Working out at home has gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many individuals turned to home fitness routines as a substitute for gym visits in order to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The trend towards home workouts has created a new normal for the fitness industry, affecting millions of Americans and reshaping the way they approach exercise.
In 2023, numerous people in the United States continue to workout at home. A 2020 study found that during the pandemic, 40% of individuals exercised at home for the first time, reflecting a significant shift in fitness habits (source). Although exact numbers for 2023 are not readily available, it’s reasonable to assume that a substantial portion of the population still engages in at-home workouts, considering the staying power of this fitness trend and the availability of various workout routines and resources to accommodate different preferences and goals.
Current Statistics on Home Workouts in the US
Demographics and Trends
While a majority of people in the United States tend to exercise at home, the demographics vary slightly among different age groups and genders. In terms of age, people aged 18-34 are the most likely to be gym-goers. However, a significant portion of these individuals also opt for home workouts. Regarding gender, more men meet the national standards for exercise, with 26.3% of men compared to 18.8% of women participating in regular physical activity.
Impact of Covid-19 on Home Workouts
The Covid-19 pandemic has greatly influenced the way people exercise, leading to increased preference for home workouts. A survey conducted on behalf of the AI fitness app Freeletics found that two-thirds of Americans would rather exercise at home than return to a gym, even when restrictions are lifted. Furthermore, 81% of the respondents agreed that working out at home has positively affected their fitness routines.
As a result of many gyms closing due to Covid-19, about 78% of the surveyed Americans have adapted their fitness habits and embraced home workouts. Additionally, more Americans find it easier to maintain an at-home fitness routine now compared to the pre-pandemic period, with an increase from 72% in 2020 to 82% in 2021.
Benefits of Working Out at Home
Physical and Mental Health
Exercising at home can provide numerous physical and mental health benefits. Working out regularly helps to maintain a healthy weight, improve cardiovascular health, and increase muscle strength. According to the CDC, 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week is recommended for maintaining weight and overall health.
Beyond physical health, exercising at home can also improve mental well-being. Physical activity releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress and enhance mood. Since many individuals find it easier to maintain an at-home fitness routine (82% in 2023, up from 72% in 2020), this can lead to more consistent mental health benefits (Study Finds).
Cost and Time Savings
One of the main advantages of working out at home is the potential for cost and time savings. Gym memberships and fitness classes can be expensive, whereas home workouts often require minimal equipment or subscriptions to affordable fitness apps, such as Freeletics. Additionally, working out at home eliminates the need to commute to a gym, saving both time and fuel costs.
Customization and Flexibility
Exercising at home offers the freedom to customize and adapt workouts to personal preferences and limitations. Individuals can choose from a variety of activities, such as walking, which is the most popular form of exercise in the US according to a 2016 report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, at-home workouts can be easily adapted to accommodate busy schedules or fluctuating energy levels, providing the flexibility that traditional gyms or fitness classes may not offer.
Popular Home Workout Methods in 2023
As more Americans prefer to workout at home, various home workout methods have gained popularity in 2023.
Online Fitness Programs and Apps
Online fitness programs and apps have become a popular choice for at-home workouts. Many people turn to these digital platforms for guided exercise sessions, personalized workout plans, and motivation to stay consistent. Advancements in technology have provided access to a wide range of fitness apps, catering to various preferences and objectives.
Home Gym Equipment
With the rise of at-home fitness, investing in home gym equipment has become a popular trend. Equipment such as treadmills, stationary bikes, and rowing machines allow individuals to engage in their favorite cardio workouts within the comfort of their homes. In addition, resistance bands, dumbbells, and kettlebells provide a versatile and space-efficient option for strength training.
Bodyweight Exercises
An increasing number of people have embraced bodyweight exercises as a practical and effective at-home workout method. Exercises such as squats, pushups, and planks require no equipment and can be adapted to different fitness levels. Furthermore, bodyweight exercises can easily be incorporated into various workout routines, including circuit training, HIIT, and yoga.
Challenges and Drawbacks of Home Workouts
While many individuals are enjoying the benefits of working out at home, it’s important to acknowledge that there are challenges and drawbacks associated with this fitness approach.
Limited Availability of Equipment
One significant challenge is the limited availability of equipment at home when compared to a gym. Most home gyms lack the variety and access to specialized machines that can target specific muscle groups. Without the proper equipment, individuals might struggle to achieve the desired level of fitness or develop a well-rounded exercise routine.
Motivation and Accountability
Staying motivated and accountable for one’s fitness goals can be challenging when working out at home. In a study, nearly four in 10 respondents said they have more motivation to work out since they started exercising at home, but this leaves a significant portion who may struggle with motivation. Gyms often offer group classes or personal training sessions that can provide support and guidance, which is usually not available when working out alone at home.
Potential for Injury
Lastly, a potential drawback of home workouts is the increased risk of injury. Without proper guidance from trainers or gym staff, individuals may not perform exercises correctly, leading to muscle strain or other injuries. Additionally, many people do not have access to proper exercise mats or flooring for their home gymswhich can also contribute to injury.
Final Thoughts and Conclusions
As we approached 2023, the trend of at-home workouts gained significant popularity, primarily due to the pandemic. A recent survey revealed that nearly 3 in 4 people believed at-home workouts would continue to stay relevant post-pandemic.
However, it is essential to note that the demand for home exercise gyms dropped from being the #2 trend in 2022 to #13 in 2023. This drop could be an indicator of people gradually returning to gyms and fitness centers as the world started opening up and pandemic restrictions were lifted.
In the US, the fitness landscape witnessed a shift as well. In the past, only 23% of Americans met all federal physical activity guidelines. However, as at-home workout options became more accessible, it can be inferred that an increasing number of people in the US incorporated exercise into their daily routines in some capacity within the comfort of their homes.
Overall, while the exact number of people working out at home in the US in 2023 is difficult to pinpoint, it is evident that the trend has left a lasting impact on the fitness landscape. The rise in accessibility and convenience of at-home workouts has certainly played a significant role in encouraging more people to engage in regular physical activity.
