A convergence of new industry data and expert observations confirms what fitness professionals have long suspected: strength training remains men’s top workout of choice for the third year running, while Pilates—especially Reformer Pilates—is increasingly embraced by men as a key ally in enhancing movement quality and resilience
According to LifeTime’s 2025 Wellness Survey and industry executives, building muscle remains the dominant health goal among men for the third consecutive year. The key focus is progressive overload and compound movements. The Guardian reports a marked shift in gym culture: cardio stations are being replaced by free-weight zones, with strength equipment usage soaring while cardio equipment use is declining up to 40% in major gym chains
Health-focused publications are highlighting strength training’s expanding role in longevity, metabolism, mental well‑being, and bone density maintenance. It’s no longer just about aesthetics—strength is being recognized as essential across all age groups.
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More men are prioritizing functional strength, emphasizing movements that translate directly to real-life activities. Single-leg drills, sled pushes, rotational core work, and unilateral training are now staples in men’s routines. Wearable tech and data-driven tracking—measuring power output, fatigue, and recovery—are also common, encouraging smarter, personalized progression
Recovery methods such as mobility work, active recovery sessions, and structured rest have become nearly as critical as the workouts themselves
Meanwhile, Reformer Pilates has surged to become one of the top fitness trends of 2025, climbing from around rank 10 in 2024 to 2 this year. According to Pilates Association Australia, men now make up roughly 20–25% of Pilates participants, often influenced by partners or athletes seeking to improve core strength, flexibility, and injury prevention
GITNUX’s 2025 Pilates Statistics Report estimates that approximately 11 million Americans practice Pilates each year. While women still represent the majority, male participation continues to rise steadily
Rather than being a replacement for traditional workouts, Pilates is increasingly viewed as a complement. Strength training builds muscle and power, while Pilates enhances mobility, posture, and movement control. Experts describe it as an effective pre-hab tool, reducing injury risk and boosting coordination
This integration is also driving a new focus on glute strength. Exercises like hip thrusts and Pilates-based movements are gaining popularity among men, reflecting both aesthetic interest and functional benefits
Other key shifts include a 109% year-on-year increase in low-impact cardio reservations, such as walking sessions, which appeal to men seeking joint-friendly alternatives to running. Functional fitness competitions like Hyrox have surged by 233%, reflecting interest in goal-oriented, full-body challenges. AI-enhanced virtual workouts and gamified platforms are also expanding rapidly, helping users stay engaged with personalized programming and feedback
These trends are part of a broader transformation in the male wellness market, as men increasingly prioritize holistic health, mental well-being, and performance. The fusion of strength and Pilates represents a smarter, more sustainable approach to fitness that’s reshaping the way men train in 2025
Men looking to build strength responsibly are now pairing lifting with Pilates-based core and mobility work, embracing a well-rounded regimen that emphasizes both power and longevity.
