BH Fitness

Overview

BH Fitness is a manufacturer of home and commercial fitness equipment, including cardio machines like treadmills, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and strength training gear. The brand operates under the BH Group, which also produces bicycles, and distributes products to over 65 countries. It is known for innovations such as early electronic monitors on bikes and fully assembled treadmill systems.

History

Founded in 1909 by the Beistegui Hermanos brothers in Spain as a machinery factory, it shifted to bicycle production in 1919 and began manufacturing fitness equipment in 1969 with its first exercise bike. Key milestones include establishing Exercycle in 1985 for fitness focus, introducing Europe's first electronic monitor-equipped products in 1987, and expanding with factories in Mexico (1992) and Asia (2006). In 2007, it acquired Bladez to form BH North America for the US market.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Primary manufacturing occurs in Europe at facilities in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, with additional factories in Mexico and a 2-million sq ft owned facility in Shanghai, China via BH North America. Exercycle handles fitness production in Spain. Products meet EU standards including EN 957 safety certifications.

Notable Products

• Vibrocycle - First vibration exercise bike introduced in Europe in 1980.
• HIPOWER Indoor Bike - First indoor cycling bike manufactured in Europe, launched 1996.
• Plug & Run Treadmill - Patented system for fully assembled home delivery, developed 2007.
• Variable Hydraulic Rower - Ground-breaking rowing machine introduced in 1988.
• Aluminium Exercise Bike - First aluminium-frame home fitness bike, entered market 1995.

Reputation

BH Fitness is regarded by enthusiasts for its durable European engineering and innovations in cardio equipment, particularly bikes and rowers. Professionals note reliable commercial lines meeting strict safety standards, though some criticize higher pricing compared to Asian competitors. The brand holds a solid mid-tier position in Europe with growing presence elsewhere.