Gen Z: A Holistic Approach to Fitness and Wellbeing

Generation Z is transforming the fitness landscape, viewing exercise as essential for both physical and mental wellbeing.

A recent UK survey of 2,000 people aged 16-28, conducted for The Gym Group, reveals how this generation—which makes up 40% of the company's 900,000 members—approaches fitness with unprecedented intentionality.

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A Generation That Prioritizes Movement

The data shows remarkable engagement levels: nearly 73% of Gen Z respondents exercise at least twice weekly, representing an 11% increase from the previous year.

Perhaps most striking, not a single respondent reported never exercising, indicating that physical activity has become non-negotiable for this age group.

This generation isn't just active—they're knowledgeable. When asked to rate their fitness knowledge on a scale of one to five, 18.1% gave themselves the highest score, with most rating their understanding at three or four.

This "fitness IQ" continues growing as they recognize exercise's comprehensive benefits.

Putting Money Where Their Values Are

Gen Z backs up their fitness commitment with serious spending. Almost half (44%) rank fitness as their first or second discretionary spending priority, with 26% placing it at the top—ahead of streaming services (19%) and dining out (18%).

Their average monthly fitness spending has jumped 17% year-over-year to £48.81, covering not just gym memberships but quality activewear, electrolytes, and supplements.

Poll

What's your go-to workout time?

Morning

Afternoon

Evening

Mental Health Drives Motivation

What sets Gen Z apart is their motivation. While improving fitness levels ranks first (58%), supporting mental health follows closely at 55%.

This focus on psychological benefits is particularly pronounced among young women, though young men show less interest in this aspect.

For Gen Z, exercise stands out as the most effective tool for boosting mental wellbeing.

Nearly 65% consider regular exercise more beneficial than healthy eating (46%) or socializing with friends (45%). Shopping sprees and influencer content ranked much lower at 12%, while mindfulness apps attracted only 8%.

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A Holistic Approach to Wellness

Will Orr, CEO of The Gym Group, notes that for Gen Z, "exercise is not just about improving physical fitness but also about protecting and improving mental health and building social connections."

This comprehensive perspective explains their increasing investment in health and fitness.

Jenni Tardiff, The Gym Group's master trainer, observes that Gen Z takes a more holistic approach than previous generations.

"They desire to engage in various activities to stay fit, moving beyond a sole focus on a particular training style. For them, it's not merely about looking good, but about feeling good, managing stress, and building a balanced lifestyle."

Exercise as a Productivity Tool

Gen Z recognizes fitness as crucial for unlocking productivity in work and study. An impressive 82% confirm that exercise improves their focus and productivity at work.

This understanding drives their desire to integrate movement into daily life, including the working day.

Their workplace preferences reflect this priority: 52% value lunch breaks long enough for both a workout and a meal, rating this higher than subsidized gym memberships (33.6%).

They want flexible working hours that accommodate staying active, viewing exercise as essential to performing their best.

Diverse Exercise Preferences

When it comes to workout choices, Gen Z shows varied interests that reflect their holistic approach:

• Strength training leads at 26%
  
  
• Running outdoors follows at 25%
  
  
• Pilates and yoga are gaining momentum at 12%
  
  

This diversity aligns with their preference for trying different activities rather than focusing solely on one training style.

The Future of Fitness

Gen Z's approach to fitness represents a fundamental shift from previous generations.

They view exercise not as vanity or obligation, but as essential healthcare—a tool for managing stress, improving mental health, building community, and enhancing performance in all life areas.

This generation's rising fitness spending and sophisticated understanding of exercise benefits suggest they'll continue reshaping the industry.

As their "fitness IQ" grows and their spending power increases, expect to see more businesses adapting to serve their holistic wellness needs.

For Gen Z, fitness isn't just about the body—it's about building the foundation for a balanced, productive, and mentally healthy life.

Source: leisureopportunities, healthclubmanagement, marketscreener

The opinions shared in the GymNation blog articles are solely those of the respective authors and may not represent the perspectives of GymNation or any member of the GymNation team.