This lack of diversity includes a lack of representation, not just among trainers and club owners, but also club members. Whether it’s a yoga class, a spinning session, other gym classes, or even weightlifting, the likelihood is that they are overwhelmingly utilized by people who are white. Mr. Hunt believes that educating minority communities about the health benefits of exercise as well as hiring employees who identify as minorities and placing them in customer-facing roles.
Affordability may also be a contributing factor. A 2019 Forbes article noted that for many minorities, a gym membership is a luxury, and in many cases, one that is unaffordable. To join a gym, most would have to budget for between $40 and $50 per month, and this does not include the initial start-up fees. Moreover, boutique gyms that hold spinning and other types of classes charge on a per-class basis.
Some people who are members of minority groups skip expensive gym memberships and choose activities that might not be as expensive, but may not provide as many health benefits. To address this, gym owners may want to offer a variety of membership options at lower price points.
