96 Million Americans Set Fitness Goals for 2025, HFA Survey Reveals
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
As fitness professionals prepare for a pivotal year, new insights from the Health & Fitness Association reveal a surge in consumer interest in health, fitness, and exercise as top priorities for 2025. A recent survey of 2,000 adults shows that 60%—approximately 96 million Americans—plan to focus their resolutions on physical and mental well-being, positioning the fitness industry at the center of these ambitions.
Building muscle or strength emerged as the leading fitness goal, with 50% of respondents identifying it as a priority. Establishing a consistent exercise routine followed closely, cited by 44%, while 42% expressed a focus on improving mental health through physical activity. These results suggest a broad understanding of fitness that goes beyond physical appearance, recognizing its essential role in mental and emotional well-being.
The survey also underscores the importance of fitness facilities in helping Americans achieve their goals. Nearly 88% of respondents highlighted the need for access to gyms, studios, and health clubs, with 61% describing such access as very important. This reliance on structured exercise environments is further reflected in plans for 2025, with 58% of respondents intending to maintain their current memberships and 23% looking to join a new fitness facility.
Despite the enthusiasm for fitness, affordability remains a significant barrier. Nearly one-third of respondents identified cost as a key factor that could prevent them from achieving their goals. This affordability gap highlights an ongoing challenge for the fitness industry: balancing profitability with accessibility to ensure more Americans can benefit from structured exercise.
“Americans are entering the new year with strong ambitions to improve their health and fitness, but financial strain is a real obstacle for many,” said Liz Clark, HFA president and CEO. “This represents both a challenge and an opportunity to explore strategic solutions that can make fitness more accessible to everyone.”
To address these challenges, HFA has released a report titled Reversing the Physical Inactivity Crisis – Fitness Affordability as Strategic Policy. Conducted in partnership with Portas Consulting, the report explores the impact of reducing membership fees on public health and the economy. The findings reveal that U.S. fitness facility members are nearly 50% more likely to meet the World Health Organization’s recommended levels of physical activity compared to non-members. Additionally, a 10% reduction in membership costs could enable 17 million more Americans to access fitness facilities. This modest adjustment could prevent 500,000 cases of chronic disease annually, potentially saving $12.2 billion in healthcare costs.
The report also highlights the broader economic and social benefits of expanding access to fitness. Increased participation could generate an additional $12.3 billion in consumer spending, create 230,000 jobs, and enhance community trust and life satisfaction for millions of Americans. These findings underscore the interconnected nature of public health, economic growth, and social well-being.
“Making fitness affordable is not only about helping people meet their personal goals,” Clark emphasized. “It’s about fostering healthier communities and unlocking the far-reaching societal benefits that come with increased physical activity.”
The survey and report together provide valuable insights into how fitness professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders can align efforts to meet Americans’ health aspirations for 2025. By addressing affordability and accessibility, the fitness industry has the opportunity to play a transformative role in reversing physical inactivity and promoting a healthier future for all.
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