An Investigation Study About Characteristics of Fitness Centres in Tirana City

Abstract

Background: Nowadays, physical exercise is recognised as an opportunity to help reduce obesity and chronic disease. Research on physical activity recommendations from fitness instructors is somewhat confusing. Intense exercise has long been advised to be more effective and beneficial. Still, in reality, these training approaches are mostly employed to increase performance with competitive purposes in various fitness or bodybuilding competitions.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the characteristics of fitness centres in Tirana city.

 Methodology: The researchers used descriptive survey research in this study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Copies of the questionnaire were sent to 75 gyms in Tirana. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the variables in this study.

 Results: The study results show that the gym space has an average area of ​​610.7 m², with the maximum space of the gym 1200 m² and the minimum space of 80 m². While the gym's average height is 3.45 meters, all gyms have a min. height of 3 meters and a max. height of 5 meters, according to fitness centres with one, two, three and four fitness instructors. The average value of the age of the instructor in fitness gyms of Tirana city is 31.16 years old, ranging from 21 to 52 years. Also, 61.78% of fitness instructors in gyms with a fitness instructor are male, about 97 instructors. Meanwhile, 38.22% of fitness instructors in gyms with a fitness instructor are women, and about 56 instructors are female.  

 Conclusion: The prevalence of fitness centres in Tirana is mainly by male instructors, which, compared to female instructors, is almost 1.6 times more. This research is useful for fitness centre managers when designing and managing their activities. In conclusion, there are many fitness centres in Tirana, but it is necessary to have more gyms with a larger area and more fitness instructors for each gym, and the promotion of women should be a priority in the future.

Unique contribution: The study has identified the significant role of fitness centres in creating awareness of the importance of physical activity, its benefits in promoting a healthy lifestyle and reducing chronic illness, and its positive impact on society.

Key Recommendation: Fitness centre services should be extended to general and specific devices and specialized staff to provide users with timely information and opportunities, including all kinds of populations and, in particular, those with limited ability.