Gen Z Drives UK Gym Boom with Focus on Mental Health

Gen Z is transforming the UK fitness scene, approaching the gym as a key tool for supporting both physical and mental health. Out of the 11.5 million gym members across the country, a significant proportion are under 30—and their focus on mental wellness is redefining what it means to work out. For many in this generation, exercise is less about building biceps and more about coping with stress, managing anxiety, and enhancing overall emotional resilience. The gym experience has become synonymous with self-care, as Gen Z embraces movement for its mood-boosting and confidence-building benefits, further reinforcing the idea that movement acts as medicine for mind and body alike.

Unlike earlier generations who often prioritized weight loss or muscle gain, Gen Z is seeking holistic advantages from their routines. Many young people now favour gyms and studios that go beyond just strength equipment, offering services such as yoga, meditation and mindfulness classes, cold-water therapy, and sessions focused on rest and recovery. This reflects a broader cultural shift: discussing mental health is no longer stigmatized, and proactive habits like fitness are viewed as essential for maintaining psychological well-being and emotional equilibrium.

Social media continues to drive this change, with platforms like TikTok and Instagram flooded with content creators who highlight the mental health benefits of regular movement. Influencers and everyday users alike share workout routines designed not only for physical transformation but also for relief from anxiety, improved sleep quality, and achieving a sense of inner calm. Popular fitness challenges frequently incorporate a focus on feeling good mentally, positioning exercise as a powerful tool for daily stress relief and personal growth.

How do you use exercise to support your mental wellbeing?