A Third of Consumers Plan to Buy Fitness Gear in 2011

According to a new study by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), almost half of U.S. online consumers used a fitness technology in the past year, and 37% anticipate purchasing a fitness technology in the next 12 months.

According to the 'Getting Fit With Consumer Electronics' study, 54% of consumers cite lack of motivation as the main reason not to exercise. The study also found 76% exercise alone without the guidance of exercise professionals, and 74% of consumers exercise at home.

“Fitness technologies can play a significant role in motivating consumers,” said Rhonda Daniel, manager of market research at CEA. “Compared to consumers who are not using fitness technologies, consumers who use these devices view exercise more positively, and are more likely to enjoy exercising and to view it as important to their health.”

For the first time the 2011 International CES, produced by CEA and held January 6-9, 2010, will include a Fitness TechZone, that will showcase the newest innovations and tools for the sports enthusiast, and spotlight key trends impacting the collective multi-billion dollar sports, fitness and outdoors markets. Sponsored by Living in Digital Times, the Fitness TechZone is a focused lifestyle exhibition and conference embedded within the International CES, the worldÂ’s largest technology tradeshow and the global stage for innovation.

“The demand for fitness technologies is wide-ranging, and a variety of technologies are available – from standalone devices such as digital weight scales, pedometers and fitness companions, to software programs and applications, to peripherals and games for gaming systems,” said Daniel. “Additionally, many devices consumers already own, such as smartphones and MP3 players, are now equipped with components and capabilities that can be used for fitness, including GPS, pedometers and accelerometers.”

CEA's Getting Fit With Consumer Electronics presents the findings of an Internet survey administered to an online national sample of 1,303 U.S. adults between July 26 and Aug. 5, 2010. The study was designed and formulated by CEA Market.