Americans’ Exercise Routines, Motivation Affected by COVID-19

Sixty-eight percent of Americans who exercise say that despite their efforts, their fitness regimen took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a survey by Orangetheory Fitness in partnership with Kelton Global. Results of the survey were released on June 2.

Seventy percent of Americans who work out say they miss their pre COVID-19 workout routine, and more than 30 percent miss being inside a gym, having access to different fitness equipment or having variety in their workouts.

Forty-three percent reported lacking motivation to exercise, 32 percent miss the real-life connections their pre-pandemic exercise routines gave them and 41 percent are suffering from the monotony of the at-home fitness regime.

The burnout that many Americans are facing could stem from a lack of variety in physical activity, excessive training at the beginning of the pandemic or not enough recovery time in between workouts, according to Dr. Rachelle Reed, senior director of health science and research for Orangetheory Fitness.

However, the news is not all negative. Eighty-five percent of those surveyed are eager and excited to make positive changes to their physical activity with 43 percent saying they plan to set and achieve new fitness goals. Nearly one in three of the respondents are keen to take their exercise routines outside of the home more often, including returning to a fitness studio or gym – or joining one for the first time. The study also highlights how consumers are looking forward to the support of workout coaches and camaraderie that is often a part of the studio and health club experience.

Kelton Global conducted the online survey from May 19-25, 2021 of 1,005 nationally representative Americans age 18 and older.