The exercise and workout industry has seen explosive growth in recent decades. And with consumer interest in health and wellness ever increasing, it looks set to remain a growth area for years to come. But which segments offer the biggest opportunities and what’ll be the next big thing?
In this article – we’ve collated the latest workout and exercise industry statistics into one handy resource, that includes market size, growth, and trends.
We’ve spent 15+ years working in the fitness industry, from leading gyms to global equipment companies, so know the market inside-out. We proactively study the ever-changing landscape, highlight new trends, and analyse the big players. For the last 5 years, we’ve shared this expertise with the wider industry through our insights articles and Research Reports which are available to purchase.
The most comprehensive & up-to-date report on the fitness industry available. Includes revenue, growth, future outlook plus much more.
Workout Industry Overview
The exercise and workout market is estimated to be worth $244bn globally and growing at a rate of 5-10% per year. It’s just one pillar of the multi-trillion wellness market, which also comprises health, nutrition, sleep, mindfulness, and appearance. The workout market’s sustained growth is driven by consumer awareness of the health and physical appearance benefits of exercise, combined with increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases.
Exercise Industry Market Segments
The exercise and workout industry is made up of several market segments….
- Gyms and fitness studios – the gym industry is worth $81.5bn.
- Fitness equipment – the exercise equipment industry is currently worth $13.8bn.
- Instruction & training – includes the home workout instruction and personal training industry.
- Apparel & wearables – clothing, trainers, and fitness trackers all fall into this category.
- Online & digital fitness – includes online workout training and fitness apps.
These are the main segments within the fitness market but don’t represent an exhaustive list. It’s a continually evolving industry that adapts with consumer preferences and technological innovations.
You might also like… Latest Fitness Industry Growth Statistics & Analysis or our Fitness, Nutrition & Wellness Insights Hub.
Consumer Exercise Habits & Attitudes
Let’s look at how consumers view exercise and their fitness habits…
- 28% of the world’s adults (1.4 billion people) are insufficiently active (WHO).
- In the US, 46.9% of the population meet aerobic physical activity guidelines and 24.2% meet them for aerobic and strength activity (CDC).
- In the UK, 61.4% are physically active (i.e. do 150+ minutes of moderate exercise per week) (UK Government).
- 81% of adolescents aged 11-17 years are insufficiently physically active (WHO).
- Motivations for exercising are evolving – 10 years ago the top-cited reason was to look good, three years ago it was to control weight, two years back it was stress relief and in 2023 it was about longevity (DJS & Mindbody).
- 40% of people consider wellness a top priority in daily life (McKinsey).
- Mental health is an increasingly important element – exercise is the most commonly reported tool for relieving stress (McKinsey).
What’s clear from these exercise statistics is that there continues to be a gap between the number of people who want to work-out and the number who actually do. This is a long-running challenge for the fitness industry, but shows that there’s still an under-served market offering huge opportunity.
Workout & Exercise Trends
From cosy cardio to plogging, the workout industry is never short on new exercise trends. We analysed the latest report data and survey results from the ACSM, MindBody, and our own audience of health and fitness business owners. Based on this combined industry data, there are four workout trends that are dominating this year…
- Strength training
- Programs for older adults
- Weight loss
- Holistic wellness
What’s particularly interesting is how the ACSM’s latest survey results (of almost 2000 fitness professionals) have changed since last year. In 2023, there were six workout trends highlighted within the more general top 10 – strength, body weight training, functional fitness, outdoor, HIIT, and exercise for weight loss). However, this year there are only two (exercise for weight loss and for mental health).
Their results could indicate a shift from a focus on types of exercise and training towards the populations and benefits they provide. But they also changed their data methodology this year which may have influenced the results. To make an accurate assessment, we need to look at more than two year’s worth of data…
Comparing 2024’s survey results to previous years is a helpful way to identify longer-term trends in fitness. Doing this allows us to see which trends are consistently increasing in popularity year on year.
Using this approach, we’ve identified lifestyle medicine and longevity, health and wellness coaching, yoga, and online personal training as growth areas. All four have either increased in popularity year on year or debuted strongly and look set for continued demand in 2024 and beyond…
You can learn more about exercise trends in our market report which includes detailed analysis on the most popular areas of fitness, shifts in the market, and how to capitalise on trending opportunities…
The most comprehensive & up-to-date report on the fitness industry available. Includes revenue, growth, future outlook plus much more.
You might also like… We Analyzed The Latest Fitness Trends & Found Something Surprising or This Year’s Top Wellness Trends…
The Role of Technology
Technology has become an integral part of the exercise industry, revolutionizing the way individuals approach their fitness goals and how businesses operate. This tech-driven transformation encompasses several key aspects…
- Fitness apps – from tracking to guidance, they keep users motivated, help them achieve fitness goals, and many integrate with wearable devices.
- Wearables – such as fitness trackers and smartwatches have gained widespread popularity by providing real-time data, immediate feedback, and competition elements.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – is now able to generate tailored workout plans, nutrition advice, and even exercise recommendations.
- Virtual Fitness Experiences – Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are immersing users in captivating environments or overlaying digital elements onto the real world, making exercise both fun and effective.
- Data Integration – Wearables, fitness apps, and even gym equipment can share data seamlessly, streamlining the user experience and providing a comprehensive view of their health journey.
Technology’s influence on the exercise industry continues to evolve. It’s able to enhance motivation, personalisation, and accessibility, while supporting community and social engagement for users. Tech can empower individuals to take control of their health and fitness, providing the tools and motivation needed to lead active and balanced lives.
Future Outlook
The exercise industry is one of the cornerstones of well-being and is expected to continuing growing at 5%-10% each year. Plenty of segments within it will experience double-digit growth – brands that move early can benefit from huge revenue opportunities.
From gyms to home workouts, and clothing to apps, the industry addresses diverse needs and preferences. As sedentary lifestyles and levels of physical inactivity increases, along with associated illnesses like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, the role of exercise will grow increasingly important. The industry can play an indispensable role in fostering healthier, more active lives, but will need to continue innovating and adapting to do so.
Fitness Industry Research Report
This is the most comprehensive and up-to-date industry research report available. Unlike others, you get extended access to the 2024 edition, including any updates that are made as new market data becomes available. Ideal for business planning and strategic marketing, the 90-page report includes;
- Fitness industry revenue & growth by market segment
- Gym market size, growth & membership stats
- Online & virtual fitness market developments
- Financial information for the largest club operators globally
- Biggest & fastest growing fitness franchises
- Insights into the boutique fitness studio & personal training segments
- Latest industry trends & how to capitalise on them
- Growth markets, segments & audiences including Millennials
- Data on fitness tracker, app & equipment segments
- Outlook & evidence-based predictions for the future of the industry
- 14-day money-back guarantee, no questions or hassle.
The most comprehensive & up-to-date report on the fitness industry available. Includes revenue, growth, future outlook plus much more.
