Fitness
Health Coach Market
Report Overview
The Health Coach Market size is expected to be worth around US$ 32.3 billion by 2033 from US$ 16.1 billion in 2023, growing at a CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period 2024 to 2033.
Increasing awareness of the importance of proactive health management is driving the growth of the health coach market. Health coaches play a pivotal role in helping individuals achieve long-term wellness goals by providing personalized guidance on areas such as nutrition, fitness, stress management, and chronic disease prevention.
The growing prevalence of lifestyle-related conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases is fueling demand for health coaches who can offer tailored solutions to improve overall well-being. In July 2024, the Health Coach Institute introduced a virtual health coaching platform designed to expand the reach of health coaches by enabling remote services. This platform includes features such as video conferencing, progress tracking, and personalized coaching plans, making health coaching more accessible and scalable for clients across the globe.
The increasing adoption of digital health tools and telemedicine also presents significant opportunities for the health coach market, as more individuals seek online support to manage their health outside of traditional clinical settings. Additionally, corporate wellness programs and insurance companies are increasingly incorporating health coaching services to reduce healthcare costs and improve employee health outcomes.
As the demand for holistic health services rises, health coaches are evolving from being fitness experts to providing comprehensive wellness support, including mental health and lifestyle counseling. Recent trends indicate a growing focus on behavior change, with coaches using evidence-based techniques to promote sustainable lifestyle modifications. With these advancements, the health coach market is set to expand, driven by innovations in digital platforms, an increasing emphasis on preventative care, and the growing recognition of the value of personalized health guidance.
Key Takeaways
- In 2023, the market for health coach generated a revenue of US$ 16.1 billion, with a CAGR of 7.2%, and is expected to reach US$ 32.3 billion by the year 2033.
- The service type segment is divided into exercise & fitness coaching, nutrition coaching, lifestyle coaching, chronic condition coaching, weight management coaching, stress management coaching, and others, with nutrition coaching taking the lead in 2023 with a market share of 32.4%.
- Considering mode, the market is divided into online and offline. Among these, online held a significant share of 63.7%.
- Furthermore, concerning the payment model segment, the market is segregated into employer-sponsored, monthly membership, and others. The monthly membership sector stands out as the dominant player, holding the largest revenue share of 54.2% in the health coach market.
- The end-users segment is segregated into hospitals & clinics, corporate organizations, fitness Centre, and individuals, with the fitness Centre segment leading the market, holding a revenue share of 45.8%.
- North America led the market by securing a market share of 41.5% in 2023.
Service Type Analysis
The nutrition coaching segment led in 2023, claiming a market share of 32.4% as consumers increasingly prioritize holistic health and wellness. Rising awareness of the importance of proper nutrition in preventing and managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, is likely to drive demand for expert guidance in dietary habits.
Additionally, as individuals focus on maintaining healthy lifestyles, nutrition coaching is anticipated to become an essential service for people seeking personalized, science-backed dietary plans. This segment’s growth is further fueled by a growing desire for weight management solutions, increased awareness about food allergies and intolerances, and the desire for healthier eating habits, especially among millennials and the aging population.
Mode Analysis
The online held a significant share of 63.7% as more people seek convenient, accessible coaching services through digital platforms. The growing adoption of smartphones, video conferencing tools, and health apps has made it easier for consumers to access coaching services remotely, contributing to the surge in online health coaching.
Consumers, particularly those with busy schedules, prefer online coaching due to its flexibility and ability to integrate health advice into their daily routines. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand for virtual health services, creating a long-term shift toward digital wellness solutions. The online segment is expected to continue expanding as technology advances and the desire for virtual healthcare remains strong.
Payment Model Analysis
The monthly membership segment had a tremendous growth rate, with a revenue share of 54.2% as more organizations and individuals seek affordable and consistent access to health coaching services. Monthly memberships offer a predictable pricing model that appeals to both employers and consumers looking for ongoing support in achieving wellness goals.
Employers are increasingly investing in health coaching programs as part of their employee wellness initiatives, recognizing the potential for reduced healthcare costs and improved productivity. On the consumer side, a subscription-based model is attractive due to its convenience and cost-effectiveness, allowing individuals to access regular coaching sessions and personalized plans without large upfront costs. This model is projected to expand significantly, particularly within the corporate wellness sector.
End-users Analysis
The fitness Centre segment grew at a substantial rate, generating a revenue portion of 45.8% as more fitness centers integrate health coaching services into their offerings. As gyms and wellness centers aim to provide comprehensive solutions for physical and mental well-being, health coaching is becoming a key component of their service portfolios.
Fitness centers are increasingly partnering with health coaches to provide clients with personalized fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle advice, enhancing member engagement and retention. Additionally, the rise of boutique fitness centers focusing on specialized training and wellness programs is likely to further drive demand for integrated coaching services. As consumers seek more personalized fitness experiences, the fitness center segment is projected to see strong growth within the broader health coach market.
Key Market Segments
By Service Type
- Exercise & Fitness Coaching
- Nutrition Coaching
- Lifestyle Coaching
- Chronic Condition Coaching
- Weight Management Coaching
- Stress Management Coaching
- Others
By Mode
By Payment Model
- Employer-sponsored
- Monthly Membership
- Others
By End-users
- Hospitals & Clinics
- Corporate Organizations
- Fitness Centre
- Individuals
Drivers
Growing Popularity of Telehealth Services Driving the Health Coach Market
The growing popularity of telehealth services is driving substantial growth in the health coach market. As more people turn to virtual healthcare options for convenience and accessibility, the demand for remote health coaching has significantly increased. Telehealth services allow individuals to access health professionals from anywhere, which is particularly beneficial for those in remote or underserved areas.
In March 2024, Wellness Coaches USA expanded its corporate wellness services by integrating telehealth into its health coaching offerings. This expansion provides employees with more comprehensive support, regardless of their location, and helps improve overall corporate health and productivity.
The growing adoption of telehealth is expected to increase the need for health coaches who can deliver personalized guidance on nutrition, fitness, and wellness remotely. As organizations and individuals alike seek flexible and accessible healthcare solutions, the integration of health coaching into telehealth platforms will continue to drive market growth.
Restraints
Regulatory Challenges Restraining the Health Coach Market
Rising regulatory challenges impede the growth of the health coach market. Health coaching is still a relatively unregulated industry in many regions, which creates significant hurdles for providers looking to expand their services. Many countries and states have strict guidelines on what can and cannot be offered by health coaches, particularly when it comes to giving medical advice or offering services that overlap with those of licensed healthcare professionals.
These regulations can limit the scope of services health coaches can provide, hampering market expansion. Additionally, the lack of clear standards for certification and professional qualifications in health coaching has led to inconsistent service quality, further contributing to the market’s regulatory complexities.
As the demand for health coaching increases, policymakers will likely introduce more comprehensive regulations that could slow growth in the short term, as businesses adapt to new compliance requirements. Health coaches will need to navigate these legal barriers to ensure their services align with regional healthcare regulations, limiting their flexibility in certain markets.
Opportunities
Integration of AI Creating Opportunities for the Health Coach Market
The integration of AI into health coaching services presents a significant opportunity for market expansion. AI-driven technologies have the potential to revolutionize how health coaches engage with clients, offering highly personalized and scalable support. In January 2024, Noom Inc. introduced an AI-powered health coaching platform that provides customized interventions for both mental and physical health.
This platform uses advanced AI technology to boost user engagement and improve health outcomes by delivering tailored recommendations based on individual data. As AI continues to evolve, health coaches will be able to leverage machine learning algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data and offer more effective, data-driven advice to clients.
The growing interest in personalized health and wellness solutions is likely to drive further innovation in the space, with AI playing an increasingly central role in health coaching platforms. As the adoption of AI technology in the healthcare sector grows, the health coach market is expected to benefit from more efficient, cost-effective, and accessible coaching solutions that improve health outcomes for a broader audience.
Impact of Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Factors
Macroeconomic and geopolitical factors significantly influence the growth and accessibility of the health coach market. Economic downturns often lead to reduced consumer spending on non-essential services, which can result in slower adoption of health coaching services. However, as economies recover, disposable income rises, encouraging individuals to invest in personal wellness and preventative healthcare.
Geopolitical factors, such as regulatory changes, international trade policies, and healthcare reforms, can either hinder or enhance the availability of health coaching services across borders. For example, in regions with less stringent regulations, market growth may be accelerated. Conversely, political instability or regulatory barriers in some markets can limit expansion. On a positive note, increasing global awareness of the importance of mental and physical health, along with the growing trend towards preventative healthcare, is likely to fuel the demand for health coaching services, contributing to long-term market growth.
Trends
Rising Surge in Partnerships and Collaborations Driving the Health Coach Market
Rising collaborations and partnerships are driving significant growth in the health coach market, as organizations seek to expand their service offerings and reach a broader audience. High demand for personalized wellness programs has led to the establishment of strategic alliances that combine expertise in coaching, health technology, and behavioral science.
In February 2023, BetterUp formed a strategic partnership with the International Coaching Federation to advance coaching practices. This collaboration focuses on integrating research and developing an evidence-based framework to enhance coaching techniques, ultimately improving service quality and impact. As such partnerships increase, health coaching services are projected to become more effective and widely accessible, further boosting market adoption. This trend is expected to expand the reach of health coaches, providing consumers with more tailored and professional services across various industries.
Regional Analysis
North America is leading the Health Coach Market
North America dominated the market with the highest revenue share of 41.5% owing to increasing consumer awareness of the importance of preventive healthcare and the rising demand for personalized wellness solutions. As more individuals seek to improve their overall health, manage chronic conditions, or achieve specific fitness goals, health coaching has emerged as a viable option.
The pandemic further amplified this trend, with many people realizing the need for better lifestyle management, especially in areas such as nutrition, physical activity, and mental health. In September 2022, the American Council on Exercise (ACE) acquired the Dr. Sears Wellness Institute, expanding its influence in the health coaching market. This strategic acquisition allowed ACE to enhance its capabilities and reach a broader audience, reflecting the growing interest in professional guidance to achieve sustainable health outcomes.
Additionally, an increasing number of corporations have incorporated health coaches into their employee wellness programs, contributing to the market’s growth. The integration of digital health tools and platforms has also played a significant role, enabling coaches to reach clients remotely and offer more flexible, scalable solutions.
The Asia Pacific region is expected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Asia Pacific is expected to grow with the fastest CAGR owing to a combination of rising health concerns, greater health literacy, and increasing disposable income. Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Australia have witnessed a growing emphasis on wellness and preventive healthcare, with many individuals seeking professional support to manage weight, reduce stress, and improve overall health.
The growing middle class in nations like China and India is likely to accelerate demand for personalized health coaching services as disposable income rises and more people focus on fitness and well-being. Additionally, digital health technologies and mobile apps are anticipated to play a key role in expanding the reach of health coaches, making it easier for individuals to access services remotely.
Increasing awareness of lifestyle-related diseases and the shift toward self-care are projected to further drive demand for health coaches in the region. As a result, the health coach market in Asia Pacific is likely to grow steadily as more people embrace holistic, guided approaches to wellness.
Key Regions and Countries
- North America
- Europe
- Germany
- France
- The UK
- Spain
- Italy
- Russia
- Netherland
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- India
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Rest of APAC
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Rest of Latin America
- Middle East & Africa
- South Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- Rest of MEA
Key Players Analysis
The major players in the health coach market are actively engaged in the development and introduction of innovative products, as well as implementing strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing their competitive positioning. Key players in the health coach market focus on strategies such as expanding service offerings, leveraging digital platforms, and personalizing health coaching programs to cater to diverse consumer needs.
Companies are integrating technology, such as mobile apps and wearable devices, to track client progress and provide real-time feedback, enhancing engagement and results. Strategic partnerships with wellness organizations, healthcare providers, and corporations help increase reach and credibility. They also focus on increasing brand visibility through targeted marketing campaigns and offering specialized services for niche markets, such as chronic disease management or weight loss.
Furthermore, some players emphasize training and certifying coaches to maintain high-quality standards and ensure a positive client experience. One of the leading companies in the market is Noom, a prominent health and wellness platform that combines digital health coaching with behavioral science. Noom’s growth strategy revolves around offering personalized weight loss and wellness programs through its mobile app, utilizing AI and data analytics to tailor coaching and recommendations.
The company partners with healthcare providers and insurance companies to enhance access to its services, while focusing on creating a supportive community to improve user retention and long-term success. Noom also invests heavily in marketing to reach a broader audience and continues to innovate its offerings to stay ahead of emerging trends in health and wellness.
Top Key Players in the Health Coach Market
- Weljii
- YourCoach Health
- The American Council on Exercise
- Firstbeat Life
- Happify Health
- Health Coach Institute
- FMCA
- ExpertRating
- BrainMD Health
- AFPA
Industrial Advantages and Opportunities For Market Players
Health coaches offer substantial business advantages for market players by enhancing customer retention. Their personalized approach fosters stronger client relationships, boosts satisfaction, and increases loyalty. This engagement is vital for maintaining a stable customer base and encourages ongoing participation in health programs.
Incorporating health coaching into service offerings enriches a company’s value proposition. It attracts a broader client base seeking comprehensive wellness solutions, which enhances the market player’s reputation. Improved health outcomes through personalized guidance motivate clients to adopt healthier lifestyles, contributing to better overall health metrics.
Health coaches aid in data collection and personalization, gathering valuable insights into client behaviors and preferences. This information enables companies to deploy more targeted and effective marketing strategies. Additionally, the holistic approach of health coaching can help reduce healthcare costs by managing chronic conditions and reducing medical claims, thus offering significant cost savings.
Offering health coaching can differentiate companies in competitive markets, providing a unique selling proposition that focuses on long-term health and wellness. This strategic positioning helps companies expand into new markets, such as corporate wellness, where there is a high demand for improving employee productivity and reducing absenteeism. The approach aligns well with healthcare regulations favoring preventive care, enhancing compliance and eligibility for potential government incentives.
Recent Developments
- In December 2022: YourCoach Health teamed up with Happify Health to offer live coaching services through Happify’s digital platform. This partnership is intended to support individuals in making long-term improvements to their well-being by providing personalized coaching interventions.
- In December 2022: Firstbeat Life collaborated with the UK & International Health Coaching Association to deliver health coaching services focused on preventing chronic, lifestyle-related conditions. This initiative targets a broad range of sectors and aims to alleviate the burden of preventable health issues.
Report Scope
Fitness
How Jeremy Clarkson Reset His Health and Fitness at 66 – Walking, Pilates and Trying ‘Not to Die’
Rewind a decade or so, and Jeremy Clarkson had a particular disdain for exercise, healthy eating and denying himself life’s pleasures. He never worked out, smoked 40 cigarettes a day and, in his own words, drank four pints of wine daily. Now, at 65, his entire outlook on health and longevity has shifted.
At the heart of Clarkson’s desire to change are his young grandchildren.
‘I’m not going to dwell on the joys of being a grandparent because what can be said about it has already been said. But I have decided that it is so wonderful that I want it to go on for as long as is humanly possible. Which means I must do everything in my power not to die,’ he wrote in his column forThe Times.
And the British TV personality has certainly had a couple of wake-up calls.
After being admitted to hospital with pneumonia in 2017, Clarkson then suffered what he described as ‘really bad coronary artery problems’ at the end of 2024. Documented in the latest series of Clarkson’s Farm, he experienced a ‘sudden deterioration’ in his health and needed a stent fitted to restore proper blood flow.
Why Clarkson Finally Started Taking His Health Seriously
Since then, he has taken up reformer Pilates, had a pickleball court installed at his Oxfordshire home and started going for walks when the weather is just right.
‘Eventually, I decided that organised, indoor exercise was not for me and decided instead to do walking. Not when it’s raining obviously. Or if it’s too cold, or hot. And not if I’m busy. But on a reasonably temperate Sunday morning, I’d get out there and pootle along,’ he wrote.
‘So far I’ve relied on luck to keep me alive. But I’m in sniper’s alley right now and I have to work at dodging the bullets. Two years ago, I saw old age as a wearisome tangle of tubes and knee-replacement surgery. Now though, thanks to my grandchildren, I’m actively looking forward to it.’
Clarkson’s comments highlight just how much his attitude to ageing has changed.
‘I’m buying time. It hurts and it’s expensive. But it’s better than wasting your money on a new watch.’
The Diet Changes Behind Clarkson’s 3-Stone Weight Loss
Diet has also become a key part of his health overhaul.
He now eats burgers wrapped in lettuce rather than buns and opts for alcohol-free versions of his Hawkstone beer. Underpinning much of that change has been a microdose of the GLP-1 medication Mounjaro, which Clarkson credits with helping him lose more than three stone in six months by suppressing his appetite – although he admits he doesn’t particularly enjoy the experience.
‘When you are on Muntjac [his name for Mounjaro] you can come down in the morning and idly help yourself to a small handful of sunflower seeds,’ Clarkson said. ‘And it’ll feel like you’ve just finished a massive Christmas lunch. You’re stuffed.
‘So you find yourself living a minibar existence. Tiny packets of milk, sachets with only three grains of sugar in them, vodka in thimbles. That’s not living, though. That’s existing.’
If there’s one thing Kori Sampson knows, it’s how to optimise your body composition for performance. To tap into his knowledge as an elite athlete and coach, we asked him to create a 4-week plan to help you move faster, recover quicker and keep pushing when the fatigue sets in – all while improving your muscle-to-fat ratio.
Ready to build muscle, burn fat and come out the other side looking, feeling and performing better? Click here to get 14 days of free access to the plan via the Men’s Health app.
Ryan is a Senior Writer at Men’s Health UK with a passion for storytelling, health and fitness. Having graduated from Cardiff University in 2020, and later obtaining his NCTJ qualification, Ryan started his career as a Trainee News Writer for sports titles Golf Monthly, Cycling Weekly and Rugby World before progressing to Staff Writer and subsequently Senior Writer with football magazine FourFourTwo.
During his two-and-a-half years there he wrote news stories for the website and features for the magazine, while he also interviewed names such as Les Ferdinand, Ally McCoist, Jamie Redknapp and Antonio Rudiger, among many others. His standout memory, though, came when getting the opportunity to speak to then-Plymouth Argyle manager Steven Schumacher as the club won League One in 2023.
Having grown up a keen footballer and playing for his boyhood side until the age of 16, Ryan got the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland national futsal team eight times, scoring three goals against England, Scotland and Gibraltar. Now past his peak, Ryan prefers to mix weightlifting with running – he achieved a marathon PB of 3:31:49 at Manchester in April 2025, but credits the heat for failing to get below the coveted 3:30 mark…
You can follow Ryan on Instagram or on X
Fitness
Fitness coach debunks 8 ‘crazy’ exercise myths women still believe: From periods and workouts to weightlifting
Despite growing awareness around fitness and women’s health, several outdated exercise myths continue to persist. From misconceptions about strength training to beliefs surrounding periods, pregnancy and weight loss, many women still receive advice that isn’t backed by science. These myths can not only slow progress but also discourage women from prioritising their health and fitness. (Also read: Can eating too much protein be harmful? Experts explain why excess intake may do more harm than good )
Fitness coach Zoe recently addressed some of the most common misconceptions women continue to hear in a June 12 Instagram post titled, “craziest exercise myths women still hear.” Here’s what she had to say:
1. Periods mean complete bed rest
According to Zoe, menstruation does not mean you need to stop exercising altogether. “No. You can train. Just adjust intensity if needed,” she wrote, explaining that while energy levels may fluctuate during different phases of the menstrual cycle, movement and exercise can still be beneficial.
2. After marriage or kids, fitness is not important
Many women are often made to feel that fitness should take a back seat after major life changes such as marriage or motherhood. Zoe strongly disagrees. “That is exactly when it becomes more important,” she said, highlighting the need to maintain strength, mobility and overall health while navigating increased responsibilities.
3. A C-section means your core is gone forever
Recovering from a Caesarean delivery can be challenging, but Zoe says it doesn’t mean women should give up on rebuilding strength. “Wrong. It means you need rebuilding, not giving up,” she wrote, emphasising that gradual rehabilitation and proper training can help restore core function.
4. Walking around the house is enough exercise
While daily movement is important, Zoe points out that it isn’t the same as a structured workout. “No. That is movement, not full training,” she explained, noting that a balanced fitness routine should include strength, mobility and cardiovascular exercises.
5. Sweating more means more fat loss
Many people associate excessive sweating with effective fat burning, but Zoe says that’s a common misunderstanding. “No. It means you are hot,” she wrote. Sweat is the body’s cooling mechanism and does not necessarily reflect the number of calories burned or fat lost.
6. Running will ruin your uterus, boobs or joints
This long-standing myth often discourages women from running or high-impact activities. “No. Poor preparation and weak support is the issue,” Zoe said, stressing the importance of proper training, supportive gear and gradually building endurance.
7. Women should only do yoga, not weights
Strength training is still viewed by some as a male-dominated form of exercise, but Zoe believes women benefit greatly from lifting weights. “Women need strength too,” she wrote, highlighting how resistance training supports muscle mass, bone health, metabolism and overall fitness.
8. Carbs at night make you fat
Carbohydrates often get unfairly blamed for weight gain, especially when eaten in the evening. “No. Overeating does,” Zoe explained, pointing out that overall calorie intake and dietary patterns matter far more than the timing of carbohydrate consumption.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
For Hobart teacher Mary Holton, health means everything.
She started feeling the squeeze from cost-of-living pressures when fuel prices spiked again.
“Going out for just fitness alone was a bit much,”
she said.
Mary Holton says since joining the group, her fitness across the board has improved. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Many Tasmanians are feeling cost-of-living pressures in a very physical way, with locals saying exercise routines are being dropped, health appointments delayed and wellbeing pushed to the bottom of the list as budgets tighten.
Ms Holton relies on multiple physiotherapy sessions each week, but says paid fitness classes simply are not an option.
“That costs … so to actually go to other classes as well, it’s out of my budget really.“
Ollie Mathewson conducts a free workout session. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
National data shows that almost half of Australians already fall short of minimum physical activity guidelines, and rising prices are making even basic care unaffordable for many.
Consultant clinical psychologist academic Kimberley Norris says this is exactly how unhealthy patterns begin.
“We tend to focus on the most stressful thing first … and health is one of those things we don’t think about until things go wrong,”
Professor Norris said.
Kimberley Norris says humans tend to focus on alleviating stress first and foremost, and warns de-prioritising health can become a cycle. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
For Ms Holton, going to a free workout group in her local community was a game-changer.
“Came down and absolutely loved it. It’s really nice to have a group and it just keeps growing,” she said.
Finding a free exercise group has drastically improved her health, as noted by her GP, and she is part of a growing trend.
Free exercise classes become a lifeline
At a community exercise class in South Arm, south-east of Hobart, the mood is upbeat, with laughter, movement, and a sense of relief.
Participation has more than doubled in the past year, with more than 100 Tasmanians now involved.
Trainer Ollie Mathewson said the surge was unmistakable.
“It’s free of charge for everybody … and over the last 12 months I’ve noticed a lot more people starting to come along,”
he said.
Ollie Mathewson says attendance at his classes has almost doubled over the past year. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Across greater Hobart, free and low-cost alternatives are multiplying and include walking groups, community-run circuits, and morning and afternoon fitness meet-ups.
Tasmanians are increasingly organising their own solutions.
Mr Mathewson said connections drive outcomes.
“A lot of people talk about weight and strength, which are obviously insanely important, having other people there to push you single every week makes it a hundred times easier.“
Professor Norris said one’s health can be prioritised for free.
“What we know about health is, it’s more about sustainable wellbeing, it’s about quality of life,” she said.
“So rather than focusing on how much you can deadlift, how far you can run, it’s about how your life has improved and how close your life is to the way you want to live it.”
She said free options were vital because once people stop moving, it becomes harder to start again.
“If we develop routines in which health is not a priority, then we almost get stuck in this cycle of health always being last.“
Health appointments being delayed or dropped
For some Tasmanians, the financial pressure is forcing even tougher choices.
Amy Dakin says she can’t even think about getting a gym membership with all the other costs of living on her mind. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Amy Dakin, who lives with a compromised immune system, often has no choice but to delay essential care.
“My health needs to be prioritised, but your bills come first, really,” she said.
Jordyn Rowbottom says she’s not the only one changing her hobbies to save on costs. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
Jordyn Rowbottom has seen the same pattern around her.
“People are being forced to cut what they can access,”
she said.
Professor Norris warns that these short-term decisions can create long-term harm, not just for individuals, but for the broader health system.
She said the combination of financial pressure and reduced physical activity would create a public health challenge.
Trainers adapting to shrinking budgets
Personal trainer Nickola Orr works with clients across different income levels, ages and needs.
She said affordability now shapes almost every program she designs.
“You want to make sure they can get as much help as they can within their price range,”
she said.
Nickola Orr is concerned about access to fitness and health services in the face of rising cost pressures. (ABC News: Jake Grant)
With the median individual spend on fitness in Tasmania sitting at almost $600 last year, Ms Orr said the warning signs were already visible.
“We’re going to see more results of long-term neglect; higher injuries, more need for mental health assistance. It’s going to snowball.”
Her concerns echo Professor Norris’s academic findings that once healthy routines break down, the consequences ripple for years.
“The changes are very small … while they add up over time, there is no immediate impact,”
Ms Orr said.
Calls for more free and low-cost options
Mr Mathewson hopes the success of free community classes will inspire governments and private operators to expand accessible fitness programs.
“More free options would be a great thing. There are a few now, but there should be more,” he said.
The Tasmanian government has said it will release its 20-year preventive health strategy this month, titled The Health Revolution.
A Department of Health spokesperson said the strategy “will address the broader social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health and wellbeing”.
“Specific issues about access to health services and programs are being considered through the Access to Health Services project, a Commonwealth-State partnership.
“The Health Revolution will complement that project by addressing the root causes of poor health and the underlying conditions to make it easier for Tasmanians to live well.“
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