Kung Fu Boomers?

Baby Boomers are exactly that, a booming population. The U.S. Census Bureau considers a Baby Boomer to be someone born between 1946 and 1964, meaning today, Boomers are between the ages of 45 and 63.

According to Colin Milner, CEO of the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), “Baby boomers, the largest, richest, and fastest-growing segment of the population, are beginning to accumulate in middle age. As a matter of fact, this group’s numbers will increase by 25% over the next eight years, unlike the 18-49-year-olds, who will experience virtually no growth over the same period. With a greater number of older consumers, the demand for products and services designed for, and marketed specifically to, them will certainly grow.”

A story on an ABC affiliate in Los Angeles yesterday, focused on a fitness and defense class for seniors called “Cane Fu”. What an interesting concept; helping an older population to be physically active, while simultaneously teaching them how to protect themselves. The defense classes, at a health club called Nifty over Fifty, have empowered older populations, including Boomers, and given them a new lease on life.

Nifty Over Fifty is among a growing niche market of health clubs geared toward aging populations, it offers unique programming, including a driving simulator to help users improve upon driving skills, customized exercise programs, physical therapy, brain aerobics, spa services, and nutrition programming.

Similar clubs include Peoplefit, in Woburn, MA serves a clientele averaging 60 years of age, Silver Sneakers, Avalon Woods Health Club for Mature Adults, in Toronto, Ontario, and AgeWell Personal Training Center, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Given the spending power of Boomers, (77 percent of all financial assets in the US are owned by people 50 or older, according to the ICAA), and their desire to remain healthy and stave of the effects of aging, I am certain we will see a boom (pardon the pun) in clubs catering to this demographic.

- Kara Thompson