As the calendar turns to a new year, many Americans embrace it as an opportunity to set fresh goals, with fitness often at the top of their lists. Recent CivicScience data reveal a 17% increase in fitness-related resolutions compared to last year, highlighting a growing commitment to health and wellness. From innovative workout routines to emerging fitness technology, here’s a close look at some of the latest exercise and fitness trends shaping up in 2025.
Answer our Poll: Do you have a personal fitness goal you’d like to achieve this year?
1. Team sports, fitness activities (running/weightlifting), and studio-based workouts have gained the most traction since 2020.
What do fitness routines look like today? CivicScience’s ongoing tracking data reveal significant shifts in Americans’ exercise habits over the last five years, with participation in most activities declining since 2020. However, team sports (+8 points), fitness activities like running and weightlifting (+3 points), and studio-based workouts such as yoga and Pilates (+3 points) have defied this trend with notable growth over the past five years. Outdoor activities like biking (-3 points), golfing (-2 points), and hiking (-2 points) have seen slight declines despite recent rebounds, excluding those selecting ‘none of these.’ These shifts may reflect a broader return to pre-pandemic comfort with indoor activities that were less appealing during the height of the pandemic.
2. Interest in health and wellness coaches is down from last year, yet a noteworthy number of Americans still use one.
As the new year inspires many to pursue fitness and self-care goals, the role of health and wellness coaches remains significant despite a slight decline in usage. New CivicScience data reveal that 21% of individuals have worked with a health and wellness coach, down from 25% last year but still above the 18% reported in 2023. While the numbers have dipped, this still represents a substantial portion of consumers turning to professional guidance for their wellness journeys.
3. GLP-1 users are much more likely to exercise at a gym.
CivicScience’s monthly GLP-1 consumer trend data highlights the distinctive health and fitness behaviors of GLP-1 users. A key distinction emerges in their exercise habits: while current GLP-1 users and look-alike respondents (those with similar characteristics who do not use GLP-1 medications) are equally likely to exercise regularly, GLP-1 users show a significantly higher preference for working out at a gym. Access more insights like these here.
4. Brands shouldn’t overlook fitness gamification.
Fitness gamification, which incorporates gaming elements like Fitbit badges, Apple Watch challenges, and app-based leaderboards into workouts, is becoming even more popular this year. Eight percent of U.S. adults say they ‘always’ use gamification in their exercise routines, up from 6% last year. Another 16% report using gamification occasionally, an increase from 12% in 2024. These numbers suggest a growing interest in tools that make fitness more engaging and interactive.
5. Engaging in self-care is an important step in fitness routines.
Self-care has become an essential part of fitness routines, with practices such as cold plunges and post-workout recovery methods gaining widespread popularity. While both exercisers and the Gen Pop share common self-care preferences, exercisers tend to place a higher value on connecting with nature and enjoying their favorite foods. Among those who exercise, the most popular self-care activities include prioritizing quality sleep, spending time with friends, and indulging in satisfying meals. This trend reflects a growing focus on holistic self-care, where physical recovery is paired with mental well-being.
What do you think? Do you view exercise as more of a hobby or a chore? 🏋️♀️
The evolving fitness landscape in 2025 reflects a blend of traditional and innovative approaches driven by a renewed focus on health and well-being. With trends like gamification and holistic self-care gaining momentum, and GLP-1 users much more likely to exercise at a gym, brands and wellness providers have a unique opportunity to capitalize on this dynamic market by aligning their offerings with the shifting preferences of a health-conscious consumer base.
