Average cost of gym memberships $65 a month

A survey of more than 800 gym members found the average cost of fitness club membership to be $65 per month, with adults aged in their 30s spending the most ($70).

Conducted by consumer research and ratings company Canstar Blue as part of their annual industry survey of overall customer satisfaction in an annual industry survey, the research also looked at whether members felt this cost represented good value for money.

Here the survey found that:

• 74% of gym members believe their membership has helped them achieve their personal goals (whether it be general fitness, weight loss or muscle gain).
• 52% of gym members say they don’t go to the gym as much as they thought they would when they joined.
• 57% of gym members have tried more than one gym chain in a bid to find the best one for their needs.

The survey also reported “there’s no doubt that an encouraging atmosphere can help you on your path to healthier living, but working out in front of other people can also be quite daunting.

“Our survey found that 31% of adults find it embarrassing, while 22% of respondents have felt pressured into buying extra items at the gym, like protein supplements or personal training sessions.

“This emphasises the importance of doing your research and finding a gym chain that best reflects your character and workout preferences.”

What members look for in a gym
Canstar Blue found that gymgoers fall into several different categories, including those who simply like to get their head down on the cross-trainer or treadmill, and those who like to socialise with other members and spend more time talking than pumping iron. 

Key factors in member satisfaction (listed in order of importance):

1. Equipment & facilities
2. Value for money
3. Staff availability
4. Social atmosphere
5. Flexibility and perks of membership
6. Personal training
7. Group fitness classes

Canstar Blue added “clearly, there are a lot of factors for the gym chains to get right if they are going to keep their members happy.”

What members don’t like
The Canstar Blue found the main things that annoy fitness club members to be:

• Overcrowding (not being able to use equipment): 48%
• People not using a towel (making equipment sweaty): 36%
• The gym being smelly or untidy: 32%
• People not replacing or resetting equipment: 31%
• Dirty or smelly changing and shower facilities: 30%
• Loud grunting from people working out: 24%
• People showing off (e.g. flexing muscles): 22%
• People looking at me: 16%
• The music or TV choices: 16%
• People talking to me: 10%

Just 13% of gym members said they have no pet hates, while 4% cited other reasons for getting them worked up.

Canstar Blue concluded “at the end of the day, it’s hard to get the most out of your gym membership if you’re not completely happy and comfortable in your surroundings. 

“If you’re looking to join a gym for the first time, or considering switching to a new one, we hope our customer ratings provide helpful.”

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