Sooner, rather than later, the industry of fitness will need to reassess the way it markets to the public. The ratio of young and old has never been more apparent and is a trend that will continue with more and more older people engaging in all kinds of outdoor physical activities.
This weekend was a typical example with masses of people enjoying exercise. In Salford, Manchester 3000 people came together to swim a mile in the old Manchester Ship Canal. On Sunday thousands turned out to compete and watch the Iron Man Triathlon in Bolton. Less than 2 weeks ago 4 million people turned out to watch the planet’s most prestigious cycle race the Tour de France in some of the most beautiful countryside on earth - the Yorkshire Dales.
Every single weekend people turn out to run, cycle, swim and parley around exercise. Each and all of these events will embrace a carnival like atmosphere. Social events are fun and a philosophy that has eluded the gym business for decades.
The world’s top marathon events will continue to attract millions, both doers and spectators. The weekly park fun runs, groups walking in the countryside and children running in the local authorities town and city centre mini fun runs. The staggering volume of people young and old are getting together to exercise together.
The Health Club industry have just one answer to mass participation and that is the exercise class. It needs to change!