2025 World Fitness Trends

For the last 20 years, ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) has circulated an electronic survey to thousands of fitness professionals around the world to determine health and fitness trends for the following year. This survey guides health and fitness programming and training efforts for 2025 and beyond, and as fitness professional, this survey together with continuing education help in determining real trends vs fads, investments in new equipment, marketing efforts to potential new members and a better understanding on how to improve our services and deliver results for our members.

Your top 10 Worldwide Fitness Trends for 2025 are: 

1. Wearable Technology: The increasing sophistication of wearable technology

   presents a unique opportunity for exercise professionals. By educating clients on how to interpret and apply the data collected by these devices, we can empower them to make informed decisions about their physical activity, sleep, and recovery. This data-driven approach can significantly enhance the effectiveness of exercise programs and drive meaningful improvements in overall health and well-being. This version emphasizes the potential of wearable technology and the role of exercise professionals in guiding clients through the process of utilizing this technology for their benefit.

2. Mobile Exercise Applications (Apps): Prior to the pandemic, fitness was largely tethered to the gym. However, mobile exercise apps have revolutionized accessibility by enabling fitness routines in diverse settings – from vacations and busy schedules to home workouts with minimal equipment. This on-demand accessibility fosters greater personalization, empowering individuals to tailor their fitness journeys according to their unique needs and preferences, ultimately enhancing overall health and fitness outcomes.

3. Fitness Programs for Older Adults: Recognizing the profound impact of physical activity on extending healthy lifespans in older adults, specialized programs are crucial. These programs prioritize improving functional fitness by focusing on exercises that enhance strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular health. This holistic approach not only improves physical capabilities but also significantly enhances mental well-being and overall quality of life. Research consistently demonstrates the numerous benefits of regular exercise for older adults, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases, improved cognitive function, and increased independence. Furthermore, these programs foster a strong sense of community and support, vital for maintaining motivation and long-term adherence to exercise routines. Given the diverse fitness levels within the aging population, it is imperative that programs offer a range of options to accommodate varying abilities, ensuring that all older adults can benefit from the numerous advantages of physical activity and enjoy a longer, healthier, and more independent life

4. Exercise for Weight Loss: Consequently, exercise training for individuals with excess body weight and adiposity is currently of critical importance and widely practiced.

5. Traditional Strength Training: Traditional strength training has a long-established track record of enhancing physical and mental health, improving overall fitness, elevating quality of life, and optimizing athletic performance. Key principles like progressive overload, variation, and specificity are crucial for maximizing the benefits of any strength training program across all health- and skill-related fitness components. While other training methods offer valuable contributions, traditional strength training remains indispensable as a cornerstone of comprehensive health and fitness programs. The global fitness industry continues to recognize the significance of traditional muscle strengthening methods, supported by substantial evidence demonstrating their profound impact on health and fitness outcomes. This robust evidence base solidifies the position of traditional strength training as a prominent and well-supported practice within the fitness landscape.

6. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) High-intensity interval training programs typically involve short bursts of high intensity bouts of exercise followed by a short period of rest or active recovery. Its an effective exercise approach, representing a crucial component of exercise programming for diverse populations. Note that HIIT has been in the top 5 between 2014 and 2020. HIIT happens and it’s here to stay.

7. Data-driven Training Technology: Clients are desiring instant feedback on their training so that they can adjust or modify to maximize outcomes and reduce injury. We are seeing this in individualized programming and in group-based classes.

8. Exercise for Mental Health: Mental health has solidified its position as a top fitness trend for the second consecutive year, reflecting a significant shift in our understanding of fitness. Recognizing that fitness encompasses more than just physical strength and endurance, individuals are increasingly seeking ways to foster mental resilience. As fitness trends continue to evolve, integrating mental health practices into exercise routines will become increasingly crucial. This holistic approach recognizes the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being, allowing individuals to address stress, anxiety, and sleep issues while enhancing their overall health. As clients seek effective solutions for managing mental health challenges, exercise is likely to play an even more prominent role in holistic wellness strategies.

9. Functional Fitness Training: The variety provided by functional fitness training may be critical for its popularity among exercise professionals offering personal and small group training sessions.

10. Health/Wellness Coaching: Achieving fitness goals extends beyond simply providing quality exercise programs. It necessitates a holistic approach that addresses an individual's entire well-being, including their behaviors and mindset. The growing field of health and wellness coaching emphasizes the crucial role of guiding clients in developing sustainable healthy habits, empowering them to achieve lasting results. Have FUN!