fitness is a U.S.-based fitness chain founded in 1983 with over 300 clubs across 11 states as of 2023, offering 24/7 access to gym facilities and fitness classes.

Key Facts

Founded in 1983 by Mark Mastrov in San Ramon, California
Operates over 300 clubs in 11 U.S. states as of 2023
Offers 24/7 access to gym facilities, including weight rooms and cardio equipment
Acquired by private equity firm HCI Equity Partners in 2020
Provides group fitness classes such as cycling, HIIT, and yoga

Overview

24 Hour Fitness is one of the largest privately held fitness chains in the United States, known for its round-the-clock access and wide range of workout amenities. Founded in 1983, the company has grown to operate more than 300 locations across 11 states, primarily serving urban and suburban communities.

The brand emphasizes convenience and flexibility, catering to members with unpredictable schedules. With a focus on accessibility, 24 Hour Fitness offers keycard entry, digital check-ins, and mobile app integration to streamline the gym experience for its members.

Founded in 1983 by fitness entrepreneur Mark Mastrov in San Ramon, California, the company began as a single club and expanded rapidly through acquisitions and franchising.
As of 2023, it operates over 300 clubs in states including California, Texas, Florida, and Nevada, making it one of the most geographically widespread gym chains in the U.S.
Each location provides 24/7 access, allowing members to work out at any hour using secure keycard entry systems and automated check-in kiosks.
The company offers a variety of cardio and strength equipment, including treadmills, ellipticals, free weights, and resistance machines from brands like Life Fitness and Hammer Strength.
24 Hour Fitness also features group fitness classes such as BodyPump, cycling, yoga, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), with schedules varying by location.

How It Works

Membership at 24 Hour Fitness is designed to be flexible, with multiple tiers and pricing options to suit different fitness goals and budgets. The process is streamlined through online sign-up, app-based scheduling, and automated facility access.

Membership Types: Offers several tiers including Super Sport, Ultra Sport, and Express, with prices ranging from $29.99 to $59.99 per month, depending on access level and location.
24/7 Access: Members can enter facilities at any time using a personalized keycard or the mobile app, which scans a digital pass at entry points.
Class Reservations: Group fitness classes require advance booking via the 24GO mobile app, which also tracks workouts, sets goals, and monitors progress.
Personal Training: Certified trainers are available for one-on-one sessions, with rates averaging $60–$80 per hour, depending on trainer experience and location.
Corporate Partnerships: Many employers partner with 24 Hour Fitness to offer discounted memberships as part of employee wellness programs.
Freeze & Cancellation: Members can suspend or cancel their membership online, though fees may apply depending on the contract terms.

Comparison at a Glance

Here's how 24 Hour Fitness compares to other major gym chains in key service areas:

Feature	24 Hour Fitness	Planet Fitness	Gold's Gym	Equinox
24/7 Access	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Monthly Cost (avg)	$29.99–$59.99	$10–$25	$30–$50	$100–$300
Group Classes	Yes (HIIT, cycling, yoga)	Limited	Yes	Yes (premium)
Personal Training	Yes	Yes (additional fee)	Yes	Yes (high-end)
Locations (U.S.)	300+	2,000+	500+	100+

While 24 Hour Fitness offers a balanced mix of affordability and amenities, it competes in the mid-tier market. Unlike budget-focused Planet Fitness, it provides more diverse equipment and class options, but lacks the luxury appeal of Equinox. Its national footprint is smaller than Planet Fitness but more extensive than premium brands.

Why It Matters

24 Hour Fitness plays a significant role in democratizing access to fitness facilities, especially for shift workers, parents, and others with non-traditional schedules. Its model supports long-term health goals by removing time-based barriers to gym access.

Flexible scheduling enables members to work out at 3 a.m. or during lunch breaks, increasing consistency and adherence to fitness routines.
The availability of HIIT and strength training programs supports weight loss, muscle gain, and cardiovascular health for diverse age groups.
Corporate wellness partnerships help reduce employee absenteeism and improve workplace productivity through subsidized memberships.
Acquisition by HCI Equity Partners in 2020 stabilized the company after bankruptcy, ensuring continued operations and facility upgrades.
Integration with the 24GO app enhances user engagement by offering workout tracking, class booking, and virtual fitness content.
Post-pandemic, the brand has invested in enhanced cleaning protocols and touchless entry to improve member safety and confidence.

As fitness trends shift toward hybrid models combining in-person and digital experiences, 24 Hour Fitness remains a key player in making comprehensive gym access both convenient and attainable for millions of Americans.