Crunch Fitness Group Acquires 5 Jersey Strong Clubs in NJ

The deal underscores ongoing consolidation in the gym space as large brands like Crunch gobble up smaller operators

Crunch Fitness franchisee Fitness Holdings North America is strengthening its New Jersey presence by acquiring five locations from Jersey Strong Gym in Tinton Falls, Ocean Township, Wall Township, Freehold and Marlboro, giving the franchisee 14 gym locations in New Jersey and 51 in the Northeast.

The deal marks one of the first fitness acquisitions of 2025, following a trend last year where several smaller fitness chains were absorbed by larger operators. It’s a strategy that analysts expect to continue in full force in the coming years, given the rapid success large gym operators have seen in driving expansion.

The facilities will become part of the Crunch Fitness brand and are set to undergo a $20 million upgrade, which includes renovations and new equipment. According to a post on social media, a Crunch Fitness banner has already been mounted over at least one former Jersey Strong Gym sign. Last summer, Jersey Strong closed its long-standing Red Bank location. The fitness operator, formerly known as Work Out World, now lists four active locations on its website: East Brunswick, Manalapan, Old Bridge and Robbinsville.

“Strengthening the Crunch Fitness presence in New Jersey demonstrates our commitment to bring seriously fun fitness to even more gymgoers in the Northeast,” Fitness Holdings North America CEO Mark Federico said. “This expansion marks a significant step in our New Jersey growth and beyond. We look forward to welcoming these gyms into our fitness family while transforming these locations into vibrant, welcoming, and engaging spaces.”