How the fitness industry is evolving and why setting intentions, not just goals, can transform your journey in 2025

As we step into 2025, I can’t help but feel that familiar mix of excitement and reflection. There’s something about the clean slate of a new year that speaks to my inner planner. I love fresh starts. I’ve been that person—pen in hand, scribbling down resolutions with big, bold enthusiasm. Lose weight? Absolutely. Read more books? Of course. Meditate daily? Let’s do this.

But if I’m being honest, most of those resolutions didn’t stick. They usually faded somewhere between February and “life happens.” And let’s be real—I’m not alone in that.

Here’s the truth: studies show that only 8% of people actually stick to their resolutions, which means the vast majority of us—myself included—set these grand goals only to abandon them before we’ve even had a chance to get started. We’ve all been there, staring at a list of lofty dreams that suddenly feel overwhelming, unattainable, or just plain exhausting.

And yes, even as someone deeply ingrained in the fitness industry, where goal-setting is practically a second language, I’ve fallen into this cycle. I’ve watched others set resolutions with the best intentions, only to see them fizzle out. I’ve done it myself more times than I’d like to admit.

That’s why, over time, I’ve shifted my approach. Resolutions are great—they’re a starting point—but they need something deeper to stay alive. For me, it’s about uncovering my why, the intention that anchors me when life gets messy. It’s that inner compass that keeps me moving forward, even on the hard days when the chaos feels like too much.

Because let’s be real: life is messy. But when you connect to something meaningful, something bigger than the resolution itself, it’s easier to keep showing up—even when it’s not perfect.

The Shift to Community and Holistic Wellness

Over the last few years, we’ve been watching a quiet yet profound shift unfold in the fitness industry—one that’s shaping how we approach movement, wellness, and connection in 2025. It’s exhilarating to see how far we’ve come. The focus is no longer solely on aesthetics or performance. Today, the spotlight is on experiences, community, and holistic wellness, with recovery, mindfulness, and longevity at the heart of it all.

Gone are the days when fitness felt like an isolated, solo battle. It’s no longer about being one of “those gym people.” And honestly, I’m relieved. Because here’s the truth: I’ve been on both sides of that stereotype, and neither felt great.

I remember when I was first dipping my toes into fitness. I was so intimidated by the gym-goers who seemed to have it all figured out. I thought I’d never measure up. I’d walk into a class, see someone crushing it in the front row, and immediately feel out of place. It was like there was an unspoken “fitness club” I’d never belong to.

But then, as I started to take my fitness journey seriously, something changed—my body transformed, and suddenly, people were putting me in that category. I can’t even count the number of times a client would look at me and say, “You wouldn’t understand.”

Here’s the thing: I do understand. I know what it’s like to feel like you’ll never catch up, to doubt yourself, to think you’re not enough. And I also know the transformation that happens—not just physically, but emotionally—when you start showing up for yourself, step by step, no matter how messy or imperfect it looks.

That’s why this shift in the fitness world feels so powerful to me. It’s no longer about measuring up or being “one of those gym people.” Now, we’re all practicing mindfulness, moving our bodies with intention, and celebrating the small wins along the way. It’s not about fitting into a box; it’s about finding what works for you and showing up anyway.

Boutique fitness studios have been at the forefront of this transformation. They’ve created spaces where we don’t just work out—we show up for each other. These studios foster connection in ways that are emotional, physical, and even spiritual. They’re places where we can sweat, laugh, cry (thank you, endorphins), and build real relationships.

What the Fitness Landscape Looks Like in 2025

This year, we’re seeing the industry fully embrace what I’ve long hoped for: a shift toward connection over competition and wellness as a lifestyle. It’s no longer just about crushing fitness goals. It’s about:

Finding a space where you belong. A place that feels like home, where you’re part of a community that supports and uplifts you.
Showing up consistently for yourself. Realizing that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. To be your best self for everyone else, you first have to take care of you. It’s like they say: you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Building deeper relationships through shared experiences. Because the best moments aren’t just about what you achieve, but about who you share them with.

Every generation is starting to embrace this shift. From Gen Z prioritizing mental health to Boomers leaning into longevity-focused movement, there’s a collective realization that wellness is for everyone. The days of judgment or exclusion—of “Oh, you’re one of those gym people”—are fading.

We’re all in this together now, practicing mindfulness and moving our bodies in ways that honor where we are in life.

A Hope for the Future

When I see what’s happening in the fitness industry now, I can’t help but imagine what the future could hold. One day, maybe fitness will truly be seen as medicine—a tool not just for physical health, but for mental, emotional, and social well-being.

Imagine a world where movement is as normal as brushing your teeth. Where recovery isn’t seen as indulgent, but essential. Where mindfulness and longevity are at the core of our collective wellness journey. It’s a vision I deeply hope to see in my lifetime, and one I feel we’re inching closer to every year.

Why This Shift Matters to Me

This shift to connection and holistic wellness isn’t just an abstract idea for me—it’s personal. A little over a decade ago, I was battling social anxiety disorder, obesity, and depression. I felt stuck in a fog, relying on antidepressants to get through the day. Life felt heavy, overwhelming, and directionless.

Then, I made a decision that changed everything: I chose fitness as my medicine. I started moving—not perfectly, not consistently at first, but enough to notice a difference. Slowly, I weaned off medication, and for over a decade now, I’ve been medication-free. Fitness became my therapy, my anchor, and my clarity.

Today, I practice movement almost daily—not just for my physical health, but to keep my mental health in check. It’s my way of showing up for myself, especially on the days when life feels hard. Is it perfect? Absolutely not. I mess up, skip workouts, and hit roadblocks. But life is a lot clearer when you’re not living it through the fog of antidepressants or the weight of untreated struggles.

This is why I believe so strongly in the power of fitness as medicine. It’s not just about aesthetics or hitting PRs; it’s about finding a lifeline, a tool to navigate the ups and downs of life.

Why I’m Sharing This

So why share all of this—the shifts in the fitness industry, my personal struggles, and how I approach the new year? Because at the heart of it all, we all have the same desire: to set goals, to grow, and to create meaningful change in our lives.

But more than just sharing my story, I want to equip you with tools to step into this year with purpose and intention.

Set your resolutions with intention. Choose a word or phrase that grounds you, something that reminds you of why you committed to change in the first place. Let that intention be your compass when life gets messy, and the excitement of a fresh start starts to fade.

And if you’ve hesitated to step into a gym or studio because of fear or intimidation, let me assure you—the industry has shifted, and you are welcome. Fitness isn’t just about movement; it’s about community, connection, and creating a space where you belong. You matter. Your presence matters. Your community needs you.

And above all, remember this: self-care isn’t selfish. Taking care of yourself isn’t just okay—it’s essential. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and the world needs the best version of you.

So as you step into 2025, know this: you are enough, exactly as you are, and the journey ahead is yours to define. Let’s make it a year of courage, connection, and meaningful growth.e.

Reflecting on Last Year: Pause

Last year, my intention—my guiding word—was Pause. It wasn’t flashy or bold, but it was what I desperately needed. Life had been moving at a pace I couldn’t keep up with, and I knew I needed to slow down, be more present, and say no to things that no longer served me.

Choosing Pause wasn’t easy. It felt counterintuitive, especially in a world that celebrates hustle and productivity. And let me tell you, it was a battle. I failed more times than I’d like to admit—there were moments I overcommitted, like agreeing to two work events in one evening, because I couldn’t bring myself to say no. Spoiler: I didn’t make it to either.

But here’s what Pause taught me: resilience. By choosing to pause, I learned how to integrate different aspects of my life—work, family, self-care—without letting one completely overshadow the others. I learned that slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind. It means showing up intentionally, fully present in the moments that matter most.

Looking Ahead: Courage to Elevate

As I head into this new year, I’ve chosen a new intention: Courage to Elevate.

For me, this phrase is about bravery—because bravery is the foundation for rising to new heights. It’s about stepping out of my comfort zone, even when fear whispers that I shouldn’t. It’s about showing up bigger, braver, and louder than I ever have before.

Does it scare me? Absolutely. In fact, it terrifies me. But that’s how I know I’m growing.

Courage to Elevate is my reminder to embrace the fear, lean into the challenge, and trust the process. This year isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, even when it’s hard.

So, here’s to 2025—a year of bravery, growth, and stepping into the unknown with open arms. Let’s make it a year we’ll look back on with pride, together.

I’m rooting for you,
With love and encouragement,
Beth

I’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on setting intentions, your experiences in the evolving fitness industry, or how you’re stepping into 2025 with purpose.