All but the most mindful of us have probably been guilty of gorging on food or drink after a workout, believing that we’re entitled to it. However, this becomes a problem when people routinely reward themselves with a post-workout latte and muffin, swiftly imbibing over and above what they burned off at the gym. Such behaviour can mean that, within a couple of months, their gym membership has resulted in them gaining weight, so they cancel their membership and complain that gyms don’t work.

According to psychological studies, people consistently overestimate the amount they do when they exercise and underestimate the amount they eat. It’s so easy to consume 200 calories, but burning it off takes hard work. Many of those who join gyms in a bid to shape up simply don’t understand the calories in / calories out equation, and therefore don’t get the results they expect.

With the nation getting fatter, the fitness industry needs to step up its game to help members lose weight. In doing so, it will not only improve retention and attract more people, but will also play a greater role in improving the health of the nation. It would appear that providing the means to exercise is not enough.

But how far should operators go in this direction? Is a quick pep talk at induction and a recommendation to download an app such as Calorific (see comment below) enough? Or should there be more hand-holding than this? Many operators don’t even offer gym programmes any more, but should this and a food plan become standard? Should specific weight loss memberships, with nutritional advisors, be offered?

And what about the food and drink on offer within health clubs? When I take my kids to their swimming lessons at the local leisure centre, I have to resist the heavily advertised new range of cakes in the café and march them past strategically positioned vending machines selling crisps and chocolate. Is this a supportive environment for those trying to lose weight? Does the industry need to change its tack? We ask the experts....