A survey by Les Mills of 4,000 Gen Z individuals across the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and China, found that the generation is wellness-minded and believes exercise helps them feel their best. The survey found that more than a third of Gen Z are regular exercisers and a majority of gym-goers take group fitness classes. For Gen Z, digital touchpoints are an essential part of the fitness experience, and the generation is using that mentality to lead the way in fitness trends and help reshape the fitness industry, per an article from Fitt Insider.
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Per the survey, 30% of Gen Z regularly visit fitness facilities and 72% of regular exercisers are doing both in-gym and out-of-gym workouts. Only 14% reported no interest in exercising and Gen Z is visiting the gym more than the general population. Despite strong gym attendance, Gen Zers who aren’t regular exercisers still need support, with 50% struggling to get started.
Among young gym-goers, an overwhelming 91% choose a multipurpose facility equipped with free weights, cardio equipment and group classes. Drawn by music-driven regimens and social connection, 81% of gym-goers take group fitness classes. Group strength training was the top modality, followed by stretching and mobility.
Per the survey, 68% prefer to start their fitness journey at home with a free fitness app (59%) or paid fitness app (44%), and the internet remains a strong influencer for health and wellness, with 40% of teens using Tik Tok as their primary search engine and 35% going to an in-person class they first discovered online. The most common choice seems to be fitness influencers, with 76% using a fitness influencer’s free programming at home or outside and 71% using it to guide workouts at the gym.
Gyms and wellness companies have taken note of Gen Z's preference for fitness experiences that combine digital and in-person elements. After a rebrand emphasizing anywhere use of its app, Peloton launched structured strength content designed for the gym. World Gym recently redesigned its clubs with tech-enabled group fitness studios, as well as social media-optimized selfie rooms. Crunch Fitness enlisted studio instructors for content on its revamped Crunch+ app, positioned as an alternative or enhancement to the in-club experience, according to Fitt Insider.
