press release: ukactive
UK Active announces plans for National Fitness Day 2026
UK Active has announced the details of National Fitness Day 2026, with the flagship campaign set to take place on Wednesday 16 September 2026.
Now in its 15th year, National Fitness Day will see fitness, leisure and sport facilities across the UK offer free activities to inspire millions of people to be more active.
Coordinated by UK Active and delivered by its members, National Fitness Day celebrates the role of physical activity in supporting our physical and mental health, with an average of 10 million people a year taking part.
Following the success of last year’s campaign, UK Active has announced the continuation of the popular theme, ‘Powered by you!’, which highlights that everyone can play their part, from individuals and communities to businesses, schools and hospitals.
One example of the exciting activations kicking off on National Fitness Day is Total Active Hub’s 20/20 campaign, which will challenge businesses across the UK to get their people moving for 20 minutes a day to create healthier, more active workplaces.
To help reach more people, UK Active will shortly be launching a National Fitness Day 2026 toolkit and guide on how to activate, host events and get involved with this year’s campaign. The toolkit will include handy resources such as social media assets, banners and posters to help promote the day in every corner of the UK.
Gyms, pools and leisure centres continue to drive physical activity levels in the UK, with a record 12.2 million people now members of a health and fitness club, according to the UK Health & Fitness Market Report 2026.
Despite the growing popularity and prioritisation of fitness among Britons, significant barriers remain. A quarter of adults in England are classed as inactive (averaging less than 30 minutes of physical activity a week) – with women, those from lower socio-economic groups and Black and Asian people less likely to be active than others.
By showcasing the accessible and inclusive opportunities to be active available across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, National Fitness Day aims to reach more people than ever and inspire change that lasts well beyond the day.
Cameron Saunders, CEO of UK Active, said: “National Fitness Day is about showing the nation that physical activity is for everyone, regardless of age, background or experience.
“Today, more people are discovering the enjoyment, connection and rewards of being more active in their daily lives. It’s a chance to come together to celebrate being active and also the brilliant work of our local gyms, pools, leisure centres and sports clubs.
“We encourage all our members, partners and organisations across the UK to get involved and help power National Fitness Day in every community.”
Simon Hayes, CEO of Sport England, said: “Active lifestyles prevent over 3 million cases of chronic illness a year – including depression, diabetes and dementia – and save £8 billion annually for the health and care system.
“National Fitness Day is a great moment to celebrate getting active and how important it is for the physical, mental, and economic health of the nation.”
To find out more about National Fitness Day 2026, click here. Keep your eyes peeled for new resources and tips to get involved by following National Fitness Day on LinkedIn, Instagram, X and Facebook.
Cameron Saunders, CEO
Marianne Boyle, director of membership and sector development
Clemency Lion, director of research, policy and communications
