The health club industry in the United States has continued to attract a growing number of consumers, as new research from the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) has revealed that in 2017, over 70 million individuals visited health clubs. The data also indicated that there were 60.9 million active health club members in the same year, marking a 6.3% increase from the previous year.
According to Joe Moore, President and CEO of IHRSA, the milestone of serving more than 70 million people in a single year demonstrates the important role that the health club industry plays in helping individuals lead healthier and happier lives. The research also highlighted that the average health club member visits their club more than 104 times in a year, indicating a strong commitment to regular exercise and wellness activities.
The study, which is part of the Physical Activity Council (PAC), revealed that more than one out of five Americans were members of a health club or studio in 2017. This represents a 33.6% growth in membership since 2008, with the total number of club-goers increasing by 31.5% during the same period. Additionally, the total number of health club visits reached 5.9 billion in 2017, a significant increase from 4.3 billion in 2008.
Jay Ablondi, IHRSA’s Executive Vice President of Global Products, highlighted the industry’s steady growth and pointed out that consumers are increasingly turning to clubs and studios as a means to manage stress, maintain fitness, and improve their overall well-being. Ablondi also mentioned that club operators are continuously finding innovative ways to meet the rising demand for fitness programs, training instruction, and wellness services.
In the coming months, IHRSA will release the 2018 IHRSA Health Club Consumer Report, which will provide a detailed analysis of health club consumer growth, demographics, utilization, and trends. The report aims to offer valuable insights and practical applications for club operators. The 2017 edition of the report is currently available on IHRSA’s website.
The research, conducted through 30,099 online interviews, forms part of IHRSA’s ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive consumer research and industry studies. The samples were drawn from a representative nationwide panel of individuals and households, with oversampling of ethnic groups to ensure a diverse range of responses.
Founded in 1981, the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) is a not-for-profit trade association that represents health and fitness facilities, gyms, spas, sports clubs, and suppliers globally. With a mission to promote, grow, and protect the health and fitness industry, IHRSA is a leading authority on the commercial health club industry and conducts regular consumer research and industry studies to provide valuable insights to its members.
As the industry continues to thrive, the global health club community is set to convene in San Diego for the 37th Annual IHRSA International Convention & Trade Show from March 21-24. The event will bring together industry professionals, experts, and suppliers to discuss the latest trends and innovations in the health and fitness sector.
In conclusion, the latest data from IHRSA highlights the remarkable growth and popularity of health clubs in the United States. The increasing number of health club members and visits indicate a growing emphasis on health and wellness among Americans, underscoring the crucial role of the health club industry in promoting a healthier lifestyle.