Although walking, swimming, and cycling are still the most popular recreational activities among Slovenes, more and more people decide to enjoy other forms of sports activities, one of them being training in a fitness center. Aim of the thesis is to determine the frequency, way of training, motives and the reasons for choosing a fitness center in the Primorska region, in regard gender. Analysis of results from our research revealed that there are statistically significant differences in the frequency and way of training at fitness centers in regard to gender. Men train at a fitness center more often than women, since most (85.9%) are active 2- to 3-times and 4- to 6-times a week. Most interviewed women (67.6%) train at a fitness center 1- to 3-times a week. Women mostly do exercises for flexibility and train at cardio machines. Men mostly do strength exercises and lift weights. The differences regarding the motives revealed women are more focused on motives in connection to appearance. For them it is important to control their weight, to lose body fat, to have a proportional body and to maintain flexibility. Men are focused on motives that are related to health, physical fitness and socializing. We determined the reasons for choosing a fitness center vary in regard to gender. For women, the number of cardio machines, opening time, seasonal discounts, variety of group exercise classes and courses, location close to home or work and free parking space, are important when choosing a fitness center. Men also pay attention to friendly staff, clean dressing rooms and toilets, and good ventilation. Findings of the research are useful for narrow and wider professional public.
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