Longtime Crunch Fitness CEO steps down; president promoted to fill role
Crunch Fitness has named a new chief executive as it continues to expand its footprint.
The fitness chain has promoted its president Chequan Lewis to the role of CEO effective immediately. Lewis succeeds longtime leader Jim Rowley, who has transitioned to the role of executive chairman.
As CEO, Lewis will oversee day-to-day operations, member-experience innovations, and branding and marketing, as well as Crunch’s long-term growth strategy. He joined the company in February 2024 after serving in multiple executive roles at Pizza Hut over nearly eight years.
Earlier this year, Lewis spoke with Chain Store Age about consumer trends and how the company is growing its share of the fitness market. Lewis said Crunch is targeting around 100 new locations — domestically and internationally – for 2026.
"Crunch has never been stronger, and that strength reflects years of close collaboration with Jim, our franchise partners, and our teams across the brand, who have built something special over time," said Lewis. "I'm honored to step into the CEO role and continue that partnership, building on the foundation we've created together. As we enter this next chapter, our focus remains clear: to support our franchise network, invest in innovation, and grow the Crunch community in a disciplined way while staying true to the culture, values, and 'No Judgments, No Limits' experience that define this brand."
Crunch says that Rowley will remain actively involved in the business as executive chairman, focusing on the company's vision, long-term strategy, and overall performance. Rowley served as the CEO of Crunch since 2009.
"Chequan and I have built a close, trusted partnership, which gives me real confidence in his leadership as he steps into the CEO role,” said Rowley. “I'm excited to move into a role focused on strategy, results, and performance – helping guide our current priorities and future plans that will shape the next phase of Crunch's growth."
[READ MORE: Crunch Fitness launches Reform Pilates studio concept]
Headquartered in New York City, Crunch Fitness serves 3.5 million members with over 550 gyms worldwide in 41 states, the District of Columbia, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico and India.
