Untact Exercise Gains Attention Amid COVID-19... Bicycle and Golf Equipment Sales Increase

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Hyewon] Due to concerns over the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), the popularity of untact (non-face-to-face) exercises such as cycling and golf, which involve relatively less contact between people, is rising.

According to Interpark on the 14th, sales in the bicycle and golf categories increased by 25% and 62.5%, respectively, over the two months from May 10 to June 10 compared to the same period last year. Although demand typically concentrates in spring, Interpark explained that this year’s growth was particularly remarkable due to the impact of COVID-19.

Specifically, sales of various repair supplies needed for bicycles, such as oil, tools, pumps, and patches (▲169%), safety equipment like helmets and backpacks (▲119%), golf drivers (▲47%), and field supplies (▲90%) surged.

Kim Sugyeong, Interpark’s Sports Leisure Manager, said, “Cycling is an exercise that can be enjoyed alone and is attracting attention from the so-called ‘Jachuljok’ who use it as a commuting method. Golf, played by a small number of people maintaining appropriate distances on wide flat grounds, is considered relatively low risk, so people have started gathering on the field.” She added, “If you are reluctant to visit indoor multi-use facilities such as indoor practice ranges or screen golf centers, using swing trainers or putting trainers is a way to train at home and cope with COVID-19.”

Reflecting this trend, Interpark is holding an ‘Untact Sports Exhibition’ gathering popular bicycle and golf products from the first half of the year in one place until the 19th. By searching ‘Interpark Customer Exclusive’ in the Interpark homepage search bar, customers can discover hidden special deals on over 150 bicycle and golf-related products. Additionally, when paying with NH Nonghyup Card, Hyundai Card, Samsung Card, or Kookmin Card, customers can enjoy up to a 6% card billing discount benefit.