More than two thirds (68 per cent) of Americans would devote at least an hour each day on fitness activities, if they'd receive a financial incentive of as little as US$2 (€1.8, £1.5) per day.

The 2019 UnitedHealthcare Wellness Checkup Survey, published this week, also reveals that nearly 60 per cent of people would be more likely to participate in fitness sessions which offered an opportunity to socialise or make friends.

The nationwide study examined people’s opinions about health topics and preferences, with the aim of offering insights to help improve employer-sponsored wellbeing programmes.

Worryingly, the study showed that most people underestimate the connection between lifestyle choices and chronic conditions.

Only a fifth (22 per cent) of survey respondents recognised that 80 per cent or more of the incidence of premature chronic conditions – such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes – are generally caused by modifiable lifestyle choices, such as smoking or unhealthy diets.

More than half (53 per cent) of survey respondents also anticipate being able to accomplish everyday activities until 80 or older, including 11 per cent saying those tasks will “never” be an issue.

Compiled by health care specialist UnitedHealthcare, the UnitedHealthcare Wellness Checkup Survey was based on a sample of 1,000 US adults aged 18 and older.

The study is the latest to suggest that financial incentives could be the key to getting people more physically active.

Last year, a major report by research institute RAND Europe also stated that offering tangible benefits dramatically increased people's physical activity levels.

It is a trend identified by HCM nearly a decaded ago, with editor Liz Terry writing an 'editor's letter' on the topic in October 2010.

To download and study the full results of the UnitedHealthcare report, click here.