Fitness: for 80 percent of italians, the primary motivation to work out is mental and psychological well-being

This is confirmed by the second survey from the “Fitness & Benessere in Italia” Observatory, conducted by the multinational fitness franchise Anytime Fitness, in collaboration with AstraRicerche.

86.4% of Italians consider training important for feeling more energetic and improving their mood, 83.8% find it useful for releasing tension and stress, while 76.3% associate it with reclaiming self-esteem and confidence. These are some of the most interesting findings from the second survey of the “Fitness & Benessere in Italia” Observatory, conducted by AstraRicerche and commissioned by Anytime Fitness, the largest fitness franchise network in the world, with over 5,600 active clubs globally and 58 already operational in Italia.

The demoscopic survey, based on a representative sample of over 1,800 Italians, highlights how the psychological component of training is now central to the perception of well-being: for most respondents, working out is no longer just a matter of aesthetics or physical shape, but a conscious act of personal care—a way to find emotional balance and face daily challenges with greater serenity.

Building on this awareness, the research also delved into the criteria guiding the choice of a gym, highlighting how decisive practical aspects are, such as cleanliness, staff competence, equipment quality, and logistical convenience.

FITNESS AS THERAPY: FOR 8 OUT OF 10 ITALIANS, IT IS THE KEY TO MENTAL WELL-BEING

While the main motivation for training is linked to mental well-being, the Observatory data shows that Italians attribute a very wide range of positive effects to physical activity. On a psychological level, 86.4% state that working out helps them feel more energetic and improves their mood, 83.8% consider it an effective tool for relieving tension and stress, and 76.3% associate it with the recovery of self-esteem and confidence.

From a physical standpoint, 77.9% find training useful for improving performance, 77.7% link it to disease prevention and a longer, healthier life, 73.3% associate it with weight control, and 72.7% with muscle strengthening.

Finally, the social dimension, while less central, is not negligible: 53.2% of respondents recognize the relational value of the gym as a place to meet new people and share time with acquaintances.

CLEANLINESS, COMPETENCE, AND VALUE FOR MONEY: ITALIANS’ PRIORITIES IN CHOOSING A GYM

This broad and integrated vision of well-being is also reflected in the criteria Italians use to choose a gym. The decision is based on concrete and functional elements: at the top of the priorities are the cleanliness and maintenance of the facility (82.5%), staff competence (78.5%), and an affordable price (78.4%). These are followed by the quality of equipment (76.3%), a welcoming atmosphere (73.9%), and proximity to home or work (73.4%).

The variety of machinery (72.4%), the presence of large and well-organized spaces (73.8%), and the modernity of the environment (68.6%) also matter. Among the more innovative elements, personalized support (65.4%), 365-day-a-year opening (59.6%), and technological innovation (58.3%) receive widespread approval.

CONSCIOUS, DEMANDING, AND SEEKING BALANCE: THE PROFILE OF THE NEW FITNESS USER

The Observatory data provides a profile of a fitness user who is increasingly conscious, demanding, and oriented toward total physical and mental well-being. In a context where fitness is no longer just about performance or aesthetics, but increasingly about mental health, balance, and quality of life, understanding people’s real needs becomes fundamental.

“The observatory allows us to go beyond the numbers and grasp the deep meaning of training for Italians,” commented Roberto Ronchi, CEO of Anytime Fitness Italia. “We want to be a reference point for those seeking 360-degree well-being and support, and to do that, we must start by listening. The data helps us improve, personalize the experience, and make each of our clubs a place where people feel welcomed, motivated, and free to be themselves.”

For further information: Spencer & Lewis for Anytime Fitness