Social Impact of Low-Cost Fitness Centers in Spain: Scale Validation and Analysis from the users’ Perception

Abstract

The aim of this article was to validate an instrument to assess user perceptions of the social impact of low-cost fitness centers (LCFC). To achieve this, an on survey was carried to a total of 3,832 clients from 47 fitness centers across Spain. Subsequently, a confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to confirm the structural validity and reliability of the scale. In addition, a series of mean difference tests were performed to test differences in user’s perception of LCFC social impact according to different sociodemographic variables. Results confirm that the proposed scale is valid and reliable. Additionally, differences were found in the perception of social impact according to gender, age, training frequency, service experience and region of residence. From a management perspective, this instrument can be useful for sport managers and governing bodies to establish benchmarks, evaluate the impact of sport facilities, and justify the need for the development of specific policies.