The global wellness market is projected to grow to nearly $9 trillion by 2028 as we embrace new ways of living, moving, and being. This is good news for the fitness industry, which continues to evolve with fresh approaches to movement, community, and wellbeing.
Here are five fitness trends we see taking centre stage this year.
Strength Training for Everyone—Pilates, Too
Valued for its anti-aging, functional, and metabolism-boosting benefits, strength training is everywhere—from gyms to TikTok. Even Peloton has embraced it, launching a dedicated strength training app to attract more enthusiasts.
Gyms are expanding their strength training offerings, adding Olympic lifting platforms and other free weights while reducing cardio equipment. Pilates’ continued rise is linked to this strength movement, where functional fitness trends concepts like Pvolve have gained massive popularity as more women embrace strength training for longevity.
As Jennifer Aniston’s favourite low-impact fitness method—she fell in love with Pvolve’s approach after sustaining a back injury on set and joined as an ambassador in 2023—Pvolve offers resistance equipment kits combined with virtual classes, including travel-friendly routines.
Pvolve classes mimic everyday movements and focus on low-impact, high-intensity exercises that strengthen the body without stressing the joints. Instructors emphasize proper alignment and mind-body connection, helping improve balance, stability, and flexibility.
Cardio’s Social Boom: Running and Walking Clubs
While strength training is still dominating (fitness trends tend to carry over), 2025 is shaping up to be the year of cardio’s comeback. Walking and running clubs have surged in popularity, showing how social and community-driven cardiovascular exercise can be. Beyond its accessibility, cardio is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve heart health, mental wellbeing, and overall longevity.
Run clubs, in particular, are gaining popularity due to their strong social element, allowing people to build community and access support and motivation. Beyond the physical benefits of running, these clubs fulfill a growing need for outdoor activities and a sense of belonging, particularly in urban environments.
The Running Room, with its 80 locations across Canada and the United States, offers free run clubs and related services like clinics and races. These clubs cater to various skill levels, ensuring inclusivity for beginners and experienced runners alike.
Many runners find that participating in a club helps them stay committed to their fitness goals while also fostering friendships and social engagement, making it a welcoming option for all.
HYROX: Taking Over the Fitness World
HYROX, a global fitness challenge founded in Germany in 2017, has exploded in popularity, now hosting events in over 20 countries. Blending cardio and strength training, it offers a structured, goal-oriented test of endurance and muscular strength, accessible to all fitness levels.
The workout is built on functional movements like lunging and squatting, creating a challenge for which anyone can train. Designed to enhance both heart health and overall strength, HYROX combines resistance training with endurance elements, making it a well-rounded fitness experience.
In Canada, partner gym Live Live Fit was “quick to jump onto this new sport that started in Europe. It gives every level athlete an opportunity to compete in person either as an individual, with a partner or on a team of four. The HYROX classes have brought new members to our gym, and the destination races allow athletes to compete while mixing it with a vacation.”
Beyond the physical benefits, HYROX fosters a strong community, motivating participants with clear goals and a supportive atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, it’s a challenge that pushes you while helping you feel stronger in daily life.
Turning Up the Heat with Hot Yoga
Amid the urban hustle, a steamy oasis invites you to slow down, sweat, and reset. Hot yoga isn’t just a workout—it’s a transformative practice that builds endurance, mental resilience, and emotional release.
Performed in a heated room, often nearing 40°C, hot yoga amplifies traditional yoga’s benefits, enhancing flexibility, circulation, and detoxification. Oxygen Yoga & Fitness, with over 100 locations across North America, takes it further with far infrared heat, promoting deep relaxation and renewal. In this environment, yoga’s physical and mental benefits are intensified, turning each session into a journey of self-discovery.
Far beyond passing fitness trends, hot yoga is a practice that strengthens the body, soothes the mind, and recharges the spirit. Whether you’re an experienced yogi or stepping onto the mat for the first time, it’s an opportunity to embrace challenge, find balance, and unlock a more profound sense of wellbeing.
The Rise of Remote Personal Training: Fitness Anytime, Anywhere
Remote personal training is revolutionizing the fitness industry, offering a flexible and accessible alternative to traditional in-person coaching. Using video platforms, fitness apps, and AI-driven tools, trainers can design personalized programs for clients anywhere in the world.
This approach is ideal for busy professionals who need flexible scheduling and individuals in remote areas who lack access to quality trainers and usually costs much less than going the traditional route. Sessions can take place at home, outside of gym hours, or even on the go, eliminating the barriers of time and location.
For trainers, remote coaching provides the convenience of working with more clients. Some gyms now offer hybrid memberships that combine in-person and virtual training. With user-friendly apps and online platforms, staying consistent with fitness goals has never been easier.
Kickoff offers 1-on-1 personal training via text, live video and their app, tailored to your fitness and wellness goals. Their workouts are optimized for your experience level, injuries, and equipment, and they match you with a coach for accountability.