Wellbeing Burnout Spikes Globally, Group Fitness May Help, Says New Report
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
As more people focus on improving their wellbeing, the Lululemon Global Wellbeing Report 2024, conducted by Edelman Data & Intelligence, reveals that many are actually feeling more burned out than ever before. Instead of seeing the benefits of prioritizing physical, mental, and social health, nearly half of respondents (45%) are experiencing what's being called "wellbeing burnout." The survey, which gathered responses from 16,000 people across 15 countries between April and May 2024, highlights the pressure many feel to live up to societal expectations and suggests that simple activities, like exercising with others, could be part of the solution.
One standout finding from the report is just how much group activities can boost wellbeing. Whether it’s participating in team sports, joining a group fitness class, or simply being active with friends, people who work out with others report feeling better overall. Those who participate in team sports, for example, saw their overall wellbeing increase by 14%. Even more striking, individuals who feel a sense of belonging when working out with others reported a 21% improvement in their wellbeing.
It’s not just about intense workouts, either. Group fitness classes like yoga or Pilates showed similar benefits, with participants experiencing a 15% increase in their sense of wellbeing. The survey suggests that combining movement with connection—whether it's a casual walk or a workout class—has a powerful effect on both physical and mental health.
Interestingly, those with higher levels of wellbeing tend to lean toward lower-intensity activities. People who take short walks or stretch throughout the day reported a 16% boost in their wellbeing. Men, in particular, are shifting toward these types of activities, with a 46% increase in yoga and Pilates participation compared to last year.
Exercising as a social activity also comes with major perks. People who move their bodies while connecting with others reported a 23% increase in their overall wellbeing. Simple activities like a group workout or a hike with friends seem to offer big benefits in combating the feelings of burnout many are experiencing.
Despite the clear advantages of staying active and connecting with others, the survey also found that many people feel pressured by societal expectations around their wellbeing. Globally, 61% of respondents said they feel overwhelmed by the need to appear "well," and this pressure is particularly high in places like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Malaysia, and the United States, where burnout rates are the highest. Younger generations, especially Gen Z and Millennials, are feeling this the most, with 76% of Gen Z respondents saying they feel pressure from society to manage their wellbeing in specific ways.
While the pressures are real, the survey points to some helpful ways to reduce burnout. Setting boundaries, taking social media breaks, and practicing mindfulness were all linked to higher levels of wellbeing. Those who took regular breaks from social media reported a 9% boost, while people who set boundaries in their work and personal lives saw a 13% improvement in their overall wellbeing.
Lululemon’s findings highlight a key opportunity for fitness businesses, especially as the health, active lifestyle, and outdoor sector continues to grow. With more people looking for ways to connect, gyms and fitness centers have the chance to position themselves as "third spaces"—places beyond home and work where people can come together, move, and improve their wellbeing. Group fitness classes, team sports, and social events at gyms could play a crucial role in fostering community and helping people manage the pressures of modern life, offering not just physical benefits but also much-needed social and mental support.
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