While no single trend is definitively number one, two trends consistently stand out for their health benefits and broad appeal in 2025:
Strength training is repeatedly identified as a top health-focused exercise trend.
Wearable technology and digital fitness apps are prominent for tracking progress, motivation, and guiding workouts.
Below is a breakdown of why these trends are healthy, plus a note on other notable trends shaping the fitness landscape.
Strength Training: Why it’s Healthy
Builds Muscle
Building muscle supports metabolic health and overall physical function, making strength training a primary health goal for many.
Boosts Core Stability
Core-focused modalities (e.g., Pilates) are trending for strengthening the midsection, improving posture, and enhancing balance.
Lowers Injury Risk
Gentle or functional forms of strength training (Pilates, barre, functional fitness) benefit joints and flexibility, reducing the risk of injury.
Technology and Digital Tools: Why they’re Healthy
Supportive of All Workouts
Wearables and apps are versatile and popular because they support a wide range of activities—strength training, HIIT, cardio, and more.
Enhance Motivation and Tracking
These tools help users monitor workouts, track progress toward goals, and access online programs and adaptive classes, fostering consistency.
Other Notable Trends
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
Time-efficient workouts that deliver strong health benefits, appealing to busy Americans.
Mental Health Focus
There is growing integration of mental and physical health, with workouts designed to improve overall well-being in addition to fitness.
