AUSactive is excited to unveil the Top 20 Australian Fitness Trends for 2025–26, revealing continued growth in wellness-focused and inclusive exercise options across all age groups.
For the second year running, Fitness Programs for Older Adults have taken out the top position, reinforcing the importance of maintaining strength, mobility, and independence as Australia’s population continues to age.
The annual AUSactive Fitness Trends Survey, now in its sixth year, provides a snapshot of what exercise professionals and business operators across the country are seeing among their clients and members — and how the industry continues to evolve to meet diverse health and lifestyle needs.
AUSactive General Manager, Industry Standards & Development, Chris Alexander said the 2025–26 results show that Australians are embracing a more holistic approach to fitness, with a focus on both physical, social and mental wellbeing.
“Keeping active means different things to different people, and this year’s results reflect that,” Mr Alexander said.
“From Pilates and mental health-focused exercise programs to mobility training and specialised studios, the fitness landscape continues to expand in exciting and meaningful ways.
Australians are recognising that regular movement, in any form, plays a vital role in maintaining long-term health and happiness.”
Mr Alexander said the trends also highlight a strong connection between physical activity and mental health.
“It’s inspiring to see the industry ranking Exercise for Mental Health highly this year, meeting the community’s needs,” he said.
“This reinforces the growing understanding that movement not only strengthens the body but also supports emotional wellbeing and community connection.”
Top 20 Australian Fitness Trends for 2025–26
- Fitness Programs for Older Adults
- Pilates
- Exercise for Mental Health
- Traditional Strength Training
- Wearable Technology
- Group Fitness Classes
- Specialised Fitness Studios
- Exercise for Weight Management
- Employing Registered Exercise Professionals
- Mobility and Recovery Training
- Functional Fitness Training
- Commercial/Multi-Purpose Gyms
- Yoga
- Personal Training
- High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
- Flexible Membership Options
- Exercise is Medicine
- Low-Impact/Joint-Friendly Exercise Options
- Small Group Training
- Exercise in Physical Rehabilitation and Adaptive Training
“The continued presence of trends such as Employing Registered Exercise Professionals, Mobility and Recovery Training, and Exercise is Medicine shows how the industry is evolving to support both preventive health and long-term wellbeing.”
Mr Alexander added that the growing popularity of low-impact and adaptive exercise options demonstrates the industry’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.
“Whether you’re starting your fitness journey, recovering from injury, or looking to age well, there are more options than ever before to stay active safely and effectively,” he said.
As the industry moves into 2026, AUSactive’s insights show a clear trend toward holistic health, inclusivity, and the powerful connection between physical activity and mental wellbeing — shaping a future where fitness truly supports every Australian.
For more information on worldwide fitness trends click here
