Strava has unveiled its 12th annual Year In Sport: Trend Report, highlighting a notable shift among younger generations. The report indicates that Gen Z is moving away from passive screen time to engage in real-world activities. This has resulted in a significant increase in physical activities as more young individuals prioritize movement over social media.
Key Findings from Strava’s 2025 Report
Data analyzed from billions of activities and survey responses from over 30,000 individuals have illustrated various trends in fitness and social engagement.
Gen Z’s Emphasis on Active Lifestyles
- In 2025, running remained the top activity logged on Strava, with racing participation rising.
- Gen Z is 75% more likely to engage in events and competitions compared to Gen X.
- Weight training has gained popularity, with Gen Z being twice as likely to list it as their primary sport.
- Walking emerged as the second most popular recorded activity on the platform.
Investment in Fitness Despite Economic Concerns
Despite facing financial challenges, such as inflation, Gen Z continues to invest in fitness-related expenditures. Notably:
- 30% of Gen Z plans to increase their fitness spending in 2026.
- 64% prefer spending on fitness gear rather than dining out.
- 39% make use of fitness as a way to meet new people.
Growth of Strava Communities
The growth of clubs on Strava has seen remarkable expansion:
- The total number of clubs reached 1 million.
- Hiking clubs grew 5.8 times, while running clubs increased 3.5 times.
- Club-organized events rose by 150%, promoting real-world interactions.
Travel and Fitness Trends
Gen Z’s approach to fitness during travel reflects a commitment to health even while on vacation:
- Domestic travel increased by 22% in 2025 compared to international journeys.
- 23% more Gen Z prioritize fitness while traveling than Gen X.
- Winter sports, hiking, and water activities are the main reasons for travel among fitness enthusiasts.
Technological Advances in Fitness
Technology continues to play a crucial role in enhancing fitness experiences:
- Strava users increasingly logged their workouts via smartphones, with 72% using the mobile app.
- Wearables gained traction, with Gen Z investing in fitness technology significantly more than older generations.
- AI features in fitness apps are increasingly embraced, enhancing personalized coaching opportunities.
Geographic Activity Insights
2025 data from Strava uncovered various geographic trends:
- Uri, Switzerland, was the most photo-worthy location, with a high percentage of activities including photographs.
- Boulder, Colorado, topped multiple fitness leaderboards in the U.S., showcasing high activity levels.
- Copenhagen emerged as the fastest metro area for running performance globally.
Strava continues to adapt to the changing landscape of fitness, fostering connections and encouraging active lifestyles worldwide. With 180 million users across more than 185 countries, Strava remains a platform for individuals to track progress, form communities, and prioritize movement in their daily lives.
