A recent survey reveals that Gen-Z adults who maintain a fitness routine are almost twice as likely to have a financial plan compared to those who do not exercise.
The study, commissioned by credit information firm Experian, shows that young adults aged 18 to 25 are generally aware of their financial situation. Among those who exercise regularly—defined as working out once a week or more—92% have a financial plan. In contrast, only 54% of those who do not exercise have a plan.
The survey also found that people who exercise save more money. On average, regular exercisers have £5,080 in savings. This is nearly double the £2,511 saved by those who do not work out regularly.
Experian teamed up with endurance runner Russ Cook, known as the Hardest Geezer, to encourage young people to bring the same commitment to managing their money as they do to fitness. Cook said, “The mindset I use for running—discipline, small wins, and showing up again—is the same one I use for money.”
The survey also highlighted some challenges facing young adults. Half of those surveyed said they believe traditional financial goals, like owning a home, are out of reach. More than half (55%) said they are delaying moving out of their family home.
Additionally, nearly half (46%) said they prioritize short-term goals such as holidays, travel, and festivals over long-term financial security. About 22% focus on avoiding debt, while 28% want to save enough money to take time off work to travel.
The survey collected responses from 2,000 UK residents aged 18 to 25 in June, conducted by Opinium.
John Webb, a credit expert at Experian, commented, “The connection between physical fitness and financial fitness is strong. We want to help young people apply the same discipline they show in their daily lives to their finances.”
Sebrina McCullough, director of external relations at Money Wellness, added, “Young people are setting clear goals and tracking their progress. It’s not about perfection but consistency. Like training for a marathon, financial fitness requires discipline, patience, and self-belief. Gen-Z is showing they have all three.”
