Welcome to the Gen Z fitness trends! These young adults, aged 18 to 24, aren’t just following a trend but living a healthy lifestyle. Recent studies show that more Gen Zers are hitting the gym regularly than ever before. The survey found that almost half of them exercise multiple times a week – that’s way higher than the average person.

Why are Gen Zers so into fitness? For one, they care deeply about their health. Plus, social media has made it super easy to find fitness influencers and health tips.

As a generation that loves convenience, tech, and personalized experiences, Gen Zers have specific demands when it comes to fitness. This can make it tough for businesses to stand out in the crowded fitness market. But by keeping up with the latest Gen Z fitness trends and offering customized experiences, businesses can win over this lucrative market.

With so many fitness options out there, Gen Zers can feel overwhelmed when choosing the right workout. This is where fitness businesses can step in and offer solutions. We’ll explore the top Gen Z fitness trends and show how businesses can cater to this generation of fitness fanatics. Let’s get started!

Trend 1: Gen Z wants to workout wherever and whenever

Gen Z loves flexibility and convenience. That’s why it’s no surprise that more or less of them prefer to exercise both at the gym and at home. They want the freedom to choose where and how they workout, depending on their schedule and mood.

As a fitness business owner, remember this. Some Gen Zers might prefer home workouts due to busy schedules or personal preferences, while others crave the energy and community of a gym. Offering both options is key to attracting and keeping Gen Z clients.

Whether you provide virtual and on-demand options or physical gym space, emphasize the convenience and flexibility of your offerings. Show them how easy it is to book and access your services, no matter where they are.

Trend 2: Digital fitness is a hit with Gen Z

With the rise of technology, digital fitness platforms have become super popular with Gen Z. They provide the convenience and flexibility they want. Recent research shows that most Gen Z fitness fanatics believe fitness apps can improve their health. Plus, some Gen Z adults own a home gym or some type of on-demand guided workout program.

As a fitness business owner, keep this trend in mind when catering to Gen Z clients. Consider how your gym or studio can utilize the equipment that clients have invested in. While some of their new equipment comes with guided workouts, other equipment like adjustable weights, flexible bands, and slide boards can be used in digital workouts from gym and studio owners.  

Trend 3: Gen Z loves wearable tech

Wearable technology like fitness trackers and smartwatches is a must-have for Gen Z fitness enthusiasts. Whether it’s a Fitbit or another type of wearable fitness tracker, most Gen Zers have one, and more of them plan to get one in the future – that’s more than twice the rest of the population.

These devices track physical activity, sleep, heart rate, and other important health metrics. Fitness businesses can leverage this trend to create a more engaging and personalized client experience. This can be done by integrating certain fitness tracking platforms that use wearables like Spivi, AccuroFit, or MyZone.  

Trend 4: Gen Z prefers variety in their workouts

The Gen Z loves to mix it up. Compared to five years ago, Gen Z is exercising more and prefers a variety of activities in their workouts.

• 35% like weightlifting and strength training.
• 31% perform aerobic or cardio exercises, and 58% specifically run or jog at least once a week.
• 24% prefer a group class like yoga or Pilates.
• 18% enjoy cross-training – a method that utilizes several modes of training beyond their main sport or fitness regimen.

Remember to offer a variety of fitness classes and activities at your studio or gym to keep your Gen Z clients engaged and coming back for more.  

Trend 5: Mental health matters to Gen Z

Gen Z is increasingly interested in taking care of their mental and emotional health in addition to their physical health. Why? Research shows that some Gen Zers have been diagnosed with a mental health condition, and most of them say it was due to the pandemic.  

Other data shows that 56% of Gen Zers were lonelier and more anxious than other generations during the pandemic and twice as likely to battle depression.

As a fitness business owner, recognize the mental health struggles your clients may be experiencing and provide resources and support to help them cope. One solution is to offer mind-body practices like yoga and meditation, which are proven to reduce stress, depression, and anxiety.  

But it’s not just about offering classes. Check in with your clients regularly by texting, calling, or creating a safe space for them to talk about their mental and emotional health. This can build trust and create a supportive community within your studio or gym.  

Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health. By prioritizing both, you can help your clients achieve holistic wellness.  

Trend 6: Gen Z values sustainability and plant-based diets

Gen Z is a generation that cares deeply about sustainability and protecting the environment. This makes them one of the most values-based consumer groups. As a result, they seek out environmentally friendly choices, especially in the products they buy and the food they eat.

What does this mean for your fitness studio or gym? Gen Zers value authenticity, so businesses that prioritize sustainable practices should do so genuinely and transparently. If you share these values, continue to promote them by stocking up on eco-friendly products, fitness equipment, and merchandise, and reducing your waste whenever possible.

This can help you build trust with Gen Z consumers, who are known to research and evaluate a company’s values before making a purchase.

Additionally, when you suggest whole-foods-based diet plans and shopping lists with plenty of vegetables, your Gen Z clients are more likely to stick with it, considering their experience with sustainable food choices.

Trend 7: Gen Z is all over social media

Gen Z fitness influencers thrive on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. More than one in four Gen Zers follow fitness influencers, and three in four follow more than 10.

With 80% of Gen Z purchases influenced by social media, fitness businesses should leverage social media to reach this highly engaged audience. Video ads are particularly effective, as most Gen Zers say they click on video ads more than any other format. Fitness businesses can also partner with fitness influencers to reach a wider audience and increase brand awareness. 

However, it’s not just about creating ads and partnerships. Fitness businesses can also use social media to connect with their audience on a personal level by sharing behind-the-scenes content, and success stories, and even hosting live workouts. These efforts can help build a loyal following and generate positive word-of-mouth.  

Win over Gen Z today!

If you’re a fitness business owner, you need to understand the unique fitness trends and preferences of Gen Z clients. From mental health to sustainability and social media influence, there are many trends you can use to connect better with this generation.

With built-in rewards, fitness tracking, and wearable technology integrations, you can boost engagement and add value to your memberships. This can help you better meet the needs of Gen Z, leading to happier and more loyal clients.  

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