A new survey has found that young adults are twice as likely to prioritise going to the gym in a typical week rather than saving money for their future.

Six in 10 (60%) 18 to 24-year-olds believe that getting physically fit and healthy is more rewarding than getting their finances in order, according to credit information company Experian.

Despite this, nearly the same number (58%) of young adults said that poor financial health is affecting their overall wellbeing.

One in 12 (8%) 18 to 24-year-olds said they prioritise their savings in a typical week, while 17% prioritise going to the gym and 14% prioritise healthy eating, the survey of 2,000 people found.

More than a fifth (22%) prioritise taking time to “switch off”.

Worcester News: Over 50 per cent of young adults surveyed said poor financial health still affected their overall wellbeing (PA)Over 50 per cent of young adults surveyed said poor financial health still affected their overall wellbeing (PA)

Nearly three-quarters (73%) of 18 to 24-year-olds said that information on improving their mental and physical health is more readily available than that which would support their financial health.

Personal finance expert Iona Bain said: “I’d advise people to start small – it could be as simple as deciding to look at your accounts more often or figuring out how much money you owe to creditors.

“You’ll start getting a much clearer picture of what’s going on so you can work towards being more mindful in your spending or coming up with a repayment plan. Make sure any changes to your financial behaviour are sustainable and allow for balance in life.”