A recent survey from PapersOwl took a deep dive into the fitness habits of Gen Z, revealing some interesting trends. They found that 95% of young Americans aged 18–28 exercised at least once a month in 2025. This shows a generation that is making movement a part of their daily lives.
The survey involved 3,000 respondents and examined their workout routines, motivations, barriers, and spending on fitness.
What stood out? Running and endurance activities topped the list, with 64% of respondents engaged. Gym workouts followed with 54%, while mind-body practices like yoga attracted 35%. Outdoor sports were chosen by 30%, and team sports were the preference for 18%.
Specifically, running was the most common activity, embraced by 28%. Weightlifting and other activities like basketball and hiking also ranked high. Walking emerged as a popular choice for many, serving as a practical and accessible way to stay active. Open responses revealed that walking is often integrated into routines, whether for commuting or caregiving.
“This isn’t just a trend; it’s a culture of movement,” said Oryna Shestakova, Head of Communications at PapersOwl. “It’s not about looking good; it’s about incorporating activity into life.” She highlighted how the generation prioritizes exercise, even in challenging situations like navigating health issues.
For many, fitness is personal. In fact, 72% of respondents reported training for reasons tied to health, appearance, and mental wellness. Interestingly, a small but notable portion of Gen Z competes or trains professionally. Nearly half participate in events like marathons or recreational leagues, reflecting a strong community element.
Physical health was the top motivator for 77% of respondents. Mental health and stress relief were priorities for 64%, while 51% focused on appearance. “For Gen Z, mental health is as crucial as physical fitness,” Shestakova added.
Discussing finances, many young people are mindful of their spending. About 38% keep their annual fitness spending under $200, and 22% spend between $200 and $499. Gym memberships account for a large portion of these expenses. Interestingly, over half of those surveyed admitted to cutting back on other costs to maintain their fitness routines. “In a world of rising expenses, prioritizing fitness has become significant,” Shestakova said.
Social connections also play a critical role. About 56% felt that sports positively impacted their social lives, with many considering their gym or sport as a second home. Half of Gen Z stated it’s important that their partners share an interest in fitness. For some, fitness has even taken the place of nightlife.
However, there is a flip side. More than half reported skipping social events to train, and many felt pressure to maintain their fitness levels based on what others do. “Fitness and identity can sometimes overlap,” Shestakova noted. “It’s crucial to recognize this pressure.”
Among the 5% who don’t exercise regularly, practical barriers like low energy (35%) and lack of time (34%) were cited as significant hurdles. “These are real challenges that could be addressed with better access and more welcoming environments,” Shestakova suggested.
Interestingly, one-third reported wishing they could participate in another sport. Basketball topped this list, followed by running and swimming. The main barriers to starting new activities included lack of motivation and uncertainty about where to begin.
Despite the challenges, a significant 60% of Gen Z indicated plans to become more active in 2026. Shestakova emphasized that this isn’t a lack of interest but rather a desire for more opportunities and confidence. “This generation is driven, looking for ways to engage even further,” she concluded.
PapersOwl continues to support this journey, helping students with various academic resources to navigate their educational paths.
