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Strava's 12th Annual Year In Sport Trend Report 2025

Strava, a leading platform for active individuals with a user base exceeding 180 million across more than 185 countries, has recently released its 12th annual "Year In Sport: Trend Report". The findings reveal a significant cultural shift, particularly among Generation Z, who are moving away from passive consumption of content, popularly known as doomscrolling, and are instead focusing on active engagement through fitness and community activities.

Key Insights from the Report

The report is based on a comprehensive analysis of billions of activities recorded by Strava's global community, along with survey data from over 30,000 participants, both users and non-users of the app. A clear trend has emerged: Gen Z is opting for real-world experiences over screen time, emphasizing social connection through physical activities.

Fitness as a Priority

In examining the activities of Gen Z in 2025, running continues to hold the top spot. This generation has not only embraced running but has also incorporated walking, weightlifting, and a diverse range of sports into their routines. The desire for connection is evident, with many joining running clubs to engage with like-minded individuals.

Notably, 75% of Gen Z participants in races or events expressed that this was their primary motivation for exercising, compared to their Gen X counterparts. The trend continues as more beginners are joining the ranks; 86% of connected runners reportedly achieved personal bests throughout the year, demonstrating a distinct rise in participation among novice athletes.

Strength Training and Flexibility

Strength training is also emerging as a favorite among Gen Z athletes. This demographic indicates that they are twice as likely as Gen X to prioritize weight training, with 61% indicating they lift weights for aesthetic purposes. Interestingly, women are also stepping up participation in strength training, recording workouts with a 21% higher frequency compared to men.

Moreover, variety is seen as vital, with over 54% of users tracking multiple activities, including hiking – the second most recorded sport on Strava. Yet, many face challenges when attempting to start new sports, notably skiing and snowboarding, indicating that intimidation can hinder participation in certain activities.

Investing in Fitness

Despite economic pressures such as rising inflation, Gen Z is committed to investing in their fitness journeys. A striking 30% plan to increase their fitness expenditures in 2026. Fitness is viewed as a broader way to socialize, as 64% of Gen Z would prefer to spend money on fitness gear than on dating, illustrating a fundamental shift in priorities.

The Growth of Strava Clubs

The number of clubs on Strava has almost quadrupled in 2025, reaching a total of 1 million, with hiking clubs seeing remarkable growth (5.8-fold), followed by running clubs (3.5-fold). This increase signals a shift toward transforming online communities into tangible social connections through organized events and activities.

The Continued Importance of Active Travel

Active travel is gaining traction, as Gen Z prefers fitness-focused vacations. More than a quarter of this population views fitness as an essential part of their travel plans, which aligns with their preference for local exploration rather than international travel. Within this framework, running and hiking have emerged as predominant activities, highlighting their commitment to fitness irrespective of geographical location.

Technology Driving Participation

The report also sheds light on the role of technology in supporting athletes. In 2025, more users recorded their workouts via smartphones, with wearable devices gaining popularity as major fitness investments. Strava's development alongside Runna, utilizing artificial intelligence for optimized training, has proved beneficial, with new routes being created every 19 seconds based on community preferences.

Conclusion

In essence, Strava's Year In Sport Report for 2025 illustrates a profound change in the fitness landscape, showcasing Gen Z's shift towards active living and social connection. This cohort values real-time experiences over digital distractions, leading to an invigorated culture of fitness that prioritizes community involvement and personal growth. As the world witnesses this movement, Strava remains at the forefront, committed to connecting individuals and fostering a community that motivates future generations.

For more information, visit Strava's official site.