As 2024 draws to a close, fitness enthusiasts reflect on a year of workout trends that shifted back to group activities and a focus on recovery.
Pilates has firmly cemented its place at the top of the fitness world, and its surge in popularity will continue into 2025, reported Today.
Pilates has maintained its crown as the most-booked workout globally for the second consecutive year, according to ClassPass. The resurgence of this low-impact, high-reward workout has taken the fitness world by storm, with bookings increasing by 84% since the previous year.
Pilates, which originated in the early 20th century as a rehabilitation method for dancers, continues to dominate modern fitness routines. Its variety, from mat Pilates to wall Pilates and reformer classes, offers something for everyone. The beauty of Pilates lies in its ability to cater to all levels, making it a go-to workout for those seeking flexibility, strength, and mindful movement.
Expect Pilates to continue thriving into 2025, with new variations and styles offering fresh ways to engage with the practice.
In addition to Pilates, group workouts have made a strong comeback in 2024, reported Today.
After the isolation caused by the pandemic, many people are finding motivation and inspiration in communal exercise settings. Whether it’s fitness boot camps, dance classes, or cycling sessions, group workouts offer a sense of community and accountability that has been largely missed in recent years. According to experts, these collective fitness experiences will only grow in 2025 as people crave social connections alongside their physical health.
Group settings provide the camaraderie and fun that solo workouts can lack, helping individuals stay committed to their fitness goals. Expect to see a rise in fitness communities, especially those that emphasize mental health, as group exercise continues to be an antidote to loneliness and burnout, per Today.
Music-themed workouts also had a moment in 2024, with people gravitating toward classes that combine fitness with beats.
From cycling sessions set to high-energy playlists to dance classes designed around specific genres of music, the fusion of sound and movement has proven to be a motivating force for many. These music-driven workouts help participants lose themselves in the rhythm, making the experience feel more like a party than a workout. As 2025 approaches, music-themed classes are set to grow, with new formats and curated playlists taking center stage, reported Today. Expect to see even more music-inspired courses, offering everything from hip-hop cycling to 90s dance cardio, allowing participants to sweat while enjoying their favorite tunes.
Recovery and rest-focused fitness routines are also emerging as a priority for 2025.
After years of pushing hard in the gym, many individuals are shifting their attention to recovery-based workouts. This includes yoga, stretching, and foam rolling, which help the body repair and rejuvenate, per Today. These slower, more mindful practices are becoming increasingly popular as people realize the importance of balance in their fitness routines. Expect recovery-focused programs like guided stretching or restorative yoga to become mainstream in the coming year.
Another emerging trend for 2025 will be outdoor fitness activities.
As more people seek to break free from the confines of the gym, outdoor workouts are gaining popularity. Whether running, hiking, or even outdoor yoga sessions, people are turning to nature to enhance their fitness routines, per Today. The appeal of outdoor fitness lies in its combination of fresh air, natural scenery, and the physical benefits of movement. Expect more fitness programs incorporating outdoor settings, from group runs in local parks to specialized hiking boot camps. Outdoor workouts offer a refreshing change of pace and help reduce stress, providing both physical and mental health benefits.
Finally, holistic wellness practices will continue growing in 2025, incorporating mental health and physical fitness.
The past few years have shown a clear shift toward prioritizing mental well-being, with fitness routines becoming more mindful and centered. Meditation, mindfulness, and even fitness-focused therapy are becoming more common as part of a balanced health regimen, reported Today. As we move into 2025, expect a greater emphasis on the mind-body connection, with fitness offerings that support emotional and psychological health.
Whether you’re already planning your fitness goals for 2025 or just starting to think about them, there’s no shortage of options to explore.