Women drive growth in Brazil's fitness chain Ultra Academias

Ultra Academias women franchisees Brazil fitness gym management industry growth

Brazil's fitness sector has expanded rapidly, reaching more than 62,000 establishments. The number of centers rose from 22,581 in 2015 to 62,718 in 2025, and the industry is projected to exceed 70,000 locations by 2027, placing Brazil second worldwide after the United States.

Ultra Academias, founded in 2021, now operates over 100 gyms in 16 states, serving roughly 300,000 students. The chain has 13 women managing 29 of its locations, reflecting a broader trend of increasing female leadership in the sector. Executives say women franchisees and investors are shaping investment decisions and creating more inclusive gym environments. Cristiane Lopes, a franchisee in Brasília, noted that investors feel more confident when women are in charge of the business.

The rise of women in management is seen as a strategic factor for growth, with industry analysts linking the shift to improved customer experience and differentiated service offerings.

Entities

Brazil · Cristiane Lopes · Ivete Gama · Panorama Setorial Fitness Brasil · Ultra Academias

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] The number of fitness centers in Brazil increased from 22,581 in 2015 to 62,718 in 2025. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Brazil ranks second worldwide in number of fitness centers, behind the United States. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Brazil is projected to have over 70,000 fitness centers by 2027. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Cristiane Lopes, a franchisee in Brasília, says investors feel more secure when women lead the business. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Thirteen women lead 29 Ultra Academias locations. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Ultra Academias was founded in 2021 and operates more than 100 units across 16 states. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Women franchisees and investors are influencing investment decisions in Brazil's fitness sector. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Ultra Academias serves about 300,000 students. valor.globo.com · dicaappdodia.com · oglobo.globo.com