Possible reasons for exercise dropout in fitness centres: Insights from active users

Abstract

Exercise dropout rates pose a considerable challenge for fitness centers worldwide, affecting both public health outcomes and the long-term sustainability of the fitness industry. Despite the well-established benefits of regular physical activity, maintaining consistent exercise routines remains difficult for many individuals. This study aimed to identify and characterize the main reasons for exercise dropout based on the perceptions of current gym users. By focusing on active members rather than former ones, the study provides insights into potential risk factors before dropout occurs, enabling proactive intervention strategies. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 540 active users from a fitness chain in central Portugal. Participants responded to an online questionnaire that included an open-ended question about possible reasons for discontinuing exercise. The collected qualitative data were subjected to content analysis, following Bardin's methodological framework, and the resulting categories were quantified in terms of frequency. A total of 777 valid text units were coded and distributed across seven main dimensions: service-related issues (32.43%), health problems (20.08%), aspects related to the technical framework, such as instructor quality and turnover (15.06%), financial constraints (12.48%), distance to the facility (9.27%), lack of time (6.69%), and other factors (3.99%), including motivational and personal reasons. Among these, price concerns, perceived service quality, instructor engagement, and class overcrowding were the most frequently cited categories. Findings indicate that perceived service quality and the role of instructors are the most critical factors in determining the dropout intention. These results suggest that fitness centres should invest in enhancing service personalization, promoting continuous staff training and development, offering adaptable pricing models, and fostering inclusive environments. The future research should investigate longitudinal patterns and explore how motivational and psychological factors interact with structural barriers to influence exercise adherence and dropout behaviour.