What People Want From Fitness in 2024: Insights from Life Time's Annual Survey

Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness

As 2024 unfolds, the fitness landscape is shaped by evolving preferences and priorities, revealed in the latest annual consumer health and wellness survey by Life Time. With responses from nearly 3,000 participants, the survey provides a comprehensive snapshot of the nation's health and fitness trends, offering valuable insights into what people are seeking from their fitness routines this year.

A significant takeaway is the emphasis on exercise as ‘me time’. A striking 77.2% of respondents reported they steer clear of work emails and calls during workouts, highlighting a widespread commitment to protecting this time from the intrusion of professional obligations.

The survey also unveils a growing interest in strength training, with 35.9% of respondents marking it as their top fitness goal for 2024, reflecting a more than 3% increase from the previous year. This marks a departure from focusing solely on weight loss, pointing to a broader trend of pursuing holistic fitness goals aimed at enhancing overall physical strength and daily activity levels.

Jeff Zwiefel, President and Chief Operating Officer of Life Time, remarks on the survey's findings, stating, "Through our annual survey, we always look forward to gathering a glimpse of the consumer mindset and attitudes toward health and wellness. Personal health is our best defense to live longer and perform better both physically and mentally, and Life Time is unwavering in our approaches to meet members where they are, helping them to live healthy, happy, and fulfilled lives via our best places, programs, performers, and experiences."

In addition to the primary fitness goals, the survey reveals detailed insights into recovery preferences and workout routines, illustrating the varied approaches to maintaining fitness. A good night's sleep is cited as the top recovery method by 35% of participants, followed closely by sauna or cold plunge sessions at 33.4%. Workout routines vary, with 50.8% of people maintaining a balanced mix of cardio and strength training, indicating a well-rounded approach to fitness.

Other notable stats include:

- Nearly two-thirds (64%) of respondents plan to prioritize their health and wellbeing more in 2024 than in 2023.

- Interest in living longer, healthier lives is a top motivator for 51%, as opposed to 9% focusing on appearance.

- 36% would give up social media forever for losing 10 pounds, highlighting the lengths some are willing to go for weight loss.

- A significant 45% exercise 4-5 times a week, with 62.4% spending 1-2 hours at their health club per visit.

The survey from Life Time reveals how our health and fitness priorities are evolving, showing a clear trend towards more personalized and mindful approaches to wellness. It highlights that as we juggle the demands of daily life, finding effective, flexible fitness options is key. This shift towards prioritizing long-term health over quick fixes or aesthetic goals reflects a broader understanding that wellness is personal and multi-dimensional. As we progress through 2024, it's evident that our approach to staying healthy is becoming more thoughtful, underscoring the importance of supporting each individual's unique journey towards better health.

Elevate Your Expertise: Tune in to Our YouTube Channel for Exclusive Podcasts with fitness and wellness Industry Titans and Game-Changers