Precor study suggests women's weight training could be key to growing gym market

Boosting awareness of strength training among women could be the key to growing gym membership, according to a recently released study from fitness equipment manufacturer Precor. 

With the 2013 International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) Health Club Consumer Report showing that female gym goers favour group exercise, with only 47% making use of weights, Precor argues that increasing women's awareness of the benefits of strength training, such as improved workout results and calorie burn, could entice more women to join clubs and stay as members. 

Undertaking a follow-up poll of 500 women, Precor found women have negative perceptions of weights. Reasons given for these perceptions were: preferring cardio workouts, not wanting to look like a bodybuilder, considering it boring, not knowing how to use the equipment and lack of time. 

Commenting on the findings, Precor Marketing Manager Jonathan Griffiths says many of these barriers could be overcome with better in-club education, suggesting that clubs offering on the spot guidance, regular drop in workshops, small group sessions and discounted rates on personal training. 

Griffith states "gyms should make strength training easier to fit into women's gym schedules, for example through custom workouts and instructor-led classes."

He also suggests that poster campaigns featuring real-life success stories, demonstration videos, instruction placards and reward programs would also be helpful to promote strength training among women.

Click here to contact Precor via their entry in the Australasian Leisure Management Supplier Directory.

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