The fitness industry is undergoing a rapid transformation, with technology, sustainability, hybrid training, and social engagement driving the future of cardio. As members demand smarter, more connected, and engaging workout experiences, fitness facilities must adapt to stay competitive.
The 2025 Cardio Trends highlight how AI, recovery-focused cardio, eco-conscious equipment, and hybrid training are shaping the next generation of fitness. Let’s explore the top trends, how fitness facilities can leverage them, and the cutting-edge cardio solutions available today.
Key 2025 Cardio Trends
- Personalized & Connected Fitness
- Sustainability, Eco-Consciousness & Self-Powered Cardio
- Hybrid Training Boom
- Social-Driven Cardio
- Recovery-Focused Training
- Luxury & Niche Fitness Studios
- Data-Driven Fitness Performance Tracking
- AI & Virtual Coaching
- Versatile, Multi-Use Cardio Machines.
- Age-Specific & Time-Efficient Workouts
Review Of The 2025 Cardio Trends
Connected Fitness & Smart Equipment
AI-driven machines, wearable integrations, and virtual coaching enhance workout personalization. Advancements in technology are enabling highly customized cardio experiences through wearable devices and mobile apps, making smart equipment a major key to user engagement and retention.The fitness app market is expected to grow 21.5% in 2025!
Sustainability & Energy Effeciency
Sustainable fitness equipment and self-generating machines align with the rising demand for eco-friendly solutions. Eco-consciousness is influencing the adoption of sustainable practices and equipment in fitness facilities and why 6 of Core’s new cardio pieces, when paired with an LED console, are self-generating. Facilities that emphasize sustainability are more attractive to younger generations, 75% of whom prefer brands committed to environmental responsibility.
Hybrid Training Boom
Hybrid training, blending strength, endurance, and functional movements, is projected to surge over 200% in 2025. Much of the growth is driven by its accessibility, community engagement, competitive appeal, and demand for well-rounded fitness challenges. The mix of strength, endurance, and functional movements is fueled by competitions like Hyrox and CrossFit.
Community & Social-Driven Cardio
Social engagement is becoming a cornerstone of cardio programs, fostering a sense of community. Group classes, virtual challenges, and social media integration are key to boosting engagement. For example, 60% of Gen Z & Millennials use social media for fitness inspiration.
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Recovery-Focused Training
- Recovery-focused cardio is gaining traction among Millennials and Gen Z, who prioritize holistic health. Low-Impact Training is especially appealing to Baby Boomers & holistic-focused Millennials/Gen Z. Recovery Features are integrated with cooldowns & mobility exercises to aid in post-workout recovery. Ergonomic design that supports natural biomechanics results in optimal movement efficiency. For example, Core’s Star Trac 8VS VersaStrider with its’ MyStride™ technology adapts to each user’s natural gate.
Luxury & Niche Fitness Studios
Gen Z and Millennials, dubbed ‘Generation Active’ are key drivers of fitness industry growth, with over 70% utilizing fitness facilities and are willing to pay a premium. Some of the main reasons they like the luxury fitness studios are due to personalized services, niche workouts that focus on specific fitness modalities, and exclusive memberships that provide premium access and benefits.
Data-Driven Performance Tracking
Smart analytics and AI-powered virtual trainers optimize member progress and machine usage by using data analytics to monitor and enhance both equipment usage and member progress. The smart fitness market is expected to see 11.1% growth 2024-2032, driven by the demand for performance tracking.
AI & Virtual Coaching
Artificial intelligence is providing personalized coaching and virtual training solutions AI-Guided Workouts Virtual Trainers Machine Learning. For example, Core’s Star Trac Virtual Bike puts a virtual trainer right there on your cardio floor, subscription free!
Versatile, Multi-Use Cardio Machines
Versatile machines are enabling diverse workout options within compact spaces. Circuit training and HIIT are blended with the cardio equipment to make the maximum use of time and workouts. Solutions like the StairMaster 10G open the door for mixing traditional stair climbing with different exercises like the Farmers Carry and the Sled push for more intensity and less boredom.
Age-Specific & Time-Efficient Workouts
The demand is increasing for adapting offerings to meet the needs of diverse age groups and fitness levels with programs for older adults, more Inclusive equipment, and creating time-efficient workouts. Gen Z and Millennials prioritize short, high-intensity workouts due to busy schedules, while Baby Boomers prefer steady-state, lower-impact cardio to support longevity and joint health.
How to Take Advantage of the 2025 Cardio Trends
With these trends shaping the future of fitness, gym owners and operators need to adapt their offerings to meet evolving demands. Here’s how to stay ahead:
1. Invest in Smart & AI-Integrated Equipment
AI-driven machines, wearable integrations, and virtual coaching enhance workout personalization. Smart analytics and AI-powered virtual trainers optimize member progress and machine usage.
- Incorporate connected fitness solutions like AI-guided workouts and virtual trainers.
- Ensure wearable device compatibility for personalized tracking.
- Utilize machine learning to analyze performance data and optimize workouts.
2. Prioritize Sustainability
Sustainable fitness equipment and self-generating machines align with the rising demand for eco-friendly solutions.
- Opt for self-generating cardio machines that require no external power.
- Use equipment made from sustainable materials to appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
- Promote energy-efficient solutions to lower operational costs.
3. Embrace Hybrid & Functional Training
The mix of strength, endurance, and functional movements is growing by over 200%, fueled by competitions like Hyrox and CrossFit.
- Offer multi-modality training programs combining strength, endurance, and mobility.
- Incorporate versatile cardio machines like the StairMaster 10G for diverse workouts.
- Introduce competition-style events like Hyrox to increase engagement.
4. Leverage Social & Group Fitness Trends
Group classes, virtual challenges, and social media integration are key to boosting engagement.
- Create group-based cardio programs to build a community-driven experience.
- Implement virtual challenges and reward systems to keep members engaged.
- Use social media integration to connect with and motivate members.
5. Enhance Recovery & Wellness Offerings
Millennials and Gen Z prioritize low-impact, ergonomic, and recovery-enhancing cardio.
- Provide low-impact, recovery-friendly equipment such as ergonomic treadmills and elliptical machines.
- Offer cool-down and mobility programs as part of cardio sessions.
- Design wellness-focused training spaces within fitness facilities.
6. Diversify Cardio Equipment for All Demographics
High-end, specialized workouts and premium memberships are attracting “Generation Active.” Compact, multi-functional machines like the StairMaster 10G are revolutionizing cardio floors. Facilities must cater to short HIIT workouts for younger users and steady-state cardio for older adults.
- Ensure cardio offerings cater to both high-intensity Gen Z/Millennials and lower-impact Baby Boomers.
- Provide time-efficient workouts that align with modern, busy lifestyles.
- Offer luxury experiences to tap into the premium fitness market.
Take On The Future of Cardio
The 2025 cardio trends emphasize a shift toward smart, connected, and engaging fitness experiences, with a strong focus on eco-conscious training, hybrid modalities, and recovery-based workouts.By leveraging AI-driven equipment, social integration, and multi-functional cardio solutions, fitness operators can enhance member engagement, attract new demographics, and boost facility efficiency.
With Core Health & Fitness’s next-generation cardio lineup, including Star Trac’s smart equipment, StairMaster’s hybrid training solutions, and Throwdown’s HIIT-focused machines, gyms and studios can future-proof their offerings and stay ahead of the competition.
As the industry evolves, staying adaptable and investing in the right cardio solutions will be key to success in 2025 and beyond.
For more information on Core Health & Fitness’s next generation of cardio equipment, visit corehandf.com.
