French gym members report high satisfaction, with health improvement as the main motivation and 95% feeling healthier since joining.
Gym membership in France is widespread
A survey of 1,352 gym members in France found that 11% of the population are subscribed to fitness centers. Most members train three times a week, and the main reason for joining is to improve health, with 54% of respondents citing this as their primary motivation. Health improvements reported by gym members
Ninety-five percent of those surveyed said they feel healthier since starting their gym membership. The average monthly subscription cost is 40€, with 80% of memberships falling between 20€ and 60€. Overall satisfaction is high, with an average score of 8.2/10 and 95% of respondents willing to recommend their gym. Demographics and usage patterns
The survey participants were nearly equally split between men and women, with a median age of 66. Forty-five percent of members also engage in other sports, and only 5% are "ghost members," paying for a subscription but not using the gym regularly. Retirees tend to train in the morning, while employed individuals prefer afternoon sessions. Popular gym activities and gender differences
Strength training on machines is the most common activity, chosen by 55% of respondents, followed by cardio machine use (54%) and group classes (48%). Gender differences are notable: two-thirds of women attend group classes, compared to only a third of men, while men are more likely to use strength machines (75%). Factors influencing gym choice
Proximity to home or work is the top consideration when choosing a gym, cited by 43% of respondents. Availability of group classes is also important, mentioned by 16%. Most gyms have strength equipment (89%) and cardio equipment (87%), with 72% offering group classes. However, CrossFit spaces and swimming pools are less commonly available. Costs and affordability
Thirty-two percent of respondents paid additional registration fees, averaging 46€, with 42% paying over 50€. The least expensive gym networks include Basic-Fit (29€), Keepcool (31€), and l'Orange bleue (32€), while Fitness Park charges 36€. Large national networks are generally more affordable than independent gyms (45€) and local chains (46€). Challenges and satisfaction
Despite high satisfaction, some issues were reported, such as the inability to suspend subscriptions, cleanliness of showers, lack of water, access difficulties, and long cancellation delays. However, these problems are relatively infrequent, which helps maintain the high overall satisfaction score.
