9 Leading Gen Z Fitness Trends to Boost Your Gym’s Membership
Last Updated on 8 October, 2025
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.
We’ll explore the leading trends among Gen Z fitness fanatics and help you cater to this generation of fitness enthusiasts. So, let’s dive in!
Gen Z fitness trends you can’t miss
- Trend #1: Gen Z needs a flexible workout schedule
- Trend #2: Gen Z expects digital platforms and booking
- Trend #3: Gen Z loves wearable fitness tracking devices
- Trend #4: Gen Z wants a variety of fitness activities
- Trend #5: Gen Z values their mental health
- Trend #6: Gen Z prioritizes sustainable living
- Trend #7: Gen Z is on social media; you’d better be too
- Trend #8: Gen Z wants their gym to be a social hub
- Trend #9: Gen Z wants to start slowly
- It’s time to win over Gen Z!
- FAQs about Gen Z fitness trends
Trend #1: Gen Z needs a flexible workout schedule
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. However, 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: Gen Z expects digital platforms and booking
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.
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. Some of their new equipment comes fully loaded with guided workouts. While other equipment, like adjustable weights, flexible bands, and slide boards, can be utilized in digital workouts.
Digital booking platforms are also essential for on-the-go Gen Z clients.
Trend #3: Gen Z loves wearable fitness tracking devices
Wearable technology, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, has become a staple among Gen Z fitness enthusiasts.
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 experience by integrating wearable fitness tracking platforms. Popular wearable brands include: Spivi, AccuroFit, and MyZone.
Trend #4: Gen Z wants a variety of fitness activities
Gen Zers love 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. Offer as wide a variety of classes as your teachers are trained in. Ask if they have certifications in:
- weightlifting and strength training
- cardio exercises or running clubs
- yoga, Pilates, or Tai Chi
- cross-training or sports clubs
- boot camps or outdoor training
- dance-based workouts
- HIIT or interval training
- WOD (Workout of the Day) or weekly challenges
- mind/body classes for meditation and movement
Trend #5: Gen Z values their mental health
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. 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.
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. These 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 prioritizes sustainable living
Gen Z is a strong proponent of sustainability and doing what it takes to protect the environment. 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.
Trend #7: Gen Z is on social media; you’d better be too
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.
Fitness businesses would be wise to leverage social media to reach this highly engaged audience. Specifically, video ads are highly effective, as is SEO optimization. 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.
Trend #8: Gen Z wants their gym to be a social hub
While older generations may prefer to work out in private, Gen Z wants to see their friends when they’re working out. They want their gyms to also work as places of socialization, where they can get to know their community and maybe make new friends as well. Don’t miss out on this by offering group and community classes.
You can also cater to this by providing a space to relax before and after workouts in your fitness center. Provide couches, small tables, or even hammocks so your clients have comfortable places to chat. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits the vibe of your studio and your target clients.
Offering coffee, smoothies, or snacks can also be a secondary revenue stream.
Trend #9: Gen Z wants to start slowly
Gen Z has grown up listening to stories of their parents losing hundreds of dollars on expensive gym memberships they never used, and they don’t want to make the same mistake. So they’re much less likely to sign up for a long-term contract or year-long programs, especially as new customers.
Allow them to get to know and love your gym on a more approachable, month-to-month, or even week-long basis. You could even offer pre-paid packages that allow them to purchase class tickets in advance, and then attend whatever classes fit into their schedule.
Even if they cancel or pause their membership, make sure they have the option to still get notifications for your upcoming classes so they know they’re always welcome back.
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!
FAQs about Gen Z fitness trends
Gen Z gravitates toward dynamic, social, and tech-enabled workouts. High-intensity interval training (HIIT), dance-based classes, strength training, and functional fitness are especially popular. Many also enjoy yoga, Pilates, and mobility classes because they tie physical movement to mental wellness.
Gen Z’s preference for variety and flexibility means they mix in-studio sessions with on-demand or virtual workouts to fit their schedules.
Unlike previous generations that often focused on weight loss or aesthetics, Gen Z is motivated by mental health, stress relief, and self-care. They see fitness as a way to improve mood, boost energy, and build confidence.
Social connection also plays a role; many choose group classes or community-based workouts to stay engaged. Additionally, social media trends and fitness influencers often inspire them to try new workouts.
Common barriers include cost, time constraints, and intimidation. Many younger adults want flexible membership models instead of long contracts, making affordability a key factor. Busy schedules from work, school, or side hustles also limit workout time.
Some Gen Zers also report feeling uncomfortable in traditional gym environments, especially if spaces feel unwelcoming or lack inclusive programming.
Not necessarily. While Gen Z has a high interest in wellness and places great value on fitness, overall activity levels vary. Research shows many Gen Zers want to exercise more but often lack the resources to fulfill their fitness goals.
However, their focus on mental health, hybrid fitness models, and long-term sustainability suggests they could become one of the most health-conscious generations as they age.
Beyond convenience, what really resonates is a sense of belonging. Studios that create opportunities for social interaction, host events, or encourage collaboration among members tend to build stronger loyalty with this generation.
For Gen Z, the right gym is not just about equipment or classes; it’s about finding a place that supports their lifestyle, connects them with like-minded people, and reinforces their commitment to overall well-being.
