Membrane Switches are the perfect alternative to mechanical switches in exercise equipment. The majority of exercise equipment manufacturers are now incorporating membrane switches into their designs due to several factors. Membrane Switches can be actuated a minimum of 1,000,000 times prior to any failure. These membrane keypads are chemical resistant and are easily cleaned with household cleaners. While mechanical switches allow for dirt and dust to accumulate around the raised button area, membrane switches are flat and have no raised areas where dirt can accumulate.

A recent report states that the world market for fitness equipment is projected to exceed almost $12 billion by 2010. The growth of global fitness equipment is driven by increased demand in Europe, Latin American and Asia Pacific. The United States is the largest market estimated at $5 billion, Europe at $3.4 billion, with Asia the fastest growing region with growth rates of 5.5%.

Approximately 100 manufacturers of fitness equipment operate in the U.S. with companies including Nautilus, Life Fitness, Precor, Cybex, Landice, Bowflex and ICON Health and Fitness leading the way.

The products manufactured are treadmills, stationary bikes, stair climbers, rowing machines and elliptical trainers. The two major markets are the home market and commercial market (health clubs and hotels). In the home market, most equipment sold is home weightlifting, treadmills, exercise bikes and elliptical trainers. Although treadmills continue to be the largest segment of the market, elliptical trainers are by far and away the fastest-growing segment of the market boosted by in-home sales to people that prefer the complete workout elliptical trainers provide.

Equipment manufacturers are taking advantage of the increasing participation of adults in fitness activities. Very aggressive advertising campaigns are creating brand awareness and increased market share for certain manufacturers. Corporate health programs are being introduced to boost employee moral and to decrease health insurance costs.