Brits Wasting Millions on January Gym Memberships They’ll Never Use, Warns Expert
As millions of Britons pledge to get fit for 2025, a leading personal finance expert warns that January could be the worst time to splash out on a gym membership – and shares clever ways to get fighting fit without spending a penny.
New data shows searches for “gym membership” have skyrocketed by 200% in the first week of January, with eager fitness fans ready to shell out an average of £47.24 per month on memberships. But research reveals a staggering 80% of January gym-joiners will abandon their fitness goals by mid-February, essentially throwing away nearly £600 in annual fees!
“January is when gyms rake in their biggest profits, with many offering seemingly irresistible New Year deals,” explains Fiona Peake, personal finance expert at Ocean Finance. “But these contracts often lock people in for 12 months, meaning Brits are collectively wasting upwards of £500 million annually on unused memberships.”
“The psychological appeal of a fresh start in January is precisely what gyms capitalise on,” she continues. “The reality is that gyms are at their busiest this time of year. This can be discouraging, especially for those new to fitness”.
Instead, Fiona recommends a more measured approach to fitness goals: “Start with free alternatives and prove to yourself you’ll stick to a routine before investing in a gym membership. Gym prices typically drop by 30-40% after the January rush, and you’ll have a better chance of negotiating terms. By March or April, gyms are desperate for new members and often offer much better deals.”
Committed to joining a gym? “Set a monthly cap on what you’re willing to spend,” Fiona emphasises. “Consider how often you’ll realistically go to the gym and divide the cost per visit. If it’s more than £5 a session, it might be worth exploring pay-as-you-go options or other alternatives.”
5 Budget-Friendly Fitness Alternatives
Outdoor Workouts: “From brisk walking to jogging, or even bodyweight exercises using park benches, the outdoors is a cost-effective and enjoyable way to get fit.”
YouTube Fitness Channels: “YouTube fitness channels have exploded in popularity, offering everything from beginner-friendly workouts to advanced HIIT sessions. Many of these videos are led by certified trainers, so you’re getting expert guidance without the cost.”
Local Community Classes: “Check your local community centre or council website for free or pay-what-you-can classes.”
Fitness Apps: “Free workout apps, like The NHS Couch to 5K, offer workout plans and fitness tracking. Some apps have a premium option, but many of the free features are more than enough to keep you on track.”
Walking or Cycling to Work: “Active commuting is an excellent way to incorporate exercise into your daily routine. Not only is it great for your health, it could save you money on transport costs.”
For more tips on saving money and managing your finances, visit Ocean Finance at www.oceanfinance.co.uk.
