As the fitness industry evolves, new trends continue to emerge, shaping how exercise professionals approach wellness, training and client support. Each year, ACSM publishes its Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends, offering vital insights for industry professionals. As the fitness landscape shifts to meet evolving client demands, these trends help leaders in the community rec industry stay aligned with what their communities want most.
This year’s top trends reflect the influence of technology and a growing focus on mental health. This comprehensive look at the top fitness trends for 2025 provides insights into how wearable technology, data-driven tools and wellness coaching are revolutionizing the industry. These trends offer valuable guidance for community rec professionals aiming to meet the diverse needs of members and promote holistic health.
- Wearable Technology. Wearable technology continues to be the leading trend for 2025, a position it has held nearly every year since 2016. Devices such as fitness trackers, heart rate monitors and smartwatches provide real-time feedback on physical activity, health markers and more, encouraging positive behavior changes in users. Although highly beneficial, exercise professionals need to address the technology’s reliability, data privacy and limitations.
- Mobile Exercise Apps. Mobile fitness apps have gained traction, moving up from no. 20 in 2023 to no. 7 in 2024 and now at the no. 2 spot. With 850 million downloads last year, these apps are valuable for creating flexible, customizable exercise programs that align well with wearable tech. Caution is advised for consumers selecting apps, as not all follow evidence-based guidelines. This makes health and fitness professionals essential for ensuring quality fitness guidance.
- Fitness Programs for Older Adults. Fitness programs for older adults remain crucial for 2025, reflecting the aging U.S. population. With issues like sarcopenia — age-related muscle loss — exercise programs targeting strength and balance are vital. The trend ranks higher among experienced professionals, who tend to work more frequently with older clients, helping this demographic maintain independence and improve quality of life.
- Exercise for Weight Loss. With global obesity rates continuing to rise, weight loss remains a high priority for many fitness programs. Professionals are focusing on sustainable strategies like strength training, which helps preserve muscle during caloric deficits. Strength and conditioning coaches especially emphasize weight control due to its relevance in sports performance.
- Traditional Strength Training. Traditional strength training has reclaimed popularity, moving back up to no. 5. This practice, which includes lifting free weights and using proper technique, helps adults meet physical activity guidelines for muscle strength. While many don’t meet these standards, structured strength programs can make fitness accessible and beneficial for all.
- High-Intensity Interval Training. HIIT remains a popular choice, especially effective for those with limited time like students, as it provides cardiovascular benefits through short bursts of high-intensity exercise. Its versatility allows professionals to cater to clients with varying health conditions and fitness levels, with wearable tech often used to monitor effort and ensure safety.
- Data-Driven Training Technology. Data-driven training technology, introduced last year, now ranks no. 7. This approach uses real-time biofeedback like heart rate variability to adjust workouts dynamically, promoting safety, especially for those with conditions like cardiometabolic disease. It’s particularly favored by strength coaches and athletic trainers for its individualized support in group settings.
- Exercise for Mental Health. Exercise for mental health continues to be prioritized, as it reduces anxiety, stress and depression. Although there are no specific guidelines, professionals aim to meet general ACSM physical activity standards while considering individual preferences. Access to certifications in mental health training is expanding, supporting fitness professionals in addressing clients’ psychological well-being.
- Functional Fitness Training. This form of training focuses on exercises that improve daily movement patterns, benefiting older adults and those needing rehabilitation. Functional fitness remains consistent, ranked among the top 20 trends since 2007. With its emphasis on life-enhancing movement, it helps clients build strength for everyday activities.
- Health/Wellness Coaching. Health and wellness coaching has risen to no. 10 in 2025. Utilizing behavioral science, coaches help clients build healthier habits and make sustainable lifestyle changes. Tools like motivational interviewing and empathy-based coaching are valuable resources for creating deep client connections and supporting long-term wellness.
The 2025 fitness trends emphasize technology, specialized programming and mental health integration. With the rise of wearable tech and data-driven approaches, community rec leaders can better address diverse member needs with a focus on safety and personalization. These trends promote a holistic approach to fitness, benefiting clients of all backgrounds and empowering professionals to deliver innovative, inclusive and effective support for overall well-being.
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