Crunch Fitness Names Chequan Lewis CEO in Major Leadership Move

Lewis, a former Pizza Hut executive, takes over the top role at the fitness franchisor from longtime Crunch CEO Jim Rowley

Crunch Fitness has appointed Chequan Lewis as chief executive officer, effective immediately, succeeding Jim Rowley, who has transitioned to executive chairman of the high-value, low-price fitness operator.

The move comes roughly 14 months after Crunch received a strategic investment from Leonard Green & Partners, a private equity firm that acquired a majority stake from TPG Growth and Crunch’s minority shareholders in a deal that reportedly valued Crunch at over $1.5 billion, including debt.

Lewis, a Howard University and Harvard Law School graduate who joined Crunch in 2024 as president, steps into the top role after helping drive the company’s growth to more than 550 locations worldwide. He came to the high-value, low-price (HVLP) gym giant from Pizza Hut, where he served as chief operating officer and first chief equity officer.

The leadership transition was announced during Crunch’s 2026 Global Franchise Convention in San Antonio, Texas.

“Crunch has never been stronger, and that strength reflects years of close collaboration with Jim, our franchise partners and our teams across the brand, who have built something special over time,” Lewis said. 

Rowley, who has served as CEO since 2019, will remain actively involved in Crunch, the company said. 

Under his leadership, Crunch Fitness unveiled its 3.0 template, bringing a refreshed look to its gyms along with new equipment and recovery offerings. The fitness operator also marked a breakout year in 2025, with club openings and leasing activity reaching all-time highs, its chief development officer John D’Anna said earlier this year.

“Chequan and I have built a close, trusted partnership, which gives me real confidence in his leadership as he steps into the CEO role,” Rowley said. “I’m excited to move into a role focused on strategy, results and performance — helping guide our current priorities and future plans that will shape the next phase of Crunch’s growth.”

Amid the leadership move, it’s a pivotal time for the HVLP franchise. Crunch is among the first to adopt a boutique feel within its clubs with Crunch Reform Pilates, an instructor-led reformer Pilates studio concept that will launch at 20 select clubs next month.

Meanwhile, CR Fitness, one of Crunch’s largest franchisees, took a $350 million investment from Sixth Street last fall. The group is on track to operate 110 locations by the end of the year.