Huge numbers planning to start structured exercise

A total of 176,000 New Zealanders say they will definitely start exercising at a gym or fitness facility in the next 12 months according to a Horizon Research survey.

The study, commissioned by Exercise NZ, shows the exercise industry growth is looking positive for the future with many strong indicators of why more people want to exercise, to keep fit and healthy.

The survey was conducted by Horizon Research which also carries out studies for many multi-national and national companies, government agencies, iwi and national business and community organisations.

ExerciseNZ chief executive Richard Beddie says further findings will be released as more survey data is analysed.

He says the research survey asked respondents not only about their exercise habits, but also perceptions of exercise, its benefits, and importantly, if they are thinking of starting or ending their exercise habit and why.

“The survey found nearly 177,000 of the adult New Zealand population would definitely be keen to start structured exercise in the next 12 months.

“It also showed that around 29,700 people would cancel their memberships in the next 12 months, along with another 14,100 others saying they would most likely cancel.

“But more than half of those leaving an exercise facility were planning on joining somewhere else.

“These statistics show the industry as a whole will continue to grow strongly, while consumers continue to be prepared to move to other providers if their needs are not being met.

“So, what’s changing? Around 29% of people surveyed will be exercising at home in the next 12 months. That’s huge growth from 10 years ago.

“The study shows more than half those interviewed believe structured exercise is important or very important, with another 23% saying that it is somewhat important.

“Overall, around 23% of Kiwis have some sort of membership to an exercise facility, and the vast majority of those are using it.

“It is also worth noting that awareness of the benefits of exercise increases with age, so there is still plenty of opportunity for those catering for different (non-traditional gym) markets.

“Female respondents definitely placed more importance on structured exercise than male respondents.”

The research report shows activity levels are climbing and will likely continue to do so. The number planning on starting exercise is almost six times the number likely to stop in the next 12 months.