The Gym of the Future: Seniors, Small Talk, No Sweat

Japanese retirees are taking over exercise venues in their home country, with gyms stepping up and looking to feature tai chi classes, hot baths, and more opportunities for socializing in the months to come, reports the Wall Street Journal . The 60-and-older clientele for the Renaissance fitness chain comprised only 3 percent of members 25 years ago. Now, one in three fill that category and, depending on the location and time of the day, customers are nearly all seniors. Renaissance gyms have programs like stretching classes to prevent back pain and brain exercises to keep minds sharp, while massage chairs and steps into the on-site swimming pool are being added to cater to retirees. Senior gym members have contributed to operators' revenue, with Japan's fitness industry posting a record $4.4 billion in 2018. Government statistics estimate that more than half of that revenue comes from people over 60, who tend to purchase full memberships. This coincides with a Japanese government push to encourage exercise as a way to rein in medical costs.