New Survey Shows Fitness Goals Trump Money Woe...( HASTINGS Minn. Dec. 31 /- Despite...),Health

HASTINGS, Minn., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the tough economy, a recent consumer survey revealed that most Americans are not willing to give up their health club memberships but are taking costs into consideration.

Among those who already belong to fitness clubs, 60 percent said they will keep their current memberships. Another 23 percent plan to downsize to more affordable health clubs. When choosing health clubs, 54 percent of all surveyed said that cost is the most important factor they consider. An additional 21 percent selected convenience or atmosphere as top considerations.

The survey was conducted by Opinion Research Corp. and sponsored by Anytime Fitness, the nation's fastest-growing fitness franchise.

"This just goes to show how important health and fitness are to Americans," said Mark Daly, national media director for Anytime Fitness. "People might be looking for ways to cut back on expenses, but they continue to recognize the value of fitness and a healthy lifestyle."

Of those surveyed, 43 percent said health and weight loss were the primary motivators behind their desire to start or stick with an exercise program. Only 16 percent of those surveyed said that improving their appearance motivated them most, while 8 percent said they worked out primarily to reduce stress.

"Finding the time and money to commit to fitness can be difficult, but people that do it are always glad they did," said Daly. "While other national fitness chains are struggling due to the economy, we've seen our membership grow nationwide because more people are recognizing these benefits and the value of joining convenient, affordable gyms that are open 24 hours a day."

About Anytime Fitness

Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness is the fastest-growing fitness club franchise in the world, with more than 970 clubs currently open in North America and Austr
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