New report reveals global fitness industry’s profound economic impact

A new report from the International Health Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) and the Global Health and Fitness Alliance has revealed the immense economic and socioeconomic impact of the global health and fitness industry.

The first-of-its-kind advocacy report, prepared by international consultants Deloitte is intended to help governments and policymakers in making preferable decisions related to health and well-being and to improve population health and productivity worldwide.

Commissioned by IHRSA and the GHFA, the Economic Health & Societal Well-being: Quantifying the Impact of the Global Health & Fitness Sector Global Report analyses the economic and socioeconomic impact of the global health and fitness industry. Covering roughly 90% of global GDP -when including the countries and regions in IHRSA’s recently released MENA report - this report is a significant resource to highlight the immense value the global industry provides.

Andrea Bell (pictured below), Chair of the GHFA Advisory Council and co-founder, Director and Chief People Officer of Inspire Brands Asia, explained “the research covered in the reports is a critical landmark for the health and fitness industry, governments, and workplaces globally, it clearly shows the economic impact of inactivity through evidential data.

“Every single country in the report has a quantifiable number that shows annual economic savings of those who are physically active, and access to health and fitness facilities undoubtedly has a profound impact on activity levels. Adding a dollar value to inactivity is a significant achievement in the GHFA’s quest for the industry to be recognised as a valuable contributor and solution provider to the global health continuum.”

Improving population health is the health and fitness industry’s main objective. Health and fitness clubs, gyms, and studios are well equipped to improve global population health and wellness, which can save billions yearly and boost productivity. This report allows the industry to properly educate decision makers to find the most logical and effective solution to overall wellness and healthcare in every part of the world.

The full report details the health and fitness industry’s economic and social impact in 46 countries. Individual country or region reports are also available. Topics covered in each report include:

• Direct and indirect GDP value,

• Employment contributions,

• Population benefits of physical activity,

• Healthcare cost of inactivity,

• Potential healthcare savings,

• Industry and policy examples to promote physically active lifestyles, and more.

Economic Health & Societal Well-being: Quantifying the Impact of the Global Health & Fitness Sector Global Report individual country reports cost $495 each for non-members and are free to all IHRSA members.

Click here to access the Assessment for Direct and Indirect Impact of Health and Fitness Clubs to MENA Economy - Outlook to 2025 report.

Click here to access the Economic Health & Societal Well-being: Quantifying the Impact of the Global Health & Fitness Sector Global Report.