16 September, 2026
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New research from ukactive to mark National Fitness Day (16 September 2026) challenges the notion that only younger generations are turning to gyms and leisure centres as social spaces, with connection through physical activity crossing the age divide.
The survey of 6,395 UK adults*, conducted with Savanta, found that more than one in three of Gen X (37%) and Baby Boomers (35%) said making new friends was an important factor for joining the gym, rising to over half of Gen Z (51%) and Millennials (53%). And it’s not just ‘Gym Bros’ – 47% of women said it was important.
With over a quarter of people in the UK feeling lonely at least occasionally1, the new findings underline the growing role of fitness and leisure facilities as hubs for friendship and community in addition to traditional benefits such as physical health.
The ‘September reset’ has become recognised as a time of year to revisit personal goals following summer holidays and the new survey sheds light on our evolving motivations for staying active.
Across all age groups, three-quarters (74%) said improving their overall confidence was an important factor for joining the gym, and by generation was important for 76% of Gen Z, 81% of Millennials, 72% of Gen X and 59% of Baby Boomers.
Around half of Baby Boomers (52%) and Gen X (54%) said managing a health condition was an important factor, rising to 60% of Gen Z and 64% of Millennials.
Improving mental health and wellbeing was another major motivation, quoted by 84% of Millennials, 76% of Gen X, 75% of Gen Z and 59% of Baby Boomers.
Traditional motivations remain important across most of generations, with strength and fitness rated as important by 83% overall and improving physical appearance by 78% overall.
However, only 58% of Baby Boomers said they were motivated by improving their appearance, compared to most people from other generations – 75% of Gen Z, 85% of Millennials, and 79% of Gen X.
The findings help explain the growth of the UK’s fitness community, with a record 12.2 million people now members of a health and fitness club – a figure larger than the combined populations of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
The results also show the importance of friends and family in supporting people to get active. A third (31%) of people who said they are not confident enough to join a gym said it is because they do not have anyone to go with.
Gyms, leisure centres and sports clubs in the UK offer inclusive activities and events to help put people at ease and make new friends.
National Fitness Day is about encouraging people to try a new activity, making it the perfect time to invite a friend or to meet new people also trying something new.
Led by ukactive and powered by its members, the campaign sees an average of 10 million people a year taking part in free activities hosted by gyms, pools and leisure centres across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The theme of this year’s campaign is ‘Powered by you!’, highlighting that everyone can get involved – no matter what their age, background or ability.
Cameron Saunders, CEO of ukactive, said: “The physical and mental benefits of being active are well known but our findings show people of all ages are also looking for friendship and community in the gym.
“Trying something new can sometimes feel daunting but our research shows many of us are in the same boat, looking for peer support and a community which can really help us stay active.
“For Gen Z, gyms and leisure centres have replaced pubs and youth clubs as social hubs but they’re also important socially for Gen X, Baby Boomers and older generations.
“Whether it’s trying yoga, playing padel, Hyrox, or a swim class, National Fitness Day is about helping people take the first step to a more active life, whatever your motivation.”
Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock said: “No matter whether you run, walk, cycle, climb or lift. Whether that’s on your own or as part of a team, it’s vital to ensure that regular exercise is part of your daily life.
“As the Minister for Sport, I have the privilege of travelling the length and breadth of the country to see the fantastic work that goes on every day to encourage people to live active lifestyles and ensure that access to sport and exercise is as widespread as possible.
“National Fitness Day is a brilliant opportunity for people of all ages to get involved in physical activity, and for all of us to celebrate the benefits of living healthy, active lives.”
Simon Hayes, CEO of Sport England, said: “We know that being active is great for our physical and mental health. But it also has a profound social impact, creating the connections that make us feel happier and more resilient – and people of all ages are increasingly recognising this.
“Whether you’re motivated by friendship, confidence, health or enjoyment, there are great opportunities across the country on National Fitness Day to get active, try something new and build community.”
To find out more, click here.
Keep your eyes peeled for new resources and tips to get involved by following National Fitness Day on Instagram, X, Facebook and LinkedIn.
*Savanta interviewed 6,395 UK adults aged 18+ between January and July 2026. Data were weighted to be nationally representative of UK adults aged 18+ by key demographics including age, gender, region and socio-economic grade. Savanta is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Full data tables are available at www.savanta.com
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