390,000 plan to start structured exercise

Over a quarter of a million (309,000) adults plan to begin structured exercise in 2025.

A Horizon Research survey, coducted for ExerciseNZ, finds 10% of adults are considering joining a structured exercise provider (like gyms, and exerise classes and recreational facilities) in the next 12 months.

ExerciseNZ Chief Executive Richard Beddie says while economic challenges often impact discretionary spending, the survey shiws exercise remains a priority for many New Zealanders.

Key Findings from the Consumer Report:

Strong Intent to Start Exercise

• Over a quarter of a million (309,000) adults plan to begin structured exercise in 2025.
• 10% of adults are considering joining a structured exercise provider in the next 12 months.

Increased Use of Exercise Professionals

• 28% of adults (1,075,000 people) pay for one-on-one exercise professionals—a 6% increase from 2023.
• 15% (595,000 people) see an exercise professional weekly, up 4%.
• 8% of non-users (309,000 adults) plan to start, indicating 30% growth potential.

High Value Placed on Physical Activity

• 98% of New Zealanders value physical activity.
• Top reasons: health benefits (76%), mental health (64%), and feeling good (61%).

Shift in Exercise Preferences

• 67% of adults exercise, up from 64% in 2023 - defying the trend of declining physical activity.
• 22% (866,000 people) use structured providers, with 12% in group classes and 14% training individually.
• Small gyms/studios and recreational facilities (both 11%) are growing, while large gyms saw a slight decline (14%).

Despite economic challenges and cost-of-living pressures, the survey shows that New Zealanders are prioritising their health and well-being, with a strong intent to increase physical activity. The exercise industry is well-positioned to capitalise on this trend by offering flexible, affordable, and varied exercise options to meet consumer needs.

Richard Beddie (pictured) says the survey findings represent a significant opportunity for the industry to grow and adapt to evolving consumer needs.

ExerciseNZ remains committed to supporting exercise professionals, facility operators, and the wider exercise community in navigating growth opportunities while maintaining high service standards and accessibility for all New Zealanders.

Horizon Research surveyed 1,065 adults, 18 years of age and over.                                   

The maximum margin of error is ±3% (at the 95% confidence level).

The data was weighted on age, gender, ethnicity, education, personal income and region to match the adult population.