A Comparison of Tanning Habits Among Gym Tanners and Other Tanners

Abstract

Physical activity has been associated with increased risk of malignant melanoma,1 as has the use of tanning beds.2 The presence of tanning beds in gyms is a concerning trend. Two of the largest American gym chains (Planet Fitness and Anytime Fitness) with total combined membership of more than 13 million people, offer indoor tanning. Nearly half of the gyms in Canada offer indoor tanning as well.3 Little is known about the characteristics of tanners who use gym tanning beds. The present study examined the proportion of indoor tanners who use gym tanning beds and tested whether they have riskier habits than other tanners. We also examined whether physical activity was related to the frequency of indoor tanning among tanners.