South African operator Zone Fitness opened three clubs in November and December 2014 to take its estate to 18 clubs.

The chain, which launched in 2002, is privately owned and managed by four partners. It operates primarily in Cape Town but has outlined plans to open four to five clubs a year, with much of the new expansion focused on Johannesburg and Pretoria. Clubs typically measure 1,400–2,000sq m, with an average of 6,000 members per club.

With a vision of fitness for all, at an affordable price, membership costs R165 (US$14, €12, £9) to R350 (US$29, €26, £19) a month depending on the package you choose: classes are available as well as the gym, where the lead supplier is Impulse.

"Getting members to join you club is easy. What's harder is to keep them interested, motivated and coming back week after week," said national sales manager Santie de Kock.

"We focus on giving members value for money, ensuring they achieve their goals, and creating an enjoyable environment to work out in."