Gen Z and the ‘Everything Gym’

The Trend: For young adults, the gym isn’t just about fitness anymore. A new “third place,” gyms are now spas, workspaces, lounges, cafes, boutiques, and, in some cases, health clinics. Some Gen Z individuals report they spend upward of 20 hours per week at their gym, calling it their “second home.” 

What People Are Saying: Gyms becoming a third place — a public spot where people connect with others, like a restaurant, bar, or, evidently, a fitness center — signals a cultural shift among Gen Z. Those born between 1997 and 2012 prioritize their wellness and want to connect with like-minded individuals who’d rather socialize over a salad or a StairMaster session than a round of drinks — even if it comes at a cost of $200 or more per month.  

What to Know: If you’ve got funds for it, the ‘everything gym’ can serve as a stomping ground that fulfills physical, social, emotional, and even spiritual needs. (Sound bath meditation, anyone?) But don’t discount the value of a budget gym. If a bare-bones $10/month membership gets you moving, it serves its purpose, too.