In 2025, strength training continues to lead as the primary fitness focus among men in the United States, marking its third consecutive year at the forefront of health goals. Life Time’s annual Wellness Survey highlights this sustained interest, with 35% of respondents identifying muscle building as their top objective for the year .
This enduring commitment to strength training reflects a broader shift towards holistic and functional fitness. Men are increasingly integrating traditional weightlifting with practices like Pilates and yoga to enhance flexibility, core strength, and overall well-being. This comprehensive approach aims not only at physical aesthetics but also at improving daily functionality and long-term health.
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) corroborates this trend, ranking traditional strength training fifth in its 2025 global fitness trends . This placement underscores the modality’s significance in promoting muscle strength, bone density, and metabolic health.
Complementing strength routines, recovery practices have gained prominence. Life Time’s survey reveals that 69.1% of participants are interested in incorporating sauna sessions into their recovery regimen, surpassing other methods like assisted stretching (50%) and ice baths or cryotherapy (42.4%) . This inclination towards recovery strategies indicates a growing awareness of the importance of rest and rejuvenation in achieving fitness goals.
Nutrition also plays a pivotal role in this holistic fitness paradigm. While 65% of respondents do not adhere to a specific diet, there’s a notable reliance on supplements, with 59.5% taking daily additions like protein powders, multivitamins, and vitamin D . This trend suggests a focus on supporting muscle growth and overall health through dietary means.
Mental health benefits associated with strength training further reinforce its popularity. An overwhelming 99.3% of survey participants report feeling happier post-workout, and over 80% dedicate time weekly to self-care activities that enhance their mood and well-being . These findings highlight the dual physical and psychological advantages of consistent strength training.
Fitness facilities are adapting to these evolving preferences by expanding strength training areas and offering diverse programs that cater to a wide age range, from infants to nonagenarians . This inclusivity ensures that individuals at various life stages can engage in strength training tailored to their specific needs and capabilities.
In summary, the sustained emphasis on strength training among men in 2025 reflects a comprehensive approach to health that values physical strength, recovery, nutrition, and mental well-being. As fitness trends continue to evolve, this holistic perspective is likely to remain central to personal health strategies.
