Blog

Over the last several months, EveryFit has interviewed almost 40 (and surveyed over 200) gym members about their gym experience.  Here are a few interesting findings and observations.  We’ll post additional information about what we learned from members in the coming weeks.

Image from aviditifitness.net

1.       Cardio Machine Torture.Being on a cardio machine for an extended period has been described as “the longest time on earth”, “torture” and “me against the machine”

2.       One Way Competition.Men sometimes want to compete with other men (e.g. “Can I lift more than him?”) but often do not like the feeling that others may be competing with them

3.       Women’s Pet Peeve. Many women hate seeing other women wearing makeup or matching clothes at the gym

4.       Not Feeling Welcome. There is a general perception amongst members, right or wrong, that gym staff and management do not want members to attend the gym for fear of overcrowding and equipment overuse

5.       Help in a Time of Need. Members are asking for support during transitional periods (new job, having a child, moving), which are the times when they are most likely to lose consistency at the gym

6.       Am I Doing this Right? Lots of members are interested in learning about proper form for exercise.  People want to make sure they are doing it the right way to avoid injury and get the most out of their workout.

7.       Support at Home. Spouse exercise habits and encouragement can play a significant role in member’s commitment to the gym.

8.       No Sweat, No Gain. Most members judge the effectiveness of a workout by how much they sweat or how exhausted they feel afterward.  Is there a better way to know you are progressing or achieving something in the gym?

9.       Lost in the Weight Room. Biggest obstacle to weight training is not lack of interest, but lack of knowledge

10.   What Members Want. There is significant need for better ways to track progress, more social support/competition and context aware exercise feedback and tips