Fitness Trends of 2025: What’s Hot and What’s Not in the UK

The UK fitness industry is entering 2025 with renewed energy, innovation, and a focus on holistic well-being. Driven by advances in technology, changing consumer expectations, and a growing awareness of the link between physical and mental health, the sector is evolving rapidly. This article explores the hottest fitness trends shaping the UK in 2025—and highlights which fads are fading away.

The State of Fitness in the UK: A Snapshot

The UK fitness market is experiencing robust growth, with gym and fitness club memberships reaching 11.5 million by the end of 2024 and total sector revenue climbing to £5.7 billion—an 8.8% year-on-year increase. Gen Z and millennials are driving this boom, viewing fitness as essential, not optional.

Mental health is now a top motivation for 76% of members, with confidence and physical appearance also ranking high. Yet, barriers remain: cost is still the number one hurdle for non-members, and older adults and underserved communities remain less engaged.

What’s Hot in 2025: The Top Fitness Trends

Hybrid Fitness: Blending Digital and Physical

● The hybrid model—combining in-person workouts with digital classes—has become the new normal. Three in five UK clubs now offer both, and members expect this flexibility. Hybrid memberships allow users to attend the gym when possible and join virtual classes from home, creating a seamless fitness experience.

Wearable Technology and AI-Powered Personal Training

● Wearables such as smartwatches and fitness trackers are more advanced than ever, tracking not just steps but also sleep, stress, and recovery. AI-driven apps now deliver personalized workout plans, real-time feedback, and progress tracking, making tailored fitness accessible to all.

Strength Training Goes Mainstream

● Strength training is no longer niche. Driven by Gen Z, women, and older adults, demand for functional and strength equipment is surging—72% of operators report increased interest. From traditional weightlifting to innovative formats like Hyrox, strength and resistance training are now core offerings in most gyms.

Mindful Movement and Low-Impact Workouts

● The popularity of Pilates, yoga, and tai chi continues to rise, with Pilates searches up 23% year-on-year and “Reformer Pilates” up 50%. These low-impact modalities are valued for improving strength, flexibility, and mental well-being, appealing to a broad demographic.

Outdoor and Functional Fitness

● Outdoor exercise remains in demand, with activities like rucking (walking or hiking with a weighted backpack) gaining traction for their physical and mental health benefits. Functional fitness—training that mimics everyday movements—continues to grow, particularly among older adults seeking independence and quality of life.

Wellness and Mental Health Integration

● The connection between exercise and mental health is now front and center. Studios and gyms are offering meditation, breathwork, and stress management sessions alongside traditional classes, responding to the 76% of members who cite mental well-being as a primary motivator.

Flexible Memberships and Inclusive Spaces

● Flexible, pay-as-you-go, and hybrid memberships are thriving, catering to cost-conscious users and those seeking convenience. There’s also a growing emphasis on inclusivity, with facilities adapting to serve older adults, lower-income groups, and those with chronic conditions.

What’s Not: Trends Losing Steam

Lengthy, Rigid Workouts

● Long, fixed workout sessions are being replaced by shorter, more frequent formats. 20–30 minute express classes and circuit training are outperforming longer sessions in retention and results, especially for time-pressed consumers.

One-Size-Fits-All Programs

● Generic group classes are being phased out in favour of personalized, data-driven routines. Members expect workouts tailored to their goals, abilities, and preferences, often guided by AI or expert trainers.

Traditional “Gym-Only” Models

● Facilities that rely solely on in-person attendance are losing ground to those offering hybrid and digital options. Consumers now demand the ability to work out anytime, anywhere.

Intimidating, Exclusive Environments

● Gyms that fail to create welcoming, inclusive spaces are struggling. Many people still feel uncomfortable or unwelcome in traditional gym settings, prompting a shift toward community-focused, supportive environments.

Table: What’s Hot vs. What’s Not in UK Fitness 2025

Who’s Driving the Trends?

● Gen Z and Millennials: Prioritize mental health, flexibility, and community; highest membership rates.
● Older Adults: Still underrepresented, but a growing focus for inclusive offerings.
● Women: Increasingly driving demand for strength training and mindful movement.
● Tech-Savvy Users: Expect seamless digital integration and personalized experiences.
Key Challenges and Opportunities
● Cost remains a barrier: 68% of non-members cite expense as the main reason for not joining.
● Inclusivity and accessibility: Many still feel gyms are intimidating; creating welcoming environments is crucial.
● Healthcare integration: Stronger links between fitness and healthcare are needed, especially for those with chronic conditions.

Conclusion

The UK fitness industry in 2025 is defined by flexibility, personalization, and a holistic approach to health. Hybrid models, wearable technology, strength and mindful movement, and mental wellness integration are setting the pace. Meanwhile, rigid routines, generic programs, and exclusive environments are falling out of favour. For fitness operators and enthusiasts alike, the future is about adapting to new expectations—making fitness more accessible, inclusive, and tailored to every individual’s needs.

As the sector continues to evolve, those who embrace innovation, technology, and community will thrive in the dynamic landscape of UK fitness.