In the days of yore, gyms were non-existent, and people engaged in manual labour due to less advanced technology. In the present scenario, technology has made our lives easier, providing various equipment for tasks that were once done manually. Past generations were physically fit due to extensive manual work, and today, physical fitness remains a focus for people worldwide, including celebrities who emphasize the importance of being fit and strong. Going to the gym not only contributes to physical fitness but also enhances appearance, reduces stress, and fosters social connections.
However, the global cost of gym memberships varies significantly. Gym memberships are often deemed expensive due to the need for funds to maintain clean equipment and hire staff for cleanliness. Adequate space is also essential to ensure client comfort.
As fitness becomes a global obsession, numerous countries are increasing the number of gyms. Competition in this space has reduced gym membership costs, dropping as low as 1.05% of the average salary in certain countries. Conversely, in Mali, joining a gym costs approximately 63.83% of the average salary.
To understand these variations in gym affordability, we sought gyms with more accessible memberships using crowd-sourced data. Our research aimed to determine the monthly gym membership costs in different countries and the percentage of a person’s monthly salary required to obtain membership.
Key Findings:
- In the USA, most gyms are affordable.
- The Netherlands and Denmark follow as countries where gym memberships are reasonably priced.
- Affordability is not solely influenced by market size, as some nations with smaller gyms also offer reasonable prices.
- Africa’s Continent has the most expensive gym memberships.
- Europe boasts 60% of the affordable gyms compared to other continents.
Now, let’s delve deeper into the figures and explore the factors contributing to these trends.
The USA Leads with the Most Affordable Gyms:
A 2021 report by IHRSA reveals that 21.8% of Americans belong to health clubs and studios, with a growth of 3.8% in 2020. Our research indicates that, on average, Americans need to allocate 1.03% of their salary for gym membership. With a rich history of fitness clubs dating back to 1876, the USA has influential fitness centres like LifeTime, LA Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, Equinox Holdings, and Planet Fitness, contributing to reasonable gym prices.
The Netherlands Ranks 2nd in Global Affordable Gym Study:
Dutch citizens spend only 1.05% of their salary on gym memberships, securing the second position globally. A Euro Barometer survey indicates that 56% of Dutch people engage in weekly physical activities, creating a demand for affordable gym memberships and ensuring profitability for gyms.
Denmark Secures 3rd Place in Global Study on Gym Affordability:
Despite the high costs of living, Denmark offers affordable gym memberships due to intense competition. Fitness DK and the fitness world play significant roles in maintaining low membership costs, contributing to Denmark’s ranking. The Danes’ outdoor activities and emphasis on sports for children have also propelled them to be among the fittest globally.
Gym Memberships Contribute to Longer, Healthier Lives:
Evidence suggests that regular gym-goers are 14 times more active than non-gym-goers, promoting better health. Despite a downturn during the pandemic, the gym business is rebounding, driven by increased awareness of mental health benefits associated with fitness.
How to Reduce Your Gym Costs:
Whether driven by self-love or dissatisfaction with one’s body, individuals can explore cost-saving measures for gym memberships, such as obtaining free passes, bargaining for renewals, using pay systems like Hussie, choosing no-frills gyms, or creating a home gym with affordable exercise equipment.
