Cash strapped Brits plan to ditch the gym in 2012

Hitting the treadmill to work off the festive pounds traditionally tops the New Year resolutions list, but according to research by moneysupermarket.com Brits are shunning the gym this year.

Research by the comparison site found over two thirds of consumers (68 per cent) won't be joining or renewing their membership as they believe the gym is an unnecessary cost, and they keep fit and healthy in other ways. This is compared to 46 per cent of respondents in 2009. One in ten Brits (12 per cent) are concerned about the cost implications with five per cent not planning to renew their membership as they rarely used it this year and need to cut costs. A further six per cent are unsure about signing up due to the current economic climate and needing to rethink their spending.

The research also found the younger generation favour the gym with almost one in five (18 per cent) of 18-34 year olds stating they already regularly exercise and plan to renew their membership in the new year compared to just six per cent of those aged over 55. Instead an overwhelming 81 per cent of this age group stated the gym is a waste of money and find alternative ways to keep fit and healthy rather than signing up to a fitness club.

James Clarke, Head of Protection at MoneySupermarket.com said: "Despite the indulgence of Christmas it seems gym membership is not high on the priority list for a New Year health kick as Brits look to cut costs. Joining a gym can be a huge financial commitment, and with many gym-goers admitting to rarely using their membership, it's important to consider whether their hard earned cash can be used more effectively."

Quitting smoking is also another resolution many vow to take as part of leading a healthier lifestyle. A recent poll run of MoneySupermarket site users found over 13 per cent of respondents successfully quit last year, and a further five per cent have vowed to kick the habit in 2012.

James Clarke continued: "For those exercise fanatics who commit to the gym and work out on a regular basis it is worth knowing there are life insurance and critical illness policies that reward a healthy lifestyle. The same also applies for smokers who quit the habit, as there is a huge price difference between policies for smokers and non-smokers. Brits could see average savings of £4,347 over the term of the policy - a significant sum of money!"