10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

_______________________________

FORM 10-Q

_______________________________

þ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2013

or

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission File Number: 001-32230

_______________________________

Life Time Fitness, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

_______________________________

Minnesota (State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	41-1689746 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
2902 Corporate Place Chanhassen, Minnesota (Address of principal executive offices)	55317 (Zip Code)

952-947-0000

(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)

_______________________________

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes þ No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.    

Large accelerated filer	þ	Accelerated filer	¨
Non-accelerated filer	¨ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company	¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ¨ No þ

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant's common stock as of October 18, 2013 was 42,639,353 common shares.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

		Page
	PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.	Financial Statements
	Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 (unaudited)	3
	Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (unaudited)	4
	Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (unaudited)	5
	Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 (unaudited)	6
	Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements	7
Item 2.	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	16
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk	28
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	28
	PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	29
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	29
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	29
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	29
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	30
Item 5.	Other Information	30
Item 6.	Exhibits	30
SIGNATURES		31

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.    Financial Statements

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share and per share data)

(Unaudited)

	September 30,			December 31,
	2013			2012
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	19,719		$	16,499
Accounts receivable, net	9,834			9,272
Center operating supplies and inventories	30,691			27,240
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	25,545			26,826
Deferred membership origination costs	10,747			11,664
Deferred income taxes	4,037			8,813
Total current assets	100,573			100,314
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net	2,024,070			1,858,666
RESTRICTED CASH	734			2,087
DEFERRED MEMBERSHIP ORIGINATION COSTS	6,019			6,820
GOODWILL	49,256			37,176
OTHER ASSETS	73,138			67,111
TOTAL ASSETS	$	2,253,790		$	2,072,174
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current maturities of long-term debt	$	14,469		$	12,603
Accounts payable	28,890			32,140
Construction accounts payable	51,820			25,208
Accrued expenses	66,528			63,333
Deferred revenue	33,362			34,753
Total current liabilities	195,069			168,037
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of current portion	774,323			691,867
DEFERRED RENT LIABILITY	24,858			22,490
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES	91,232			95,509
DEFERRED REVENUE	6,057			6,840
OTHER LIABILITIES	21,216			14,514
Total liabilities	1,112,755			999,257
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 6)
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY:
Undesignated preferred stock, 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding	—			—
Common stock, $.02 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized; 42,654,601 and 43,149,434 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	854			864
Additional paid-in capital	420,557			447,912
Retained earnings	724,616			628,942
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(4,992		)	(4,801		)
Total shareholders’ equity	1,141,035			1,072,917
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY	$	2,253,790		$	2,072,174

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

3

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(In thousands, except per share data)

(Unaudited)

	For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,						September 30,
	2013			2012			2013			2012
REVENUE:
Membership dues	$	195,657		$	187,568		$	576,847		$	547,933
Enrollment fees	3,598			3,859			10,567			11,742
In-center revenue	97,234			90,543			286,480			265,277
Total center revenue	296,489			281,970			873,894			824,952
Other revenue	19,522			12,903			40,972			26,672
Total revenue	316,011			294,873			914,866			851,624
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Center operations	180,431			169,521			527,191			496,790
Advertising and marketing	9,758			8,826			30,346			28,871
General and administrative	14,531			13,631			45,600			41,190
Other operating	18,479			14,091			46,538			35,243
Depreciation and amortization	29,956			29,396			89,235			85,217
Total operating expenses	253,155			235,465			738,910			687,311
Income from operations	62,856			59,408			175,956			164,313
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest expense, net of interest income	(6,436		)	(6,510		)	(18,999		)	(19,332		)
Equity in earnings of affiliate	379			375			1,103			1,143
Total other income (expense)	(6,057		)	(6,135		)	(17,896		)	(18,189		)
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES	56,799			53,273			158,060			146,124
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES	22,413			21,129			62,386			58,016
NET INCOME	$	34,386		$	32,144		$	95,674		$	88,108
BASIC EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE	$	0.83		$	0.77		$	2.31		$	2.13
DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE	$	0.83		$	0.77		$	2.30		$	2.10
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING – BASIC	41,307			41,484			41,353			41,370
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING – DILUTED	41,613			41,881			41,606			41,885

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

4

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

	For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,						September 30,
	2013			2012			2013			2012
NET INCOME	$	34,386		$	32,144		$	95,674		$	88,108
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of taxes of $(251), $81, $872 and $69, respectively	$	349		$	(108	)	$	(1,357	)	$	(72	)
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of taxes of $147, $434, $(778) and $1,416, respectively	(221		)	(650		)	1,167			(2,125		)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	128			(758		)	(190		)	(2,197		)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	$	34,514		$	31,386		$	95,484		$	85,911

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

5

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

	For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2013			2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$	95,674		$	88,108
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	89,235			85,217
Deferred income taxes	(583		)	(4,387		)
(Gain) loss on disposal of property and equipment, net	(100		)	1,231
Gain on land held for sale	—			(196		)
Amortization of deferred financing costs	1,635			1,504
Share-based compensation	9,410			10,862
Excess tax benefit related to share-based compensation	(6,575		)	(9,138		)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	2,726			30,429
Other	(659		)	(769		)
Net cash provided by operating activities	190,763			202,861
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment	(224,542		)	(164,556		)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(13,102		)	(28,984		)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	1,116			673
Proceeds from sale of land held for sale	—			1,758
Proceeds from property insurance settlements	177			901
Increase in other assets	(1,022		)	(94		)
Decrease in restricted cash	1,353			376
Net cash used in investing activities	(236,020		)	(189,926		)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from long-term borrowings	125,000			—
Repayments of long-term borrowings	(31,773		)	(5,094		)
Repayments of revolving credit facility, net	(7,150		)	(16,000		)
Increase in deferred financing costs	(4,213		)	(306		)
Excess tax benefit related to share-based compensation	6,575			9,138
Proceeds from stock option exercises	1,563			2,088
Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan	1,074			999
Stock purchased for employee stock purchase plan	(1,309		)	(1,290		)
Repurchases of common stock	(40,272		)	—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	49,495			(10,465		)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents	(1,018		)	(1,332		)
INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	3,220			1,138
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – Beginning of period	16,499			7,487
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS – End of period	$	19,719		$	8,625

See notes to unaudited consolidated financial statements.

6

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

1. Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary to fairly present financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods have been included.

These interim consolidated financial statements and the related notes should be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements and notes included in the latest Form 10-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which includes audited consolidated financial statements for the three fiscal years ended December 31, 2012.

2. Share-Based Compensation

Stock Option and Incentive Plans

We have four share-based compensation plans: the Life Time Fitness, Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan (the “1998 Plan”); the Amended and Restated Life Time Fitness, Inc. 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2004 Plan”); the Life Time Fitness, Inc. 2011 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”) and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”), collectively, the share-based compensation plans. We no longer make grants under the 1998 Plan and the 2004 Plan. There are 2,500,000 shares of common stock reserved for grant under the 2011 Plan and, as of September 30, 2013, there were 1,149,485 shares available for grant. The types of awards that may be granted under the 2011 Plan include incentive and non-qualified options to purchase shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units, performance awards and other types of share-based awards.

As of September 30, 2013, we had granted a total of 5,587,165 options to purchase common stock under all of the share-based compensation plans, of which options to purchase 221,668 shares were outstanding and vested, and a total of 4,740,571 restricted shares were granted, of which 1,517,185 restricted shares were outstanding and unvested. We use the term “restricted shares” to define unvested shares granted to employees and non-employee directors. We use the term "vest" to define the lapse of vesting restrictions on restricted shares.

Total share-based compensation expense included in our consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, was as follows:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Share-based compensation expense related to restricted shares	$	3,094	$	3,520	$	9,320	$	10,772
Share-based compensation expense related to ESPP	30		30		90		90
Total share-based compensation expense	$	3,124	$	3,550	$	9,410	$	10,862

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LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Summary of Restricted Stock Activity

	Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2012	2,069,168		$36.55
Granted	328,550		$41.94
Canceled	(10,995	)	$34.63
Vested	(817,688	)	$24.55
Outstanding at March 31, 2013	1,569,035		$43.95
Granted	25,406		$47.58
Canceled	(39,476	)	$43.40
Vested	(31,809	)	$39.54
Outstanding at June 30, 2013	1,523,156		$44.11
Granted	9,150		$48.77
Canceled	(6,375	)	$42.70
Vested	(8,746	)	$41.99
Outstanding at September 30, 2013	1,517,185		$44.16

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, we issued 363,106 and 1,039,526 shares of restricted stock, respectively, with an aggregate grant date fair value of $15.4 million and $49.2 million, respectively. The grant date fair value of restricted shares that vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was $21.7 million and $19.1 million, respectively. The total value of each restricted stock grant, based on the fair value of the stock on the date of grant, is amortized to compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the related vesting period. As of September 30, 2013, there was $29.4 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock that is expected to vest. We plan to recognize this amount over a weighted average period of 2.4 years.

Special 2012 Long-Term Performance-Based Restricted Stock Grant

In May 2012, the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors approved the grant of 598,000 shares of long-term performance-based restricted stock to serve as an incentive to our senior management team to achieve certain cumulative diluted earnings per share ("EPS") and return on invested capital (“ROIC”) targets during performance periods that end on December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2016. In July and August 2012, an additional 40,500 and 20,000 shares, respectively, of long-term performance-based restricted stock were granted to members of management using the same cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets and vesting schedule. These shares are included in the overall number of restricted shares granted in 2012.

The cumulative diluted EPS target measures cumulative diluted EPS for each quarter during the period from April 1, 2012 to the end of the applicable performance period. The ROIC target is measured in the last year of the applicable performance period. If the specified cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets are both met or exceeded for the performance period ending December 31, 2015, 50% of the restricted shares will vest. If the specified cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets are both met or exceeded for the performance period ending December 31, 2016, then all of the restricted shares will vest. For example, if the 2015 performance targets were satisfied and 50% of the shares vested, the remaining 50% of the restricted shares will vest if the 2016 performance targets were satisfied. If the 2015 performance targets were not satisfied, but the 2016 performance targets are both met, 100% of the restricted shares will vest. In the event that we do not achieve both of the specified cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets for the performance period ending December 31, 2016, the restricted shares will be forfeited. As of September 30, 2013, 651,500 shares were still outstanding and unvested. A maximum of $29.9 million of compensation expense could be recognized under this grant if all cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets are met.

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LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

We consider the specific cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets to be competitively sensitive information during the performance period. However, the Compensation Committee set the cumulative diluted EPS targets at 1.5 times the compound annual growth rate under our then-current long range plan and the ROIC targets at 1.1 times the ROIC under our then-current long range plan. We do not believe that achievement of the cumulative diluted EPS and the ROIC targets are currently probable, and, therefore, we did not recognize any compensation expense associated with the grant during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. If all of the targets had been considered probable at September 30, 2013, we would have recognized $10.2 million of non-cash performance share-based compensation expense during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. If it becomes probable that the cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC performance targets will be achieved, a cumulative adjustment would be recorded and the remaining compensation expense would be recognized over the remaining performance period. The probability of reaching the targets is evaluated each reporting period. If we later determine that it is no longer probable that the minimum cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC performance targets for the grants would be met, no further compensation expense would be recognized and any previously recognized compensation expense would be reversed. In accordance with the related accounting guidance, none of the unvested restricted shares were included in our share count since the date of grant.

Summary of Stock Option Activity

	Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2012	291,510		$24.96	2.0	$7,073
Exercised	(40,675	)	$21.44
Canceled	—		$—
Outstanding at March 31, 2013	250,835		$25.53	1.8	$4,441
Exercised	(8,967	)	$26.33
Canceled	(1,600	)	$8.00
Outstanding at June 30, 2013	240,268		$25.62	1.6	$5,886
Exercised	(18,600	)	$24.47
Canceled	—		$—
Outstanding at September 30, 2013	221,668		$25.72	1.3	$5,709
Vested at September 30, 2013	221,668		$25.72	1.3	$5,709

No stock options have been granted since 2007. As of September 30, 2013, there was no unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options.

The aggregate intrinsic values in the table above represent the total pretax intrinsic values (the differences between our closing stock price and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on that date. This amount changes based on the fair market value of our stock. Total intrinsic value of options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was $1.6 million and $3.1 million, respectively.

Our net cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options were $1.6 million and $2.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The excess income tax benefit realized from stock option exercises and restricted stock vesting was $6.6 million and $9.1 million, respectively, for those same periods. In accordance with the related accounting guidance, this tax benefit is presented as a financing cash inflow. There is a corresponding cash outflow included in cash flows from operating activities.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Our ESPP provides for the sale of up to 1,500,000 shares of our common stock to our employees at discounted purchase prices. The cost per share under this plan is 90% of the fair market value of our common stock on the last

9

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

day of the purchase period, as defined. The current purchase period for employees under the ESPP began July 1, 2013 and ends December 31, 2013. Compensation expense under the ESPP is estimated based on the discount of 10% at the end of the purchase period. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, $1.1 million was withheld from employees for the purpose of purchasing shares under the ESPP. There were 1,260,727 shares of common stock available for purchase under the ESPP as of September 30, 2013.

Share Repurchase Plans

In June 2006, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 500,000 shares of our common stock from time to time in the open market or otherwise for the primary purpose of offsetting the dilutive effect of shares issued under our ESPP. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 27,093 shares for approximately $1.3 million. As of September 30, 2013, there were 260,727 remaining shares authorized to be repurchased for this purpose.

In August 2011, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $60.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 682,634 shares under this program for approximately $31.0 million. This authorization terminated in August 2013 with the authorization of a new share repurchase program.

In August 2013, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $200.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through open market or privately negotiated transactions. The authorization to repurchase shares terminates when the aggregate repurchase amount totals $200.0 million or at the close of business on August 16, 2015, whichever occurs first. The share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any dollar amount or number of shares of our common stock and the program may be extended, modified, suspended or discontinued at any time. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 186,701 shares under this program for approximately $9.3 million. As of September 30, 2013, there was $190.7 million remaining authorized under this program.

3.    Earnings per Share

Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income applicable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for each period. Diluted EPS is computed similarly to basic EPS, except that the denominator is increased for the conversion of any dilutive common stock equivalents, the assumed exercise of dilutive stock options using the treasury stock method and unvested restricted stock awards using the treasury stock method. Stock options excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because the option exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common share were 0 and 15,540 for the three months ended September 30,2013 and 2012, respectively, and 2,477 for both the nine months ended September 30,2013 and 2012.

The basic and diluted EPS calculations are shown below:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Net income	$	34,386	$	32,144	$	95,674	$	88,108
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – basic	41,307		41,484		41,353		41,370
Effect of dilutive stock options	95		122		87		122
Effect of dilutive restricted stock awards	211		275		166		393
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – diluted	41,613		41,881		41,606		41,885
Basic earnings per common share	$	0.83	$	0.77	$	2.31	$	2.13
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.83	$	0.77	$	2.30	$	2.10

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LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

4. Operating Segment

Our operations are conducted mainly through our distinctive and large, multi-use sports and athletic, professional fitness, family recreation and spa centers in a resort-like environment. We aggregate the activities of our centers and other ancillary products and services into one reportable segment. Each of the centers has similar economic characteristics, services, product offerings and customers, and in-center revenues are derived primarily from services to our members. Each of the other ancillary products and services either directly or indirectly, through advertising or branding, complement the operations of the centers. Our chief operating decision maker, our Chief Executive Officer, uses EBITDA (net income plus interest expense, net, provision for income taxes and depreciation and amortization) as the primary measure of operating segment performance.

The following table presents revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Membership dues	$	195,657	$	187,568	$	576,847	$	547,933
Enrollment fees	3,598		3,859		10,567		11,742
Personal training	46,095		42,138		138,903		126,675
Other in-center revenue	51,139		48,405		147,577		138,602
Total center revenue	296,489		281,970		873,894		824,952
Other revenue	19,522		12,903		40,972		26,672
Total revenue	$	316,011	$	294,873	$	914,866	$	851,624

5. Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Decreases (increases) in operating assets and increases (decreases) in operating liabilities are as follows:

	For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2013			2012
Accounts receivable, net	$	(657	)	$	(2,566	)
Income tax receivable	—			5,022
Center operating supplies and inventories	(3,458		)	(5,008		)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	4,180			(443		)
Deferred membership origination costs	1,718			340
Accounts payable	(3,585		)	4,036
Accrued expenses	8,604			25,618
Deferred revenue	(6,762		)	547
Deferred rent liability	2,384			2,382
Other liabilities	302			501
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	$	2,726		$	30,429

We made cash payments for income taxes of $54.3 million and $45.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

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LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

We made cash payments for interest, net of capitalized interest, of $16.9 million and $17.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Capitalized interest was $2.0 million and $0.7 million for the same periods.

Construction accounts payable was $51.8 million and $17.2 million at September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

6. Commitments and Contingencies

Litigation — We are engaged in proceedings incidental to the normal course of business. Due to their nature, such legal proceedings involve inherent uncertainties, including but not limited to court rulings, negotiations between affected parties and governmental intervention. We have established reserves for matters that are probable and estimable in amounts we believe are adequate to cover reasonable adverse judgments not covered by insurance. These reserves are not material to our consolidated financial statements. Based upon the information available to us and discussions with legal counsel, it is our opinion that the outcome of the various legal actions and claims that are incidental to our business will not have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties, and the outcome of individual matters are not predictable with assurance.

7. Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") updated guidance on intangible asset impairment testing. The guidance became effective for us in 2013. The amendments in this update allow companies to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test. Under the update, a company will not be required to calculate the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset unless the company determines, based on qualitative assessment, that it is not more likely than not, the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. The amendments include a number of events and circumstances for an entity to consider in conducting the qualitative assessment. The implementation of the guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2013, the FASB issued guidance adding new disclosure requirements for items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI"), which became effective for us in 2013. The guidance is intended to help entities improve the transparency of changes in other comprehensive income ("OCI") and items reclassified out of AOCI in financial statements. It does not amend any existing requirements for reporting net income or OCI in financial statements. The implementation of the guidance did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.

8. Derivative Instruments

As part of our financial risk management program, we may periodically use interest rate swaps to manage known market exposures. Terms of derivative instruments are structured to match the terms of the risk being managed and are generally held to maturity.

In August 2011, we entered into an interest rate swap contract that effectively fixed the rates paid on a total of $200.0 million of variable rate borrowings at 1.32% plus the applicable spread (which depends on our EBITDAR leverage ratio) until June 2016. EBITDAR is a non-GAAP, non-cash measure which consists of net income plus interest expense, net, provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization and rent expense. We pay 1.32% and receive LIBOR on the notional amount of $200.0 million. The contract has been designated a cash flow hedge against interest rate volatility. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, changes in the fair value of the swap contract are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax. As of September 30, 2013, the $2.5 million fair value loss, net of tax, of the swap contract was recorded as accumulated other comprehensive loss in the shareholders' equity section of our consolidated balance sheets and the $4.1 million gross fair value of the swap contract was included in long-term debt.

12

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

On an ongoing basis, we assess whether the interest rate swap used in this hedging transaction is “highly effective” in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flow of the hedged item by comparing the current terms of the swap and the debt to assure they continue to coincide and through an evaluation of the continued ability of the counterparty to the swap to honor its obligations under the swap. No ineffectiveness was experienced in the interest rate swap during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The amendment of our credit facility (see Note 11) did not impact our interest rate swap or the effectiveness of the hedge. If it is determined that the derivative is not highly effective as a hedge or hedge accounting is discontinued, any change in fair value of the derivative since the last date at which it was determined to be effective would be recognized in earnings.

9. Fair Value Measurements

The accounting guidance establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expanded disclosures about fair value measurements. The guidance applies to all assets and liabilities that are measured and reported on a fair value basis. This enables the reader of the financial statements to assess the inputs used to develop those measurements by establishing a hierarchy for ranking the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values. The guidance requires that each asset and liability carried at fair value be classified into one of the following categories:

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2: Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis

The fair value of the interest rate swap is determined using observable current market information such as the prevailing LIBOR interest rates, LIBOR yield curve rates and current fair values as quoted by recognized dealers, and also includes consideration of counterparty credit risk. The following table presents the fair value of our derivative financial instrument as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

		Fair Value Measurements Using:
		Quoted Prices in	Significant	Significant
	Total	Active Markets for	Other Observable	Unobservable
	Fair	Identical Assets	Inputs	Inputs
	Value	(Level 1)	(Level 2)	(Level 3)
Interest rate swap liability as of
September 30, 2013	$4,108	$—	$4,108	$—
Interest rate swap liability as of
December 31, 2012	$6,052	$—	$6,052	$—

Fair Value Measurements on a Nonrecurring Basis

Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis relate primarily to our tangible fixed assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, which are remeasured when the derived fair value is below carrying value on our consolidated balance sheets. For these assets, we do not periodically adjust carrying value to fair value except in the event of impairment. If we determine that impairment has occurred, the carrying value of the asset would be reduced to fair value and the difference would be recorded as a loss within operating income in our consolidated statements of operations.

We had no remeasurements of such assets or liabilities to fair value during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 or September 30, 2012.

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LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

Financial Assets and Liabilities Not Measured at Fair Value

The carrying amounts related to cash and cash equivalents (Level 1), accounts receivable, income tax receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to the relatively short maturities of such instruments.

The fair value of our long-term debt and capital leases are estimated based on estimated current rates for debt with similar terms, credit worthiness and the same remaining maturities. For variable rate loans that re-price frequently, fair values are based on carrying values. The fair value of fixed rate loans is estimated based on the discounted cash flows of the loans using current market rates, which are estimated based on recent financing transactions (Level 3). The fair value estimates presented are based on information available to us as of September 30, 2013. These fair value estimates have not been comprehensively revalued for purposes of these consolidated financial statements since that date, and current estimates of fair values may differ significantly.

The following table presents the carrying value and the estimated fair value of long-term debt:

	September 30, 2013				December 31, 2012
	Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value		Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value
Fixed-rate debt	$	490,936	$	492,192	$	396,591	$	403,659
Obligations under capital leases	15,083		15,251		15,441		15,582
Floating-rate debt	282,773		282,773		292,437		292,437
Total	$	788,792	$	790,216	$	704,469	$	711,678

10. Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component

The following table presents information about accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 (net of tax):

	Gains (Losses) on Cash Flows Hedge			Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	(3,631	)	$	(1,170	)	$	(4,801	)
Other comprehensive income	321			(584		)	(263		)
Balance at March 31, 2013	(3,310		)	(1,754		)	(5,064		)
Other comprehensive income	1,067			(1,123		)	(56		)
Balance at June 30, 2013	(2,243		)	(2,877		)	(5,120		)
Other comprehensive income	(221		)	349			128
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	(2,464	)	$	(2,528	)	$	(4,992	)

11. Long-Term Debt

Effective July 31, 2013, we entered into the 2nd Amendment to the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with U.S. Bank National Association, as administrative agent and lender, and other lenders from time to time a party thereto. The material amendments to the Credit Agreement were (i) an increase to the amount of the revolving credit facility from $660.0 million to $760.0 million and a new $100.0 million term loan and (ii) an extension of the term of the facility to July 31, 2018. The revolving credit facility may be increased by an additional $240.0 million upon the exercise of an accordion feature if one or more lenders commit the additional $240.0 million. The term loan dated July 31, 2013 amortizes at the rate of 5.0% of the original term loan amount on

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LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Table amounts in thousands, except share and per share data)

an annual basis. The facility remains floating rate with a spread over LIBOR or Prime. The spreads under the leverage-based pricing grid in the facility remain unchanged, as do the financial covenant ratio thresholds.

On February 12, 2013, a wholly owned subsidiary obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $75.0 million from ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company pursuant to a promissory note and related agreements. The mortgage financing is secured by five properties and matures in March 2023. Interest on the amounts borrowed is 4.45% per annum, with a constant monthly debt service payment of $0.8 million.

On August 23, 2013, a wholly owned subsidiary obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $50.0 million from ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company pursuant to a promissory note and related agreements. The mortgage financing is secured by three properties and matures in September 2026. Interest on the amounts borrowed is 4.48% per annum, with a constant monthly debt service payment of $0.4 million.

12. Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The change in the carrying amount of goodwill is as follows:

Balance at December 31, 2012	$	37,176
Goodwill acquired	12,080
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	49,256

The goodwill acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 is primarily related to the acquisition of certain athletic events. We are currently in the process of finalizing the valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

The following table summarizes the changes in our gross intangible balance during the nine months ended September 30, 2013:

Balance at December 31, 2012	$	28,531
Trade/brand names acquired	5,347
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	33,878

The trade/brand names acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 are primarily related to the acquisition of certain athletic events. At September 30, 2013, intangible assets consisted of the following:

	Gross		Accumulated Amortization		Net
Leasehold rights	$	6,392	$	1,324	$	5,068
Trade/brand names	15,479		885		14,594
Curriculum- and technology-based intangibles	6,595		1,146		5,449
Customer relationships	5,412		812		4,600
Total intangible assets	$	33,878	$	4,167	$	29,711

Of the trade/brand names acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, approximately $5.1 million have indefinite useful lives. The remaining $0.2 million of the acquired trade/brand names have a useful life of 10 years. Amortization expense for intangible assets was $1.5 million and $1.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

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Item 2.

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF

FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Forward-Looking Statements

This discussion contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can usually be identified by the use of terminology such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “evolve,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “looking ahead,” “may,” “opinion,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “project,” “should,” “will” and similar words or expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results in the future to differ materially from our historical results and those presently anticipated or projected. Among these factors are attracting and retaining members, risks related to our debt levels and debt covenants, the ability to access our existing credit facility and obtain additional financing, strains on our business from continued and future growth, including potential acquisitions and other strategic initiatives, risks related to maintenance and security of our data, potential recognition of compensation expense related to performance-based stock grants, competition from other health and fitness centers, identifying and acquiring suitable sites for new centers, delays in opening new centers and other factors set forth in the risk factor section of our annual report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC.

We caution investors not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which such statements were made. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after such date.

Overview

We operate distinctive and large, multi-use sports and athletic, professional fitness, family recreation and spa centers in a resort-like environment. As of October 25, 2013, we operated 107 centers primarily in residential locations across 29 markets in 23 states and one Canadian province under the LIFE TIME FITNESS® and LIFE TIME ATHLETIC® brands.

We compare the results of our centers based on how long the centers have been open at the most recent measurement period. We include a center for same center revenue purposes beginning on the first day of the thirteenth full calendar month of the center’s operation, prior to which time we refer to the center as a new center. We include an acquired center for same center revenue purposes beginning on the first day of the thirteenth full calendar month after we assumed the center’s operations.

As we grow our presence in existing markets by opening new centers, we expect to attract some memberships away from our other existing centers in those markets, reducing revenue and initially lowering the memberships of those existing centers. In addition, as a result of new center openings in existing markets, and because older centers will represent an increasing proportion of our center base over time, our same center revenue may be lower in future periods than in the past. Of the three new large format centers we plan to open in 2013, two of which are already open, two will be in existing markets. We do not expect that operating costs of our planned new centers will be significantly higher than centers opened in the past, and we also do not expect that the planned increase in the number of centers will have a material adverse effect on the overall financial condition or results of operations of existing centers. We expect both the addition of pre-opening expenses and the lower revenue volumes characteristic of newly-opened centers to affect our center operating margins at these new centers and on a consolidated basis.

We define memberships in two ways: Access memberships and Non-Access memberships. The Non-Access membership is designed for members who do not have access to a center or have minimal access to a center, but still want to maintain certain member benefits. As of September 30, 2013, we had 801,851 total memberships, including 695,923 Access memberships and 105,928 Non-Access memberships.

We measure performance using such key operating statistics as member satisfaction ratings, return on invested capital, average revenue per membership, average in-center revenue per membership and center operating expenses, with an emphasis on payroll, as a percentage of sales and same center revenue growth. We use center revenue, EBITDA and EBITDA margins to evaluate overall performance and profitability on an individual center basis. In

16

addition, we focus on several membership statistics on a center-level and system-wide basis. These metrics include change in center Access membership levels and growth of system-wide memberships; percentage center Access membership to target capacity; center Access membership usage; center Access membership mix among individual, couple and family memberships; Non-Access memberships and center attrition rates.

Attrition for the three months ended September 30, 2013 was 9.5% compared to 9.0% for the three months ended September 30, 2012. Attrition for the trailing 12-months ended September 30, 2013, was 35.0% compared to 32.9% for the trailing 12-months at September 30, 2012. The increase in the trailing 12-months attrition rate was driven primarily by growth in Non-Access membership terminations and membership pricing adjustments.

We have three primary sources of revenue:

• First, our largest source of revenue is membership dues (63.1% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to 64.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012) and enrollment fees (1.1% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, down from 1.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012). We recognize revenue from monthly membership dues in the month to which they pertain.

• Second, we generate revenue within a center, which we refer to as in-center revenue or in-center businesses (31.3% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, up from 31.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012), including fees for personal training, registered dietitians, group fitness training and other member activities, sales of products at our cafés, sales of products and services offered at our spas and tennis programs.

• Third, we have expanded the LIFE TIME FITNESS® brand into other health and wellness-related offerings that generate revenue, which we refer to as other revenue or ancillary businesses (4.5% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, up from 3.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012), including media, athletic events and related services, which includes our race registration and timing businesses, our health promotion programs and training and certification programs. Our primary media offering is our magazine, Experience Life®.

We have five primary sources of operating expenses:

• Center operations expenses (57.6% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, down from 58.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012) consist primarily of salaries, commissions, payroll taxes, benefits, real estate taxes and other occupancy costs, utilities, repairs and maintenance, supplies, administrative support and communications to operate our centers.

• Advertising and marketing expenses (3.3% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, down from from 3.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012) consist of our marketing department costs and media and advertising costs to support and grow center membership levels, in-center businesses, new center openings and our ancillary businesses.

• General and administrative expenses (5.0% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, up from 4.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012) include costs relating to our centralized support functions, such as accounting, information systems, procurement, real estate and development and member relations.

• Other operating expenses (5.1% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, up from 4.1% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012) include the costs associated with our media, health and athletic events businesses and other corporate expenses, as well as gains or losses on our disposal of assets.

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• Depreciation and amortization (9.8% of total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, down from 10.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012) are computed primarily using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized using the straight-line method over the shorter of the lease term or the estimated useful life of the improvement.

Our total operating expenses may vary from period to period depending on the number of new centers opened during that period, the number of centers engaged in presale activities and the performance of our in-center and ancillary businesses.

Our primary capital expenditures relate to the construction of new centers and updating and maintaining our existing centers. The land acquisition, construction and equipment costs for a current model center can vary considerably based on location, variability in land cost, the cost of construction labor and the size or amenities of the center, including the addition of tennis facilities, an expanded gymnasium or other facilities. We perform maintenance and make improvements on our centers and equipment throughout each year. We conduct a more thorough remodeling project at each center approximately every four to six years.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S., or GAAP, requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Ultimate results could differ from those estimates. In recording transactions and balances resulting from business operations, we use estimates based on the best information available. We use estimates for such items as depreciable lives, probability of meeting certain performance targets, tax provisions and deferred personal training revenue. We also use estimates for calculating the amortization period for deferred enrollment fee revenue and associated direct costs, which are based on the historical estimated average membership life. We revise the recorded estimates when better information is available, facts change or we can determine actual amounts. These revisions can affect operating results.

Our critical accounting policies and use of estimates are discussed in and should be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements and notes included in the latest Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC, which includes audited consolidated financial statements for our three fiscal years ended December 31, 2012.

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Results of Operations

The following table sets forth our statements of operations data as a percentage of total revenue and also sets forth other financial and operating data:

	For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,						September 30,
	2013			2012			2013			2012
REVENUE:
Membership dues	61.9		%	63.6		%	63.1		%	64.3		%
Enrollment fees	1.1			1.3			1.1			1.4
In-center revenue	30.8			30.7			31.3			31.2
Total center revenue	93.8			95.6			95.5			96.9
Other revenue	6.2			4.4			4.5			3.1
Total revenue	100.0			100.0			100.0			100.0
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Center operations	57.1			57.5			57.6			58.4
Advertising and marketing	3.1			3.0			3.3			3.4
General and administrative	4.6			4.6			5.0			4.8
Other operating	5.8			4.8			5.1			4.1
Depreciation and amortization	9.5			10.0			9.8			10.0
Total operating expenses	80.1			79.9			80.8			80.7
Income from operations (operating profit)	19.9			20.1			19.2			19.3
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest expense, net	(2.0		)	(2.2		)	(2.1		)	(2.2		)
Equity in earnings of affiliate	0.1			0.1			0.1			0.1
Total other income (expense)	(1.9		)	(2.1		)	(2.0		)	(2.1		)
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES	18.0			18.0			17.2			17.2
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES	7.1			7.1			6.8			6.9
NET INCOME	10.9		%	10.9		%	10.4		%	10.3		%
Other financial data:
Same-center revenue growth (open 13 months or longer) (1)	4.2		%	4.1		%	4.2		%	4.6		%
Same-center revenue growth (open 37 months or longer) (1)	3.4		%	3.1		%	3.4		%	3.9		%
Average center revenue per Access membership (2)	$	421		$	403		$	1,243		$	1,182
Average in-center revenue per Access membership (3)	$	140		$	131		$	412		$	385
Trailing 12-month attrition rate (4)	35.0		%	32.9		%	35.0		%	32.9		%
Quarterly attrition rate (5)	9.5		%	9.0		%	N/A			N/A
EBITDA (in thousands) (6)	$	93,191		$	89,179		$	266,294		$	250,673
EBITDA margin (7)	29.5		%	30.2		%	29.1		%	29.4		%
EBITDAR (in thousands) (6)	$	103,497		$	98,866		$	296,027		$	279,626
EBITDAR margin (8)	32.8		%	33.5		%	32.4		%	32.8		%
Capital expenditures (in thousands) (9)	$	87,109		$	58,454		$	224,542		$	164,556
Free cash flow (in thousands) (10)	$	(20,800	)	$	2,217		$	(33,779	)	$	38,305

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Results of Operations (continued)	For the Three Months Ended		For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,		September 30,
	2013	2012	2013	2012
Operating data (end of period) (11):
Centers open	107	105	107	105
Center square footage (12)	10,119,196	9,901,108	10,119,196	9,901,108
Memberships:
Access memberships	695,923	695,271	695,923	695,271
Non-Access memberships	105,928	100,831	105,928	100,831
Total memberships	801,851	796,102	801,851	796,102

(1) Membership dues, enrollment fees and in-center revenue for a center are included in same-center revenue growth – 13 month beginning on the first day of the thirteenth full calendar month of the center’s operation and are included in same-center revenue growth – 37 month beginning on the first day of the thirty-seventh full calendar month of the center’s operation.

(2) Average center revenue per Access membership is total center revenue derived from Access memberships for the period divided by the average number of Access memberships for the period, where the average number of Access memberships for the period is an average derived from dividing the sum of the total Access memberships outstanding at the beginning of the period and at the end of each month during the period by one plus the number of months in each period.

(3) Average in-center revenue per Access membership is total in-center revenue derived from Access memberships for the period divided by the average number of Access memberships for the period, where the average number of Access memberships for the period is an average derived from dividing the sum of the total Access memberships outstanding at the beginning of the period and at the end of each month during the period by one plus the number of months in each period.

(4) Trailing 12-month attrition rate (or annual attrition rate) is calculated as follows: total membership terminations (Access and Non-Access) for the trailing 12 months divided into the average beginning month total membership (Access and Non-Access) balance for the trailing 12 months.

(5) Quarterly attrition rate is calculated as follows: total membership terminations for the quarter divided into the average beginning month total membership (Access and Non-Access) balance for the quarter.

(6) EBITDA is a non-GAAP, non-cash measure which consists of net income plus interest expense, net, provision for income taxes and depreciation and amortization. EBITDAR adds rent expense to EBITDA. These terms, as we define them, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other companies and are not measures of performance presented in accordance with GAAP. We use EBITDA and EBITDAR as measures of operating performance. EBITDA or EBITDAR should not be considered as a substitute for net income, cash flows provided by operating activities or other income or cash flow data prepared in accordance with GAAP. The funds depicted by EBITDA and EBITDAR are not necessarily available for discretionary use if they are reserved for particular capital purposes, to maintain debt covenants, to service debt or to pay taxes.

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The following table provides a reconciliation of net income, the most directly comparable GAAP measure, to EBITDA and EBITDAR (in thousands):

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Net income	$	34,386	$	32,144	$	95,674	$	88,108
Interest expense, net	6,436		6,510		18,999		19,332
Provision for income taxes	22,413		21,129		62,386		58,016
Depreciation and amortization	29,956		29,396		89,235		85,217
EBITDA	$	93,191	$	89,179	$	266,294	$	250,673
Rent expense	10,306		9,687		29,733		28,953
EBITDAR	$	103,497	$	98,866	$	296,027	$	279,626

(7) EBITDA margin is the ratio of EBITDA to total revenue.

(8) EBITDAR margin is the ratio of EBITDAR to total revenue.

(9) Capital expenditures represent investments in our new centers, costs related to updating and maintaining our existing centers and other infrastructure investments. For purposes of deriving capital expenditures from our cash flows statement, capital expenditures include our purchases of property and equipment, excluding purchases of property and equipment in accounts payable at period-end; property and equipment purchases financed through notes payable and capital lease obligations; and non-cash share-based compensation capitalized to projects under development.

(10) Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measure consisting of net cash provided by operating activities, less purchases of property and equipment, excluding acquisitions. This term, as we define it, may not be comparable to a similarly titled measure used by other companies and does not represent the total increase or decrease in the cash balance presented in accordance with GAAP. We use free cash flow to monitor cash available for repayment of indebtedness and in discussions with the investment community. The funds depicted by free cash flow are not necessarily available for discretionary use if they are reserved for particular capital purposes, to maintain debt covenants, to service debt or to pay taxes. Free cash flow should not be considered as a substitute for net cash provided by operating activities prepared in accordance with GAAP.

The following table provides a reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow (in thousands):

	For the Three Months Ended						For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,						September 30,
	2013			2012			2013			2012
Net cash provided by operating activities	$	66,309		$	60,671		$	190,763		$	202,861
Less: Purchases of property and equipment	(87,109		)	(58,454		)	(224,542		)	(164,556		)
Free cash flow	$	(20,800	)	$	2,217		$	(33,779	)	$	38,305

(11) The operating data presented in these items includes the center owned by Bloomingdale LIFE TIME FITNESS, L.L.C. ("Bloomingdale LLC"), which is jointly-owned with two unrelated organizations. The data presented elsewhere in this section excludes the center owned by Bloomingdale LLC.

(12) The square footage presented in this table reflects fitness square footage, which we believe is the best metric for the efficiencies of a facility. We exclude outdoor swimming pools, outdoor play areas, tennis courts and satellite facility square footage. These figures are approximations.

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Three Months Ended September 30,2013 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30,2012

Total revenue. Total revenue increased $21.1 million, or 7.2%, to $316.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013, from $294.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

Total center revenue grew $14.5 million, or 5.1%, to $296.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013, from $282.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. Of the $14.5 million increase in total center revenue,

• 55.7% was from membership dues, which increased $8.1 million, or 4.3%, due to higher average dues and increased memberships, primarily at centers open less than 37 months. Our number of Access memberships increased 0.1% to 695,923 at September 30, 2013, from 695,271 at September 30, 2012.

• 46.1% was from in-center revenue, which increased $6.7 million, or 7.4%, primarily as a result of a $4.0 million increase in personal training revenue and a $1.5 million increase our member activities revenue. Average in-center revenue per Access membership increased 6.6% to $140 for the three months ended September 30, 2013, from $131 for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

• (1.8)% was from enrollment fees, which are deferred until a center opens and recognized on a straight-line basis over our estimated average membership life. The estimated average membership life is 33 months. Enrollment fees decreased $0.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 to $3.6 million. The revenue recognized from enrollment fees was lower in the third quarter of 2013 as compared to the third quarter of 2012 primarily due to lower total enrollment fees over the deferral period.

Other revenue increased $6.6 million, or 51.3%, to $19.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013, from $12.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. This increase was primarily due to a $5.6 million increase in athletic events and related businesses revenue.

Center operations expenses. Center operations expenses totaled $180.4 million, or 60.9% of total center revenue (or 57.1% of total revenue), for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $169.5 million, or 60.1% of total center revenue (or 57.5% of total revenue), for the three months ended September 30, 2012. This $10.9 million increase primarily consisted of an increase of $6.2 million in additional payroll-related costs to support increased memberships and in-center revenue growth at our centers, and an increase of $1.8 million in presale related costs. Center operations expenses decreased as a percent of total revenue due primarily to leverage provided by dues growth.

Advertising and marketing expenses. Advertising and marketing expenses were $9.8 million, or 3.1% of total revenue, for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $8.8 million, or 3.0% of total revenue, for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $14.5 million, or 4.6% of total revenue, for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $13.6 million, or 4.6% of total revenue, for the three months ended September 30, 2012. This increase of $0.9 million is primarily related to information technology initiatives to support our continued growth.

Other operating expenses. Other operating expenses were $18.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $14.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. This increase is primarily due to growth in infrastructure and operating costs to support the $6.6 million increase in other revenue.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization was $30.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $29.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. This increase was primarily due to the depreciation on two new facilities opened in the first nine months of 2013.

Interest expense, net. Interest expense, net of interest income, was $6.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $6.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

Provision for income taxes. The provision for income taxes was $22.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $21.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2012. This $1.3 million

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increase was primarily due to an increase in income before income taxes of $3.5 million. The effective income tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2013 was 39.5% compared to 39.7% for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

Net income. As a result of the factors described above, net income was $34.4 million, or 10.9% of total revenue, for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $32.1 million, or 10.9% of total revenue, for the three months ended September 30, 2012.

Nine Months Ended September 30,2013 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30,2012

Total revenue. Total revenue increased $63.3 million, or 7.4%, to $914.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, from $851.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

Total center revenue grew $48.9 million, or 5.9%, to $873.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, from $825.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Of the $48.9 million increase in total center revenue,

• 59.1% was from membership dues, which increased $28.9 million, or 5.3%, due to higher average dues and increased memberships, primarily at centers open less than 37 months. Our number of Access memberships increased 0.1% to 695,923 at September 30, 2013, from 695,271 at September 30, 2012.

• 43.3% was from in-center revenue, which increased $21.2 million, or 8.0%, primarily as a result of a $12.2 million increase in personal training revenue, a $5.3 million increase in sales of our LifeSpa and LifeCafe products and services and a $3.8 million increase in our member activities revenue. Average in-center revenue per Access membership increased to $412 for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, from $385 for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

• (2.4)% was from enrollment fees, which are deferred until a center opens and recognized on a straight-line basis over our estimated average membership life. The estimated average membership life is 33 months. Enrollment fees decreased $1.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 to $10.6 million. The revenue recognized from enrollment fees was lower in the first half of 2013 as compared to the first half of 2012 primarily due to lower total enrollment fees over the deferral period.

Other revenue increased $14.3 million, or 53.6%, to $41.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, from $26.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This increase was primarily due to a $12.2 million increase in athletic events and related businesses revenue.

Center operations expenses. Center operations expenses totaled $527.2 million, or 60.3% of total center revenue (or 57.6% of total revenue), for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $496.8 million, or 60.2% of total center revenue (or 58.4% of total revenue), for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This $30.4 million increase primarily consisted of an increase of $18.6 million in additional payroll-related costs to support increased memberships and in-center revenue growth at our centers. Center operations expenses decreased as a percent of total revenue due primarily to leverage provided by dues growth.

Advertising and marketing expenses. Advertising and marketing expenses were $30.3 million, or 3.3% of total revenue, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $28.9 million, or 3.4% of total revenue, for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $45.6 million, or 5.0% of total revenue, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $41.2 million, or 4.8% of total revenue, for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This increase of $4.4 million is primarily related to information technology initiatives to support our continued growth.

Other operating expenses. Other operating expenses were $46.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $35.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This increase is primarily due to growth in infrastructure and operating costs to support the $14.3 million increase in other revenue.

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Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization was $89.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $85.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This increase was primarily due to the depreciation on the three new facilities opened in 2012 and two new facilities opened in the first nine months of 2013.

Interest expense, net. Interest expense, net of interest income, was $19.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $19.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

Provision for income taxes. The provision for income taxes was $62.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $58.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This $4.4 million increase was primarily due to an increase in income before income taxes of $12.0 million. The effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was 39.5% compared to 39.7% for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

Net income. As a result of the factors described above, net income was $95.7 million, or 10.4% of total revenue, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $88.1 million, or 10.3% of total revenue, for the nine months ended September 30, 2012.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Liquidity

Historically, we have satisfied our liquidity needs through cash flow provided by operations, various debt arrangements and sales of equity. Our principal liquidity needs have included the development of new centers, debt service requirements, share repurchases and expenditures necessary to maintain and update our existing centers and associated fitness equipment and may include the acquisition and remodeling of centers we acquire from time to time, as well as acquisitions to support our in-center and ancillary businesses. We believe that we can satisfy our current and longer-term debt service obligations and capital expenditure requirements primarily with cash flow from operations, by the extension of the terms of or refinancing our existing debt facilities, through sale-leaseback transactions and by continuing to raise long-term debt or equity capital, although there can be no assurance that such actions can or will be completed.

In July 2013, we amended, enlarged and extended our revolving credit facility, previously scheduled to mature in June 2016, now scheduled to mature in July 2018. In February 2013, we obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $75.0 million on five of our facilities. In August 2013, we obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $50.0 million on three of our facilities. We expect to use the proceeds from the amended revolving credit facility and the mortgage financings for general corporate purposes, future center expansion and to help fund other growth initiatives.

Our business model operates with negative working capital primarily for two reasons. First, we carry minimal accounts receivable due to our members' monthly membership dues paid by electronic draft. Second, we fund the construction of our new centers under standard arrangements with our vendors that are paid with cash flows from operations or the revolving credit facility.

As of September 30, 2013, we had total cash and cash equivalents of $19.7 million. We also had $402.8 million available under the existing terms of our revolving credit facility as of September 30, 2013.

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The following table summarizes our capital structure as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

	September 30,			December 31,
	2013			2012
	(In thousands)
Debt
Long-term debt	$	774,323		$	691,867
Current maturities of long-term debt	14,469			12,603
Total debt	788,792			704,470
Shareholders’ Equity
Common stock	854			864
Additional paid-in capital	420,557			447,912
Retained earnings	724,616			628,942
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(4,992		)	(4,801		)
Total shareholders’ equity	1,141,035			1,072,917
Total capitalization	$	1,929,827		$	1,777,387

Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities was $190.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $202.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This decrease is primarily due to changes in operating liabilities.

Investing Activities

Investing activities consist primarily of purchasing real property, constructing new centers, acquisitions and purchasing new fitness equipment. In addition, we invest in capital expenditures to maintain and update our existing centers. We finance the purchase of our property and equipment by cash payments or by financing through notes payable or capital lease obligations.

Net cash used in investing activities was $236.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared to $189.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. The increase of $46.1 million was primarily due to an increase in capital expenditures related to new center construction, partially offset by fewer acquisitions.

Our capital expenditures were as follows:

	For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2013		2012
	(In thousands)
Cash purchases of property and equipment	$	224,542	$	164,556
Non-cash change in construction accounts payable	26,612		(4,696		)
Other non-cash changes to property and equipment	2,195		7,358
Total capital expenditures	$	253,349	$	167,218

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The following schedule reflects capital expenditures by type of expenditure:

	For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2013		2012
	(In thousands)
New center land and construction	$	168,100	$	90,278
Maintenance of existing facilities, remodels of acquired centers and corporate capital expenditures	85,249		76,940
Total capital expenditures	$	253,349	$	167,218

At September 30, 2013, we had purchased the real property for the three large format centers we plan to open in 2013, two of which have opened, and three large format centers we plan to open after 2013, we had entered into a ground lease for one large format center that we plan to open after 2013 and we had entered into leases for two other format centers that we plan to open after 2013. Construction in progress, including land purchased for future development, totaled $218.7 million and $100.3 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

We expect our cash capital expenditures to be approximately $320 million to $350 million in 2013, including approximately $95 million to $125 million in the remaining three months of 2013. Of this approximately $95 million to $125 million, we expect to incur approximately $85 million to $105 million for new center construction and approximately $10 million to $20 million for the updating of existing centers and corporate infrastructure. We plan to fund these capital expenditures primarily with cash flow from operations and our revolving credit facility.

Financing Activities

Financing activities consist primarily of proceeds from long-term debt, repayments of and proceeds from our revolving credit facility, payments on debt obligations and repurchases of common stock.

Net cash provided by financing activities was $49.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 compared to $10.5 million used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2012. This change was primarily due to $125.0 million in mortgage financing obtained during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, offset by share repurchases and repayments on our revolving credit facility and other long-term borrowings.

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Long-term debt consisted of the following:

	September 30,		December 31,
	2013		2012
	(In thousands)
Revolving credit facility, interest only due monthly at interest rates ranging from LIBOR plus 1.25% to 2.25% or base plus 0.25% to 1.25%, facility expires July 2018	$	446,850	$	454,000
Commercial mortgage-backed notes payable with monthly interest and principal payments totaling $632 including interest at 6.03% to February 2017	95,646		96,909
Mortgage notes payable with monthly interest and principal payments totaling $775 including interest at 4.45% to March 2023	71,988		—
Mortgage notes payable with monthly interest and principal payments totaling $503 including interest at 5.75% to December 2016	68,687		70,175
Mortgage notes payable with monthly interest and principal payments totaling $423 including interest at 4.48% to September 2026	50,000		—
Other	40,538		67,945
Total debt (excluding obligations under capital leases)	773,709		689,029
Obligations under capital leases	15,083		15,441
Total debt	788,792		704,470
Less current maturities	14,469		12,603
Total long-term debt	$	774,323	$	691,867

Revolving Credit Facility

In July 2013, we amended, enlarged and extended our revolving credit facility. The amount of our revolving credit facility was increased from $660.0 million to $760.0 million and a new $100.0 million term loan was added. We may increase the facility by an additional $240.0 million through the exercise of an accordion feature if one or more lenders commit the additional $240.0 million. The term of the facility was extended to July of 2018.

As of September 30, 2013, $446.9 million was outstanding on the revolving credit facility at a weighted average interest rate of 2.4%, plus $10.3 million related to letters of credit, leaving $402.8 million available for additional borrowing under the revolving credit facility. The weighted average interest rate and debt outstanding under the revolving credit facility for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was 2.4% and $399.1 million, respectively. The maximum month-end balance during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $479.6 million.

As of September 30, 2012, $416.0 million was outstanding on the revolving credit facility at a weighted average interest rate of 2.6%. The weighted average interest rate and debt outstanding under the revolving credit facility for the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was 2.6% and $386.4 million, respectively. The maximum month-end balance during the nine months ended September 30, 2012 was $427.7 million.

Other Financing

On February 12, 2013, a wholly owned subsidiary obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $75.0 million from ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company pursuant to a promissory note and related agreements. The mortgage financing is secured by five properties and matures in March 2023. Interest on the amounts borrowed is 4.45% per annum, with a constant monthly debt service payment of $0.8 million.

On August 23, 2013, a wholly owned subsidiary obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $50.0 million from ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company pursuant to a promissory note and related agreements. The mortgage financing is secured by three properties and matures in September 2026. Interest on the amounts borrowed is 4.48% per annum, with a constant monthly debt service payment of $0.4 million.

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During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we prepaid three mortgage notes payable in the amount of $17.8 million using our revolving credit facility. Concurrent with the prepayment, the mortgages were released on the related centers.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we prepaid one promissory note payable on certain personal property in the amount of $5.6 million using our revolving credit facility.

Debt Covenants

We are in compliance in all material respects with all restrictive and financial covenants under our various credit facilities as of September 30, 2013.

Our primary financial covenants under the revolving credit facility are:

		Actual as of	Actual as of
		September 30,	December 31,
Covenant	Requirement	2013	2012
Total Consolidated Debt to Adjusted EBITDAR	Not more than 4.00 to 1.00	2.66 to 1.00	2.51 to 1.00
Fixed Charge Coverage Ratio	Not less than 1.50 to 1.00	3.68 to 1.00	3.00 to 1.00
Unencumbered Asset Ratio	Not less than 1.30 to 1.00	2.95 to 1.00	2.90 to 1.00

The formulas for these covenants are specifically defined in the credit agreement for our revolving credit facility and include, among other things, an add back of share-based compensation expense to EBITDAR.

Item 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We invest our excess cash in highly liquid short-term investments. These investments are not held for trading or other speculative purposes. Changes in interest rates affect the investment income we earn on our cash and cash equivalents and, therefore, impact our consolidated cash flows and consolidated results of operations. As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, our net floating rate indebtedness was approximately $282.8 million and $292.4 million, respectively. If long-term floating interest rates were to have increased by 100 basis points during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, our interest costs would have increased by approximately $1.8 million. If short-term interest rates were to have increased by 100 basis points during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, our interest income from cash equivalents would have increased by less than $0.1 million. These amounts are determined by considering the impact of the hypothetical interest rates on our floating rate indebtedness and cash equivalents balances at September 30, 2013.

Item 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As of the end of the period covered by this report, an evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in applicable rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rule 13a-15 or 15d-15 of the Exchange Act that occurred during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

Not applicable.

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities in Third Quarter 2013

Period	Total Number of Shares Purchased		Average Price Paid per Share	Maximum Number of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the ESPP Authorization (1)	Maximum Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet be Purchased Under the Stock Repurchase Authorization (2)
July 1-31, 2013		13,660	$54.21	260,727	$12,745,047
August 1-31, 2013		88,300	$52.43	260,727	$198,211,595
September 1-30, 2013		151,701	$49.35	260,727	$190,724,977
Total		253,661	$50.68	260,727	$190,724,977

(1) In June 2006, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of 500,000 shares of our common stock from time to time in the open market or otherwise for the primary purpose of offsetting the dilutive effect of shares issued under our ESPP (the "ESPP Authorization"). From June 2006 through September 30, 2013, we repurchased 239,273 shares pursuant to the ESPP Authorization, of which 27,093 shares were repurchased during 2013. The shares repurchased to date have been purchased in the open market and, upon repurchase, became unissued shares of our common stock.

(2) In August 2011, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $60.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through open market or privately negotiated transactions (the "Stock Repurchase Authorization") through it's expiration date, August 17, 2013. As of September 30, 2013, a total of 1,107,665 shares were repurchased under this program for $50.1 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, 682,634 shares were repurchased for $31.0 million. The shares repurchased were purchased in the open market and, upon repurchase, became unissued shares of our common stock. This authorization terminated on August 15, 2013 with the authorization of a new share repurchase program.

On August 15, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $200.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through open market or privately negotiated transactions. The authorization to repurchase shares terminates when the aggregate repurchase amount totals $200.0 million or at the close of business on August 16, 2015, whichever occurs first. The share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any dollar amount or number of shares of our common stock and the program may be extended, modified, suspended or discontinued at any time. As of September 30, 2013, 186,701 shares have been repurchased under this program for approximately $9.3 million. The shares repurchased to date have been purchased in the open market and, upon repurchase, became unissued shares of our common stock.

ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES

Not applicable.

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ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES

Not applicable.

ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION

Not applicable.

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS

Exhibits filed with this report

Exhibit No.	Description	Method of Filing
3.1	Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K dated April 20, 2009 (File No. 001-32230).
3.2	Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Registrant.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K dated July 17, 2012 (File No. 001-32230).
4	Specimen of common stock certificate.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to Amendment No. 4 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-113764), filed with the Commission on June 23, 2004.
10.1	Amendment No. 2 to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, Amendment No. 1 to Guaranty, and Omnibus Amendment to Collateral Documents, dated as of July 24, 2013, among Life Time Fitness, Inc., certain designated subsidiaries of Life Time Fitness, Inc., U.S. Bank National Association, as administrative agent and lender, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, RBC Capital Markets, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Bank of America, N.A. as lenders, and certain other financial institutions.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K dated July 24, 2013 (File No. 001-32230).
31.1	Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification by Principal Executive Officer.	Filed Electronically.
31.2	Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification by Principal Financial Officer.	Filed Electronically.
32	Section 1350 Certifications.	Filed Electronically.
101	The following materials from Life Time Fitness's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2013, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) consolidated balance sheets, (ii) consolidated statements of operations, (iii) consolidated statements of comprehensive income, (iv) consolidated statements of cash flows, and (v) notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.	Filed Electronically.

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Life Time Fitness, Inc. has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on October 25, 2013.

LIFE TIME FITNESS, INC.
By:	/s/ Bahram Akradi
	Name: Bahram Akradi Title: Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer and Director)
By:	/s/ Michael R. Robinson
	Name: Michael R. Robinson Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
By:	/s/ John M. Hugo
	Name: John M. Hugo Title: Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)

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INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Exhibit No.	Description	Method of Filing
3.1	Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K dated April 20, 2009 (File No. 001-32230).
3.2	Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Registrant.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K dated July 17, 2012 (File No. 001-32230).
4	Specimen of common stock certificate.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to Amendment No. 4 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-113764), filed with the Commission on June 23, 2004.
10.1	Amendment No. 2 to Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, Amendment No. 1 to Guaranty, and Omnibus Amendment to Collateral Documents, dated as of July 24, 2013, among Life Time Fitness, Inc., certain designated subsidiaries of Life Time Fitness, Inc., U.S. Bank National Association, as administrative agent and lender, J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, RBC Capital Markets, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Bank of America, N.A. as lenders, and certain other financial institutions.	Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Form 8-K dated July 24, 2013 (File No. 001-32230).
31.1	Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification by Principal Executive Officer.	Filed Electronically.
31.2	Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification by Principal Financial Officer.	Filed Electronically.
32	Section 1350 Certifications.	Filed Electronically.
101	The following materials from Life Time Fitness's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2013, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL): (i) consolidated balance sheets, (ii) consolidated statements of operations, (iii) consolidated statements of comprehensive income (iv) consolidated statements of cash flows, and (v) notes to the unaudited consolidated financial statements.	Filed Electronically.

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EX-31.1

EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Bahram Akradi, certify that:

1.    I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Life Time Fitness, Inc.;

2.    Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.    Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.    The Company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f))for the Company and we have:

a)    designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)    designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)    evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)    disclosed in this report any change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s most recent fiscal quarter (the Company’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.    The Company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Company’s auditors and the audit committee of the Company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)    all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)    any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date:	October 25, 2013
		/s/ Bahram Akradi
		Bahram Akradi
		Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION

I, Michael R. Robinson, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Life Time Fitness, Inc.;

2.    Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.    Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.    The Company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f))for the Company and we have:

a)    designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b)    designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c)    evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d)    disclosed in this report any change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the Company’s most recent fiscal quarter (the Company’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.    The Company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the Company’s auditors and the audit committee of the Company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a)    all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the Company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b)    any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date:	October 25, 2013
		/s/ Michael R. Robinson
		Michael R. Robinson
		Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32

EXHIBIT 32

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

Each of the undersigned hereby certify, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, that:

(1) this periodic report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

(2) the information contained in this periodic report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of Life Time Fitness, Inc.

Dated:	October 25, 2013
		/s/ Bahram Akradi
		Bahram Akradi
		Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief Executive Officer
		/s/ Michael R. Robinson
		Michael R. Robinson
		Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component

3 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Equity [Abstract]

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component

The following table presents information about accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 (net of tax):

	Gains (Losses) on Cash Flows Hedge			Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	(3,631	)	$	(1,170	)	$	(4,801	)
Other comprehensive income	321			(584		)	(263		)
Balance at March 31, 2013	(3,310		)	(1,754		)	(5,064		)
Other comprehensive income	1,067			(1,123		)	(56		)
Balance at June 30, 2013	(2,243		)	(2,877		)	(5,120		)
Other comprehensive income	(221		)	349			128
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	(2,464	)	$	(2,528	)	$	(4,992	)

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Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
REVENUE:
Membership dues	$ 195,657	$ 187,568	$ 576,847	$ 547,933
Enrollment fees	3,598	3,859	10,567	11,742
In-center revenue	97,234	90,543	286,480	265,277
Total center revenue	296,489	281,970	873,894	824,952
Other revenue	19,522	12,903	40,972	26,672
Total revenue	316,011	294,873	914,866	851,624
OPERATING EXPENSES:
Center operations	180,431	169,521	527,191	496,790
Advertising and marketing	9,758	8,826	30,346	28,871
General and administrative	14,531	13,631	45,600	41,190
Other operating	18,479	14,091	46,538	35,243
Depreciation and amortization	29,956	29,396	89,235	85,217
Total operating expenses	253,155	235,465	738,910	687,311
Income from operations	62,856	59,408	175,956	164,313
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
Interest expense, net of interest income	(6,436)	(6,510)	(18,999)	(19,332)
Equity in earnings of affiliate	379	375	1,103	1,143
Total other income (expense)	(6,057)	(6,135)	(17,896)	(18,189)
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES	56,799	53,273	158,060	146,124
PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES	22,413	21,129	62,386	58,016
NET INCOME	$ 34,386	$ 32,144	$ 95,674	$ 88,108
BASIC EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (in dollars per share)	$ 0.83	$ 0.77	$ 2.31	$ 2.13
DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE (in dollars per share)	$ 0.83	$ 0.77	$ 2.30	$ 2.10
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING - BASIC (in shares)	41,307	41,484	41,353	41,370
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING - DILUTED (in shares)	41,613	41,881	41,606	41,885

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Earnings per Share

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share

Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income applicable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for each period. Diluted EPS is computed similarly to basic EPS, except that the denominator is increased for the conversion of any dilutive common stock equivalents, the assumed exercise of dilutive stock options using the treasury stock method and unvested restricted stock awards using the treasury stock method. Stock options excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because the option exercise price was greater than the average market price of the common share were 0 and 15,540 for the three months ended September 30,2013 and 2012, respectively, and 2,477 for both the nine months ended September 30,2013 and 2012.

The basic and diluted EPS calculations are shown below:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Net income	$	34,386	$	32,144	$	95,674	$	88,108
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – basic	41,307		41,484		41,353		41,370
Effect of dilutive stock options	95		122		87		122
Effect of dilutive restricted stock awards	211		275		166		393
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – diluted	41,613		41,881		41,606		41,885
Basic earnings per common share	$	0.83	$	0.77	$	2.31	$	2.13
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.83	$	0.77	$	2.30	$	2.10

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Derivative Instruments (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments [Abstract]

Derivatives

As part of our financial risk management program, we may periodically use interest rate swaps to manage known market exposures. Terms of derivative instruments are structured to match the terms of the risk being managed and are generally held to maturity.

On an ongoing basis, we assess whether the interest rate swap used in this hedging transaction is “highly effective” in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flow of the hedged item by comparing the current terms of the swap and the debt to assure they continue to coincide and through an evaluation of the continued ability of the counterparty to the swap to honor its obligations under the swap. No ineffectiveness was experienced in the interest rate swap during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The amendment of our credit facility (see Note 11) did not impact our interest rate swap or the effectiveness of the hedge. If it is determined that the derivative is not highly effective as a hedge or hedge accounting is discontinued, any change in fair value of the derivative since the last date at which it was determined to be effective would be recognized in earnings.

In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, changes in the fair value of the swap contract are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax.

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Long-Term Debt Long-Term Debt (Notes)

3 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Long-term Debt

Long-Term Debt

Effective July 31, 2013, we entered into the 2nd Amendment to the Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with U.S. Bank National Association, as administrative agent and lender, and other lenders from time to time a party thereto. The material amendments to the Credit Agreement were (i) an increase to the amount of the revolving credit facility from $660.0 million to $760.0 million and a new $100.0 million term loan and (ii) an extension of the term of the facility to July 31, 2018. The revolving credit facility may be increased by an additional $240.0 million upon the exercise of an accordion feature if one or more lenders commit the additional $240.0 million. The term loan dated July 31, 2013 amortizes at the rate of 5.0% of the original term loan amount on an annual basis. The facility remains floating rate with a spread over LIBOR or Prime. The spreads under the leverage-based pricing grid in the facility remain unchanged, as do the financial covenant ratio thresholds.

On February 12, 2013, a wholly owned subsidiary obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $75.0 million from ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company pursuant to a promissory note and related agreements. The mortgage financing is secured by five properties and matures in March 2023. Interest on the amounts borrowed is 4.45% per annum, with a constant monthly debt service payment of $0.8 million.

On August 23, 2013, a wholly owned subsidiary obtained a mortgage loan in the original principal amount of $50.0 million from ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company pursuant to a promissory note and related agreements. The mortgage financing is secured by three properties and matures in September 2026. Interest on the amounts borrowed is 4.48% per annum, with a constant monthly debt service payment of $0.4 million.

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Intangible Assets Intangible Assets- Text (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Schedule Of Changes In Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life	10 years
Amortization of Intangible Assets	$ 1.5	$ 1.0
Trade Names [Member]
Schedule Of Changes In Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Line Items]
Indefinite-Lived Trade Names	5.1
Finite Lived Trade Names, Net	$ 0.2

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Operating Segment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Membership dues	$ 195,657	$ 187,568	$ 576,847	$ 547,933
Enrollment fees	3,598	3,859	10,567	11,742
Other in-center revenue	97,234	90,543	286,480	265,277
Total center revenue	296,489	281,970	873,894	824,952
Other revenue	19,522	12,903	40,972	26,672
Total revenue	316,011	294,873	914,866	851,624
Personal Training
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Other in-center revenue	46,095	42,138	138,903	126,675
Other in-center revenue
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]
Other in-center revenue	$ 51,139	$ 48,405	$ 147,577	$ 138,602

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Earnings per Share (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted

The basic and diluted EPS calculations are shown below:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Net income	$	34,386	$	32,144	$	95,674	$	88,108
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – basic	41,307		41,484		41,353		41,370
Effect of dilutive stock options	95		122		87		122
Effect of dilutive restricted stock awards	211		275		166		393
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – diluted	41,613		41,881		41,606		41,885
Basic earnings per common share	$	0.83	$	0.77	$	2.31	$	2.13
Diluted earnings per common share	$	0.83	$	0.77	$	2.30	$	2.10

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Share-Based Compensation (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Share-based Compensation [Abstract]

Total Share-Based Compensation Expense Included in our Consolidated Statements of Operations

Total share-based compensation expense included in our consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, was as follows:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Share-based compensation expense related to restricted shares	$	3,094	$	3,520	$	9,320	$	10,772
Share-based compensation expense related to ESPP	30		30		90		90
Total share-based compensation expense	$	3,124	$	3,550	$	9,410	$	10,862

Summary of Restricted Stock Activity

Summary of Restricted Stock Activity

	Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2012	2,069,168		$36.55
Granted	328,550		$41.94
Canceled	(10,995	)	$34.63
Vested	(817,688	)	$24.55
Outstanding at March 31, 2013	1,569,035		$43.95
Granted	25,406		$47.58
Canceled	(39,476	)	$43.40
Vested	(31,809	)	$39.54
Outstanding at June 30, 2013	1,523,156		$44.11
Granted	9,150		$48.77
Canceled	(6,375	)	$42.70
Vested	(8,746	)	$41.99
Outstanding at September 30, 2013	1,517,185		$44.16

Summary of Stock Option Activity

Summary of Stock Option Activity

	Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2012	291,510		$24.96	2.0	$7,073
Exercised	(40,675	)	$21.44
Canceled	—		$—
Outstanding at March 31, 2013	250,835		$25.53	1.8	$4,441
Exercised	(8,967	)	$26.33
Canceled	(1,600	)	$8.00
Outstanding at June 30, 2013	240,268		$25.62	1.6	$5,886
Exercised	(18,600	)	$24.47
Canceled	—		$—
Outstanding at September 30, 2013	221,668		$25.72	1.3	$5,709
Vested at September 30, 2013	221,668		$25.72	1.3	$5,709

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Intangible Assets Schedule of Changes in Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2012	$ 28,531
Trade/brand names acquired	5,347
Balance at September 30, 2013	$ 33,878

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Summary of Restricted Stock Activity (Details) (USD $) In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		1 Months Ended			3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 Restricted Stock [Member]	Jun. 30, 2013 Restricted Stock [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Restricted Stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Restricted Stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2012 Restricted Stock [Member]	Aug. 31, 2012 Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member]	Jul. 31, 2012 Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member]	May 31, 2012 Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Group1 [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member] Fiscal Year 2015 [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Group1 [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member] Fiscal Year 2016 [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Group2 [Member] Performance Based Restricted Stock [Member] Fiscal Year 2016 [Member]
Shares
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)	1,523,156	1,569,035	2,069,168	2,069,168
Granted (in shares)	9,150	25,406	328,550	363,106	1,039,526	20,000	40,500	598,000
Canceled (in shares)	(6,375)	(39,476)	(10,995)
Vested (in shares)	(8,746)	(31,809)	(817,688)
Outstanding at end of period (in shares)	1,517,185	1,523,156	1,569,035	1,517,185					651,500
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$ 44.11	$ 43.95	$ 36.55	$ 36.55
Granted (in dollars per share)	$ 48.77	$ 47.58	$ 41.94
Canceled (in dollars per share)	$ 42.70	$ 43.40	$ 34.63
Vested (in dollars per share)	$ 41.99	$ 39.54	$ 24.55
Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share)	$ 44.16	$ 44.11	$ 43.95	$ 44.16
Equity instruments other than options - aggregate fair value of grant during period				$ 15.4	$ 49.2
Equity instruments other than options - vested in period				21.7	19.1
Unrecognized compensation expense	29.4			29.4					29.9
Unrecognized compensation, weighted average period of recognition				2 years 4 months 24 days
Vesting percentage of the diluted EPS targets (in percent)										50.00%	50.00%	100.00%
The number times the compound annual growth rate under current long rang plan for the earning per share target.									1.5
The number times the return on invested capital for the return on invested capital target									1.1
Additional share based compensation expense recognized at balance sheet date if all performance targets were probable at balance sheet date									$ 10.2

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Supplementary Cash Flow Information - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Cash payments for income taxes	$ 54,300,000	$ 45,000,000
Cash payments for interest, net of capitalized interest	16,900,000	17,800,000
Capitalized interest	2,000,000	700,000
Construction accounts payable	$ 51,820,000	$ 17,200,000	$ 25,208,000

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Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Equity [Abstract]

Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table presents information about accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) by component for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 (net of tax):

	Gains (Losses) on Cash Flows Hedge			Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at December 31, 2012	$	(3,631	)	$	(1,170	)	$	(4,801	)
Other comprehensive income	321			(584		)	(263		)
Balance at March 31, 2013	(3,310		)	(1,754		)	(5,064		)
Other comprehensive income	1,067			(1,123		)	(56		)
Balance at June 30, 2013	(2,243		)	(2,877		)	(5,120		)
Other comprehensive income	(221		)	349			128
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	(2,464	)	$	(2,528	)	$	(4,992	)

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Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended		3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013 Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]	Jun. 30, 2013 Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Accumulated Net Unrealized Investment Gain (Loss) [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Jun. 30, 2013 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Jun. 30, 2013 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Mar. 31, 2013 Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance			$ (4,801)		$ (2,243)	$ (3,310)	$ (3,631)	$ (2,877)	$ (1,754)	$ (1,170)	$ (5,120)	$ (5,064)	$ (4,801)
Other comprehensive income	128	(758)	(190)	(2,197)	(221)	1,067	321	349	(1,123)	(584)	128	(56)	(263)
Ending balance	$ (4,992)		$ (4,992)		$ (2,464)	$ (2,243)	$ (3,310)	$ (2,528)	$ (2,877)	$ (1,754)	$ (4,992)	$ (5,120)	$ (5,064)

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Fair Value Measurements (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

The accounting guidance establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expanded disclosures about fair value measurements. The guidance applies to all assets and liabilities that are measured and reported on a fair value basis. This enables the reader of the financial statements to assess the inputs used to develop those measurements by establishing a hierarchy for ranking the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values. The guidance requires that each asset and liability carried at fair value be classified into one of the following categories:

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2: Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis

The fair value of the interest rate swap is determined using observable current market information such as the prevailing LIBOR interest rates, LIBOR yield curve rates and current fair values as quoted by recognized dealers, and also includes consideration of counterparty credit risk. The following table presents the fair value of our derivative financial instrument as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

		Fair Value Measurements Using:
		Quoted Prices in	Significant	Significant
	Total	Active Markets for	Other Observable	Unobservable
	Fair	Identical Assets	Inputs	Inputs
	Value	(Level 1)	(Level 2)	(Level 3)
Interest rate swap liability as of
September 30, 2013	$4,108	$—	$4,108	$—
Interest rate swap liability as of
December 31, 2012	$6,052	$—	$6,052	$—

Fair Value Measurements on a Nonrecurring Basis

Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis relate primarily to our tangible fixed assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, which are remeasured when the derived fair value is below carrying value on our consolidated balance sheets. For these assets, we do not periodically adjust carrying value to fair value except in the event of impairment. If we determine that impairment has occurred, the carrying value of the asset would be reduced to fair value and the difference would be recorded as a loss within operating income in our consolidated statements of operations.

We had no remeasurements of such assets or liabilities to fair value during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 or September 30, 2012.

Financial Assets and Liabilities Not Measured at Fair Value

The carrying amounts related to cash and cash equivalents (Level 1), accounts receivable, income tax receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to the relatively short maturities of such instruments.

The fair value of our long-term debt and capital leases are estimated based on estimated current rates for debt with similar terms, credit worthiness and the same remaining maturities. For variable rate loans that re-price frequently, fair values are based on carrying values. The fair value of fixed rate loans is estimated based on the discounted cash flows of the loans using current market rates, which are estimated based on recent financing transactions (Level 3). The fair value estimates presented are based on information available to us as of September 30, 2013. These fair value estimates have not been comprehensively revalued for purposes of these consolidated financial statements since that date, and current estimates of fair values may differ significantly.

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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments, tax	$ (251)	$ 81	$ 872	$ 69
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, tax	$ 147	$ 434	$ (778)	$ 1,416

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Basis of Presentation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary to fairly present financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the periods have been included.

These interim consolidated financial statements and the related notes should be read in conjunction with the annual consolidated financial statements and notes included in the latest Form 10-K, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which includes audited consolidated financial statements for the three fiscal years ended December 31, 2012.

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Operating Segment

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Reportable Segment

Operating Segment

Our operations are conducted mainly through our distinctive and large, multi-use sports and athletic, professional fitness, family recreation and spa centers in a resort-like environment. We aggregate the activities of our centers and other ancillary products and services into one reportable segment. Each of the centers has similar economic characteristics, services, product offerings and customers, and in-center revenues are derived primarily from services to our members. Each of the other ancillary products and services either directly or indirectly, through advertising or branding, complement the operations of the centers. Our chief operating decision maker, our Chief Executive Officer, uses EBITDA (net income plus interest expense, net, provision for income taxes and depreciation and amortization) as the primary measure of operating segment performance.

The following table presents revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Membership dues	$	195,657	$	187,568	$	576,847	$	547,933
Enrollment fees	3,598		3,859		10,567		11,742
Personal training	46,095		42,138		138,903		126,675
Other in-center revenue	51,139		48,405		147,577		138,602
Total center revenue	296,489		281,970		873,894		824,952
Other revenue	19,522		12,903		40,972		26,672
Total revenue	$	316,011	$	294,873	$	914,866	$	851,624

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Share-Based Compensation

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Share-based Compensation [Abstract]

Share-Based Compensation

Share-Based Compensation

Stock Option and Incentive Plans

We have four share-based compensation plans: the Life Time Fitness, Inc. 1998 Stock Option Plan (the “1998 Plan”); the Amended and Restated Life Time Fitness, Inc. 2004 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2004 Plan”); the Life Time Fitness, Inc. 2011 Long-Term Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan”) and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”), collectively, the share-based compensation plans. We no longer make grants under the 1998 Plan and the 2004 Plan. There are 2,500,000 shares of common stock reserved for grant under the 2011 Plan and, as of September 30, 2013, there were 1,149,485 shares available for grant. The types of awards that may be granted under the 2011 Plan include incentive and non-qualified options to purchase shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units, performance awards and other types of share-based awards.

As of September 30, 2013, we had granted a total of 5,587,165 options to purchase common stock under all of the share-based compensation plans, of which options to purchase 221,668 shares were outstanding and vested, and a total of 4,740,571 restricted shares were granted, of which 1,517,185 restricted shares were outstanding and unvested. We use the term “restricted shares” to define unvested shares granted to employees and non-employee directors. We use the term "vest" to define the lapse of vesting restrictions on restricted shares.

Total share-based compensation expense included in our consolidated statements of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, was as follows:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Share-based compensation expense related to restricted shares	$	3,094	$	3,520	$	9,320	$	10,772
Share-based compensation expense related to ESPP	30		30		90		90
Total share-based compensation expense	$	3,124	$	3,550	$	9,410	$	10,862

Summary of Restricted Stock Activity

	Shares		Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2012	2,069,168		$36.55
Granted	328,550		$41.94
Canceled	(10,995	)	$34.63
Vested	(817,688	)	$24.55
Outstanding at March 31, 2013	1,569,035		$43.95
Granted	25,406		$47.58
Canceled	(39,476	)	$43.40
Vested	(31,809	)	$39.54
Outstanding at June 30, 2013	1,523,156		$44.11
Granted	9,150		$48.77
Canceled	(6,375	)	$42.70
Vested	(8,746	)	$41.99
Outstanding at September 30, 2013	1,517,185		$44.16

During the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, we issued 363,106 and 1,039,526 shares of restricted stock, respectively, with an aggregate grant date fair value of $15.4 million and $49.2 million, respectively. The grant date fair value of restricted shares that vested during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was $21.7 million and $19.1 million, respectively. The total value of each restricted stock grant, based on the fair value of the stock on the date of grant, is amortized to compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the related vesting period. As of September 30, 2013, there was $29.4 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock that is expected to vest. We plan to recognize this amount over a weighted average period of 2.4 years.

Special 2012 Long-Term Performance-Based Restricted Stock Grant

In May 2012, the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors approved the grant of 598,000 shares of long-term performance-based restricted stock to serve as an incentive to our senior management team to achieve certain cumulative diluted earnings per share ("EPS") and return on invested capital (“ROIC”) targets during performance periods that end on December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2016. In July and August 2012, an additional 40,500 and 20,000 shares, respectively, of long-term performance-based restricted stock were granted to members of management using the same cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets and vesting schedule. These shares are included in the overall number of restricted shares granted in 2012.

The cumulative diluted EPS target measures cumulative diluted EPS for each quarter during the period from April 1, 2012 to the end of the applicable performance period. The ROIC target is measured in the last year of the applicable performance period. If the specified cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets are both met or exceeded for the performance period ending December 31, 2015, 50% of the restricted shares will vest. If the specified cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets are both met or exceeded for the performance period ending December 31, 2016, then all of the restricted shares will vest. For example, if the 2015 performance targets were satisfied and 50% of the shares vested, the remaining 50% of the restricted shares will vest if the 2016 performance targets were satisfied. If the 2015 performance targets were not satisfied, but the 2016 performance targets are both met, 100% of the restricted shares will vest. In the event that we do not achieve both of the specified cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets for the performance period ending December 31, 2016, the restricted shares will be forfeited. As of September 30, 2013, 651,500 shares were still outstanding and unvested. A maximum of $29.9 million of compensation expense could be recognized under this grant if all cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets are met.

We consider the specific cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC targets to be competitively sensitive information during the performance period. However, the Compensation Committee set the cumulative diluted EPS targets at 1.5 times the compound annual growth rate under our then-current long range plan and the ROIC targets at 1.1 times the ROIC under our then-current long range plan. We do not believe that achievement of the cumulative diluted EPS and the ROIC targets are currently probable, and, therefore, we did not recognize any compensation expense associated with the grant during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. If all of the targets had been considered probable at September 30, 2013, we would have recognized $10.2 million of non-cash performance share-based compensation expense during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. If it becomes probable that the cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC performance targets will be achieved, a cumulative adjustment would be recorded and the remaining compensation expense would be recognized over the remaining performance period. The probability of reaching the targets is evaluated each reporting period. If we later determine that it is no longer probable that the minimum cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC performance targets for the grants would be met, no further compensation expense would be recognized and any previously recognized compensation expense would be reversed. In accordance with the related accounting guidance, none of the unvested restricted shares were included in our share count since the date of grant.

Summary of Stock Option Activity

	Shares		Weighted Average Exercise Price	Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (Years)	Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at December 31, 2012	291,510		$24.96	2.0	$7,073
Exercised	(40,675	)	$21.44
Canceled	—		$—
Outstanding at March 31, 2013	250,835		$25.53	1.8	$4,441
Exercised	(8,967	)	$26.33
Canceled	(1,600	)	$8.00
Outstanding at June 30, 2013	240,268		$25.62	1.6	$5,886
Exercised	(18,600	)	$24.47
Canceled	—		$—
Outstanding at September 30, 2013	221,668		$25.72	1.3	$5,709
Vested at September 30, 2013	221,668		$25.72	1.3	$5,709

No stock options have been granted since 2007. As of September 30, 2013, there was no unrecognized compensation expense related to stock options.

The aggregate intrinsic values in the table above represent the total pretax intrinsic values (the differences between our closing stock price and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on that date. This amount changes based on the fair market value of our stock. Total intrinsic value of options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 was $1.6 million and $3.1 million, respectively.

Our net cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options were $1.6 million and $2.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The excess income tax benefit realized from stock option exercises and restricted stock vesting was $6.6 million and $9.1 million, respectively, for those same periods. In accordance with the related accounting guidance, this tax benefit is presented as a financing cash inflow. There is a corresponding cash outflow included in cash flows from operating activities.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Our ESPP provides for the sale of up to 1,500,000 shares of our common stock to our employees at discounted purchase prices. The cost per share under this plan is 90% of the fair market value of our common stock on the last day of the purchase period, as defined. The current purchase period for employees under the ESPP began July 1, 2013 and ends December 31, 2013. Compensation expense under the ESPP is estimated based on the discount of 10% at the end of the purchase period. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, $1.1 million was withheld from employees for the purpose of purchasing shares under the ESPP. There were 1,260,727 shares of common stock available for purchase under the ESPP as of September 30, 2013.

Share Repurchase Plans

In June 2006, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 500,000 shares of our common stock from time to time in the open market or otherwise for the primary purpose of offsetting the dilutive effect of shares issued under our ESPP. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 27,093 shares for approximately $1.3 million. As of September 30, 2013, there were 260,727 remaining shares authorized to be repurchased for this purpose.

In August 2011, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $60.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 682,634 shares under this program for approximately $31.0 million. This authorization terminated in August 2013 with the authorization of a new share repurchase program.

In August 2013, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $200.0 million of our outstanding common stock from time to time through open market or privately negotiated transactions. The authorization to repurchase shares terminates when the aggregate repurchase amount totals $200.0 million or at the close of business on August 16, 2015, whichever occurs first. The share repurchase program does not obligate us to repurchase any dollar amount or number of shares of our common stock and the program may be extended, modified, suspended or discontinued at any time. During the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 186,701 shares under this program for approximately $9.3 million. As of September 30, 2013, there was $190.7 million remaining authorized under this program.

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Derivative Instruments (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Aug. 31, 2011 Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Aug. 31, 2011 Interest Rate Swap [Member] Cash Flow Hedging [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative, notional amount			$ 200,000,000
Derivative, fixed interest rate (in percent)				1.32%
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	2,500,000
Fair market value of swap contract	$ 4,108,000	$ 6,052,000

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Operating Segment (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services

The following table presents revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

	For the Three Months Ended				For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,				September 30,
	2013		2012		2013		2012
Membership dues	$	195,657	$	187,568	$	576,847	$	547,933
Enrollment fees	3,598		3,859		10,567		11,742
Personal training	46,095		42,138		138,903		126,675
Other in-center revenue	51,139		48,405		147,577		138,602
Total center revenue	296,489		281,970		873,894		824,952
Other revenue	19,522		12,903		40,972		26,672
Total revenue	$	316,011	$	294,873	$	914,866	$	851,624

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Intangible Assets (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Changes In Goodwill

The change in the carrying amount of goodwill is as follows:

Balance at December 31, 2012	$	37,176
Goodwill acquired	12,080
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	49,256

Schedule Of Changes In Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill

The following table summarizes the changes in our gross intangible balance during the nine months ended September 30, 2013:

Balance at December 31, 2012	$	28,531
Trade/brand names acquired	5,347
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	33,878

Schedule Of Carrying Value Of Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill

At September 30, 2013, intangible assets consisted of the following:

	Gross		Accumulated Amortization		Net
Leasehold rights	$	6,392	$	1,324	$	5,068
Trade/brand names	15,479		885		14,594
Curriculum- and technology-based intangibles	6,595		1,146		5,449
Customer relationships	5,412		812		4,600
Total intangible assets	$	33,878	$	4,167	$	29,711

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Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Calculations (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Net income	$ 34,386	$ 32,144	$ 95,674	$ 88,108
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic (shares)	41,307	41,484	41,353	41,370
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - diluted (shares)	41,613	41,881	41,606	41,885
Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.83	$ 0.77	$ 2.31	$ 2.13
Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.83	$ 0.77	$ 2.30	$ 2.10
Stock Options [Member]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Effect of dilutive share based compensation (shares)	95	122	87	122
Restricted Stock [Member]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Effect of dilutive share based compensation (shares)	211	275	166	393

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Intangible Assets Schedule of Changes in Goodwill (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Balance at December 31, 2012	$ 37,176
Goodwill acquired	12,080
Balance at September 30, 2013	$ 49,256

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Consolidated Balance Sheets Parenthetical (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Undesignated preferred stock, shares authorized (shares)	10,000,000	10,000,000
Undesignated preferred stock issued (shares)	0	0
Undesignated preferred stock outstanding (shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (usd per share)	$ 0.02	$ 0.02
Common stock, shares authorized (shares)	75,000,000	75,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Issued (shares)	42,654,601	43,149,434
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding (shares)	42,654,601	43,149,434

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Recent Accounting Pronouncements

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Current Period Disclosures [Abstract]

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In July 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") updated guidance on intangible asset impairment testing. The guidance became effective for us in 2013. The amendments in this update allow companies to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test. Under the update, a company will not be required to calculate the fair value of an indefinite-lived intangible asset unless the company determines, based on qualitative assessment, that it is not more likely than not, the indefinite-lived intangible asset is impaired. The amendments include a number of events and circumstances for an entity to consider in conducting the qualitative assessment. The implementation of the guidance did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

In February 2013, the FASB issued guidance adding new disclosure requirements for items reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI"), which became effective for us in 2013. The guidance is intended to help entities improve the transparency of changes in other comprehensive income ("OCI") and items reclassified out of AOCI in financial statements. It does not amend any existing requirements for reporting net income or OCI in financial statements. The implementation of the guidance did not have an impact on our consolidated financial statements.

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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
NET INCOME	$ 34,386	$ 32,144	$ 95,674	$ 88,108
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of taxes of $(251), $81, $872 and $69, respectively	349	(108)	(1,357)	(72)
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges, net of taxes of $147, $434, $(778) and $1,416, respectively	(221)	(650)	1,167	(2,125)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	128	(758)	(190)	(2,197)
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	$ 34,514	$ 31,386	$ 95,484	$ 85,911

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 19,719	$ 16,499
Accounts receivable, net	9,834	9,272
Center operating supplies and inventories	30,691	27,240
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	25,545	26,826
Deferred membership origination costs	10,747	11,664
Deferred income taxes	4,037	8,813
Total current assets	100,573	100,314
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net	2,024,070	1,858,666
RESTRICTED CASH	734	2,087
DEFERRED MEMBERSHIP ORIGINATION COSTS	6,019	6,820
Goodwill	49,256	37,176
OTHER ASSETS	73,138	67,111
TOTAL ASSETS	2,253,790	2,072,174
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
Current maturities of long-term debt	14,469	12,603
Accounts payable	28,890	32,140
Construction accounts payable	51,820	25,208
Accrued expenses	66,528	63,333
Deferred revenue	33,362	34,753
Total current liabilities	195,069	168,037
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of current portion	774,323	691,867
DEFERRED RENT LIABILITY	24,858	22,490
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES	91,232	95,509
DEFERRED REVENUE	6,057	6,840
OTHER LIABILITIES	21,216	14,514
Total liabilities	1,112,755	999,257
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 6)
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Undesignated preferred stock, 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued or outstanding	0	0
Common stock, $.02 par value, 75,000,000 shares authorized; 42,654,601 and 43,149,434 shares issued and outstanding, respectively	854	864
Additional paid-in capital	420,557	447,912
Retained earnings	724,616	628,942
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(4,992)	(4,801)
Total shareholders' equity	1,141,035	1,072,917
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	$ 2,253,790	$ 2,072,174

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Supplementary Cash Flow Information (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]

Decreases (Increases) in Operating Assets and Increases (Decreases) in Operating Liabilities

Decreases (increases) in operating assets and increases (decreases) in operating liabilities are as follows:

	For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2013			2012
Accounts receivable, net	$	(657	)	$	(2,566	)
Income tax receivable	—			5,022
Center operating supplies and inventories	(3,458		)	(5,008		)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	4,180			(443		)
Deferred membership origination costs	1,718			340
Accounts payable	(3,585		)	4,036
Accrued expenses	8,604			25,618
Deferred revenue	(6,762		)	547
Deferred rent liability	2,384			2,382
Other liabilities	302			501
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	$	2,726		$	30,429

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Commitments and Contingencies (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and contingencies

Litigation — We are engaged in proceedings incidental to the normal course of business. Due to their nature, such legal proceedings involve inherent uncertainties, including but not limited to court rulings, negotiations between affected parties and governmental intervention. We have established reserves for matters that are probable and estimable in amounts we believe are adequate to cover reasonable adverse judgments not covered by insurance.

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Long-Term Debt Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
	Aug. 23, 2013 properties	Feb. 12, 2013 properties	Jul. 31, 2013	Feb. 13, 2013	Jun. 30, 2011
Long-Term Debt [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity			$ 760,000,000		$ 660,000,000
Potential increase to borrowing capacity			240,000,000
Face amount	50,000,000			75,000,000
Number properties used to secure debt (properties)	3	5
Stated interest rate (percent)	4.48%			4.45%
Periodic payment	400,000	800,000
Loans [Member]
Long-Term Debt [Line Items]
Additional borrowings in the form of a term loan			$ 100,000,000
Stated amortization rate (percent)			5.00%

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Decreases (Increases) in Operating Assets and Increases (Decreases) in Operating Liabilities (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, net	$ (657)	$ (2,566)
Income tax receivable	0	5,022
Center operating supplies and inventories	(3,458)	(5,008)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	4,180	(443)
Deferred membership origination costs	1,718	340
Accounts payable	(3,585)	4,036
Accrued expenses	8,604	25,618
Deferred revenue	(6,762)	547
Deferred rent liability	2,384	2,382
Other liabilities	302	501
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	$ 2,726	$ 30,429

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Summary of Stock Option Activity (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	9 Months Ended		1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013 Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]	Jun. 01, 2006 Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]	Aug. 31, 2011 2011 Share Repurchase Program [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 2011 Share Repurchase Program [Member]	Aug. 31, 2013 2013 Share Repurchase Program [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 2013 Share Repurchase Program [Member]	Sep. 30, 2013 2013 Share Repurchase Program [Member]
Shares
Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares)	240,268	250,835	291,510	291,510
Exercised (in shares)	(18,600)	(8,967)	(40,675)
Canceled (in shares)	0	(1,600)	0
Outstanding at end of period (in shares)	221,668	240,268	250,835	221,668		291,510
Vested at period end (in shares)	221,668			221,668
Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per share)	$ 25.62	$ 25.53	$ 24.96	$ 24.96
Exercised (in dollars per share)	$ 24.47	$ 26.33	$ 21.44
Canceled (in dollars per share)	$ 0.00	$ 8.00	$ 0.00
Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per share)	$ 25.72	$ 25.62	$ 25.53	$ 25.72		$ 24.96
Vested at end of period (in dollars per share)	$ 25.72			$ 25.72
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term In Years
Weighted average remaining contractual term (in years)	1 year 3 months 18 days	1 year 7 months 6 days	1 year 9 months 18 days			2 years
Vested at end of period (in years)	1 year 3 months 18 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars)	$ 5,886,000	$ 4,441,000	$ 7,073,000	$ 7,073,000
Outstanding at end of period (in dollars)	5,709,000	5,886,000	4,441,000	5,709,000		7,073,000
Vested at end of period (in dollars)	5,709,000			5,709,000
Total intrinsic value of options exercised (in dollars)				1,600,000	3,100,000
Net cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options (in dollars)				1,563,000	2,088,000
Income tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements (in dollars)				6,575,000	9,138,000
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Abstract]
Maximum ESPP common stock shares that can be sold to employees (shares)							1,500,000
Percentage of fair market value cost per share under the plan (percent)							90.00%
Discount percentage under the plan (percent)							10.00%
Employee withholding for the purchase of shares (in dollars)							1,100,000
ESPP common stock available for purchase (shares)							1,260,727
Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of common stock (sahres)								500,000
Share repurchases (shares)							27,093			682,634			186,701
Value of shares repurchased (in dollars)							1,300,000			31,000,000			9,300,000
Remaining shares authorized for repurchase (shares)							260,727
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount (in dollars)									$ 60,000,000		$ 200,000,000	$ 190,700,000

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Earnings per Share - Additional Information (Detail) (Stock Options [Member])	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Stock Options [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Stock options excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS (shares)	0	15,540	2,477	2,477

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Commitments and Contingencies

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

Litigation — We are engaged in proceedings incidental to the normal course of business. Due to their nature, such legal proceedings involve inherent uncertainties, including but not limited to court rulings, negotiations between affected parties and governmental intervention. We have established reserves for matters that are probable and estimable in amounts we believe are adequate to cover reasonable adverse judgments not covered by insurance. These reserves are not material to our consolidated financial statements. Based upon the information available to us and discussions with legal counsel, it is our opinion that the outcome of the various legal actions and claims that are incidental to our business will not have a material adverse impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties, and the outcome of individual matters are not predictable with assurance.

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Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Schedule of Fair Value of Derivative Financial Instrument

The following table presents the fair value of our derivative financial instrument as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

		Fair Value Measurements Using:
		Quoted Prices in	Significant	Significant
	Total	Active Markets for	Other Observable	Unobservable
	Fair	Identical Assets	Inputs	Inputs
	Value	(Level 1)	(Level 2)	(Level 3)
Interest rate swap liability as of
September 30, 2013	$4,108	$—	$4,108	$—
Interest rate swap liability as of
December 31, 2012	$6,052	$—	$6,052	$—

Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value of Financial Liabilities

The following table presents the carrying value and the estimated fair value of long-term debt:

	September 30, 2013				December 31, 2012
	Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value		Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value
Fixed-rate debt	$	490,936	$	492,192	$	396,591	$	403,659
Obligations under capital leases	15,083		15,251		15,441		15,582
Floating-rate debt	282,773		282,773		292,437		292,437
Total	$	788,792	$	790,216	$	704,469	$	711,678

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Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value of Long-Term Debt (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair market value of swap contract	$ 4,108	$ 6,052
Carrying Value
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Line Items]
Fixed-rate debt	490,936	396,591
Obligations under capital leases	15,083	15,441
Floating-rate debt	282,773	292,437
Total	788,792	704,469
Estimated Fair Value
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Line Items]
Fixed-rate debt	492,192	403,659
Obligations under capital leases	15,251	15,582
Floating-rate debt	282,773	292,437
Total	790,216	711,678
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair market value of swap contract	0	0
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair market value of swap contract	4,108	6,052
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]
Fair Value, Measurement Inputs, Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair market value of swap contract	$ 0	$ 0

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Fair Value Measurements

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements

The accounting guidance establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expanded disclosures about fair value measurements. The guidance applies to all assets and liabilities that are measured and reported on a fair value basis. This enables the reader of the financial statements to assess the inputs used to develop those measurements by establishing a hierarchy for ranking the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair values. The guidance requires that each asset and liability carried at fair value be classified into one of the following categories:

Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2: Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.

Level 3: Unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by market data.

Fair Value Measurements on a Recurring Basis

The fair value of the interest rate swap is determined using observable current market information such as the prevailing LIBOR interest rates, LIBOR yield curve rates and current fair values as quoted by recognized dealers, and also includes consideration of counterparty credit risk. The following table presents the fair value of our derivative financial instrument as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

		Fair Value Measurements Using:
		Quoted Prices in	Significant	Significant
	Total	Active Markets for	Other Observable	Unobservable
	Fair	Identical Assets	Inputs	Inputs
	Value	(Level 1)	(Level 2)	(Level 3)
Interest rate swap liability as of
September 30, 2013	$4,108	$—	$4,108	$—
Interest rate swap liability as of
December 31, 2012	$6,052	$—	$6,052	$—

Fair Value Measurements on a Nonrecurring Basis

Assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis relate primarily to our tangible fixed assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, which are remeasured when the derived fair value is below carrying value on our consolidated balance sheets. For these assets, we do not periodically adjust carrying value to fair value except in the event of impairment. If we determine that impairment has occurred, the carrying value of the asset would be reduced to fair value and the difference would be recorded as a loss within operating income in our consolidated statements of operations.

We had no remeasurements of such assets or liabilities to fair value during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 or September 30, 2012.

Financial Assets and Liabilities Not Measured at Fair Value

The carrying amounts related to cash and cash equivalents (Level 1), accounts receivable, income tax receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to the relatively short maturities of such instruments.

The fair value of our long-term debt and capital leases are estimated based on estimated current rates for debt with similar terms, credit worthiness and the same remaining maturities. For variable rate loans that re-price frequently, fair values are based on carrying values. The fair value of fixed rate loans is estimated based on the discounted cash flows of the loans using current market rates, which are estimated based on recent financing transactions (Level 3). The fair value estimates presented are based on information available to us as of September 30, 2013. These fair value estimates have not been comprehensively revalued for purposes of these consolidated financial statements since that date, and current estimates of fair values may differ significantly.

The following table presents the carrying value and the estimated fair value of long-term debt:

	September 30, 2013				December 31, 2012
	Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value		Carrying Value		Estimated Fair Value
Fixed-rate debt	$	490,936	$	492,192	$	396,591	$	403,659
Obligations under capital leases	15,083		15,251		15,441		15,582
Floating-rate debt	282,773		282,773		292,437		292,437
Total	$	788,792	$	790,216	$	704,469	$	711,678

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Supplementary Cash Flow Information

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]

Supplementary Cash Flow Information

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Decreases (increases) in operating assets and increases (decreases) in operating liabilities are as follows:

	For the Nine Months Ended
	September 30,
	2013			2012
Accounts receivable, net	$	(657	)	$	(2,566	)
Income tax receivable	—			5,022
Center operating supplies and inventories	(3,458		)	(5,008		)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	4,180			(443		)
Deferred membership origination costs	1,718			340
Accounts payable	(3,585		)	4,036
Accrued expenses	8,604			25,618
Deferred revenue	(6,762		)	547
Deferred rent liability	2,384			2,382
Other liabilities	302			501
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	$	2,726		$	30,429

We made cash payments for income taxes of $54.3 million and $45.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

We made cash payments for interest, net of capitalized interest, of $16.9 million and $17.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Capitalized interest was $2.0 million and $0.7 million for the same periods.

Construction accounts payable was $51.8 million and $17.2 million at September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income	$ 95,674	$ 88,108
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	89,235	85,217
Deferred income taxes	(583)	(4,387)
(Gain) loss on disposal of property and equipment, net	(100)	1,231
Gain on land held for sale	0	(196)
Amortization of deferred financing costs	1,635	1,504
Share-based compensation	9,410	10,862
Excess tax benefit related to share-based compensation	(6,575)	(9,138)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities	2,726	30,429
Other	(659)	(769)
Net cash provided by operating activities	190,763	202,861
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment	(224,542)	(164,556)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	(13,102)	(28,984)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	1,116	673
Proceeds from sale of land held for sale	0	1,758
Proceeds from property insurance settlements	177	901
Increase in other assets	(1,022)	(94)
Decrease in restricted cash	1,353	376
Net cash used in investing activities	(236,020)	(189,926)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from long-term borrowings	125,000	0
Repayments of long-term borrowings	(31,773)	(5,094)
Repayments of revolving credit facility, net	(7,150)	(16,000)
Increase in deferred financing costs	(4,213)	(306)
Excess tax benefit related to share-based compensation	6,575	9,138
Proceeds from stock option exercises	1,563	2,088
Proceeds from employee stock purchase plan	1,074	999
Stock purchased for employee stock purchase plan	(1,309)	(1,290)
Repurchases of common stock	(40,272)	0
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	49,495	(10,465)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents	(1,018)	(1,332)
(DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS	3,220	1,138
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - Beginning of period	16,499	7,487
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - End of period	$ 19,719	$ 8,625

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Intangible Assets Schedule Of Carrying Value of Intangible Assets, Excluding Goodwill (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule Of Carrying Value Of Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Line Items]
Total Intangible Assets	$ 33,878	$ 28,531
Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	4,167
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	29,711
Leasehold Rights [Member]
Schedule Of Carrying Value Of Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	6,392
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	1,324
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	5,068
Trade Names [Member]
Schedule Of Carrying Value Of Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Line Items]
Trade/Brand Names	15,479
Trade/Brand Names, Accumulated Amortization	885
Trade/Brand Names, Net	14,594
Curriculum and Technology Based Intangibles [Member]
Schedule Of Carrying Value Of Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	6,595
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	1,146
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	5,449
Customer Relationships [Member]
Schedule Of Carrying Value Of Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross	5,412
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	812
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net	$ 4,600

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Share-Based Compensation (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013 share_based_compensation_plan	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013 share_based_compensation_plan	Sep. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of share-based compensation plans (plans)	4		4
Common stock reserved for grant (shares)	2,500,000		2,500,000
Common stock available for grant (shares)	1,149,485		1,149,485
Options to purchase common stock granted under the share-based compensation plans to date (shares)	5,587,165		5,587,165
Options outstanding (shares)	221,668		221,668		240,268	250,835	291,510
Share-based compensation	$ 3,124	$ 3,550	$ 9,410	$ 10,862
Restricted Stock [Member]
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Restricted shares granted (shares)	4,740,571		4,740,571
Nonvested stock outstanding (shares)	1,517,185		1,517,185		1,523,156	1,569,035	2,069,168
Share-based compensation	3,094	3,520	9,320	10,772
Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member]
Compensation Related Costs Share Based Payments Disclosure [Line Items]
Share-based compensation	$ 30	$ 30	$ 90	$ 90

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Intangible Assets Intangible Assets (Notes)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

The change in the carrying amount of goodwill is as follows:

Balance at December 31, 2012	$	37,176
Goodwill acquired	12,080
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	49,256

The goodwill acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 is primarily related to the acquisition of certain athletic events. We are currently in the process of finalizing the valuation of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed.

The following table summarizes the changes in our gross intangible balance during the nine months ended September 30, 2013:

Balance at December 31, 2012	$	28,531
Trade/brand names acquired	5,347
Balance at September 30, 2013	$	33,878

The trade/brand names acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 are primarily related to the acquisition of certain athletic events. At September 30, 2013, intangible assets consisted of the following:

	Gross		Accumulated Amortization		Net
Leasehold rights	$	6,392	$	1,324	$	5,068
Trade/brand names	15,479		885		14,594
Curriculum- and technology-based intangibles	6,595		1,146		5,449
Customer relationships	5,412		812		4,600
Total intangible assets	$	33,878	$	4,167	$	29,711

Of the trade/brand names acquired during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, approximately $5.1 million have indefinite useful lives. The remaining $0.2 million of the acquired trade/brand names have a useful life of 10 years. Amortization expense for intangible assets was $1.5 million and $1.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

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Derivative Instruments

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]

Derivative Instruments

Derivative Instruments

As part of our financial risk management program, we may periodically use interest rate swaps to manage known market exposures. Terms of derivative instruments are structured to match the terms of the risk being managed and are generally held to maturity.

In August 2011, we entered into an interest rate swap contract that effectively fixed the rates paid on a total of $200.0 million of variable rate borrowings at 1.32% plus the applicable spread (which depends on our EBITDAR leverage ratio) until June 2016. EBITDAR is a non-GAAP, non-cash measure which consists of net income plus interest expense, net, provision for income taxes, depreciation and amortization and rent expense. We pay 1.32% and receive LIBOR on the notional amount of $200.0 million. The contract has been designated a cash flow hedge against interest rate volatility. In accordance with applicable accounting guidance, changes in the fair value of the swap contract are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax. As of September 30, 2013, the $2.5 million fair value loss, net of tax, of the swap contract was recorded as accumulated other comprehensive loss in the shareholders' equity section of our consolidated balance sheets and the $4.1 million gross fair value of the swap contract was included in long-term debt.

On an ongoing basis, we assess whether the interest rate swap used in this hedging transaction is “highly effective” in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flow of the hedged item by comparing the current terms of the swap and the debt to assure they continue to coincide and through an evaluation of the continued ability of the counterparty to the swap to honor its obligations under the swap. No ineffectiveness was experienced in the interest rate swap during the nine months ended September 30, 2013. The amendment of our credit facility (see Note 11) did not impact our interest rate swap or the effectiveness of the hedge. If it is determined that the derivative is not highly effective as a hedge or hedge accounting is discontinued, any change in fair value of the derivative since the last date at which it was determined to be effective would be recognized in earnings.

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Operating Segment Operating Segment (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Operating Segment

Our operations are conducted mainly through our distinctive and large, multi-use sports and athletic, professional fitness, family recreation and spa centers in a resort-like environment. We aggregate the activities of our centers and other ancillary products and services into one reportable segment. Each of the centers has similar economic characteristics, services, product offerings and customers, and in-center revenues are derived primarily from services to our members. Each of the other ancillary products and services either directly or indirectly, through advertising or branding, complement the operations of the centers. Our chief operating decision maker, our Chief Executive Officer, uses EBITDA (net income plus interest expense, net, provision for income taxes and depreciation and amortization) as the primary measure of operating segment performance.

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Share-based Compensation (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Share-based Compensation [Abstract]

Stock Option and Incentive Plans

The types of awards that may be granted under the 2011 Plan include incentive and non-qualified options to purchase shares of common stock, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units, performance awards and other types of share-based awards.

We use the term “restricted shares” to define unvested shares granted to employees and non-employee directors. We use the term "vest" to define the lapse of vesting restrictions on restricted shares.

If it becomes probable that the cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC performance targets will be achieved, a cumulative adjustment would be recorded and the remaining compensation expense would be recognized over the remaining performance period. The probability of reaching the targets is evaluated each reporting period. If we later determine that it is no longer probable that the minimum cumulative diluted EPS and ROIC performance targets for the grants would be met, no further compensation expense would be recognized and any previously recognized compensation expense would be reversed.

The total value of each restricted stock grant, based on the fair value of the stock on the date of grant, is amortized to compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the related vesting period.

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Document and Entity Information Document	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Oct. 18, 2013
Nonprinting Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Life Time Fitness, Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	0001076195
Trading Symbol	LTM
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Sep. 30, 2013
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2013
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Amendment Flag	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		42,639,353

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Earnings per Share Earnings per Share Policy (Policies)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2013

Earnings Per Share [Abstract]

Earnings Per Share

Basic EPS is computed by dividing net income applicable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding for each period. Diluted EPS is computed similarly to basic EPS, except that the denominator is increased for the conversion of any dilutive common stock equivalents, the assumed exercise of dilutive stock options using the treasury stock method and unvested restricted stock awards using the treasury stock method.