Keep your body — and budget — in shape
AROUND-the-clock gym opening hours, high-intensity workouts and budget membership deals have helped the fitness industry boom in recent years.
Australians are becoming more health conscious than ever, and latest IBIS World statistics forecast the industry’s revenue to grow at an annual rate of 4.8 per cent, raking in $2.5 billion in 2018-19. But many people’s wallets are left getting a workout instead of their bodies.
Experts say all you need to keep fit is some running shoes.
Personal trainer Peter Day, 28, and his girlfriend, fitness competitor Lara Gya, 27, regularly train to keep in shape.
Mr Day said there were many ways to be active and healthy without blowing your budget. “By keeping yourself healthy you are happier, have more energy, less sick days and are more productive,” he said.
“Catch up with friends for a workout; instead of grabbing a drink, set up a sweat session, do a workout or go for a walk.
“There are numerous ways to build strength, cardiovascular endurance or metabolic conditioning which don’t involve gym membership.”
Mr Day suggested scrolling through social media sites for health tips, workouts and a bit of inspiration to get moving.
IBIS World statistics show there has been growth in smaller 24-hour gyms that provide more affordable membership deals because they employ fewer staff and save on wages. However, if you just pay for casual visits they can quickly add up.
Founder of online health and fitness program TIFFXO.com, Tiffiny Hall, said she had more than 12,000 members sign up to her home programs each month.
She said having a gym membership could be expensive, especially if it was not used.
“Think about parking, memberships, travel time – it all adds up, so training at home can be fantastic,” said Ms Hall, who was a trainer on TV show The Biggest Loser.
“There’s a huge misconception we need all the bells and whistles but people are wasting their money on diet pills, shakes, meal replacements and snazzy gym equipment they see on TV ads.”