By Pallav Bihani
India’s fitness industry is on a growth trajectory, thanks to increasing consumer awareness, a focus on wellness and the rising adoption of technology-driven solutions. As we have stepped into 2025, businesses are looking to capture this momentum by offering innovative, personalised, and sustainable fitness experiences.
Hybrid fitness models: Expanding revenue streams
The hybrid fitness model, offering both digital and in-person workout options, has gained significant traction with over 40% of fitness enthusiasts preferring the flexibility of mixed routines. Gyms and fitness platforms are capitalising on this trend by introducing hybrid memberships that allow users to train at home while participating in group classes at physical locations. This approach is creating new revenue streams and boosting retention especially among urban professionals who want flexibility without compromising on engagement.
Functional fitness: Catering to broader demographics
Functional fitness, i.e. focusing on improving mobility, posture and strength, is becoming increasingly popular, with 20-25% of fitness centers now offering specialised functional training programs. This trend appeals to a diverse audience, including older adults and corporate professionals, who are looking for practical fitness solutions that enhance daily life rather than just aesthetic goals. For fitness businesses, this shift opens up opportunities for partnerships with corporates and healthcare providers.
Wearable fitness technology: Driving personalisation
The wearable tech market in India has grown by over 50% year-on-year, and in 2025, wearables will become smarter and more affordable. Devices will go beyond step counting to provide advanced insights on recovery, stress levels, and sleeppatterns. Fitness businesses will leverage this data to deliver personalised workout plans and health coaching, enhancing user engagement and loyalty. With over 100 million wearable users expected by 2025, this segment presents a significant opportunity for fitness startups to build data-driven solutions.
Holistic health and wellness: Diversifying offerings
Consumers today want more than just physical fitness; they seek holistic wellness solutions. In 2025, businesses will expand their offerings to include nutrition counseling, mental wellness programs, and recovery services. Companies that can bundle these services into integrated solutions will see 30-40% higher engagement, as users increasingly prioritise overall well-being. This trend will also drive collaborations between fitness startups, wellness platforms, and healthcare providers.
Personalisation through AI: Improving retention
AI-driven personalisation will become a key differentiator for fitness platforms in 2025. With over 70% of consumers preferring tailored fitness solutions, businesses investing in AI-based workout plans, diet recommendations, and progress tracking will enjoy a competitive edge. Personalised fitness solutions have been shown to improve retention rates by 20-25%, making this an essential focus for brands aiming to build long-term relationships with their users.
Sustainability: A key differentiator
With over 60% of millennials actively seeking sustainable products, fitness brands are adopting eco-friendly practices, from using recycled materials in activewear to offering biodegradable yoga mats. Gyms and studios are also moving toward energy-efficient operations and reducing single-use plastics. Brands that prioritise sustainability will not only appeal to eco-conscious consumers but also gain higher margins in premium segments.
Community-led fitness: Boosting engagement
Fitness communities have shown to improve engagement compared to solo workouts. In 2025, businesses will focus on building online and offline communities, whether through virtual challenges, group classes or on-ground events like marathons. Brands that foster a sense of belonging will see stronger user retention and organic growth, driven by word-of-mouth referrals. Community-driven fitness models also create opportunities for cross-brand collaborations and sponsorships.
Inclusivity and accessibility: Reaching untapped markets
Inclusivity will play a key role in expanding the fitness market in India. With Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities driving new demand, fitness brands are creating affordable solutions that cater to diverse demographics. Additionally, adaptive workouts and accessible infrastructure will make fitness more welcoming for differently-abled individuals and older adults, opening up new markets and increasing brand equity.
Recovery as a core offering
Recovery is becoming an integral part of fitness routines, with businesses offering dedicated recovery zones, foam rollers, massage guns, and specialised recovery programs. In 2025, expect recovery-focused offerings to grow further, helping gyms differentiate themselves and increase average order values (AOV). Brands that integrate recovery tools and services into their product lines will see stronger engagement from users who prioritise sustainable, injury-free fitness.
In conclusion, 2025 will be a year where the fitness industry becomes more dynamic, inclusive and tech-driven. Businesses that focus on hybrid models, personalisation, and sustainability will thrive in a competitive market. With consumers increasingly viewing fitness as a long-term investment in their health, the opportunity for growth is immense.
For fitness brands and startups, staying agile, leveraging technology and building strong communities will be key to sustaining success in an evolving landscape. By addressing diverse consumer needs and focusing on delivering long-term value, India’s fitness industry is set to create a vibrant ecosystem that empowers millions to lead healthier, more active lives.
The author is founder and CEO, Boldfit. Views expressed are personal and not necessarily those of financialexpress.com.