Running clubs will increase, portable technology will become more intuitive and walks will become more conscious – these are just some of the outdoor exercise trends expected for 2025.
We spoke to several fitness and wellness experts to find out what the new year may bring for those of us who enjoy the outdoors in hiking boots, running shoes and water shoes. The most resounding answer was that running clubs – like This is reported by Strava has grown in popularity by 59 percent this year—will continue to grow as people seek both security and community from their workouts.
“I think this reflects a desire to reconnect with others after previous trends had shifted more towards isolated fitness activities – and it’s also good for our mental and emotional health to exercise in a group,” says the fitness instructor and psychotherapist Eloise Skinner.
The group mentality is not predicted to stay with runners either. Several experts we spoke to say they believe hikers will also flock, and that mindfulness and mental wellbeing will continue to shape how we approach our walks and outdoor activities.
“I think there will be an increase in mindfulness walks. Walks that are about having a digital detox and are seen as therapeutic because they give you time to think, reflect and connect with nature,” says Chloe Thomas, PT, Nutrition and Mindset Coach at Chloe inspires.
There is no doubt that our fascination with GPS watches will continue, and one expert believes that wearable technology will become even more refined, giving rise to watches that can analyze your natural environment to help you adjust your pace, for example.
And take yours wet suitbecause more of us are likely to take the plunge cold water swimmingsomething that events marketplace Eventbrite has seen grow fivefold in the past year.
“Our data suggests that there is a growing trend for people to meet, mainly in mixed or all-female groups, and often combined with mindful activities such as breath work, yoga and meditation,” said Callum Wild, Commercial Director UK and Ireland on Eventbrite.
We are showing signs of finally getting more serious recovery too, with Strava’s data showing that people are scheduling more rest and active rest days into their training.
To read the full predictions and get our suggestions on the gear you’ll need to join these activities, head over to our article on 7 outdoor fitness trends that will be everywhere in 2025.
