If you’ve been watching the fitness world this year, one thing is very clear, the culture around exercise has definitely changed and a lot of that change is being led by the younger generations, gone are the days when fitness was all about being “skinny and thin” and fitting a certain aesthetic that society forces upon us and instead there is more emphasis being put on health and strength and even energy as core priorities.
Across the UK, gym memberships and activity are on the rise, especially amongst younger adults aged around 16 up to 28. And many in this age group are working out at least twice a week, with a significant amount seeing exercise not just as a physical activity but as a way to boost mental health positively and boost energy levels! In fact a recent research shows that around 62–73% of younger adults are exercising at least twice weekly, and they’ve been prioritising fitness over traditional social activities like going to pubs, partying or restaurants.
This shift is not just about showing up at the gym and instead being about what people do when they’re there and strength training has become especially popular which is a trend we absolutely love!
Increasing numbers of the younger generation are lifting weights not to look a certain way but to feel stronger, improve posture, and support long-term health. This is a move away from the old stereotype of endless cardio as the only path to fitness and towards a more balanced, sustainable approach to exercise.
Another huge trend amongst young adults is rethinking social habits and rather then revolving a social life around alcohol, many of us are choosing fitness and wellness as a way of staying connected and healthy at the same time. Some have reduced their drinking or even swapped it for healthier alternatives entirely and see more value in training with friends, trying group classes, and simply feeling good the next day rather than nursing a hangover.
At Avenue Tennis, this evolving fitness culture is something we definitely support! Our gym space is perfectly suited to strength training, functional workouts, and progressive fitness routines that help people of all ages to build resilience and capabilities.
Alongside this, our classes from Pilates to TeamBeats to Spin offer varieties and community and is exactly what many younger members are looking for!
Our group sessions give you opportunity to move with others, make connections, and enjoy workouts that feel social as well as effective. We are supporting this trend even further with our wellness services that can help you take your health and progress to the next level. With body composition check-ups that provide a real insight into muscle mass, fat levels and balance, giving you something real to track beyond just how you look.
From here a new training programme or wellness PT sessions can act as gentle introductions to personal training and helping you set goals and building habits that last without overwhelming you all at once and let’s not forget recovery!. The health suite with sauna and steam room isn’t just a luxury but a part of a holistic approach to wellbeing that this generation is embracing! Taking time to recover, de-stress, and look after your body is now a valued part of the fitness journey and not an optional extra.
The fitness trends of 2026 are healthier, stronger, and more mindful than ever before! Younger generations are redefining what it means to be fit, focusing on strength, community, and overall wellbeing and we are here to help you make the most of it every step of the way!