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A Moment for UKActive to Refocus
The changes at UKActive this week mark an important moment. With Dave Stalker stepping in as Chair and Huw stepping down, there’s a genuine opportunity to reset, refocus, and reimagine what the organisation stands for.
I’ve never wanted to be overly critical of UKActive. In many ways, what they’ve achieved is remarkable given the scale of what they’ve tried to take on. Contrary to what many people might think, UKActive isn’t a vast organisation with endless resources. It’s relatively small, yet it has carried an enormous remit — trying to represent every corner of the physical activity sector. That ambition, while admirable, has also been part of the challenge.
When the Fitness Industry Association evolved into UKActive, it did so with a powerful vision. Dave Stalker’s original goal — to broaden the remit, embrace a wider audience and unite the sector — was visionary. But over time, in trying to be everything to everyone, some of the core focus on the fitness industry itself has faded.
Government lobbying has been a major pillar of UKActive’s strategy. Yet despite tireless effort, the results have been limited. Some of that isn’t their fault — the instability of government, changes in ministers and a historic lack of understanding about our sector have made progress difficult. But it’s also fair to say that when lobbying becomes the dominant focus, the day-to-day needs of operators — the gyms, clubs, and studios — risk being sidelined.
The structure, too, perhaps needs review. Having a voluntary board, often weighted towards individuals from outside the fitness industry, can make it harder to stay connected to the realities operators face. Representation from the NHS and other external organisations brings valuable perspectives, but at board level, we also need voices who live and breathe the fitness sector daily. Governance that reflects the industry’s commercial and operational realities — with full-time executives responsible for key areas like membership, finance, and growth — would create a stronger, more responsive foundation.
Most importantly, being a member of UKActive should mean something tangible. Membership should bring visible value — through national campaigns, business support, and sector development that strengthens both public and private operators. The focus must return to supporting the people and organisations that drive participation every single day.
None of this is to criticise the vision. Quite the opposite. UKActive’s intent has always been rooted in the right ideals. But with change at the top, now is the time to be bold enough to evolve again. The organisation can still unite the wider activity sector while giving the fitness industry its rightful voice and focus.
The positive news is that there are already groups of passionate, experienced people ready and waiting to support that change. If UKActive embraces this moment — and those willing to help shape the next chapter — the industry will rally behind them. Membership will grow, engagement will rise, and with it the strength of our collective voice.
Whoever replaces Huw has a huge job ahead. I would implore UKActive to choose a true visionary — someone who recognises the challenges, embraces them, and has the courage to reshape the future. This is a chance to cement a lasting legacy for a forward-thinking, bold group of people who genuinely believe in the power of collaboration and shared purpose.
Imagine an industry where our representatives truly represent every sector, and where clubs, studios, and operators of every size feel not only supported but proud of the work they do and the organisation that stands beside them.
That’s what’s possible — and with the right leadership, this could be the moment UKActive finally becomes what it was always meant to be: the voice of our industry.
Ryan Charlesworth | Black Raccoon Consulting | www.blackraccoon.org
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