The 2026 Global Fitness Report, based on insights from over 10,000 global fitness consumers, reveals a sector that’s thriving – and evolving fast, according to Les Mills, the company that conducted the survey. The report found that today’s fitness consumers are informed, empowered, and looking for more than just physical transformation. They want holistic health, mental wellbeing, and experiences that feel personal and connected.

The report dives into key areas shaping the future of fitness, including motivations and barriers to exercise; the rise of strength training; and the evolution of wellness. For operators and decision-makers, the findings present actionable insights in a competitive landscape.

The reasons people work out have shifted dramatically, according to the report. While traditional goals like weight loss and aesthetics remain, they’re no longer the primary motivators. Instead, mental health, holistic wellbeing and workout variety are leading the charge.

Motivation to exercise for mental wellbeing surged by 29% since 2021, while reducing stress is up 17%. Consumers increasingly view fitness as a tool for emotional resilience, not just physical change. With fitness increasingly relied upon for mental health, the focus on enjoyment and overall experience has risen sharply, as consumers seek variety and intensity from their workouts -- 54% want new ways to get fit.

Strength training has exploded into the mainstream, and for many, it is now the default workout, according to the report. More than half of regular exercisers include some form of strength training in their routines. Much like the preference for variety and challenge, offering new ways to service their passion for strength is key.

Notably, wellness has moved beyond buzzword status – in 2026, it’s the key to deeper connections among exercisers, the report states. Club members expect their clubs to support mental, physical, and emotional health in equal measure, which gives clubs and other fitness facilities an opportunity to become trusted, modern wellness hubs that play a deeper role in their members' lives. In fact, 94% of people say the gym is among their most important wellness tools.

For more insights, including barriers and how to overcome them, read the full report, which is based on 10,442 surveys completed online by individuals in 14 countries.

To download the full “2026 Global Fitness Report,” published by Les Mills, click here