Maybe a gym membership is that boost you need to take your workout to the next level.
A study by researchers at Iowa State University found that gym members were more likely to work out more than nonmembers. This isn’t too surprising. But it’s the difference between the two groups that was notable—even with nonmembers who worked out. Researchers found that members spent more than five hours more per week doing some sort of cardio workout than nonmembers. They also found that members were 14 times more likely to meet federal exercise standards (150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity each week).
The researchers speculate a variety of reasons for the outcome—the financial commitment of a membership, the social support found at a gym or the access to high-end training equipment. But one thing is for certain: You actually have to get off your couch and go.
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