Top 10 fitness industry trends in the UK and digital payment methods driving the growth

The fitness industry is experiencing a remarkable evolution, fuelled by technological innovations, shifting consumer desires, and an increased emphasis on overall well-being. The industry that was significantly shaken during COVID-19 is showing remarkable resilience to achieve an impressive £6.3 trillion in 2023 and is on track to reach £9 trillion by 2028. Following increased health awareness in the post-pandemic era, the gym and wellness sector in the UK is on overdrive, with more than 10 million active gym members fuelling an industry valued at around £2 billion. 

With the payment systems market in the UK growing at a CAGR of 6.6% to expectedly cross the £9.7 billion mark in 2024, its obvious impact in an increasingly tech-driven industry such as the fitness sector is undeniable. To stay competitive, gym owners, wellness centres, and fitness professionals need to keep up with emerging trends and incorporate modern payment solutions like online payment systems, subscription billing, and QR code payments. This article offers a comprehensive analysis of the latest trends and payment technologies transforming the fitness industry.

Impact of digital payment systems on the wellness sector

Modern payment methods are streamlining operations, increasing customer experiences, and helping gyms and wellness centres respond to shifting consumer behaviours. Online payment systems, QR code payments, and subscription billing are replacing cash and manual billing.

Members can pay for services anytime, anywhere, with these systems. Mobile POS systems simplify in-person membership and retail payments, while payment links speed up virtual class transactions. Automation of regular payments reduces administrative tasks and ensures cash flow via subscription billing.

Modern payment systems improve client happiness by enabling secure, instant transactions. It lets gyms collect money for physical and digital services, supporting hybrid gym models. These technologies eliminate paper invoices and receipts, promoting sustainability.

Fitness organisations can improve operational efficiency, eliminate payment issues, and strengthen member relationships by adopting new payment technology, preparing themselves for long-term success.

Where is the fitness industry headed? An overview

The fitness sector is undergoing a significant transformation marked by several crucial advancements. Digital integration is essential since technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), wearable devices, and virtual reality (VR) improve individualised exercise experiences. The hybrid training concept, integrating in-person and virtual sessions, accommodates various lifestyles and has become a typical provision. There is an increasing focus on holistic wellbeing, incorporating mental health, mindfulness, and rehabilitation programs into conventional fitness routines. Sustainability is more prevalent, with environmentally mindful methods shaping gym designs and operations. Moreover, novel payment options are being implemented to improve member happiness and optimise operating efficiency.

So, if you are in the fitness industry, you’d love to dive into the top 10 trends that are adding new dimensions to the constantly changing wellness space.

Top 10 fitness industry trends

Hybrid gym models

The hybrid gym model, which blends physical and virtual offerings, has become a staple of the modern fitness business. This method appeals to a wide range of members, offering flexibility and ease. According to the latest reports, 80% of gym members choose a combination of online and in-person training. This concept enables participants to attend in-person sessions for social contact while also accessing virtual content when time or location constraints exist.

Payment solutions for hybrid models: Adding payment links for virtual class bookings and subscription invoicing for hybrid memberships assures consistent revenue collection and improves the member experience.

Wearable fitness devices

The adoption of wearable fitness trackers, which provide users with data on their physical activity in real-time, is becoming increasingly popular. Fitness routines now can't be imagined without devices like Fitbit, Garmin, and Apple Watch. Research suggests that the wearable fitness industry is projected to reach $150 billion by 2028, expanding at a CAGR of 13.8%. Users may optimise their workouts with the help of these devices, which monitor health parameters and deliver actionable advice. 

Another complementary trend is the increased use of fitness apps that are revolutionising the personal fitness industry. With more than 800 million users globally anticipated this year, the production prediction touches approximately $6.8 billion. Important categories encompass activity trackers, guided workout applications, and dietary applications. Strava, an app favoured by runners, cyclists, and swimmers, has experienced a 36% rise in searches over the past ten years. 

Workout apps like Peloton and Zwift provide streaming or on-demand sessions led by fitness experts or coaches. 

Diet applications, like MyFitnessPal, provide meal planning tools, nutrition tracking features, and calorie counting options. These apps are becoming increasingly popular because of their social capabilities and sophisticated functionalities.

Integration with gym services: Gyms can enhance client engagement and promote a data-driven approach to fitness by integrating wearable data with their apps to provide personalised training regimens.

AI-powered personalisation

Every individual has specific fitness needs and endurance levels. By facilitating hyperpersonalised experiences, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the fitness industry. AI-powered platforms analyse member data to recommend personalised exercises, monitor progress, and offer real-time feedback. For example, fitness mirrors that are powered by artificial intelligence (AI) such as Fiture provide interactive home exercises that are customised to the specific requirements of each user.

Fitness goals are evolving from weight loss and muscular building to focusing on specific body parts. Mewing, a tongue and jaw exercise, has grown in popularity, with millions Googling for it each month. Face yoga, which combines facial massage and exercise, has experienced a 43% spike in searches over the last five years. Additionally, ankle and wrist weights are becoming fashionable.

Benefits for gym owners: AI enhances member satisfaction and retention by performing targeted services. It also automates administrative duties and offers insights into member behaviour, thereby streamlining operations.

Mental wellness integration

COVID-19 has increased awareness of mental well-being alongside physical health. As more and more people participate in fitness programs, mental wellness is increasingly being incorporated into those programs. In response to the increased awareness of mental health, fitness centres are beginning to offer yoga, meditation, and mindfulness classes as part of their programs. A significant portion of the global wellness business is driven by mental health, and the number of people participating in yoga in the United Kingdom is growing by 25 percent every year. 

Biohacking represents a scientifically grounded method for enhancing performance, as evidenced by a 394% increase in searches for the term over the past decade. This trend is propelled by advancements in technologies such as continuous glucose monitors and implantable sensors, projected to reach nearly $790 billion by 2030.

Further, the healthcare ecosystem is increasingly adopting natural methods of biohacking, including forest bathing, which has the potential to enhance cardiovascular and metabolic health.

Organisations and emerging enterprises are offering sophisticated dietary supplements and nootropics, which are utilised to enhance physical fitness. Physical workouts are increasingly recognised as tools for enhancing mental performance, and workplace health promotion emerged as the second-largest fitness trend of 2024.

A holistic approach: This trend is a reflection of a comprehensive approach to health, which acknowledges the connection between mental and physical well-being. The provision of mental wellness services has the potential to appeal to a more diverse population and strengthen member loyalty.

Community-building group fitness

The popularity of community-building activities and group exercise programs is expected to continue to grow. The members of the group develop a sense of community and accountability through participation in programs such as boot camps, Zumba, and spin classes. Higher retention rates are typically seen in gyms that place an emphasis on the creation of engaging group experiences.

Flexible payment alternatives: Making group sessions more available to drop-in participants by providing them with rapid payment alternatives stimulates participation and makes the classes more accessible.

Sustainable practises

As people become more and more environmentally conscious, the fitness industry is increasingly recognising sustainability as a key competitive advantage. Gyms are embracing sustainable practices, including the use of energy-efficient equipment, the integration of green building materials, and waste reduction efforts. Consumers are progressively anticipating that businesses will emphasise sustainability, shaping their decisions.

Digital payment systems: The use of QR code payments and e-receipts minimises paper waste, reflecting eco-friendly principles and improving the member experience.

Customised programmes for senior citizens

As the population ages, fitness programs specifically designed for seniors are becoming increasingly popular. These programs emphasise low-impact exercises, balance training, and comprehensive wellness to address the unique needs of older adults. The demand for senior fitness programs is anticipated to increase as the population ages.

Multi-access payment systems: Implementing user-friendly mobile POS systems ensures accessibility and ease for this demographic, promoting participation and fostering inclusivity.

Fitness tourism

The concept of fitness tourism, which involves combining travel with physical activity, is becoming increasingly popular. Wellness retreats and fitness vacations are gaining popularity as more and more people look for experiences that might drastically change their lives. The expansion of a gym's offerings can be accomplished through the formation of partnerships with travel agents to produce fitness-oriented vacations.

Online payment systems: Using web-based payment systems simplifies the process of booking and conducting transactions across international borders, making it simpler for members to participate in fitness tourism activities.

Immersive technology in gyms and wellness sectors

Apart from the entertainment sector, virtual and augmented realities have made progressive inroads into several other industries, including retail, healthcare, and now fitness. Workouts that are performed in virtual and augmented reality are causing an upsurge in the fitness industry. Immersive virtual training environments are offered by companies such as FitXR, which attract users who are knowledgeable about technology. The workouts that are provided by these experiences are both entertaining and participatory, which increases both motivation and adherence.

Adoption by gyms: Incorporating immersive fitness experiences helps differentiate gyms in a very competitive market and appeals to a younger clientele looking for creative workout options.

Subscription billing model

The fitness sector is transitioning to subscription-based charging methods, departing from conventional annual memberships. This strategy provides adaptability for members while guaranteeing consistent revenue for fitness centres. Subscription pricing methods accommodate diverse consumer choices and facilitate chances for upselling supplementary services.

Implementation: Providers such as Wonderful, GoCardless, and Stripe specialise in recurring payment solutions, facilitating a seamless and effective shift to subscription billing.

Top payment service providers for fitness businesses 

In the vibrant fitness industry, choosing the right payment service provider is essential for boosting operational efficiency and creating a smooth member experience. Here are eight exceptional payment service providers designed specifically for fitness businesses:

Wonderful

Wonderful specialises in providing a small business payment system designed specifically for gyms and wellness centers. The platform provides features like payment links, QR code payments and fixed recurring payments, enabling seamless transactions both in-person and online. By seamlessly integrating with existing gym management systems, Wonderful simplifies revenue collection and improves the overall member experience. It also facilitates instant payments by leveraging the open banking system. An important benefit is their dedication to security, ensuring GDPR-compliant transactions, which is especially advantageous for fitness businesses in the UK. Featuring an intuitive interface and strong support, Wonderful distinguishes itself as a dependable partner for fitness professionals looking to enhance their online payment systems.

Mindbody

Mindbody provides a comprehensive business administration platform that is specifically designed for the wellness industry, including personal trainers, yoga studios, and fitness centres. Their payment processing system is integrated and accommodates a variety of transaction types, such as retail sales, class registrations, and memberships. Additionally, Mindbody's platform offers scheduling, marketing, and client management tools, thereby establishing a comprehensive solution for fitness businesses. The mobile POS and user-friendly interface improve accessibility for both members and personnel. Furthermore, Mindbody provides analytics and reporting capabilities, which allow businesses to acquire a deeper understanding of member engagement and financial performance.

Glofox

Glofox is a management software solution specifically built for boutique fitness studios and gyms. It provides integrated payment processing, enabling businesses to efficiently manage memberships, class reservations, and retail sales. Glofox's platform provides branded mobile POS, client administration, and marketing capabilities to improve member engagement and retention. The system enables fitness centres t0 accept payments in several ways, including credit/debit cards and direct debits, giving members flexibility. Glofox also provides reporting and analytics features that allow businesses to track performance and make educated decisions.

Zen Planner

Zen Planner offers extensive software solutions for fitness enterprises, encompassing gyms, martial arts academies, and yoga studios. Their unified payment processing solution facilitates recurring billing, point-of-sale transactions, and online payments. Zen Planner's software provides scheduling, member management, and automated communication capabilities, optimising operations and improving member engagement. The system accommodates several payment methods and connects with accounting software, facilitating financial administration. Zen Planner's reporting capabilities offer insights into corporate performance, facilitating strategic planning.

GoCardless

GoCardless is an expert at handling direct debit payments, which makes it easy and quick to set up recurring payments. Their platform works with many fitness management systems, which lets clubs automatically charge membership fees and lower the number of failed payments. GoCardless has clear pricing and works with multiple currencies, so it's good for fitness centres that cater to international members. Many fitness professionals like this system because it is easy to use and focuses on recurring payments.

ClubReady

ClubReady provides a club management platform that is both robust and specifically designed for fitness enterprises, with integrated payment processing. Their system is capable of accommodating a variety of business models by supporting online payments, point-of-sale transactions, and recurring invoicing. ClubReady's platform is equipped with features that improve operational efficiency and member engagement, including scheduling, member administration, and marketing automation. The system supports a variety of payment methods and offers comprehensive reporting and analytics, providing valuable insights into member behaviour and financial performance. ClubReady is a versatile option due to its customisable solutions, which are tailored to the specific requirements of various fitness businesses.

Virtuagym

Virtuagym offers a comprehensive fitness software solution that includes integrated payment processing. Recurring payments, automated invoicing, and a variety of payment methods, such as direct debits and credit cards, are all supported by their platform. Virtuagym also provides a comprehensive solution for fitness businesses, including scheduling, nutrition instruction, and member engagement tools. The system's customisable options and user-friendly interface are designed to meet the specific requirements of wellness centres and gyms.

Exercise.com

Exercise.com provides a holistic solution designed specifically for fitness businesses, seamlessly combining payment processing with extensive management tools. The system facilitates recurring payments, point-of-sale transactions, and e-commerce functionalities, enabling gyms to efficiently sell memberships, classes, and merchandise. Exercise.com offers custom-branded applications, tools for workout creation, and features for client management, all aimed at improving member engagement and operational efficiency. The platform's adaptability and capacity for growth render it appropriate for fitness enterprises of different scales.

While each of these reputed service providers caters to the fitness industry, you must chalk out your business objectives, current requirements, and future plans to select an ideal partner for your online payment solutions. 

Conclusion

As we discussed in the above discourse, each evolving trend in the wellness industry is backed by a robust online payment mechanism that streamlines businesses and propels future growth. 

A synergistic coexistence of new devices and applications, powered by technological advancements in modern payment systems, are the drivers behind the rise of a future-ready fitness ecosystem.

Emerging players like Wonderful and Virtuagym, along with established operators like Stripe and GoCardless, are at the forefront of this revolution.

Photo by Geert Pieters on Unsplash