Walking Tops as the Most Preferred Exercise

Exercise is the key to our good health. Different types of exercise involve weight training, yoga, aerobics, cycling etc. Each activity offers various benefits such as good physical health and stable mental wellbeing. It is important to include at least one physical activity in our daily routine to accomplish our fitness goals.

In the realm of this busy life, exercise is what keeps our physical and mental health going. Carving out time for exercise is not just about staying in good shape but investing in a longer and healthier life. As per a comprehensive survey conducted by Expert Market Research across top-tier 1 and 2 cities which included 45,000 respondents, the results delve deeply into types of exercises people engage in.

The survey results indicate that walking is the most favored and preferred choice, capturing a significant share of 39.4%. In comparison, weight training follows with a share of 20.2%, and home workouts with 12.8%. The study aimed to analyze overall engagement in exercise, preferred types, and fitness goals. Specifically, walking alone constitutes nearly 40% of the total share, whereas weight training, home workouts, and yoga/pilates combined account for approximately 15%.

Walking has become the top choice due to its minimal equipment requirements, ease of integration into daily routines, and suitability for all ages. In contrast, weight training and home workouts are not universally accessible as they demand strength and specific equipment. Government initiatives like the Streets4People Challenge in India have significantly encouraged more people to move. Moreover, various central organizations, universities, and colleges have raised awareness, such as Delhi University's recent 'Run for Viksit Bharat' event starting at 7 a.m. from gate no. 1 and ending at the sports complex. The government has also actively promoted yoga by making it compulsory in schools, sending Yoga experts to fairs/workshops, and providing tax exemptions to yoga-related businesses.

Insight drawn is that walking is favored across all age groups, while weight training appeals mainly to Gen Z and middle-aged individuals due to its requirement for strength and equipment. However, with the rapid pace of technological advancement, this preference may shift. Factors such as online and hybrid gym memberships, gyms within residential complexes, and specialized training for older adults are contributing to this shift. Additionally, a current trend highlighted by Gymdesk shows that 59% of active adults are opting for outdoor activities like running, hiking, and outdoor training. The rise of remote work has also promoted a better work-life balance, increasing the popularity of indoor exercises like weight training and home workouts alongside walking.