Gen z fitness pulse report 2025: key findings

Gen Z are changing the rules of fitness - our new report reveals just how far. For them, fitness isn’t just a part-time hobby, it’s a lifestyle choice.

That’s why we launched the Gen Z Fitness Pulse Report 2025 to take a closer look at how this generation are shaping fitness, wellbeing and even the way we work. From spending habits to mental health, social connections to flexible lifestyles, the findings give us a glimpse into what matters most to Gen Z.

Forget the latest fashion drop or a takeaway treat, our report shows that 44% rank fitness as their first or second spending priority, ahead of streaming, eating out, and even travel in some cases.

• Average monthly spend on fitness, such as gym memberships, apps and kit has also risen 17% year-on-year to £48.81.

82% of Gen Z surveyed say that building exercise into their working day boosts energy and productivity.

The catch? Time. More than half say flexible hours already help, or would most effectively help, them stay active. For Gen Z, it’s simple: flexibility allows for greater wellbeing and performance follows.

• 52% say flexible hours already help, or would help, them stay active.

• 76% of students say easier access to fitness would improve their ability to study effectively.

While Gen Z clearly see fitness as part of the regular working day, they also weave it into their social life . The gym isn’t just a place to train, it’s a place to connect. More than half have reported to say they’ve formed new friendships through working out, while over 40% exercise specifically to socialise with friends. Where loneliness is on the rise for this generation, the gym has become a social hub. For Gen Z, swapping sets can be as valuable as swapping stories — proof that fitness isn’t just strengthening bodies, it’s strengthening communities.

• 51% say they’ve formed new friendships through working out.

• 44% exercise specifically to socialise with friends.

Friendships may start on the gym floor, but they’re being powered by consistency. Gen Z aren’t just dropping in now and then — they’re showing up week after week. Nearly three-quarters say they exercise at least twice a week, up from 62% in 2024.

That steady rise proves fitness isn’t a passing phase for this generation. It’s a habit, a priority, and in many cases, the glue that keeps their social and wellbeing routines together.

• 73% exercise at least twice per week.

• Just 5% say they work out less than once a month.

• Looking at Gym Group members specifically, Gen Z gym goers are logging longer gym sessions compared to other age groups.

Gen Z’s commitment to fitness shows no sign of slowing — and with The Gym Group app, it’s easier than ever to build consistency into your own routine. From booking classes to tracking workouts, it’s designed to keep your goals on track, wherever you are. Give it a download today and you might find yourself building consistency that actually lasts.

It’s clear connection matters — and the gym can be part of that. Whether you’re training with a mate or looking to try something new together, our guest passes and day passes make it easy. Bring a friend along, share the session, and see how fitness can double as quality time.

The productivity and energy boost from exercise isn’t limited to the workplace either. In lecture halls and study sessions, the same pattern holds true — staying active helps sharpen focus. Our report shows that 76% of students believe making exercise more accessible would improve their ability to study effectively. For them, training isn’t a distraction from coursework, it’s the tool that keeps them switched on.

With subsidised memberships topping the list of what would make the biggest difference, we’ve made it simple: The Gym Group student membership gives you flexible access, affordable rates and the space to train around your lectures. Because building healthy fitness habits at uni isn’t just good for grades, it’s good for life.

When fitness becomes a habit, the impact goes deeper than physical progress. For Gen Z, consistency in the gym is also consistency for the mind — and our report shows just how powerful that link between movement and mental health really is. Movement beats mindfulness apps and podcasts when it comes to improving headspace – fitness is an important line of defence:

• 87% of Gen Z say working out improves or significantly improves their mental health.

• 55% rank mental health as one of their top three reasons for exercising, up from 46% in 2024.

• 65% say regular exercise is the most effective way to boost their mental health

Despite growing up online, Gen Z don’t see their mental health boosted by influencers or wellness content. In fact, only 12% say watching influencer content helps lift their mood, and just 8% point to mindfulness podcasts or apps as their top choice.

With, 65% ranking exercise as the most effective way to support their mental health, it shows that even a digital-first generation knows the real reset comes from moving your body, not scrolling your feed.

And that’s the shift we’re seeing everywhere: fitness is no longer just about looks or logging hours in the gym — it’s about understanding the bigger picture. As Will Orr, our CEO, puts it, the ‘Fitness IQ’ of this generation is on the rise. They’re moving past quick fixes and aesthetics, embracing exercise as a tool for balance, resilience and long-term wellbeing.

It’s not just a phase, it’s a lifestyle — and one that’s shaping the future of fitness for all of us.

If you’re ready to make fitness part of your lifestyle too, The Gym Group has a space for you. With 200+ gyms nationwide, flexible memberships and expert support, it’s easy to find your place.