Originally published May 17 2005
People 55 and older more likely to join gyms, survey finds
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
In a nationwide survey of 14,684 people, American Sports Data found that men and women 55 and over are leading the growth in health club fitness participation, making up a quarter of the nation's health club membership. From 1998 to 2004, frequent fitness participants in the over 55 age group jumped 33 percent, while the jump in the 35-54 age group was 13 percent. The 18-34 age group showed no growth.From 1998-2004, mind-body exercise regimens such as tai chi and yoga boomed, up 118 percent, with pilates up 506 percent -- suggesting that more gentle and organic exercises are popular with older fitness participants.
The picture of a typical health club goer is of a member younger than 50.
Just look at most ads for gyms.
But American Sports Data's nationwide survey of 14,684 people shows that people 55 and older are leading the growth in fitness participation at health clubs.
This group makes up a quarter of the health club membership across the nation.
From 1998 to 2004, the number of frequent fitness participants shot up 33 percent, compared with 13 percent for people 35-54.
The boom in the older groups explains some "kinder, gentler" exercise participation trends the survey found: From 1998 to 2004, mind-body formats such as yoga and tai chi skyrocketed 118 percent, and Pilates 506 percent.
More people used the gentler-to-the-knee elliptical trainer and recumbent bike in the same period.
�Many participants began exercising at the start of the fitness movement in the '70s and didn't stop.
�There's widespread acceptance that fitness activities are for everyone.
�More studies are showing how valuable exercise is in preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.
�Are the membership materials and contracts available in large print?
�Is the music set at a reasonable level?
�Do cardio machines such as treadmills have low starting speeds?
�Do the strength-training machines have easy instructions and features for people of all abilities?
�Are there classes of different intensities or levels of difficulty?
�Does the facility do fitness screening and assessment?
�Is the staff trained to teach and help members who have health conditions?
�Is the staff trained to deal with medical emergencies?
And don't forget to check with your doctor before you begin.
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