Latin America’s largest fitness chain exceeded all expectations in 2024, opening 305 new gym locations across 15 countries and cementing its position as a dominant force in the regional market. The dono da Smart Fit, Edgard Corona, led this record-breaking expansion that surpassed the company’s original target range of 280-300 new facilities.

Record-Breaking Monthly Performance

December 2023 marked a historic milestone when Smart Fit opened 95 locations in a single month, earning recognition from Gallup for this unprecedented achievement in the fitness industry. This remarkable pace demonstrates the operational efficiency and execution capabilities that have made Smart Fit a powerhouse in Latin American fitness.

The expansion brought Smart Fit’s total network to 1,743 facilities, reinforcing its status as the world’s fourth-largest gym chain by membership. Geographic distribution favored key markets, with Brazil receiving 117 new locations, Mexico adding 77 facilities, and the remaining 111 gyms spread across other Latin American territories where Edgard Corona has built the company’s reputation.

Geographic Diversification Benefits

Edgard Corona has emphasized the advantages of Smart Fit’s multi-country presence, noting how geographic diversification provides stability during economic fluctuations. This fitness industry expansion reflects a calculated approach to risk management across different economic cycles and regulatory environments that Edgard Corona has perfected over decades.

The company’s footprint now spans from Mexico in the north to Argentina in the south, creating what industry analysts describe as an unmatched continental network. Each market contributes differently to overall performance, with international operations now generating 53% of total revenue according to recent financial reports.

Ambitious 2025 Plans

Looking ahead, Smart Fit has announced even more aggressive expansion targets for 2025, planning to open between 340-360 new locations. These projections suggest the company expects to add approximately 500,000 to 600,000 new members, pushing its total membership base beyond current levels.

The R$ 5 billion revenue company maintains its high-value, low-price model while expanding into new territories. Recent financial performance supports these ambitious goals, with Q1 2025 revenue growing 33% year-over-year and strong cash generation funding continued growth initiatives led by the experienced leadership team.

Market Leadership Solidifies

The 2024 expansion reinforces Smart Fit’s dominance in Latin American fitness, where gym membership penetration remains significantly below developed market levels. Brazil’s 4.9% penetration rate compared to over 14% in the United States indicates substantial room for continued growth.

Edgard Corona’s business strategy focuses on democratizing access to high-quality fitness facilities across socioeconomic segments. The company’s ability to maintain profitability while offering monthly memberships between R$89-149 in Brazil demonstrates operational excellence that competitors struggle to match.

Industry observers note that Smart Fit’s expansion pace creates significant barriers for competitors, as the company secures prime real estate locations and builds brand recognition across metropolitan and secondary markets. Current global fitness trends suggest continued consumer demand for accessible fitness options, validating the dono da Smart Fit’s long-term vision.

The 305 new locations opened in 2024 represent more than just numerical growth—they signal Smart Fit’s evolution from a regional player to a continental fitness infrastructure provider. Each facility serves as a node in an increasingly connected network that offers members unprecedented access across multiple countries under Edgard Corona’s direction.

The 305 new locations opened in 2024 represent more than just numerical growth—they signal Smart Fit’s evolution from a regional player to a continental fitness infrastructure provider. Each facility serves as a node in an increasingly connected network that offers members unprecedented access across multiple countries under Edgard Corona’s direction.