Fitness has been called the world’s biggest sport, with 61 per cent of regular exercisers now taking part in gym-type activities, according to findings in the Nielsen: Les Mills Global Consumer Fitness Survey (2013).

Conducted amongst 4,600 people across 13 countries, the study has also revelaed that 27 per cent the adult population attend a gym, fitness center or health club.

The number of people taking part in gym-type activities now ranks higher any other fitness activity, including walking, team sports, cycling, running or swimming.

The survey has also provided room for scope within the gym and health club sectors, with 69 per cent of people who do not currently participate in gym-type activities saying that they would consider getting involved.

Other findings show that younger consumers between the ages of 18 and 29 are more likely to be doing gym-type activities, with 76 per cent of Millennials engaging in gym-related fitness pursuits.

As a whole, the survey has also revealed that 39 per cent of people exercise regularly, 39 per cent are not currently exercising to keep fit and healthy or to create or maintain good physical appearance but want to and 22 per cent have no interest in exercising at all.

Some of the results come in slight contrast to the 2013 IHRSA Health Club Consumer Report, which indicates that growth in the sector could be leveling off with the potential for apparent stagnation.

However, Les Mills International Chief Executive Phillip Mills has sought to shed light on the partially conflicting findings.

“When you analyse the methodology and markets covered, the IHRSA report covers the US market and currently doesn’t incorporate non-members such as casual users, who can account for a high percentage of users of not-for-profit facilities, or the impact created by new formats such as CrossFit and cycling only studios,” said Mills.

“The Nielsen report questioned adults over 18 who currently exercise, or have an interest in exercising, in the major global fitness markets including the United States, ten European countries, Brazil and Australia.”

A full copy of the Nielsen: Les Mills Global Consumer Fitness Survey is available upon request from: [email protected]