7 Leading Gen Z Fitness Trends

Welcome to the world of Gen Z, where fitness and wellness is more than just a trend. For these young adults (aged 18 to 24), it’s a way of life.

In recent studies, the number of Gen Zers who regularly participate in fitness activities has skyrocketed. A survey by CivicScience reveals that nearly 50% of Gen Z adults exercise several times weekly, which is above average compared to the general population.

But what’s driving this increase in fitness activity among Gen Zers? For starters, they’re more health-conscious than previous generations. Additionally, the rise of social media has made it easier than ever for young adults to access fitness influencers and health information.

As a generation that values convenience, technology, and customization, Gen Zers have unique preferences and expectations when it comes to fitness. This can make it difficult for businesses to stand out and meet their needs in a crowded and competitive market. By staying up to date with the latest Gen Z fitness trends and offering tailored experiences, businesses can overcome this challenge and tap into the lucrative Gen Z fitness marketplace.

However, with so many options for fitness and wellness, Gen Zers can also feel overwhelmed when it comes to choosing the right workout routine or fitness program. This is where fitness businesses and studios can step in to provide solutions and meet the needs of this growing market. We’ll explore the leading trends among Gen Z fitness fanatics and provide insights into how businesses can cater to this generation of fitness enthusiasts. So, let’s dive in!

Trend #1: In person or at home, Gen Z loves to exercise

Gen Z is a generation that values flexibility and convenience. That’s why it’s no surprise that 40% of them said they like working out at the gym and at home. They want the option to choose where and how they exercise, depending on their schedule and mood.

As a fitness business owner, it’s important to keep this in mind. Some Gen Zers may prefer to work out at home due to busy schedules or personal preferences, while others may crave the energy and community of a gym. That’s why offering both options is key to attracting and retaining Gen Z clients.

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

Trend #2: Digital platforms often save the day for Gen Z

With the rise of technology, it’s no surprise that digital fitness platforms have become increasingly popular among Gen Z individuals, providing the convenience and flexibility they desire. According to recent research, 94% of Gen Z fitness fanatics believe fitness apps can improve their health. In addition, 52% of Gen Z adults own a home gym or some type of on-demand guided workout program with products like Peloton, Mirror, or Nordic Track.

As a fitness business owner, it’s important to keep this trend in mind when catering to Gen Z clients. Consider how your gym or studio can utilize the equipment that clients have spent so much of their hard-earned money on. While some of their new equipment comes fully loaded with guided workouts, other equipment like adjustable weights, flexible bands, and slide boards can be utilized in digital workouts from gym and studio owners.

Trend #3: Gen Z tend to purchase wearable fitness tracking devices

Wearable technology such as fitness trackers and smartwatches have become a staple among Gen Z fitness enthusiasts. Whether it’s a FitBit or another type of wearable fitness tracker, 42% of Gen Zers have one while nearly 25% hope to purchase one in the future, which is more than twice of the rest of the population.

These devices not only track physical activity but also monitor sleep, heart rate, and other important health metrics. Fitness businesses can leverage this trend to create a more engaging and personalized client experience by integrating certain fitness tracking platforms that use wearables like Spivi, AccuroFit, or MyZone.

Trend #4: Gen Z likes a variety of fitness activities

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

• 35% like weightlifting and strength training.
• 31% perform aerobic or cardio exercises while 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 your main sport or fitness regimen.

Use this as a reminder 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 is a big concern among Gen Z

Gen Z is increasingly interested in taking care of their mental and emotional health in addition to their physical health. Why? Harmony Healthcare IT research reveals that 42% of Gen Zers have been diagnosed with a mental health condition and 68% say it was because of 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 result, it’s important to recognize the mental health struggles that 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 widely shown to be effective in reducing stress, depression, and anxiety.

But it’s not just about offering classes. As a fitness business owner, you can also check in with your clients regularly by texting, calling, or creating a safe space for them to talk about their mental and emotional health. By doing so, you can build trust with your clients and create a supportive community within your studio or gym.

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

Trend #6: Gen Z aligns their values for sustainable living and plant-based diets

Gen Z is a strong proponent of sustainability and doing what it takes to protect the environment, as one of the top values-based consumers among generations. With that identity comes the desire to make environmentally friendly choices, particularly in the products they buy and the foods they consume. Currently, 79% of Gen Zers choose to go meatless at least once a week and 65% have an interest of eating a more plant-based diet.

So, what does that mean for your studio or gym? It’s worth noting that Gen Zers value authenticity, so businesses that prioritize sustainable practices should do so in a genuine and transparent way. If you have these values, continue to plug into them and stock up on eco-friendly products, fitness equipment, and merchandise, and reduce your waste wherever you can. This can help build trust with Gen Z consumers, who are known to research and evaluate a company’s values before making a purchase.

Also, when you suggest whole-foods based diet plans and shopping lists with lots of veggies, it’s likely your Gen Z clients will stick with it, considering they’ve likely explored sustainable food choices in the past.

Trend #7: Gen Z are everywhere on social media; you’d be wise to leverage that

Gen Z fitness influencers live on social media, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok being the most popular among the fitness industry. Among Gen Z, more than one in four follow influencers while 46% follow more than 10. Influencers like Kayla Itsines, Cassey Ho, and Joe Wicks have gained massive followings on social media by sharing workout routines, healthy recipes, and fitness tips.

With 80% of Gen Z purchases influenced by social media, fitness businesses would be wise to leverage social media to reach this highly engaged audience. Specifically, video ads are highly effective, with 63% of Gen Z saying they click on video ads more than any other format. Fitness businesses can also partner with fitness influencers to reach a whole new audience and grow their brand awareness.

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

It’s time to win over Gen Z!

If you’re a fitness business owner, you should be aware of the unique characteristics and preferences of Gen Z clients. From prioritizing mental health to sustainability and social media influence, there are many trends you can leverage to better engage with this generation.

To cater to Gen Zers, WellnessLiving offers virtual and on-demand options, mobile apps, and tools to make booking with your business a breeze. 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 this generation, resulting in happier and more loyal clients.

So, if you’re looking to grow your business and better cater to Gen Z clients, book a free, no-commitment demo with WellnessLiving today. Let us show you how we can help you take your business to the next level!