Karl Sanft Appointed as President & CEO of 24 Hour Fitness

Sanft will lead 24 Hour Fitness as the fitness industry leader continues to expand its presence in the US

June began with an exciting announcement from 24 Hour Fitness. Karl Sanft has been named President and CEO of fitness industry leader 24 Hour Fitness and will lead the fitness company as it expands its presence in the United States.

Sanft, who has served as Chief Operating Officer of 24 Hour Fitness for the past three years, brings decades of experience to his latest roles and has received a warm welcome.

“After a strategic review of our company’s revitalized business proposition, we concluded that Karl is the best leader to take the company into the future of fitness,” says Michael Barnett, Board of Directors of 24 Hour Fitness. 

“His diverse background in the retail services industry along with his extensive familiarity with the 24 Hour Fitness brand—as a club member since 1993, and as a vital member of the company’s executive leadership team for the past three years—has resulted in his keen understanding of the member experience, and the creation of strong relationships both inside and outside the industry, and has earned the respect and support of our nationwide team of fitness professionals. These valuable perspectives will help shape the future of 24 Hour Fitness as well as the post-pandemic recovery of the fitness industry.”

Sanft has led 24 Hour Fitness to successes such as increased club traffic, spearheading the return of 24/7 club operations for many club members across the country, developing innovative concepts such as MODUS small group training, P.A.S.E. Factor, as well as forming partnerships with Nutrishop and iCRYO.

“I am excited about my new leadership role at 24 Hour Fitness and feel well prepared to lead our team. I look forward to learning more about what is most important to our members in the post-pandemic environment, and to helping the company continue to earn the title of ‘fitness industry leader,’” says Karl Sanft.

“I am confident about our future and look forward to further innovating the fitness experience in the club and as a virtual companion to become the best part of our members’ day.”