More people are signing up to gyms and buying cosmetic products online, according to a study on consumer trends.

An analysis of debit and credit card transactions by the Commonwealth Bank revealed Australians spent $2.23 billion on health and beauty last year, with the amount of money spent on gyms jumping by 49 per cent since 2009.

But the average amount of money spent per person on gym memberships decreased by 12 per cent.

CommBank economist Diana Mousina said the ease of buying a memberships had increased the popularity of gyms.

“Customers are being offered more choice and the opportunity to take advantage of better deals,” she said.

August was the most popular month for people to join a gym, indicating a common desire to get in shape for summer.

January was the quietest month for new memberships.

Australians also purchased more cosmetics between 2009 and 2012.

Spending in cosmetic stores increased by 39 per cent, even though the average amount spent per customer fell by 21 per cent.

Commonwealth Bank attributed higher spending to the growth of online stores and the emergence of larger warehouse style pharmacies.

Despite its small population, Tasmania spent more than twice the national average on nursing and personal care.

“This may be as a result of the higher percentage of baby boomers living in the state,” Ms Mousina said.