0%
As we start the New Year, we thought now would be a good time to cover the areas we expect to see trending this year. There are a couple of surprises here, but overall, we’re predicting growth in many of the trends seen last year, such as wearable technology, functional fitness, and the continued development of AI.
Strength Training Resurgence
The world of Powerlifting and Strongman competitions has always been popular, but in recent years, more functional forms of training, such as Hyrox, have taken the spotlight in consumer interest. We anticipate a resurgence in interest in traditional strength training as people return to focusing on compound movements that provide the greatest overall benefits.
While we can't all expect to pull a truck with our sheer strength or compete at a national level, our very own Customer Service team member Matthew took centre stage recently, competing as Scotland's strongest man. He placed 16th and hit PB's across the board. Be more like Matthew this year!
Reformer Pilates
Wellness remains a popular trend, and Pilates remains a favourite fitness routine in this area. Reformer Pilates classes specifically have seen a significant uptake and interest. The growing interest in fitness classes is primarily seen among younger generations, such as Gen Z and younger, who prioritise fitness experiences like this more than older generations. These classes offer an excellent environment for group workouts, and we anticipate that the demand for such spaces will continue to rise in 2025.
Group Workout Studios
Group training is still the main attraction to members of all gyms. Whether a small independent gym or a boutique space, people still want group classes and training spaces. People want that community feeling as part of their workout sessions, whether in the form of a fitness studio, Hyrox class, or Zumba session.
No matter the style of the gym, group fitness is an essential thing to consider when designing new gyms. Client retention will be key, as clients will have many options to choose from in the fitness space. Make sure to keep group fitness at the forefront of design and class choices.
Hyrox & Functional Fitness
We couldn't speak about functional fitness without mentioning the mega year that Hyrox has had. This fitness trend had a meteoric rise in 2024 and ruled the #1 spot on many people's fitness to-do lists. We can't see this slowing down anytime soon this year and only envision it getting even bigger and better.
Hyrox has plenty of official race events in major cities across the globe, but we predict a greater increase in local and regional events this year, giving people greater access to these events. Two of our team members, Jenna and Declan, took part in a few events this year, improving their time at each event. Well done, guys!
Run Clubs
While slightly declining since its peak earlier this year, we noticed that run clubs are becoming more popular again. Plenty of these can be found in cities across the UK with a quick search. It’s proved a popular way for people to keep fit, make friends and find a new social group, which is exactly why we predict it will remain a popular fitness trend this year.
AI Technology
AI is still a buzzword, but it’s shaking up most industries, and fitness is included. Whether it’s fitness software that makes things more agile or new integrations with training equipment that help clients improve their training, AI tools are set to disrupt the traditional fitness world.
It won't be long before this is integrated into training tools and widespread in business software to help generate new leads. This won't be going anywhere anytime soon, so it's worth keeping an eye on what's happening in the markets to make it easier to integrate sooner rather than later when needed.
Wearable Technology
We can only see this trend continuing, whether it’s heart rate monitors, fitness watches or special rings. Lifestyle optimisation is all the rage in the modern world, especially with handy items such as the Oura ring and Whoop band giving everyone access to large volumes of data to improve their sleep, training, and general life.
The rapid advancement in AI technology will only make this develop even quicker until we get to the point where it's integrated seamlessly into everything we do. Until then, we'll have to stick with the progress of tools like Whoop, which already uses AI in its software to analyse physiological data to provide insights into recovery, strain, and sleep quality.
Outdoor Fitness
Although the weather in the UK can be chilly for most of the year, clear days motivate us to stay active outdoors. Sites like Gym64, shown below, are increasingly incorporating outdoor spaces. This addition not only helps these gyms stand out, but it also allows for larger class sizes and adds a new dynamic when hosting events such as Hyrox or HIIT sessions.
Rucking
We predict that consumers will increasingly shift away from a lifestyle focused on heavy consumption and will instead seek to reconnect with the outdoors. One specific trend we observe in this movement is Rucking, an outdoor activity that elevates functional training to a new level.
It involves loading up a heavy backpack and getting outdoors by walking, hiking or climbing a mountain with a heavy load on your back. Not only does this have amazing physical benefits, but spending time outdoors is also a great way to boost mental health.
Hybrid Fitness Models
In today's fitness industry, there are countless ways to stay active and healthy. This abundance of options has prompted businesses to adapt to the evolving needs of consumers. As a result, we now have fitness apps, online platforms, comprehensive websites, and outstanding fitness experiences covering all consumer needs.
Many coaches and independent gyms have also found that consumers now want an online training experience in our interconnected world. Traditional memberships will continue to adapt, with sites looking at new hybrid-style memberships at a discount rate to entice different generations of gym-goers.
Biohacking
The concept has been around for some time but has gained more popularity recently. Many individuals are focusing on optimising their lifestyle in order to enhance their fitness levels and, in some cases, even aiming to reverse ageing. The main goal of these approaches is to improve overall well-being, so we see an increase in the popularity of techniques like cold plunges & saunas for hot and cold therapy, cryotherapy, and red light therapy.
Inclusivity in Fitness
Gyms will take a more inclusive approach to fitness offerings this year, aiming to include many different types of members. Making fitness spaces more accessible will be key to bringing in a wider membership base. Areas of focus will include more accessible equipment and better systems in place to improve for the future.
Large overhauls might not be required, but considering how to be more inclusive will be a key step for many gyms this year. This can take place through supporting members with adjustable equipment, proper staff training, and having feedback mechanisms in place to learn and improve for the future.
Women Focussed Spaces
Women-only spaces will be trending again this year. Traditional independent gyms can be intimidating places to some members and feel unsafe for some women, which is why there has been a rise in women-only gyms. These spaces can be the perfect training environment for women who may not feel like they can train at a traditional gym or want to be part of a women’s community. We only see these growing even more this year.
Mindfulness and Wellbeing
Fitness and wellness often go hand in hand, which means gyms need a holistic approach to their offering moving forward. Many gym members today seek more than just the latest equipment; they seek environments that promote their personal growth.
Clients now place importance not just on improving their physical health but also on their mental well-being. They know being in the right mindset is as important as their nutrition and workout routine. Fortunately, many apps and resources are now integrated into our lives, making focusing on these aspects more efficient and convenient. This trend will only continue this year.
Conclusion
That wraps up the top trends we're predicting to see this year. We're looking forward to another exciting year ahead with projects. If you have any projects coming up or questions for the year ahead, get in touch with our team of experts today at +443332000750 or [email protected].
