Evaluating the Middle-Aged Health and Fitness Programs Fitness Centers

Abstract

Evaluating the Middle-Aged Health and Fitness Programs of Fitness Centers is an evaluative research on the difference health and fitness programs offered by selected fitness centers in the country. Specifically, Fitness First, Gold’s Gym and Slimmer’s World International.

This study aimed to determine: (i) what are middle-aged adults looking for in a fitness center; (ii) what are the methods implemented by fitness centers to maintain and manage the health of middle-aged clients; and (iii) what are the different health and fitness programs offered by fitness centers, ascertain which of these programs are being participated by their middle-aged clients, and determine the most frequently availed service of middle-aged adults.

It likewise seeks to give business owners, exercise professionals and practitioners an understanding of what middle-aged Filipinos are looking for in a fitness center. Moreover, it intends to help in the thrust of improving the health of the middle-aged Filipinos.

This study made use of the descriptive method. It combined the use of questionnaires, survey, personal interviews and observation. A total of 72 respondents were asked to fill out questionnaires. Interviews with staff, managers and client of the fitness centers, visits to the fitness centers and participation in the services and programs were also done.

Given the sample size, descriptive statistical analysis was used. The Chi-squared test and binomial testing were also used to analyze the data for this study.

In general, the results of the study show that middle-aged adults are looking for fitness centers, whose health programs and services meet their needs, are near their place of residence or where they work, and whose services they could afford. The study also showed that although the selected fitness centers do offer various services, only a percentage of middle-aged clients avail of them.

It is recommended that fitness centers offer a fully integrated system that provides an adult-friendly environment and age-appropriate programs. Moreover, it must have employees who are trained and knowledgeable in the area of health and fitness. To ensure continued patronization of services, location of the fitness center should be strategic; services must be affordable; and the benefits of the same be made clear to the middle-aged clients.