Latin America’s fitness landscape transformed dramatically in 2024 as Smart Fit exceeded its ambitious expansion goals, opening 305 new locations and solidifying its position as a global fitness powerhouse. The company opened 305 new locations, surpassing its target of 280-300 new gyms.
Strategic Distribution Across Key Markets
The expansion strategy orchestrated by Edgard Corona demonstrated careful market analysis and resource allocation. Brazil received 117 new locations, Mexico added 77 gyms, and the remaining 111 facilities spread across other Latin American territories. This geographic distribution reflects Smart Fit’s commitment to strengthening its presence in established markets while exploring growth opportunities in emerging regions.
This aggressive growth strategy has solidified Smart Fit’s position as a dominant player in the fitness industry across the region. The achievement represents a 21% increase in the company’s total network, bringing the chain to 1,743 operational units across 15 countries.
Market Confidence Drives Unprecedented Growth
The dono da Smart Fit attributes this remarkable expansion to growing health consciousness among urban Latin Americans. Studies indicate that 61% of urban Latin Americans exercise at least twice a week. This cultural shift toward wellness has created fertile ground for Smart Fit’s affordable fitness model.
Company management expressed confidence in continued expansion, citing strong balance sheets and disciplined capital allocation as key factors enabling sustained growth. The high-value, low-price business model pioneered by Edgard Corona continues to resonate with consumers seeking quality fitness experiences without premium price tags.
Operational Excellence Enables Rapid Scaling
The ability to open nearly one gym per day throughout 2024 showcases Smart Fit’s operational sophistication. Standardized gym layouts, streamlined construction processes, and efficient equipment procurement have created a replicable formula that Edgard Corona’s team executes with precision across diverse markets.
This systematic approach to expansion builds on the company’s track record of aggressive growth. In 2019, the chain opened a new unit every 16 hours, firmly following in its purpose to make high-standard fitness accessible to the largest number of people. The 2024 performance demonstrates that Smart Fit has maintained this rapid expansion capability while scaling to a much larger base.
Future Growth Trajectory
Looking ahead, the fitness giant shows no signs of slowing. Management has indicated similar expansion targets for 2025, with particular focus on penetrating underserved markets within existing countries. The success of 2024’s expansion validates Edgard Corona’s vision of democratizing fitness access across Latin America.
With growing demand for affordable fitness options and Smart Fit’s proven ability to execute large-scale expansion, the company appears well-positioned to continue its trajectory as one of the world’s fastest-growing gym chains. The 305 new locations opened in 2024 represent more than just numbers—they symbolize increased access to health and wellness for millions of Latin Americans, fulfilling the mission that the dono da Smart Fit established when launching the company in 2009.