TORONTO — A Conservative government would "seriously consider'' a tax incentive for gym memberships, the Fitness Industry Council of Canada said Wednesday.

The organization, which represents the fitness industry and serves over 2,000 Canadian fitness facilities, sent letters to all four federal parties in December requesting their position on tax deductions for gym memberships for Canadians of all ages.

The Conservative Party of Canada said it would give the initiative "serious consideration'' if elected Jan. 23, "should the fiscal framework allow for such a measure.''

The Bloc Quebecois said the issue "merits additional study and is open for discussion,'' the Liberals said "tax incentives ... do little to encourage healthy living'' and the NDP did not respond.

Portions of the parties' responses, which were received in e-mail and letter form, are posted on the fitness council's website.

"It really outlines the differences, I think, between the Conservatives and the Liberals,'' Dave Hardy, FIC president, said from his Edmonton office.

"The Conservatives are looking to empower people to take care of their own health. The Liberals are looking to provide programs and build infrastructure to encourage people to participate.''

The Liberals argued that tax deductibility "will only reward participants already leading active, healthy lifestyles.''

Hardy said he was encouraged by the Tory response to the issue, which he said would reduce "economic barriers.''

"By allowing people to deduct the cost of gym memberships, it helps provide affordable solutions, encourages positive health behaviours in members and also in the community.''

In December, Conservative Leader Stephen Harper proposed a maximum of $500 per year per child tax credit for children under 16 years of age who register for sports or other physical activities.

The party said any consideration of a tax deduction for gym memberships would be an extension of that plan.