A recent consumer survey of 3,000 gym goers, conducted by global real estate advisor Colliers International as part of its annual Gyms Report, said 35 per cent of people go to the gym to destress, while another 31 per cent of people confirmed regular exercise has improved their mental health.

In addition, 26 per cent, 20 per cent and 16 per cent of people agreed that working out had improved their sleep, work productivity and relationships respectively, while a further 28 per cent said they go to the gym to switch off from the outside world.

Ross Kirton, Head of UK Leisure Agency at Colliers International, said: “UK-wide gym attendance has increased by 52 per cent in the last two years. The tremendous growth of the Group Exercise sector, combined with the rise in popularity of Yoga and Mind & Body studios, leads Colliers to believe that the gym is now considered by most to be a genuine third space that helps people to unwind and destress, as well as improve their physical condition. We predict that the evolution of the gym will continue, with more occupiers providing spaces beyond traditional fitness models of treadmills and free weights. By playing an important role in the social lives of its members – being a place to relax, socialise, even date – the gym is having a positive knock-on effect on people’s mental health.”