Commentary: Let's get physical

by LIBN Staff

Dolan Media Newswires

 LONG ISLAND, NY -- Either people are finally trying to fight off obesity, or they just have good intentions.

A new report from Port Washington-based NPD Group found both activewear and athletic footwear sales in the United States were up for the first eight months of the year compared to the same timeframe last year. 

Sales for both categories increased 4 percent from January to August compared to the same period in 2012. Women’s active-wear and men’s athletic footwear posted the largest growths. 

“Part of the reason active-wear products are growing faster than the overall business is attributed to the consumer’s passion to get more fit,” said Marshal Cohen, chief industry analyst, The NPD Group. “But the major influence on the rise in sales, especially in women’s, is the desire to look active.” 

Keyword being “look.”