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As Baby Boomers Flock to Get Fit, Gyms Prepare for Aging Exercisers

The National Post, 10/29/09

Abstract:

Many mainstream fitness centres have been reluctant to "grey" their enrolment even as membership continued to decline over the past four years, but that is now finally beginning to change, Colin Milner, CEO of Vancouver-based International Council on Active Aging said in an interview.

Over the next 10 years, the 18- to 49-year-old market will grow by 0.6% and the 50-plus market will grow 25%, Milner said, yet most clubs still cater to the younger market. Many older adults want - or need - personalized fitness programs that take into account health issues such as bum knees and rotator cuffs. Yet, most older adults are not sure exactly what to do when it comes to exercise, Milner said. Some lack the energy to exercise, others find traditional gyms unpleasant or intimidating.

Older adults also spend more of their income on health than any other need or activity.

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