The Fitness Industry is Worth $22.4 Billion to the U.S. Economy, Says…

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the economic impact report released by the Health & Fitness Association, which highlights the industry's contributions to the U.S. economy. The report provides state-by-state statistics and data points that can be used by industry members for advocacy and networking purposes.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Highlights from the Economic Impact Report

1. What are the key highlights from the economic impact report?

• The industry creates 432,942 direct jobs in the country
• It pays $10.7 billion in direct wages
• It pays $5.29 billion in federal taxes
• It pays $5.35 billion in state and local taxes
• Industry suppliers are responsible for creating 60,625 U.S. jobs and paying $4 billion in wages

2. How will the report be utilized by industry members?

• The report is designed to be used by Health & Fitness Association members when communicating with local and state policymakers
• The state-by-state statistics and data points are valuable for grassroots advocacy and networking with industry colleagues

3. What was the goal behind creating this report?

• One of the goals of the Health & Fitness Association President & CEO Liz Clark when she was hired was to be able to share real numbers about the value the industry creates in the country, and this report helps achieve that goal

[02] Additional Industry Statistics

1. What other industry statistics were provided in the article?

• The U.S. has more than 72 million health club and studio members
• The U.S. has a higher percentage of active members of fitness facilities than any country other than Sweden
• Americans pay an average of $59 per month for membership, and 41% of facility users pay $25 or less per month for membership

2. What is the purpose of sharing these additional statistics?

• The data from the economic impact study and the consumer report show the importance of the health and fitness industry to the economy and the physical and mental health of Americans
• This data is an essential part of the campaign to educate representatives, senators, and their staff about the benefits of exercise and the size and scope of the industry