Fitness study shows 8 out of 10 Singaporeans exercise once a week: Our thoughts

Virgin Active’s recent Singapore Fitness Trends Study 2022, conducted with 798 respondents in Singapore aged 18 to 75, revealed that more Singaporeans are prioritizing their fitness, health, and wellness, especially after the pandemic. The study focused on individuals who are moderately active or keen to improve their fitness, and for whom nutrition and fitness play a significant role in their lives. Two of us at Wonderwall.sg, Kai and Nicholas, share our thoughts on the findings.

84% of Singaporeans exercise at least once a week
The study shows that 84% of Singaporeans exercise at least once a week, with more than a third exercising at least four times weekly. Twenty-three percent have increased their exercise post-pandemic, with 38% working out more at home, 13% exercising outdoors, and 20% working out with fewer people.

Nicholas: Really? So many Singaporeans exercise that often? It feels like people go hard at the start of the year, but things die down.
Kai: When I’m at the gym, I see all kinds of people—teens, adults, even some older folks. Covid got everyone used to working out at home. Singaporeans need to stay active to enjoy all our food guilt-free!

Health and wellness are priorities
The study found that 86% of respondents prioritize holistic wellness, focusing on mental well-being and recovery. Additionally, 82% believe that fitness improves their confidence and self-esteem, and 73% know that diet and exercise go hand in hand.

Kai: It’s great that more Singaporeans are aware of how important diet is. Cutting back on sugar and fried food can really help, especially after the holiday season. Drinking water in the morning is a great way to kickstart your system!
Nicholas: Looks like I’m going to have to rethink my snacks for the new year.

Seniors exercise for health, while younger people focus on looks
The study found that 93% of seniors (aged 65-75) exercise to maintain their health, while younger respondents (18-34) focus on losing weight, having fun, and improving their appearance.

Nicholas: Yup, that’s me—working out mainly to lose weight and look better.
Kai: Same. Staying active, especially with work-from-home setups, is essential. I’ve tried new things like Muay Thai this year, which kept things interesting.

Tech in fitness
Sixty-three percent of Singaporeans use wearable tech to monitor their health, while 46% use it to track fitness levels and improve workout efficiency.

Kai: I got an Apple Watch last year, and now I track everything—from gym sessions to softball training. It really helps keep me motivated.
Nicholas: True, wearing my fitness watch has become a must. It helps track my pace and progress when I’m running.

Gender differences in workout preferences
The study found that men prefer outdoor running, cycling, and combat sports, while women tend toward yoga, home workouts, and guided exercise classes.

Nicholas: Half true! My wife runs with me, but she also loves group workout classes like Barre and vertical climbing.
Kai: It’s all about personal preference. I enjoy a mix of stretching and intense HIIT workouts, and my girlfriend loves running and home workouts.

Yoga tops group exercise classes
Yoga emerged as the most popular group exercise, with 45% of participants regularly attending classes. Other popular group workouts include spin cycling (29%), dance classes (27%), HIIT (24%), and pilates (22%).

Kai: Spin classes can be intense! I’ve seen people push too hard and get hurt. But they’re fun if you pace yourself. I’m surprised bouldering isn’t more popular; it’s a great full-body workout.
Nicholas: I’ve been meaning to try bouldering too! I prefer long walks lately, especially with joint pain from running.