The idea that physical fitness contributes to long-term longevity is well established. High-profile advocates such as Bryan Johnson, founder of Braintree, is known for treating his body with the same rigour his colleagues would treat a balance sheet, have helped make longevity mainstream. At the same time, growing awareness of burnout, degenerative disease and the physiological effects of chronic stress has reinforced a broader conclusion: physical fitness is inseparable from sustained performance.
For ultra-high-net-worth individuals, physical resilience underwrites cognitive performance and long-term leadership capacity. As the costs of chronic stress become better understood, fitness is being repositioned as a capital investment in healthspan rather than a lifestyle choice.
Athletic clubs play a significant role in the health of UHNWs, particularly those who frequently travel. What distinguishes the leading clubs is not a particular type of marble or a hefty joining fee – though both may feature at more than one club on our list. It is state-of-the-art equipment, personal trainers, wellness services like massage therapy and even spa treatments, that make these spaces tailored to meet the needs of clients seeking luxury.
One fitness trend gaining popularity among the rich and famous is the Tracy Anderson Method, a dance-inspired members-only class using small weights and repetitive exercises. Adding to the mystique, trainers are encouraged to stay silent throughout the class, guiding choreography through example – often leaving first-time attendees out of step.
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The wellness philosophy is evident in newer entrants to the market. Pillar Wellbeing at The OWO is Harry Jameson’s first step into brick-and-mortar gyms. Jameson, who is perhaps best known for helping Boris Johnson get into shape after suffering from a bout of COVID-19 in 2022, encourages HNW clients to use the ‘holistic athletic space’ to nourish their mind, body and soul.
Across the clubs featured in the 2026 Spear’s index, personal training and considered nutrition form the foundation. These elements, taken together, explain why elite athletic clubs have become more than places to exercise. For many, they are now an integral part of sustaining long-term success.
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Methodology
Each year, the Spear’s Research Unit reassesses and refreshes its rankings of the leading providers in each sector by gathering data from and about the advisers and firms themselves, assessing submission forms, collating nominations, carrying out peer reviews, reviewing data from third-party sources, gathering references and recommendations, canvassing experts and conducting hundreds of interviews.
Advisers are evaluated using a proprietary scoring system that assigns different weightings to certain attributes. These scores feed directly into each new set of rankings in the Spear’s Indices. Each of these indices are published first online (according to the research calendar) and then in print. Print publication takes the form of the annual Spear’s 500 directory, which includes the top advisers in every index.
[See also: A guide to The Spear’s 500: Everything you need to know]
Each featured adviser is profiled on spears500.com. The site allows users to search the Spear’s database of more than 4,000 entities to find one (or more) to meet their specific requirements by filtering for specific attributes such as an adviser’s location, their specialist expertise and information about their client base.
The best athletic clubs and gyms: some names to know
Tracy Anderson Method at Surrenne
- Focus: Celeb-approved fitness programmes
- Location: The Emory Hotel, London
Having made a name for herself in Los Angeles training the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Nicole Richie, Tracy Anderson has built a fitness empire that spans the US and Western Europe.
The dance-inspired Tracy Anderson Method – now a staple in many people’s fitness routines – made its way across the pond in 2024. At members-only gym and spa Surrenne, located within The Emory hotel, an entire floor is dedicated to the Tracy Anderson Method.
Read Tracy Anderson Method at Surrenne’s full profile on Spears500.com
Nobu Pilates
- Focus: Classical Pilates with dynamic techniques
- Location: 22 Portman Square, London
Tucked away inside the Nobu Hotel Portman Square is Nobu Pilates, an original concept created by pilates instructor Marsha Lindsay.
Whether you are looking for a one-on-one session or an intimate group class, the combination of impeccably trained instructors – who prioritise safety and comfort – and interiors akin to a spa create a premium fitness experience.
One can expect to be challenged by classical techniques, but with the addition of state-of-the-art equipment such as ‘the tower reformer’ and the formidable ‘Pilates chair’.
Read Nobu Pilates’ full profile on Spear’s 500.com
Pillar Wellbeing at The OWO
- Focus: Movement, nourishment and recovery
- Location: The Raffles, London
Founded by personal trainer Harry Jameson, Pillar Wellbeing is focused on movement, nourishment and recovery. Recognising the increasingly saturated fitness landscape, Jameson aimed to simplify and clarify the process, offering expert care via nutrition, health technology and skilled practitioners.
Pillar Wellbeing at The OWO opened in 2024 and has quickly established itself as a leader in the holistic wellness space. Hotel guests, residents and members can enjoy world-class facilities – whether it’s a fitness class, a session in the relaxation lounge, a treatment at the partnered Guerlain Spa or a fresh juice at the Pillar Kitchen. For those seeking a complete escape, The OWO’s lifestyle suites offer the perfect retreat.
Read Pillar Wellbeing at The OWO’s full profile on Spears500.com
Best athletic clubs and gyms: the complete list
Click on the individual names to be directed to more detailed profiles of each company on The Spear’s 500 website. The table is ordered by ranking and then alphabetically.
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With additional reporting from Caitlin Kilpatrick.
