The 7 Biggest Fitness Trends Taking Over in 2024

Whether you’re just getting started on your exercise journey or looking to shake up your current routine, the biggest fitness trends of 2024 offer something for everyone. Feel your most motivated while in the great outdoors? More and more people are trading in the gym for exercise in nature. Not into intense cardio training? Mindful movement like Pilates is still going strong. And if you’re looking to explore more advanced ways of tracking your progress, the wearable tech options are plentiful. No matter which trend you pick up, you’re bound to stay active and enjoy the ride toward a healthier, happier you. 

1. Wearable Tech

Fitness trackers and smartwatches are nothing new, but they’re getting more advanced every day. While nobody’s giving up their Apple or Garmin watches quite yet, other options, such as the Ōura ring and Lumen metabolism tracker, are on the rise. These gadgets offer insights into your health, fitness, sleep, and menstrual cycles with more details than ever before. And because they’re often sleek and compact, it’s easy to wear them even when you’re not hitting the gym. It’s never been easier to track how many calories you’ve burned, when your heart rate peaks, and when it’s time to cool down. The American College of Sports Medicine notes this trend tops the list above all. 

2. AI-Powered Training

With one quick search for “AI fitness trainer” on TikTok, you’ll find hundreds of videos. Artificial intelligence seems to be taking over everything these days, and those who’ve used it for exercise purposes are happy with how accessible it makes personal training. A great tool to use for this is ChatGPT. When we asked the bot to give us a five-day fitness plan that’s beginner-friendly for a woman in her 40s, we were served with a detailed plan that included full-body activation, rest or light activity, lower-body focus, core strengthening, and a glute and abs burner sequence. However, it’s still important to stay safe at the gym, so it’s worth having a pro take a look for accuracy. 

3. Sustainable Fitness

As we become more conscious of our impact on the planet, eco-friendly fitness options are gaining traction. But exactly how can we be more sustainable in terms of exercise? Well, the movement includes easy changes such as stocking up on sustainable workout gear and switching to plant-based protein supplements. You also can look for gyms and studios that use green cleaning products and donate proceeds to conservation efforts. 

4. Outdoor Movement

Exercising outside was pretty much our only option from 2020 to2021, and now more people are doing it by choice versus because of restrictions. Think hiking, running, cycling, and even outdoor boot camps if you’re looking for something more intense. Searches for terms including “rucking” (hiking with a weighted vest or backpack) doubled in the last month, according to Google, and searches for outdoor workouts in general remain high since 2023. Not only do you get to soak up some vitamin D, but the change of scenery can be an instant mood booster and help keep you motivated. The outdoor fitness equipment industry is projected to be worth $6.1 billion by 2030. 

5. Workouts for Healthy Aging

Programs for older adults are on the rise. The senior citizen population in the U.S. is only getting larger, and it’s vital that exercises for those 65 and older are accessible in and out of the gym. If there isn’t an opportunity to meet with a trainer one-on-one or attend an aerobics class, workouts that can be done at home are readily available to follow online. Being active leads to a longer, healthier life, and age shouldn’t be a barrier to that.

6. Online Fitness Platforms

The convenience of working out from home isn't going anywhere. With the rise of virtual classes and fitness apps such as Alo Moves, Sculpt Society, and Peloton, you can get a burning workout without even having to step foot outside. There’s everything from yoga flows and cycling classes to dance or HIIT training on demand or on live-streamed sessions. If you’re on a tight schedule, this is the most convenient way to squeeze in consistent workouts. 

7. Mindful Movement

Slow and steady wins the race in 2024. Workouts that focus on the mind-body connection such as yoga and Pilates are still thriving after becoming more and more popular in recent years. The Pilates movement in particular has millions of views on TikTok and Instagram, where users share their routines and results, but it goes beyond the apps, too. Those who aren’t fans of rigorous activity can feel more balanced and centered through mindful movement, and may even find it reduces symptoms of anxiety and stress.