Top Fitness Trends in 2025 and How 9Round Fits In

In 2025, it’s clear that the fitness industry is continuing to evolve with new trends and innovations that reshape how we approach health and wellness. From the rise of convenient, flexible workout options to the growing demand for community-driven experiences, the way we exercise is rapidly changing. In this blog, we’ll explore the top fitness trends for the year ahead and dive into how 9Round is leading the charge.

STRENGTH AND ENDURANCE TRAINING TAKE CENTER STAGE

Strength gains are still on the top of everyone’s minds this year, and the trend toward strength and endurance training isn’t slowing down anytime soon.

“Strength training programming continues to be a mainstay in the fitness industry worldwide. With consumers focused on longevity, maintaining physical function and moving with vigor helps maintain quality of life.” — Rachelle Reed, MS, PhD, ACSM-EP

People are moving away from short-term weight loss goals and focusing more on building sustainable, functional fitness that supports their long-term health. This trend is driven by a greater understanding of how strength and endurance are essential for everything from daily activities to preventing injury and aging gracefully.

With a growing desire for fitness programs that offer both immediate results and lasting benefits, it’s no surprise that brands like 9Round, which blend strength, cardio, and endurance training into one efficient 30-minute session, are seeing a surge in popularity.

We’re leveraging this growing fitness trend by incorporating a deliberate mix of functional bodyweight exercises, traditional weightlifting movements with equipment, and powerful resistance from heavy kickboxing bags into every session.

At 9Round, our results-driven workouts keep members engaged, challenged, and coming back for more. Each 30-minute session is designed to build strength, increase endurance, and deliver real progress members can see and feel. For franchise owners, this means stronger member retention, higher engagement, and a thriving studio.

THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY IN FITNESS

Wearable devices are still playing a pivotal role in fitness.

“Clients desire instant feedback on their training so they can adjust or modify to maximize outcomes and reduce injury,” says A’Naja Newsome, PhD, ACSM Certified Exercise Physiologist.

We’ve tapped into this fitness trend at 9Round with the use of our PULSE heart rate technology, which combines cutting-edge science and real-time feedback to enhance every workout.

Because your heart rate is the ideal performance tracking metric, this gives members a clear, measurable way to track their progress at 9Round. This translates to higher member satisfaction, stronger retention, and a data-driven approach that reinforces the value of every workout.

However, one of the most exciting tech innovations at 9Round is our patent-pending 9Round Workout System, which combines cutting-edge workout screens at each station with a voice timer system to aid trainers during peak hours and allow for self-guided workouts. This exclusive technology is a game-changer for the customer experience at our studios.

It allows members to stay fully engaged, following clear instructions and staying motivated throughout their workout, all while working at their own pace and fitness level. For franchisees, this system means a unique, standout offering that sets your studio apart, keeping members happier and, ultimately boosting revenue with a knockout experience that keeps members coming back for more.

CONVENIENCE & FLEXIBILITY MATTER MORE THAN EVER

People are busier than ever, but they’re looking for convenient ways to stay active and incorporate fitness into their routines. The days of rigid class schedules that force members to adjust their day around a gym’s timetable are on the decline.

Instead, people are seeking flexible, on-demand fitness solutions that work around their schedule, not the other way around. This shift toward convenience has made fitness more accessible for everyone, especially busy professionals, parents, and those with unpredictable routines.

9Round has consistently set the standard for convenience and flexibility since we were founded in 2008 with our no-class-times model, offering members to the freedom to come in and start their workout whenever they want. 

Our circuit-based workouts are designed to be completed in just 30 minutes, which means members can walk into any 9Round location and jump right into their workout on the next round—fitting in a quick sweat session before a meeting, after dropping the kids off, or whenever their schedule allows.  

And now, we’ve introduced 24/7, 365-day access using our patent-pending 9Round Workout System, making it easier than ever for members to fit their workouts into their busy lives.

For franchise owners, this allows for more opportunities to attract and retain members, maximize studio usage, and increase revenue potential without adding extra staffing costs. It also gives you more flexibility as an owner—you don’t always need a trainer on the floor, meaning fewer scheduling headaches and no scrambling to cover shifts when someone’s out!

Oh, and there’s also 9RoundNOW—our on-demand workouts—which can be accessed through the 9Round app. Just another option for you to add value to memberships and keep people engaged even if they can’t make it to the gym. As you can see, we’ve truly tapped into every option when it comes to workout convenience and flexibility.

COMMUNITY-DRIVEN FITNESS & ACCOUNTABILITY

A lot of people are now seeking more than just a place to work out and many are moving away from big-box gyms in favor of smaller, more supportive environments where they can build connections and feel truly motivated.

The sense of community and accountability within gym culture has become a major driving force in the fitness industry, with members seeking a space where they can stay engaged and reach their goals with the help of others and find a little friendly competition at times.

At 9Round, our Champion Trainers play a key role in fostering this environment by providing personalized motivation, expert guidance, and accountability throughout every workout. By creating meaningful relationships and offering consistent support, our trainers ensure members stay on track, challenge themselves, and achieve results. 

For franchise owners, tapping into the community-driven nature of 9Round can be a powerful tool to boost member retention, as people are more likely to stick with a fitness routine when they feel connected and supported by both their trainers and fellow members.

Local studios bring members together through kickboxing workshops, fun monthly challenges, and other member events that foster a sense of camaraderie and support. These activities not only help members stay motivated but also create lasting connections, making fitness more enjoyable.

As you can see, 9Round is well-positioned to thrive amidst these evolving fitness trends. With a focus on strength and endurance, cutting-edge technology, convenience, and community-driven accountability, we offer a unique and compelling fitness experience that resonates with today’s busy, results-driven individuals.

Our low overhead model, compared to traditional gyms, allows franchise owners to maximize profitability while providing members with a high-energy workout in just 30 minutes.

Looking ahead, 9Round plans to continue innovating, with exciting studio upgrades like expanded functional fitness areas to further enhance the member experience. We’re also committed to growing the success of our 24/7 model, with the goal to open more all-access gyms equipped with state-of-the-art fitness technology, bringing our innovative approach to fitness to communities worldwide.

With these trends shaping the future of fitness, investing in a 9Round franchise is a smart move for anyone looking to be part of the next generation of fitness.