ESSA flags that Australians don’t need a gym membership to be active

Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) has used reports that Australians are wasting $1.8 billion per year on gym memberships to highlight people can keep active outside of the gym.

Referring to a survey by Finder that found of the 30% of Australians who have a gym membership, only half are using it regularly and concerned that almost 1.5 million Australians are paying for gym memberships used less than once a week, ESSA member and Accredited Exercise Scientist, Nardine Presland stated “joining a gym can be an excellent motivator, however, some people simply don’t enjoy training in that environment, and if you don’t enjoy something, you just won’t stick to it.

Presland advises that rather than just giving up on exercise, people should trial different types of exercise until they find something that’s right for you that you enjoy.

She advises “everyone is different, and one size definitely doesn’t fit all. If the gym isn’t for you, try something else (and) don’t be afraid to mix up your routine.”

ESSA’s Exercise Right initiative offers a wide range of blogs and tips on being active without a gym membership - aiming to inspire and educate all Australians to be healthier and more active.

For more information go to www.exerciseright.com.au