Australia's fitness sector remains fighting fit

In spite of the UK-based BC Partners announcing its intention to sell Fitness First Australia, business information analysts IBISWorld believe that Australia's fitness industry will continue to grow.

While suggesting that the sale of "the country's largest gym operator" is "leaving many to question the state of play in Australia's fitness industry", IBISWorld expect the demand for gyms will continue to grow, as Australians' waistlines bulge like never before.

Anticipating that the fitness industry will generate revenue of $2.9 billion in 2011/12 (up 2.4% year-on-year) - with $1.1 billion (38.2%) of this going directly to gyms and fitness centre operators, IBISWorld highlight that, behind walking, going to the gym is Australia's favourite way to keep fit and fight the flab.

In 2009/10, 2.5 million Australians visited gyms, well above the next most popular activity, swimming, which attracted just 1.3 million adults.

IBISWorld continue "increased rates of obesity and increased participation in physical activities have resulted in the industry performing relatively well over the past five years, despite cautious consumer spending.

"In 2012 an estimated 24.6% of Australians will be obese ï¾ well above the 19.1% in 2006.

"Market leader Fitness First controls an estimated 13.5% of the total expenditure on fitness activities and equipment, and a dominant 35% of all gym revenue. The YMCA is the second largest gym operator, earning an estimated $89 million from fitness and gym activity.

"Key trends within the industry include a movement towards female-only gyms, with Fernwood Fitness and Curves being major players in this segment. Twenty-four hour gyms, such as Anytime Fitness, are also growing in popularity among the increasing number of time-poor Aussies.

"With an ever increasing range of products, programs and equipment coming onto the market, Australia's fitness industry is more competitive than ever - meaning players constantly need to evolve and adapt.

"Over the next five years, total spending on fitness activities and equipment is expected to increase by 19.3% to be worth $3.4 billion."

For a copy of IBISWorld's complete Fitness Industry report call on 02 9440 0414.