The Texas fitness industry faces unique challenges, but it also has a plethora of opportunities available. Many Texans struggle to maintain their weight while living sedentary lifestyles, and the number of fast-food restaurants across the state, compared to how many fitness centers are open, makes health and wellness challenging. The following are three key statistics about Texas’ fitness landscape, ranging from infrared fitness studios to mega complexes with diverse activities.
1. The Number of Fast Food Restaurants Compared to Gyms in Texas
Texas has nearly eight fast-food restaurants per gym. Recent data counted approximately 24,000 fast-food establishments compared to around 3,000 health clubs, fitness centers, and gyms. While fast food restaurants outnumber gyms in most states, the high ratio makes quick, unhealthy meals in Texas far easier to find than a workout or exercise class. Fast food meals are usually dense in calories but low in nutrients, contributing to unhealthy lifestyles. Many Texans can and do make a concerted effort to prioritize their health and stay fit, but it can be challenging to do so based on what businesses are around their communities.
2. How Many of the Nation’s Gyms Are in Texas vs. Population Distribution
Texas has nearly 7 percent of the nation’s gyms. Only California and New York have more. Texas has 10% of the national population; however, this suggests that the local growth of the fitness industry hasn’t kept up with how many people have moved here in recent years. Metropolitan areas, including Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, have plenty of fitness centers open, but rural areas have more limited accessibility. This does indicate the potential for strong growth. Underserved and rural areas should be encouraged to invest in such businesses so that fitness can be promoted outside the bigger cities.
3. Texas Obesity Rates Compared to the National Average
The obesity rate in Texas is higher than in the rest of the country. In 2019, almost 35% of Texans were considered obese, four points higher than the national rate at the same time. Obesity is a major public health concern for the state, and it results in various health complications, such as stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. High obesity rates are challenging to the state’s fitness industry as it can make it harder for residents to start exercise routines. On the other hand, so many Texans facing weight-related health issues can motivate them to join fitness centers in search of weight management, regular exercise, and nutrition counseling. Health education, group exercise, and personal training all help state residents reach healthier weights and improve their general wellness.
Getting Hot and Sweaty in Texas
The fitness industry across Texas is facing simultaneous opportunities and obstacles. Many areas have far more fast-food restaurants than gyms, rural areas lack fitness facility accessibility, and the state’s obesity rate is higher than the national average. However, fitness centers exist across the state, and since Texas is such a large state, the fitness trends and preferences of the local residents in each area differ. The fitness industry is present and can help Texans win the battle against their bulge.
