Americans 55+ Lead The Way
As A Growing Percentage of People Join Health Clubs

Boston – July 6, 2001 – Americans older than 55 are the fastest growing demographic age group in health clubs and fitness centers, according to a recently published study sponsored by the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) and conducted by American Sports Data, Inc. (ASD).

The IHRSA/ASD Health Club Trend Report found that just over 13% of the U.S. population (older than the age of six) belongs to a health club or fitness center of some kind. Between 1987 and 2000, total U.S. health club membership grew by almost 90%, reaching a record 33 million members. In comparison, the number of Americans over the age of 55 who belong to a gym or fitness center grew by 380% during the same 14 year period.

"Today, almost one out of every four club members is over the age of 55, when in 1987, less than 10% of members were older than 55," said John McCarthy, IHRSA’s executive director. "Research has consistently confirmed the benefits of regular exercise to one’s health, which has motivated many Americans to get active or face the reality of living with chronic health conditions like hypertension or arthritis. In response to this, many clubs have developed programs and services created to specifically to meet the needs of a more mature member."

The IHRSA/ASD Health Club Trend Report also found that members over the age of 55 visited their club an average of 97 days in 2000, more frequently than any other age group.

The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) is a nonprofit association dedicated to the growth, protection, and promotion of the health club industry, and represents nearly 6000 clubs worldwide. IHRSA is an international leader in health club industry education, research, and advocacy. The Boys & Girls Clubs of America is the "Official" Charitable Partner of IHRSA.

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