Kiwa certified FITcert across all PureGym sites
Kiwa has successfully audited all 458 PureGym sites across the UK and 49 in Switzerland to FITcert®, a recognised milestone that demonstrates a fitness club has been independently assessed against the European standard EN 17229 for fitness centre facilities and operations.
This achievement matters because fitness members, partners and public authorities increasingly want clear evidence that clubs are run safely, consistently and professionally. FITcert® provides a structured, independently verified way to demonstrate that commitment, beyond reviews and marketing claims.
What is FITcert®?
FITcert® is a sector-driven European quality certification scheme for fitness clubs. It was developed by EuropeActive (with NEN and sector experts), is managed by NEN, and is independently assessed by Kiwa as a third party.
FITcert® provides a step-by-step pathway to demonstrate alignment with EN 17229, the European standard that sets requirements for the day-to-day operation of a fitness facility, covering areas such as health and safety, facility operations, member terms and wider operational expectations.
Why it is important for PureGym members and stakeholders
For members, an independent assessment against a recognised standard helps build confidence that key elements of a well-run club are in place, supporting a safer, more consistent training experience.
For operators and multi-site brands, FITcert® offers a practical framework to strengthen quality and safety management across locations, support internal benchmarking, and reinforce brand reputation and operational reliability.
For wider stakeholders, such as local authorities, insurers and partners, independent verification can provide an additional layer of assurance when considering collaboration, support programmes or recognition initiatives.
Achieving FITcert® across all sites reinforces our commitment to providing safe, well-managed environments for members and teams. The independent assessment gives us confidence in the consistency of our standards and helps us keep improving.
What does “FITcert®" mean?
FITcert® is structured across five levels, enabling clubs and chains to progress through staged improvement and assurance.
Level 4 (Full Club Certification) involves independent assessment against EN 17229 using a combination of onsite and remote audit activity. In this phase, the club is physically visited and assessed by a Kiwa inspector as part of the evaluation.
Level 4 certification is time-bound: certification lasts three years, with recertification after two years as part of the scheme’s approach to maintaining standards over time.
Why independent assessment matters in fitness
Fitness is one of Europe’s fastest growing activities, and clubs are expected to operate with high levels of safety, professionalism and consistency. FITcert® was created to provide a credible, comparable quality mark backed by independent assessment helping clubs demonstrate good practice to members and stakeholders.
Why Kiwa?
Kiwa supports fitness operators with independent assessment and a practical, process-driven approach.
As part of the FITcert® ecosystem, Kiwa brings:
- Experience in quality measurements of (indoor) sports facilities.
- A strong quality focus and clear procedures and project management.
- An international network of inspectors.
- Participation through the FITcert® Committee of Experts
How the audit process works
While every organisation’s journey is unique, a FITcert® audit typically follows a clear, structured pathway designed to be robust and practical:
Scope and planning
Document and evidence review
Remote assessment activity
Onsite assessment
Findings and corrective actions
Certifiation decision and registration
Note: FITcert® certification demonstrates independent assessment against a defined standard at a point in time. It does not guarantee outcomes beyond the scope of the audit.
Start your FITcert® journey with Kiwa
If you operate a single club or a multi-site chain and want to demonstrate independent assurance against EN 17229, FITcert® provides a clear route from stage preparation through to full certification.
To learn more about the scheme, the benefits, and how the process works in practice, read more about FITcert® and speak with Kiwa about your audit pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FITcert®?
FITcert® is a European quality certification scheme for fitness clubs developed by EuropeActive, managed by NEN, and independently assessed by Kiwa as a third party.
What standard is FITcert® based on?
FITcert® is based on EN 17229, the European standard for fitness centre facilities and operations.
What does FITcert® Level 4 involve?
Level 4 is “Full Club Certification” and includes independent assessment against EN 17229 using a combination of onsite and remote audit activity, including physical site visits by a Kiwa inspector.
How long does Level 4 certification last?
Level 4 certification lasts three years, with recertification after two years.
Is FITcert® mandatory?
FITcert® certification is not mandatory, but it can help clubs differentiate themselves by demonstrating independently verified alignment with EN 17229.
Contact us
If you want more information about Kiwa certification services click on the link below and get in touch with our experts.