Examining Increasing Fitness Expenditures Amid Economic Challenges

In a time when many are feeling the effects of a rising cost of living, an interesting trend has emerged: spending on fitness is on the rise. According to data from Lloyds Bank, there has been a notable 24% increase in spending on gym memberships, fitness classes, and sports clubs from 2022 to 2024. Additionally, ukactive reports that revenue in the health and fitness sector rose from £5.2 billion in 2023 to £5.7 billion in 2024.

The Shift in Perspective on Fitness Spending

This increase in fitness spending is largely attributed to a shift in how individuals perceive health and wellness. Many now view fitness as a necessary investment in long-term health rather than a luxury. However, balancing financial commitments with the desire for effective health management can be challenging.

Insights from 13 Women on Their Fitness Spending

To provide a clearer picture of how real people are navigating their fitness budgets, we spoke with 13 women from various backgrounds, each sharing their monthly income and fitness-related expenses.

1. Charley Marshall, 34, Christchurch

Occupation: Systems Support Technician
Annual Salary: £28,000
Net Monthly Income: £1,900
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £159 (Gym membership: £34, Personal training: £125, activewear as needed)

“For me, spending money on my physical and mental health (i.e., exercise) is a no brainer. It helps me keep fit for my children and mentally keeps me sane, which is the most important thing.”

2. Rachael C, 31, Stafford

Occupation: Senior Engagement Officer
Annual Salary: £38,000
Net Monthly Income: £2,320
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £180 (CrossFit gym membership: £100, online nutrition coach: £80)

“I tend to save on activewear by buying a lot of gym clothes new off reselling websites, like Vinted!”

3. Stacey Hunt, 38, West Midlands

Occupation: Senior Operations Delivery Manager
Annual Salary: £56,406
Net Monthly Income: £3,401
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £154.32 (Gym membership: £50, supplements: £25-30, various subscriptions)

Stacey sometimes spends additional money on personal training and routine chiropractic appointments.

4. Hannah Jag-Nathan, 32, London

Occupation: Senior Product Manager
Annual Salary: £112,000
Net Monthly Income: ~£6,000
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £215 (Gym membership: £40, supplement stack: £100, equipment costs)

“I usually buy activewear bi-annually or when a sale is on.”

5. Carys Phillips, 25, Solihull

Occupation: Commercial Operations Admin
Annual Salary: £25,000
Net Monthly Income: £1,790
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £179 (Activewear: £30, Pilates: £64)

6. Charlotte Hall, 52, Swindon

Occupation: Executive Assistant
Annual Salary: £47,000
Net Monthly Income: £2,800
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £261.99 (Gym membership: £26.99, yoga classes: £65)

“I will buy new activewear every few months, including a new sports bra.”

7. Lowri Roberts, 32, Warminster

Occupation: Marine Archaeologist
Annual Salary: £32,550
Net Monthly Income: £2,113.90
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £48 (Gym membership: £33, supplements: £15)

8. Natalie Deacon, 54, West Sussex

Occupation: Part-time Legal Assistant
Annual Salary: £15,000
Net Monthly Income: £1,150
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £268 (Yoga: £83, supplements: £50)

“Most of my spare money goes on sports-related activities or clothing.”

9. Rebecca Miles, 43, Nottingham

Occupation: Sales Manager
Annual Salary: £260,000
Net Monthly Income: £12,000
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £360 (Personal training, activewear, and more)

10. Sophie Kammidge, 34, Nottinghamshire

Occupation: Systems Analyst
Annual Salary: £47,500
Net Monthly Income: £2,800
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £87 (PureGym membership: £25, Pilates: £52)

11. Amy Sales, 40, Co.Down

Occupation: Risk Manager
Annual Salary: £65,000
Net Monthly Income: £3,675
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £179 (Gym membership: £18, activewear: £70)

12. Sarah Davies, 34, Cardiff

Occupation: Head of Communications
Annual Salary: £71,000
Net Monthly Income: £4,000
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £178 (Gym and yoga classes, pole dancing)

13. Cherith Morrison, 35, Coleraine

Occupation: Part-time Activity Therapist
Annual Salary: £16,800
Net Monthly Income: £1,400
Monthly Fitness Expenses: £330.99 (Gym membership: £65, various classes)

“I moved home as I’m studying, so I’m in a good position to try out new fitness classes.”

These insights underline the commitment many individuals are making to their health, even amidst economic constraints. While the expenses vary significantly, they reflect a shared recognition of the importance of prioritizing fitness as part of a holistic approach to well-being.