In Conversation with Vikas Jain | Managing Director - Anytime Fitness India

India's fitness industry has undergone a significant transformation over the past two decades. Rising health awareness, changing lifestyles, growing urbanisation, and greater access to technology have reshaped how people approach fitness, making it an integral part of everyday life rather than an occasional activity.

In this episode of Leadership Lounge with The CEO Magazine, Shrikant Pandey speaks with Vikas Jain, Managing Director of Anytime Fitness India, about his entrepreneurial journey—from selling treadmills in 2002 to leading one of India's largest fitness franchise networks with more than 200 gyms and nearly 2 lakh members across the country.

The conversation explores entrepreneurship, franchising, customer trust, fitness awareness, technology, artificial intelligence, industry misconceptions, and the future of India's wellness ecosystem.

From Fitness Equipment to Building a Fitness Brand

Every entrepreneurial journey begins with understanding a market before transforming it.

For Vikas Jain, that journey started by selling fitness equipment at a time when organised fitness was still developing in India.

Working closely with gyms and fitness businesses provided valuable insight into customer behaviour, industry gaps, and the growing demand for accessible fitness solutions.

Those early experiences eventually laid the foundation for introducing and expanding Anytime Fitness in the Indian market.

Growing Anytime Fitness Across India

Building a global brand in a diverse market requires more than simply expanding locations.

The discussion explores how Anytime Fitness established its presence across India while adapting to local customer expectations and maintaining consistent service standards.

Today, the brand operates more than 200 gyms across the country, serving nearly 2 lakh members through a franchise-driven model focused on accessibility, convenience, and community.

Vikas explains that sustainable growth comes from building trust with both franchise partners and members while maintaining operational consistency across every location.

Why Convenience Has Become the New Definition of Fitness

Modern lifestyles have fundamentally changed how people approach health and exercise.

During the conversation, Vikas discusses how the idea of a "fitness club for busy people" resonated with professionals looking for flexibility rather than rigid schedules.

As work patterns continue to evolve, convenience, accessibility, and personalised experiences have become just as important as equipment or infrastructure.

According to him, successful fitness businesses are those that adapt to the realities of modern lifestyles while encouraging long-term healthy habits.

Breaking the Biggest Fitness Myths

The episode also addresses several misconceptions that continue to influence public understanding of health and fitness.

Vikas shares his perspective on common myths surrounding fat loss, protein consumption, and exercise routines, emphasising the importance of informed decision-making over social media trends and misinformation.

He explains that sustainable fitness is built through consistency, balanced nutrition, and realistic expectations rather than quick fixes or temporary solutions.

How Technology and AI Are Changing Fitness

Technology is becoming an increasingly important part of the fitness experience.

From member engagement and personalised workout planning to operational efficiency and performance tracking, digital tools are reshaping how fitness businesses serve their communities.

Vikas discusses how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are helping create more personalised and data-driven fitness experiences while improving convenience for members.

At the same time, he believes that technology should complement—not replace—the human motivation, coaching, and accountability that remain central to long-term fitness success.

Building a Successful Fitness Franchise

Franchising has played a major role in the organised growth of India's fitness industry.

The conversation explores what prospective entrepreneurs should understand before entering the business, including the importance of location, operational discipline, customer experience, and long-term commitment.

According to Vikas, success in the fitness industry requires far more than opening a gym—it demands consistent execution, strong community engagement, and a genuine commitment to helping people achieve healthier lifestyles.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Drawing from his own entrepreneurial journey, Vikas offers practical advice for professionals looking to build businesses in the fitness sector.

He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to:

• Focus on creating long-term customer value

• Build trust through consistent service

• Stay adaptable as consumer expectations evolve

• Invest in people, systems, and technology

• Think beyond short-term growth and build sustainable businesses

He believes that lasting success comes from continuous learning, disciplined execution, and remaining committed to delivering meaningful customer experiences.

The Future of India's Fitness Industry

As health awareness continues to grow across India, the organised fitness industry is expected to evolve alongside changing consumer expectations and technological innovation.

According to Vikas, businesses that combine accessibility, personalised experiences, and strong customer relationships will be best positioned for long-term success.

The future of fitness, he believes, extends beyond physical exercise to encompass overall wellness, lifestyle improvement, and preventive healthcare.

Why You Should Watch This Episode

This episode offers valuable insights for:

• Fitness entrepreneurs and gym owners

• Franchise operators and business leaders

• Health and wellness professionals

• Aspiring entrepreneurs

• Young professionals interested in the fitness industry

• Anyone looking to understand the future of organised fitness in India

It is an engaging conversation on entrepreneurship, franchising, customer trust, fitness awareness, technology, and building a business that empowers healthier communities.

Because in the end, the fitness industry is not just about building gyms.

It is about helping people build healthier lives while creating businesses designed for long-term impact.