It’s official: Young people are ditching expensive transport and gym membership habits, and using their feet to beat the recession according to a poll commissioned by the Ramblers.
A significant 1 in 4 young people, picked from a random selection of adults, reported that they had saved money on transport and/or travel costs by walking during the recession.
The result is backed by the Ramblers own membership figures, that have seen a 15% increase in young people joining the Ramblers between 2007 and the start of the recession in 2008. The runaway growth of Ramblers young people’s groups – their fastest growing source of membership – also reflect the rise of walking as the under 40’s credit busting activity of choice.
Tom Franklin, CEO of the Ramblers comments: “It’s no surprise that people are taking to their feet during the recession. Walking is one of the cheapest, most enjoyable and flexible activities around. Walking keeps you fit, and unlike the gym, it’s free and you don’t need specialist equipment to do it. People are also discovering that it is also the cheapest and most sustainable way to travel short distances too."
Notes
1) ICM interviewed a random sample of 1006 adults aged 18+ by telephone between 22nd to 25th May 2009. Surveys were conducted across the country and the results have been weighted to the profile of all adults. ICM is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Further information at www.icmresearch.co.uk
When asked the question: “Have you at any point during the recession, walked to save money on gym/fitness or travel costs?” 26 % of 18-24 year olds and 28% of 25-34 year olds responded ‘yes’ to gym or travel or both.
