15 Hot Fitness Trends Shaping How Gen Z Approaches Wellness in 2025

Rosa Matthews
Feb 4
3 min read

Fitness isn’t what it used to be—and if you’ve spent even a minute on TikTok lately, you’ll know Gen Z is flipping the script. Gone are the days of “no pain, no gain” and obsessing over thigh gaps. This generation? They’re after balance, mental clarity, and maybe a few squats in between.

Why Gen Z’s Fitness Shift Actually Makes Sense

Let’s be real: Gen Z isn’t buying into the same tired wellness messages the rest of us grew up with. After watching crash diets come and go—and seeing the toll it takes—they’re approaching fitness with more curiosity and a little less pressure. Les Mills even points out how they’re prioritizing connection and mental health as much as six-packs.

Also, it doesn’t hurt that this generation has about $360 billion to spend, as Wellhub reports. If they want to shake things up, the industry will follow.

15 Fitness Trends Gen Z Is Totally Into

1. Wearables With Purpose

Smartwatches and fitness bands aren’t just wrist candy. Gen Z uses them to track heart rate, sleep, stress—you name it. ACSM says these tools are leading the fitness charge.

2. App-Based Everything

No gym? No time? No problem. Workout apps with virtual coaching mean Gen Z can squeeze in a sweat session between classes or Zoom calls. ClassPass shows it’s more popular than ever.

3. Strength Training That Feels Useful

They’re not lifting just to flex. It’s more about supporting their bodies, feeling strong, and avoiding burnout. Strava noticed this trend too.

4. Quick, Intense Workouts

HIIT isn’t going anywhere. It’s perfect for when you want to sweat, feel accomplished, and still make it to your next meeting.

5. Yoga & Pilates, Reimagined

Turns out, slowing down is a flex too. These low-impact moves help Gen Z stay grounded and strong—without feeling wiped out.

6. Movement That’s Gentle

They’re embracing walking, swimming, and cycling—not just because it’s easier on the joints, but because it feels good and it’s sustainable.

7. Fitness Meets Nature

Why stare at a treadmill screen when you can hike a trail? Being outside while moving checks both fitness and mental health boxes.

8. Group Energy

Workout classes that feel more like hangouts are big. From bootcamps to dance cardio, they’re finding joy in sweating together.

9. Challenges That Stick

Run streaks. Step counts. Friendly competitions. These mini goals help Gen Z stay consistent without obsessing.

10. Working Out in VR

Sounds futuristic, but it’s happening. VR workouts turn boring reps into immersive games. Gen Z’s definitely here for it.

11. Martial Arts & Boxing

These workouts do more than build stamina—they help blow off steam and build confidence, too.

12. Logging Off to Tune In

Unplugging is part of their wellness routine. Whether it’s yoga without phones or walks without podcasts, they value mental space.

13. Experimenting With Recovery

Sleep trackers, ice baths, magnesium supplements... Gen Z is hacking their way to better recovery.

14. Mixing Up Routines

Some days it’s a spin class. Other days it’s stretching at home. They like mixing formats based on how they feel.

15. Following Influencers With a Pulse

Forget polished perfection. They want fitness creators who are honest, funny, and admit when they skip a workout. Social Media Today says authenticity wins.

What It All Adds Up To

Real Physical Benefits

From HIIT to strength training to yoga, these habits improve heart health, strength, mobility—you name it.

Mental Boosts That Matter

They’re not just chasing aesthetics. Movement is how they de-stress, refocus, and reset. Even the APA backs that up.

A Different Kind of Support

Even though they’re digital natives, Gen Z craves real-world connection—and fitness spaces are where they’re finding it.

The Gen Z Way

What’s different about them? They don’t treat fitness like punishment. It’s not about fixing flaws. It’s about feeling better, sleeping better, and yes—scrolling less.

So, What’s Next?

Expect more tech, more balance, and way fewer crash diets. Gen Z is setting the tone for what wellness looks like going forward—and it’s way more human.

Even if you’re not Gen Z, there’s plenty we can all learn from how they move, recover, and connect.