The gym is still one of the most popular ways to work out and social media inspires us in our fitness endeavours, according to the latest survey results from the Fitness Show, ahead of this weekend’s Show in Brisbane.

According the survey of over 300 people, 90% hold a current membership at a gym or fitness centre, 24% subscribe to a paid online fitness program and 14% to an online free program.

The 12-week challenge model is still proving a popular way to get motivated, with 55% having completed a 12-week fitness challenge or similar in the last 12 months and 90% of those people saying they would highly recommend it.

Approximately 44% are inspired in their fitness/health endeavours by fitness personalities on social media – more so than family, friends and personal trainers. And when it comes to their own, personal social media, 51% of respondents post their fitness effort and progress online.

On the food front, 15% subscribe to a paid healthy eating program and 59% have tried a new diet in the last 12 months but there is still come confusion out there about what diet works best with 62% admitting they find the current level of information available about healthy eating and different diets contradictory, confusing or overwhelming.

Director of the Fitness Show Shaun Krenz said it was interesting to see how much social media now influences people’s motivation levels.

“It’s great to know that people can find inspiration through social media but it’s also a reminder of the responsibility influencers and fitness personalities have to their followers.”

Survey details:

• 320 respondents completed the online survey
• Respondents were from across Australia, inc 55% Vic, 33% QLD, 8% NSW
• 25% were aged under 25, 34% 25-34, 25% 35-44 and 13% 45 and over

The Fitness Show heads to Brisbane this coming weekend – October 21 & 22 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre. It is open to both industry and the general public from 9am – 5pm each day. For more information visit www.fitness-show.com.au