A new year is a great opportunity for a fresh start. For those focused on fitness, it’s also a chance to feel motivated and set new goals.
Last year, home gyms and functional fitness were popular, while trends such as the 12-3-30 treadmill workout and ice baths went viral on social media. With 2025 around the corner, what are some of the top fitness trends likely to dominate 2025?
Sleep and recovery are a priority
The connection between sleep and recovery is well established, making it no surprise that it will be a leading health trend. Fitness enthusiasts are increasingly looking beyond workouts to focus on recovery and energy optimisation.
GCC marketing director of Whoop
“Based on Whoop Year in Review member data and broader fitness trends, we anticipate sleep emerging as a major focus in 2025,” says Stephan Muller, GCC marketing director of Whoop. “Getting a good night’s rest isn’t just about sleeping more – it’s about optimising recovery, energy and performance through better-quality sleep and more consistent sleep habits.”
According to a recent study, in which 950 individuals were polled by Premier Inn Middle East and Silentnight Arabia, more than 40 per cent aren’t getting enough quality sleep. Whoop’s data back this up, as Muller cites that the UAE ranks third lowest in sleep performance among its users, with an average score of 74 per cent, trailing Singapore (73 per cent) and India (71 per cent).
Healing practices to take centre stage
It isn’t only sleep that will play a role in recovery. Suzi Curtis, master health and wellness trainer in Abu Dhabi, believes that mindfulness practices will also gain traction.
“People are starting to realise more that they cannot live a high-intensity life anymore and that, with all the technology we have, we need to start to switch off,” says Curtis.
“I expect to see a lot more healing practices for the body, such as meditation, breath work and yoga. Yes, I still think the trend of reformer Pilates and HIIT will still be in play, but people are stressed, so they’re now looking for ways to regulate the nervous system and bring themselves back 'home' or to 'themselves'.”
Curtis says she has weightlifters, boxers and high-intensity trainers who are looking to regulate themselves more through Somatics, a practice that emphasises body awareness and the mind-body connection, as well as energy work. She adds: “They are turning inwards rather than hitting the boxing bag like they used to.”
Hyrox will continue to surge in popularity
Meanwhile, for those who enjoy a fitness challenge, Hyrox – a fitness race combining endurance and functional strength, derived from the words “hybrid” and “rock star” – is expected to continue growing in popularity.
Started in Germany in 2017, the brand hosts events that sell out around the world including in the UAE. Hyrox is a subdivision of physical training known as fitness racing. It is a series of challenges designed to test strength and endurance, interspersed with 1km runs between each task, with those competing aiming for the fastest time.
“Looking ahead, I believe high-intensity interval training will remain a mainstay,” says Luka Sink, manager at F45 Dubai Motor City. “The market is shifting to shorter than 60-minute sessions and integrating more flexibility and mobility into the routines. We can’t deny the rise of Hyrox either.”
Now available in 11 countries and more than 30 cities, Hyrox continues to expand its reach. For those looking to participate – whether seasoned competitors or first-timers – Sink says F45 will launch a 12-week programme ahead of the next Hyrox race in Sharjah this April.
Fitness for social connection
The resurgence of group fitness classes this year highlighted the growing importance of exercise as a social activity. Many participants say these classes not only improve fitness, but also help them build friendships.
Strava’s Year in Sport 2024 report, which surveyed more than 5,000 active people on and off the platform, supports this shift. In it, 58 per cent of respondents made new friends through fitness groups, while nearly one in five Gen Z respondents went on a date with someone they met through exercise.
“Fitness is no longer a solo journey – technology is fostering connections and enhancing the sense of community, whether in-person or online,” says Muller. “Already community-driven fitness is gaining momentum, with wearable devices fostering connections among like-minded individuals, friends and family who motivate and support each other in achieving their fitness goals.”
Group fitness: Running clubs and padel tennis
For those seeking things to do in a group setting, running clubs and padel are proving to be popular choices.
Strava’s report found there was a 59 per cent increase in running club participation globally. It also noted there was a 40 per cent average increase in activity (runs, rides, hikes) with more than 10 people versus when alone. This is also backed up by stats from Whoop.
“Our Whoop Year in Review member data shows padel tennis is rapidly gaining popularity in Dubai and Riyadh, likely for its combination of endurance, strategy and recovery demands,” says Muller. “As interest in padel grows, this community will increasingly seek ways to optimise recovery and performance, with wearables offering valuable insights into training and well-being.
“Walking and running also remain among the top activities in the GCC region, particularly as people increasingly focus on simple, accessible ways to stay active. We are seeing a rise in walking and running clubs.”
Overall, these trends continue to highlight a shift toward more holistic, community-driven approaches to fitness, where physical health, mental well-being and social connection can inspire a healthier and more connected future.
