The world of health and fitness is constantly evolving. While the 1980s were dominated by step aerobics and bright, neon Spandex, today’s fitness enthusiasts have swapped flashy outfits for data-driven health technology that can be worn on the wrist or finger. Though the trends of the past no longer dominate our screens, the goal remains the same—people are always looking for the simplest, most engaging ways to improve their health.
Since 2006, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has published its annual Worldwide Fitness Trends forecast, highlighting everything from the latest wearable technology to the most popular workout styles, providing valuable insights for gym operators, personal trainers, and other industry professionals.
“We’ve seen dramatic changes in fitness trends over the last two decades, and this milestone gives us a long-term perspective of how the field has evolved and impacted health and fitness,” said Cayla R. McAvoy, PhD, ACSM-certified exercise physiologist and lead author of the trends report.
They’ve just released their newest edition, revealing the latest trends expected to shape the fitness landscape this year, including continued interest in technology, wellness programs for aging populations, and more.
The Top 10 Fitness Trends Set to Shape 2026
1. Wearable Tech
Wearable technology, from smartwatches to fitness trackers, has exploded in popularity in recent years, with top brands like WHOOP, Garmin, and Oura leading the way. According to ACSM, this trend shows no signs of slowing down. The technology continues to advance, with the latest devices now tracking heart rhythm, blood pressure, blood glucose, and even skin temperature, giving users unprecedented insights into their health.
“Nearly half of U.S. adults now own a fitness tracker or smartwatch, so the question is no longer whether people will use wearables,” said Cayla R. McAvoy, PhD, ACSM-EP, EIM. “What matters now is teaching people how to use them in ways that best support their health and behavior change.”
2. Active Aging
The Baby Boomer generation, which includes about 73 million Americans, will all be over 65 by 2030, creating a growing need for exercise programs designed specifically for older adults. Interest in “active aging” continues to rise, underscoring the demand for safe, effective options for those most at risk of age-related conditions, many of which can be prevented through consistent resistance and mobility training.
3. Exercise for Weight Management
Weight loss is always in the spotlight, and with the rise of GLP-1s, people are exploring every possible way to shed pounds. Obesity currently affects 42.4 percent of U.S. adults, and nearly half of those individuals report actively trying to manage their weight. Beyond medication, exercise remains a cornerstone of long-term weight management, helping to preserve lean mass, maintain physical function, and support metabolic health.
4. Mobile Exercise Apps
Let’s face it, not everyone has time to spend hours in the gym. That’s where mobile exercise apps, especially when combined with smartphones and wearables, can make a big impact.
“These apps can track activity, support goal setting, provide on-demand classes, and facilitate social competition, making them a promising tool for promoting regular physical activity,” says Jennifer Turpin Stanfield, MA, ACSM-EP. “Their overall effectiveness, however, depends on user engagement and program quality.”
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5. Balance, Flow, and Core Strength
Pilates and barre, with their focus on balance, mobility, and core strength, are having a moment, even for men. While they haven’t replaced traditional strength training, these formats are excellent for improving posture, mobility, and core control, helping clients move more safely and efficiently during both strength and cardio workouts.
6. Exercise for Mental Well-Being
Anyone who’s a dedicated runner or gym-goer knows that exercise isn’t just about the body; it’s a major mental boost, too. Now, trends are reflecting that. More than one in five U.S. adults experiences a mental health condition each year, and workouts designed to support mental well-being are rapidly gaining popularity.
“Exercise is now being embraced as much for the mind as for the body, serving as a go-to strategy for stress relief, mood, and resilience,” Cayla R. McAvoy, PhD, ACSM-EP, EIM. “National surveys show that mental well-being is the top reason people choose to exercise, ranking ahead of fitness or appearance.”
7. Traditional Strength Training
No matter what new fitness trends come and go, strength training always holds its ground. It might not have the flashiest moves or a ’90s rap soundtrack blasting in the gym, but it’s a fan favorite for good reason. Strength training builds muscle, strengthens bones, supports weight management, boosts cardiovascular health, and delivers benefits that go far beyond the mirror.
8. Data-Driven Tech
The rise of wearable technology has done more than give us a cool new accessory. Over 70 percent of users report using their data to guide exercise and recovery strategies, while fitness professionals are leveraging biofeedback to fine-tune workout intensity, gauge readiness, and help prevent overtraining.
“Biofeedback has become an impactful tool—allowing both clients and exercise professionals the ability to personalize exercise while gaining real-time insights into the body’s physiological response,” says Jessica Sansone, PhD, ACSM-EP, EIM. “In combination with wearable technology, data-driven technology can help in transforming exercise training into a more tailored and responsive experience.”
9. Sport Clubs
Sports clubs like Equinox, Life Time, and the YMCA have long offered people a place to exercise, unwind, and connect with others. But in recent years, new players have entered the game. Pickleball clubs and leagues, for example, perfectly illustrate how fitness and social connection are thriving beyond the walls of traditional gyms.
10. Functional Fitness
If there’s one buzzword that’s taken over the fitness world, it’s “functional.” While some trainers might roll their eyes at it, functional fitness is really just a mix of strength, power, mobility, and endurance training designed to improve how you move in everyday life. The best part? This kind of workout works for everyone and helps you become a stronger, more well-rounded athlete.
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