When sport shapes a philosophy of life




Cédric Dubouilh isn’t just the manager of the largest Activ Fitness gym in French-speaking Switzerland in Les Charmilles in Geneva. After 15 years managing teams in industry and business services, he turned his passion into his profession in 2010.
Today, he does more than just manage the gym - he inspires. An avid trail-runner, Cédric tackles mind-boggling distances, running up to 350 km in the mountains. “I used to be incapable of running 10 km. Anyone can improve, you just have to believe in yourself and work for it.” This is the very mindset he shares with his team and gym members alike: perseverance, pushing your limits, and confidence.
His role is that of a conductor, ensuring real harmony among gym members, and his philosophy is simple: high standards and kindness. “You can be demanding and still lead with the heart. Mindset is what truly matters. Skills can be learned—kindness can’t.”
Activ Fitness: A Swiss success story
Founded in 1984 with a bold tagline Top fitness at a low price, Activ Fitness has made sport accessible to everyone in Switzerland while promoting an active and sustainable lifestyle. Today, it is the No.1 fitness brand in Switzerland:
• 128 gyms, including 36 in French-speaking Switzerland
• 4'500 employees
• 280'000 members
The brand offers far more than just a membership, too:
• Accessibility: open 365 days/year, affordable pricing, childcare
• Swiss quality: premium equipment, impeccable hygiene
• Total wellbeing: sauna, hammam, massages, over 40 group classes (Yoga, Pilates, HIIT…)
“Our philosophy? Fitness for everyone, at the best price. And above all, support without pressure,” states Cédric.




Quartet: The perfect home for the Activ Fitness vision
In 2018, Activ Fitness was one of the first businesses to move into the Quartet complex. This choice was no coincidence: the modern building offered a premium image, strategic visibility, and high-quality facilities. The spacious interiors, optimal ventilation, abundant natural light, and central location create a comfortable environment that supports high performance.
On top of that, there is strong synergy with the other tenant companies as well as close collaboration with the technical management team, ensuring smooth and responsive day-to-day operations. A winning bet: since moving in, the gym in Les Charmilles has grown from 1,000 to 2,500 members, a 100% increase over 5 years, and welcomes 12,500 visits per month. Its reputation for cleanliness, quality, and a friendly atmosphere has strongly contributed to this growth. The numbers speak for themselves!
“A woman who blossoms like a flower, a man who regains his dignity... that’s our mission.”
An Inspiring story that reflects their purpose
Among the thousands of members, certain stories stay with you. Cédric recalls one particular man who arrived withdrawn, hunched over, and lacking confidence. Over months, he watched the man’s whole attitude change: standing taller, smiling again, a few kilos lighter. But the most important transformation was internal: he had found his place again in his family, at work, and in life. His transformation didn’t come from physical effort alone; it was also the result of the team’s support, attentiveness, and kindness. One day, the man approached Cédric, hugged him, and told him how much this journey had changed his life. Moments like these are the greatest reward: seeing someone rediscover themselves and thrive through sport... and through the human support that makes all the difference.
Activ Fitness is a philosophy, a community, and a person-centred approach. More than a gym, it is a place where people come to feel better in body and mind. “The hardest part is walking through the door... after that, we take care of the rest!” Cédric concludes with the enthusiasm and conviction that truly reflect the gym’s spirit.


Activ Fitness
- Name:
- Activ Fitness
- Manager:
- Cédric Dubouilh
- Localisation:
- Rue de Lyon 120, 1203 Genève
- Address:
- www.activfitness.ch



