Is iFitness Now for the Rich? Nigerians React to New Gym Prices

It’s starting to look like the “I” in iFitness stands for increment! Every year, Nigerian gym lovers wake up to new subscription rates—and 2026 isn’t any different.

iFitness, Nigeria’s leading gym chain, has announced another major increase in gym membership prices, effective January 2026, and Nigerians are not having it.

Nigerians React to iFitness Price Increase

The new announcement quickly sparked reactions across social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter), where users questioned whether iFitness is still for everyone—or now only for the rich.

According to the latest price list shared by the company, monthly subscriptions will now cost:

  • ₦42,875 across most Lagos branches

  • ₦64,325 at premium branches in Ikoyi and Guzape

  • ₦31,875 in Ikorodu and Ibadan

  • Plus, an annual membership due of ₦33,385

For comparison, earlier rates in 2024 were around ₦24,890 for standard branches and ₦19,890 for Ikorodu, meaning subscribers will now pay about 70–90% more depending on their location.

What iFitness Says About the New Prices

In an official statement, iFitness Nigeria explained that the price review is meant to reduce overcrowding, maintain service quality, and keep up with rising operational costs.

The company currently runs over 20 branches across Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan, with more than 200 certified personal trainers and state-of-the-art gym equipment.

However, many Nigerians believe the move may push the brand into elitist territory, far from the affordable fitness space it once represented.

Nigerians on X: “Fitness for the Rich?”

On X, reactions were mixed. Some users accused iFitness of becoming greedy and “pricing out” loyal members. Others defended the brand, saying the price hike reflects Nigeria’s harsh economic realities, where imported fitness equipment, rent, and maintenance costs have all skyrocketed.

Still, many agree that iFitness remains unmatched when it comes to quality equipment, professional trainers, clean facilities, and networking opportunities—something that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Is iFitness Now for the Rich?

While quality comes at a cost, many Nigerians feel that ₦40,000+ per month is simply too high for an average gym-goer—especially with inflation and the weak naira.

To make things worse, those who want personal trainers still have to pay an additional ₦73,000, leaving many wondering if the brand is now for a select few.

As one user joked, “Na fat we fat, we no kill person!”

Alternatives to iFitness

If the new iFitness gym membership fees are beyond your budget, don’t worry—you still have options.

  • Cheaper local gyms are available in most neighborhoods.

  • YouTube workouts and home routines are free.

  • And even walking or jogging can help you stay fit without breaking the bank.

After all, you don’t have to belong to an expensive gym to stay healthy. The goal is consistency, not luxury.