Cancer survivor reshapes UK fitness industry

Clive Chesser, CEO of PureGym, revealed that surviving cancer in late 2021 fundamentally transformed his leadership style, enhancing empathy and reshaping his life and career path. His diagnosis followed a period of intense business negotiations and personal loss, including his father-in-law's death and his wife's COVID isolation, all around Christmas 2021.

Chesser's strong physical condition, maintained through marathon training, proved vital during his aggressive radiotherapy and chemotherapy, ultimately leading to his full recovery. This experience instilled a profound sense of purpose, making his current role at PureGym feel deeply aligned with his personal journey.

He observes a significant fitness revolution in the UK, driven by younger generations like Gen Z and Gen Alpha who view fitness as integral to their social identity, transforming gyms into community hubs. This includes a trend of 'fitness snacking' where individuals engage with various fitness offerings.

Furthermore, women are increasingly shifting from cardio to strength and conditioning. In response, PureGym has introduced over 50 women-only workout spaces across the UK to cater to preferences for more comfortable, less exposed environments, alongside screened zones for beginners.

Chesser also criticized the Labour government's economic performance, citing a lack of long-term growth strategy and the burden of business rates on physical businesses compared to online competitors. He contrasted governmental short-term crisis management with the strategic, long-term planning characteristic of successful businesses.