Nearly Half of Brits Now Exercise, PureGym Report Finds
Krissy Vann | Host, All Things Fitness and Wellness
As 2024 comes to a close, there’s a noticeable shift in how the UK is approaching fitness. According to PureGym’s The UK Fitness Report 2024/25, nearly half the population (48%) now participates in regular exercise, up 3% from last year. While that may seem incremental, it represents roughly two million more people making physical activity a part of their routine. This surge, led largely by younger generations, is a sign that fitness is increasingly becoming a national priority.
London leads the charge as the most active region, with 59% of residents exercising regularly, while the East Midlands trails behind at 44%. Among 25-to-34-year-olds, 65% report exercising consistently, while an impressive 89% of 18-to-24-year-olds incorporate strength training into their weekly routines—a clear reflection of the younger generation's commitment to long-term health. However, regional disparities in activity levels point to ongoing accessibility challenges that require attention.
Mental and cardiovascular health have emerged as focal points for many, with one in three people seeking to improve these areas through exercise. Despite this, fatigue remains a persistent barrier, affecting 68% of the population and disproportionately impacting women (73%) compared to men (63%). The data also reveals that only 10% of the population meets NHS-recommended activity levels, indicating that while aspirations for better health are widespread, converting those aspirations into action remains a challenge.
One of the most encouraging findings from the report is the decline in “gymtimidation.” Only 8% of respondents now report feeling intimidated by the gym, a significant drop from 21% in 2023. Women are still more likely to experience this intimidation (10%) than men (6%), but the trend suggests that gyms are becoming more inclusive spaces. Exercising in front of others is cited as the primary reason for gym-related anxiety, affecting 70% of those who feel intimidated. This is followed by not knowing how to use equipment (61%) and feeling out of place (56%).
Despite the positive trends, significant challenges remain. One in five people dislike exercise outright, and 13% find it boring. Physical health conditions limit 19% of people from participating in regular exercise, and 8% cite mental health as a barrier. Additionally, only 44% of people feel physically healthy, though this marks an improvement from previous years.
Financial accessibility continues to be a concern. While one in four people increased their spending on fitness in 2024—primarily on workout apparel and home equipment—30% of gym cancellations were attributed to cost. This is especially pronounced among 35-to-44-year-olds, 54% of whom report financial constraints as a barrier to fitness. Interestingly, the average perceived cost of a gym membership is £88 per month, though many gyms offer far more affordable options.
Younger generations are not only driving fitness trends but also shifting priorities. Nearly half of all respondents exercise to improve overall health, but younger age groups are equally focused on building strength, flexibility, and improving mental well-being. Aesthetic goals, while still present, are taking a backseat to holistic health motivations. Among women, 39% cite weight loss as a priority, compared to 27% of men.
Looking to 2025, remote personal training is set to dominate as the top fitness trend, with a 414% increase in interest over the past year. Functional fitness and high-intensity events like Hyrox are also gaining traction, reflecting a broader interest in practical, endurance-based workouts. The report predicts a continued rise in group fitness participation, with nearly one-third of gym-goers attending classes such as cycling and functional training.
As the fitness industry evolves, the insights from PureGym’s The UK Fitness Report 2024/25 underscore both opportunities and challenges for operators worldwide. The data reveals a growing commitment to health but also highlights critical gaps in accessibility, affordability, and engagement. For the industry, the path forward lies in leveraging these insights to innovate and adapt.
Elevate Your Expertise: Tune in to Our YouTube Channel for Exclusive Podcasts with fitness and wellness Industry Titans and Game-Changers
