Fitness Flourishes: Q1 2025 Wellness Trends Revealed

The Rise of the Active Consumer

The fitness industry is booming! According to ABC Fitness's Q1 2025 Wellness Watch report, a whopping 76% of consumers now consider themselves physically active. This represents a 2% increase year-over-year and an impressive 10% surge since 2021. January 2025 alone witnessed a staggering 106 million check-ins and 1.9 million new memberships at fitness facilities.

The report, based on a survey of over two thousand active consumers and data from ABC Fitness's vast network of 30,000 partner clubs and 40 million members, paints a vibrant picture of the evolving fitness landscape.

Gyms Still Reign Supreme

Despite the rise of alternative fitness options, traditional gyms remain a cornerstone of the industry. 60% of active consumers utilize a gym, health club, or fitness studio, with half of those choosing traditional gym settings. Furthermore, workout frequency is on the rise, with 44% of active consumers exercising 12+ times a month – an 18% increase year-over-year. Interestingly, Boomers lead the pack in frequent workouts (58%), outpacing Gen Z (37%).

Fitness on a Budget

Consumers are demonstrating a preference for affordability, with 61% spending less than $69 per month on fitness memberships and fees. This highlights the importance of value and accessibility in attracting and retaining members.

Holistic Health Takes Center Stage

Fitness is no longer just about physical strength; it's about overall well-being. Consumers are increasingly embracing a holistic approach, prioritizing mental wellness alongside physical fitness. This shift is especially evident among younger generations, with 73% of Gen Z and 79% of Millennials emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach.

Technology: From Trend to Expectation

Tracking technology has become integral to the fitness experience. Wearables, mental wellness apps, nutrition planners, virtual trainers, and AI-powered fitness trackers are no longer novelties but expected tools for managing personal health and fitness. The report reveals significant adoption rates across these technologies, ranging from 38% for mental wellness apps to 63% for AI-based fitness tracking.

Embracing the Outdoors and Home Workouts

Beyond the gym walls, fitness is flourishing in homes and outdoor spaces. Over half of consumers are incorporating at-home workouts, while 53% enjoy exercising in the fresh air. This demonstrates the adaptability and increasing personalization of fitness routines.

Want to delve deeper into these exciting trends? Download the full Q1 2025 Wellness Watch report at abcfitness.com/insights.