2025 Fitness Trends: Insights for Employers to Drive Employee Health and Productivity
Written by: Elisa Denning, CFW Marketing and Fitness Expert
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recently published its top fitness trends for 2025, shedding light on where the fitness industry is headed and highlighting the power of technology, targeted programming, and innovative training methods. For employers focused on improving employee health, reducing healthcare costs, and supporting overall wellness, these trends provide valuable insight into the future of workplace fitness programs. Below is our breakdown of the top 10 trends and their relevance in the corporate fitness sector.
Technology Takes Center Stage in Fitness
Technology continues to be a driving force, with Wearable Technology (#1) ranking as the top trend. Fitness wearables are more advanced than ever, helping users track real-time data such as steps, heart rate, sleep, and even recovery metrics. Recent statistics show that 35% of women and 34% of men in the US utilize wearable fitness and wellness devices. Leveraging this data and growing popularity of wearables can be a game-changer for employee wellness programs, giving individuals valuable insights into their health while allowing employers to encourage better habits across the workforce.
The rise of Mobile Exercise Apps (#2) reinforces this trend, with apps allowing employees to stay active and connected to fitness no matter where they are. With the flexibility to engage in workouts at home or on-the-go, these apps meet the needs of today’s hybrid work environment. At Corporate Fitness Works, our virtual fitness solutions are integrated into our onsite and virtual offerings, giving employees an easy way to stay engaged and fit.
Data-Driven Training Technology (#7) rounds out the tech-focused trends. By leveraging real-time data, fitness professionals can create individualized, adaptive programs that meet employees where they are—whether that’s in a group class or a personalized session. This technology allows for safer, more effective training, which is especially useful for employees managing chronic conditions or varying fitness levels.
Targeted Fitness Programs Address Specific Needs
Beyond technology, the trends point to a rising demand for fitness programs designed for specific needs and populations. Exercise Programs for Older Adults (#3) highlight the importance of catering to older workers who want to stay active, healthy, and independent. Regular exercise can prevent chronic diseases and maintain functional health, which is essential for an aging workforce.
Another notable trend, Exercise for Weight Loss (#4), addresses the health impacts of obesity and the related risks of chronic diseases. Weight-loss programs, especially those integrated into corporate wellness initiatives, can be instrumental in supporting healthier lifestyles and reducing healthcare costs for employers.
Additionally, Exercise for Mental Health (#8) reflects the evolving understanding of fitness as a holistic approach that supports mental resilience. Given the widespread need for mental health support, programs that integrate physical activity to manage stress, improve sleep, and boost overall mood are increasingly valuable.
Popular Training Modalities Resonate Across the Workforce
ACSM’s top trends include tried-and-true fitness modalities that continue to see strong demand. Traditional Strength Training (#5), High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) (#6), and Functional Fitness (#9) remain popular, as they provide versatile options for improving strength, endurance, and functional movement. These training styles are effective in a corporate setting, where employees seek efficient, impactful workouts they can do before, during, or after the workday.
Integrating Wellness Coaching and Professional Guidance
Health and Wellness Coaching (#10) highlights the growing demand for holistic approaches to wellness. Coaching helps employees build lasting habits, navigate their unique health journeys, and achieve personal goals. At Corporate Fitness Works, we incorporate coaching into our offerings, empowering employees with personalized support and motivation.
Bringing the Trends to Life with Corporate Fitness Works
The 2025 fitness trends underscore the role of technology and specialized programs in shaping the future of fitness. For employers, integrating these trends into a well-rounded wellness program can enhance employee engagement, promote long-term health, and reduce overall healthcare costs.
At Corporate Fitness Works, we specialize in bringing these trends to life with a blend of digital and onsite fitness solutions tailored to your team’s unique needs. By combining cutting-edge technology, evidence-based fitness programs, and professional guidance, we help you build a healthier, more productive workforce.
Ready to empower your employees with the latest in fitness and wellness? Contact us to schedule a discovery call and learn how we can support your organizations wellness goals and make a positive impact on employee health and performance!
Sources:
- 2025 ACSM Worldwide Fitness Trends: Future Directions of the Health and Fitness Industry - ACSM's Health & Fitness Journal, 28(6):p 11-25, 11/12 2024.
- Use of wearable fitness or wellness technologies in the United States as of 2023, by gender - https://www.statista.com/statistics/1424301/use-of-fitness-wearables-in-the-us-by-gender/