It’s no big surprise that those who have a gym membership are more active than those who don’t. But researchers at Iowa State University were surprised by just how much more active they were.
According to the study’s findings, gym members were 14 times more aerobically active than non-gym goers and 10 times more likely to get the recommended two days of muscle-strengthening exercise weekly — regardless of their age or weight. What’s more, say the researchers, gym rats typically got six more hours of exercise a week (300 minutes versus the 150 health officials recommend) than non-members.
That’s a lot of extra kickboxing and kickbacks.
“The difference in our results is pretty dramatic,” underscored Duck-chul Lee, an Iowa State assistant professor of kinesiology and one of the authors of the study.
What other health benefits can a gym membership give you? The Iowa State researchers say it can lower your risk of obesity; trim your waistline by about 1.5 inches; lower your resting heart rate; and just generally benefit your lungs, heart and circulation.
“Access to quality exercise equipment, social support and even financial commitment may help spur someone to continue exercising. Not all facilities are the same, so it’s important to find the ‘right’ fit,” explained study co-author and Iowa State kinesiology professor Warren Franke.
To see if Flow Fitness Boutique is right for you, join us on Saturday, April 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. for our Grand Opening. You’ll be able to meet the staff, tour the studio and try sample classes. Spirit FM will be broadcasting live, refreshments and free childcare will be available, and there will be plenty of swag to snag. To view our sample class schedule, check out http://flow.yeremenko.pro/class-schedules/