It's that time of year. Gyms are packed, resolutions are in full swing, and suddenly everyone wants to know: what's your split?
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January has long been a dreaded time for regular gym-goers, but a recent study by Canstar has revealed just how many Australians make 'getting fit' their new year's resolution - and how many give up.
Of more than 1300 gym users surveyed, 25 per cent admitted it was exactly that which got them started: the 'new year, new me' mentality.
Of course, there's nothing wrong with that - we've almost all been there - but how expensive can buying into such a craze really be?
From group fitness classes and weightlifting to personal training, Canstar's research revealed gym-goers spend an average of $77 per month on their gym memberships.
That's a lot of money for the 25 per cent who said they go less than first planned, meanwhile 39 per cent say having a gym membership simply makes them feel healthier.
While a quarter may lose interest in their resolution by February, Canstar's data highlighted nearly half of Australian gym-goers (48 per cent) swipe in three to four times per week, while four per cent claim to go every day.
Why? The reasons are abundant - it's not just about hitting a PR, after all.
There's arguably no downfall to signing up on January 1, but if you have put the gym on your 2026 vision board, avoid doing these seven things.
The equipment hog: Canstar's data revealed this was biggest pet peeve of regular gym-goers, with 14 per cent saying taking too long or not sharing the space with others was most frustrating.
Second on the list was not wiping down equipment after use, followed by people who record themselves working out. The latter is no surprise - given camera use in gyms has long been a hot topic for debate.
Talking between sets, not bringing a towel, bad gym playlists and groaning while lifting completed the list of pet peeves.
