In 2022, we saw the continued rebound of the health club industry. In 2019, the fitness industry hit an all-time high market value of $41.8 billion, only to tumble to $28 billion the next year. But, notes market and consumer data firm Statista, market revenue was back to a much healthier $32 billion for 2022.
As clubs bounce back and members return in increasingly higher numbers, we’re seeing the emergence of new trends and patterns, many driven by what both members and operators learned during the pandemic.
The Rise of Cardio Trends
In particular, notes Matt Brennand, vice president of cardio at Life Fitness, we’re seeing several trends across cardio and cardio equipment, including the ways that members interact with the equipment, its increased capabilities, and more. He outlines three key trends.
1. Back to Basics, With a New Twist
“We’re seeing modalities that replicate human motion, coupled with a more symbiotic relationship between exerciser and machine,” Matt notes.
Walking, jogging, running, riding, rowing, and climbing are the categories of movement with the most traction versus “new rides” that may not feel as natural. But there is a growing expectation for the equipment that facilitates these motions to be more adaptive to the exerciser as opposed to the exerciser having to adapt to all aspects of the equipment.
“That includes more sophisticated personalization that serves up guidance on the type of workout, how to get the most out of the workout, and tips on how to use the equipment more effectively are considered high value,” he adds.