BOSTON, MA—September 30, 2019—The International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) has released the 2019 Health Club Consumer Report. This annual publication, based on a nationwide sample of more than 20,000 interviews, provides demographics and health, sports, and fitness participation data on America’s health club consumers.
"U.S. health club usage reached an all-time high in 2018 as more than 71 million people utilized health and fitness services at a fitness center, gym, or studio,” said Jay Ablondi, IHRSA’s executive vice president of global products. “In fact, more than one out of five Americans report belonging to a health club last year, once again, demonstrating the critical role the health and fitness industry plays in helping millions of people become and stay active, lead healthier lives, and pursue their health and fitness goals.”
The report shows fitness activity participation at health clubs varies across demographics, including generational groups. Millennials & Gen Xers account for the greatest share of health club membership at a combined 57% of total members, while Generation Z represents 14% of total members, Baby Boomers 22%, and the Silent Generation 7%. As expected, club activity preferences vary across generational groups, providing insight for club operators and fitness directors. While the Z and Millennial generations are more inclined to engage in group-based activities, Gen Xers and younger Boomers prefer to utilize cardio and strength training equipment.
