INDUSTRY VIEWS
Leisure centres play a vital role in supporting whole communities, from early years through to later life. But I often ask myself, are our gyms truly meeting that need? Or are we overlooking the diversity of people they’re meant to serve? In my work supporting strategic planning with councils across the UK, we map user data to understand how well facilities are reaching different groups. The results show real strengths, especially among women and families, but they also reveal where we’re falling short. What’s clear is that most users prefer to stay local. In urban areas, around three- quarters of users live within ten minutes of their centre. Even in rural settings, the average travel time is still under fifteen minutes. This highlights just how important local provision is, and how vital it is that what’s offered truly reflects the needs of the community. Women are well represented in most council-run facilities. In fact, they often make up the majority of users. That’s a positive contrast to wider national trends. The sense of safety, social connection and routine offered by gyms and group classes clearly resonates with many women. But the picture shifts when we look at older adults and young people. Among those aged 45 and up, particularly the over 65s, representation drops significantly. This is despite an ageing population and growing awareness of how essential active ageing is. And while swimming remains popular among under-15s, many centres lose momentum with 15 to 24-year-olds, even though Gen Z is showing strong interest in mental wellbeing and social movement. Gyms are evolving. They’re becoming more social and integrated into everyday life. Health partnerships are expanding, and many newer designs now include community zones, coworking areas and flexible spaces that blend wellness with day-to-day relevance. Our survey insights show that accessibility, cost and time availability remain top considerations for most. But when it comes to engaging less active populations, particularly older adults, the offer needs to go deeper. These individuals are looking for more than just a place to work out. They need the right kind of classes, support, and spaces that accommodate varying energy levels and mobility needs. And interestingly, cost is often not the biggest barrier for older users. A lack of confidence or relevant options tends to be more limiting. By 2042, over one in five UK residents will be aged 65 or older. If we continue treating older adults as one uniform group, we risk getting it wrong. Their needs are varied and evolving, and our approach must reflect that. If we want to create leisure spaces that truly serve every age and every stage, we need to base our decisions on real-world data and the lived experiences of the people we serve. EVERY AGE, EVERY STAGE RETHINKING THE GYM OFFER TO MEET LOCAL DEMAND AND MAXIMISE RETURNS
Our survey insights show that accessibility, cost and time availability remain top considerations for most
BUILT FOR INTENSE WORKOUTS Take your facility to the next level with the Vapor Series. Designed and built to withstand the toughest workouts, each piece provides users with the high-performance and unique features they demand to ensure they’re pushed to their limits.
LISA FORSYTH Managing Director, Max Associates
For more information contact True GB Tel: 01509 369110
Email: support@true-fitness.uk Web: https://www.true-fitness.uk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/true-fitness-gb
29
STATE OF THE UK FITNESS INDUSTRY REPORT 2025
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker