J/Feb 2025 . £8 www.paf-media.co.uk Fitness and health in focus: The hottest trends defining 2025 Also in this issue: Heritage meets health: Integrating the modern with the historic St Sidwell’s Point Building to Passivhaus standards
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paf-media.co.uk 3 leader Trends for 2025 Outdoor fitness and wellbeing are expected to reach new heights of popularity this year. (p13-p16) Editor Helen Adkins Sales director Julian Walter Media sales manager Barnaby Goodman-Smith Production Nicola Cann Design Sandra Cid & Gemma England Managing director Toby Filby Publishers Stable Publishing Limited SBC House, Restmor Way, Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. info@stable-media.co.uk www.paf-media.co.uk The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. Happy New Year! WELCOME to the inaugural 2025 edition of paf magazine, now bigger, better and brimming with more insight than ever before. We’ve taken a bold leap forward this year, with a thicker spine and an extra set of pages – and this will be a quarterly affair from now on. So, what does 2025 have in store for us? Let’s start with one trend that seems to be here to stay: combat fitness. Boxing gyms are cropping up everywhere, claiming their space alongside yoga studios and spin classes, while technology is leaning in with everything from smart gloves to automated in-club training spaces. On page 20, we look at the major players and what we can expect in this field going forward. But let’s not forget the broader landscape. The bigger picture includes Hyrox, functional and hybrid training, but also offers a clearer focus on wellness, health and inclusivity – three pillars that are set to define the coming year. As more people embrace holistic health practices, wellness is moving beyond just physical fitness to include mental, emotional and social wellbeing. In 2025, it’s about creating spaces that nurture every part of the human experience, where inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword but a foundational principle. Whether it's adaptive fitness programmes outside of traditional venues or simply fostering environments where everyone belongs, this year aims to make good on the idea that health is for all. And speaking of spaces, this issue looks at two extreme ends of this builtenvironment sector – the restoration of listed buildings into fitness facilities, and building to Passivhaus standards. On page 30, we look at how St Sidwell’s Point is a pioneering example of sustainable leisure centre design in the UK. Meanwhile, on page 35, we explore how Grade II Listed buildings – once crumbling and forgotten – are being transformed into stunning hubs of health and wellness. They’re a beautiful marriage of the old and new, where you can swim through history and work on your fitness goals at the same time. In a world that increasingly feels like it’s moving faster than we can keep up, these trends remind us that wellness isn’t just about looking good – it’s about feeling good, in every sense of the word. And perhaps, just as importantly, it’s about restoring and preserving the places where we come together to do so. Welcome to 2025 – let’s make it a year of strength, inclusivity and the revival of something truly timeless. Helen Adkins Editor helen.adkins@stable-media.co.uk SUPPORTED BY
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paf-media.co.uk 5 contents paf-media.co.uk inside this issue 07 News • Alliance Leisure completes a hat-trick of projects with Durham County Council • My Active Leek redevelopment gets underway • The Gym Group becomes the largest national provider of Hyrox classes • Puma Growth Partners (Puma) announces a £4m investment into NRG Gyms, the low-price gym group founded by Shafiq Ahmed • Research from ukactive on how Millennials are prioritising health and fitness, and how GP exercise referrals increase life satisfaction • Latest news from The Royal Life Saving Society 11 Health and fitness trends for 2025 As 2025 begins, the UK fitness industry is adopting a more inclusive and tech-enabled approach, addressing a wide range of needs, abilities, ages and lifestyles. We explore the key trends 18 Event preview: paf Europe 2025 The second paf forum Europe promises a stellar line-up of speakers and an immersive business experience, set against the Alps 20 Combat fitness: Boxing With the rise of combat fitness showing no signs of slowing down, we explore how boxing has become a key offering in gyms and how technology is driving growth in this sector 27 Interview Steve Perrins, Drax Fitness UK South Korean fitness brand, Drax, has launched operations in the UK, with the acquisition of equipment supplier Outdoor Fitness Concepts. Drax Fitness UK’s CEO Steve Perrins describes the journey and outlines the company’s strategy for growth 30 How to build a Passivhaus leisure centre Three years after opening, St Sidwell’s Point leisure centre in Exeter continues to serve as a pioneering example of a sustainable leisure centre design in the UK, built and certified to Passivhaus standards. We explore the challenges and legacy of the project 35 Heritage meets leisure: Integrating modern facilities into historic places The integration of modern leisure centres into historic buildings is an innovative way to breathe new life into heritage spaces while catering to contemporary community needs. We look at some of the oldest facilities in the UK and the challenges faced 40 AS Roma stadium and community district Italian football club AS Roma has unveiled plans for a new stadium in the Pietralata area of Rome, designed by renowned architecture studio Populous 46 Keeping the peace: how acoustic flooring transforms urban gyms Placing gyms in mixed-use buildings may offer easy access to fitness, but can present a significant challenge in managing noise and vibrations for fellow neighbours. Simon Clarke, UK sales director of Pavigym, explains how to avoid the noise 49 Locker and changing room trends The experts at Safe Space Lockers outline the trends for 2025
THE Gym Group has expanded its offering of Hyrox group exercise from 37 to 120 gyms. In addition, a further five gyms will offer the ondemand boxing workout technology, BOX12. The group was the first nationwide high value, low cost gym operator to offer the classes in Hyrox. This latest expansion means The Gym Group will be the biggest Hyrox training club in the UK, with the classes on offer around four times a week to members in participating gyms. The Gym Group’s expert fitness instructors deliver a combination of strength and endurance workouts, which are designed to help prepare for the Hyrox race events. The expanded partnership will also offer members 48-hour priority presale access to all race events including London, Manchester, Glasgow and Birmingham. In recognition of the growing popularity of on-demand fitness, The Gym Group will also be expanding BOX12 to an additional five gyms in 2025 with individual workout pods. BOX12 is a technology-led boxing for fitness solution that combines boxing techniques and functional training to fully optimise a member’s workout potential. As BOX12 is a rolling circuit, it is accessible 24 hours a day, meaning members can have a guided training session on their schedule, whatever time they chose to workout. Catherine Ferma, operations director at The Gym Group said: ‘Making fitness accessible to all is our mission at The Gym Group. We know many of our members will be up to date on fitness trends like Hyrox, as well as on demand in-gym digital fitness, and will be keen to give them a try but perhaps have found providers too far away or too expensive. We’re proud to deliver even more value for our members, and we will continue to respond to demand and bring more exciting fitness offers to our members, for the same low monthly cost.’ The Gym Group becomes the largest national provider of Hyrox classes Young people working in aquatics defy national trends THE Institute of Swimming is defying national trends with a significant increase in its young workforce. In 2024, the number of swimming teachers aged 16-24 grew by 7%. This stands in contrast to recent data from the Office for National Statistics (published 13th November 2024), which reported that youth unemployment (ages 16-24) rose sharply between July and September 2024, reaching 627,000 — an increase of 128,000 compared to the previous year. The youth unemployment rate also climbed to 14.8%, up from 12.1% the year before. In 2023, 67% of the Institute of Swimming’s newly qualified swimming teachers and assistant swimming teachers were under the age of 25, and two-thirds of respondents to the Royal Life Saving Society UK's (RLSS UK) 2023 Lifeguard Survey were enrolled in full or part-time education. The average hourly wage across England for a fully qualified swimming teacher is around £16.52 and £11.20 for lifeguards. You can train to become a swimming teacher or a lifeguard from the age of just 16. Jo Talbot, interim CEO at RLSS UK, said: ‘Our Level 3 National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) is now registered with the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), making the internationally recognised lifeguard course even more appealing to young people planning to go into further or higher education. It is worth eight UCAS Tariff points, meaning students who complete the NPLQ can include it in their UCAS application. ‘We also know that working as a lifeguard gives young people life skills; not just how to save someone’s life. 93% of lifeguards told us that working as a lifeguard enhanced their communication skills and 89% said they increased their self-confidence. Lifeguarding has the ability to develop a young person for the future.’ paf-media.co.uk 7 news
Durham County Council completes hat-trick of projects with Alliance Leisure DURHAM County Council’s third leisure centre redevelopment with Alliance Leisure has been completed. The £5.7m refurbishment of The Louisa Centre in Stanley forms part of the council’s multi-million pound investment programme to transform leisure services across the county. The centre has undergone extensive works to modernise its facilities and introduce new activities that appeal to both older and younger users, promote healthy lifestyles, reduce health inequalities and help ensure the future success of the centre. The Louisa Centre’s existing sports hall has been repurposed to offer five multi-sports courts, as well as a large TAG Active indoor assault course and a climbing facility. The site now offers three exercise studios, including a dedicated group cycling studio and a virtual offer. A new Move Hub featuring power-assisted equipment from Innerva offers a safe and sociable exercise and rehabilitation space for those who need support to get moving or with long-term health conditions. Other facilities include a larger children’s soft play area with interactive play features and a new café. Essential maintenance works were also carried out at the centre’s 25m pool and teaching pool. Focusing primarily within the plant room, the work will lower the centre’s emissions and help improve the sustainability of the building. Alliance Leisure delivered the project through the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd. The project team included Max Associates, Axiom Project Services, GT3 architects, Play Revolution, Hutchison AV and FT Leisure. 8 paf-media.co.uk news Puma Growth Partners invest in NRG Gyms PUMA Growth Partners (Puma), a leading provider of growth capital to small and medium-sized businesses, has announced a £4m investment into NRG Gyms (NRG), the low-price gym group founded by Shafiq Ahmed. Launched in 2013, the business has expanded over recent years to seven gyms and over 30,000 members across the UK in cities including London, Manchester, Newcastle and Sheffield. The funds will support NRG in continuing to expand its portfolio of gyms across the UK, and the use of data and analytics to improve the member experience while creating a technology-led back-office infrastructure capable of allowing the business to scale at speed. NRG has also recently strengthened its management team with the appointment of Neil Greenhalgh to its board as non-executive director. A qualified chartered accountant, Neil has spent nearly 20 years at JD Sports, including five years as chief financial officer. Shafiq Ahmed, founder and CEO of NRG Gyms, said: ‘I am delighted that Puma has chosen to continue to support the growth of NRG with further investment into the business. It’s a testament to the success of the business and will allow us to continue to grow our member communities, develop our pipeline of new sites all whilst continually investing in the team, people development and infrastructure required to grow further.’
paf-media.co.uk 9 news THE multi-million pound redevelopment of MyActive Leek (formerly Brough Park Leisure Centre) is the latest in a series of schemes being delivered by Alliance Leisure for Staffordshire Moorlands District Council. The £17m project forms part of the wider Levelling Up-funded regeneration of Leek town centre. The Brough Park redevelopment is supported by £10m of Levelling Up Funding, with an additional £3m from the Council, £1.8m from Sport England and £1.1m from the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme. Following a district-wide leisure services review, the centre is being redeveloped to better reflect the needs of the local community. The current four-lane swimming pool will be replaced with a new 25m, six-lane pool and a larger teaching pool. The gym will be expanded from 35 stations to 60, along with a second group exercise and cycling studio. One of the existing squash courts will be transformed into a new Community Wellness Suite. The space will support referral-based services, offering specialist equipment and trained instructors to help improve health outcomes for individuals with specific medical conditions. Other key features include an indoor adventure soft play area and changing rooms. The refurbishment aims to transform the centre into an all-electric facility. Gas boilers will be replaced by air source heat pumps, while solar panels installed on the roof will generate approximately 42 kW of green energy. Additionally, new LED lighting and energyefficient construction methods will ensure the centre operates with reduced energy consumption and heat loss. The Brough Park development is being delivered by Alliance Leisure through the UK Leisure Framework, which is owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd. The project team includes contractor Speller Metcalfe, architect Roberts Limbrick and project manager Abacus. MyActive Leek redevelopment gets underway RLSS UK updates First Aid Essentials THE Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) has launched its new-look first aid qualifications to help leisure operators unlock training and commercial opportunities. Demand for first aid training is increasing across various sectors, presenting new commercial opportunities for operators. Supported by medical experts from the RLSS UK’s Clinical Governance Group, the First Aid Essentials suite helps approved training centres and providers train their internal teams, while meeting the increasing demand for first aid skills among broader businesses and organisations. Rhian MacFarlane, training officer for Pembrokeshire Leisure and RLSS UK National Trainer Assessor, delivers RLSS UK first aid courses from Haverfordwest Leisure Centre. She says: ‘High-profile incidents, like footballers collapsing on the pitch, have sparked interest in learning first aid skills. Our first aid courses have grown significantly through word of mouth, becoming a lucrative part of our business. ‘We were already running RLSS UK’s National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) courses, so it was a natural step to offer their first aid courses. As an RLSS UK approved training centre, we deliver courses at our leisure centre and in the community for various organisations, from education and social care to public transport. Running courses in-house means we can be more adaptable than private companies; clients really appreciate that we schedule courses quickly to meet their needs.’ Designed with leisure centre and swimming pool operators, the broader physical activity providers and the general public in mind, the updated First Aid Essentials suite of qualifications includes new features, such as: • Refreshed candidate manuals • Modernised PowerPoint presentations, new images and videos for more impactful learning • New marketing assets and delivery toolkits • Updated digital resources to reduce the need for printing • A dedicated webpage for the First Aid Essentials suite.7 www.rlss.org.uk
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paf-media.co.uk 11 news Survey shows increased life satisfaction for people taking part in GP exercise referrals A significant increase in life satisfaction for people participating in GP exercise referrals has been emphasised in a survey carried out across Greater Manchester. It shows the mean scores for patients taking part were 1.9 points better than for those on a waiting list, using a scale of 1-10. By comparison, previous studies of changes in life satisfaction have found that moving from unemployment to finding work leads to an average 0.5-point increase. The survey has been commissioned by GM Active, a collective of 12 leisure and community organisations representing all 10 local authorities in Greater Manchester, and conducted by State of Life, which works with its clients and government economists on how to measure and report on the socio-economic value of physical activity. State of Life has pioneered the creation of Wellby scores by using answers from a bank of more than 200 validated questions from UK data sets. The GM Active survey of more than 1,700 people either on a waiting list for a GP referral or taking part in a programme, also shows significantly improved Wellby scores for happiness, anxiety, loneliness and feeling worthwhile. State of Life founder, Will Watt, says: ‘These results are what we call first findings and although there is similar work going on elsewhere, they’re significant because you’ve got a former health minister and Treasury secretary, Andy Burnham, as mayor, and integrated health authorities, so this puts Greater Manchester ahead of the game in proving the worth of physical activity, and that could influence national guidance. ‘What’s more, we’ve carried out what’s known as regression analysis. This means we’ve taken into account factors such as age, health, disability, socioeconomics and employment status to give us more confidence that any positive difference we see in the scores is actually due to participation and not anything else.’ A repeat data collection is now underway until the end of January – described as creating ‘gold standard data’ – after which the findings will be broken down borough by borough and fed back to GM Active, whose strategy is focused on addressing physical inactivity and improving population health and wellbeing throughout Greater Manchester. Millennials prioritise health and fitness MILLENNIALS are prioritising spending their disposable income on their health and fitness over other leisure activities such as eating out and drinking socially, according to a survey released by ukactive. The polling, carried out by Savanta on behalf of ukactive, found that health and fitness came at the top of spending priorities for Millennials, with almost a quarter (23%) investing in gym memberships and other fitness services. Of all the age groups surveyed, those aged 25 to 34 led the way in spending on health and fitness/gym memberships, showing they are investing in their long-term health and fitness over short-term pleasures. The next most popular area of spending for Millennials was holidays (14%), while health and fitness was almost four times as popular as eating out or drinking socially, which only 6% regarded as their priority. In comparison, 16% of 16–24-year-olds prioritised spending on health and fitness/ gym memberships, 21% of 35–44-year-olds, 13% of 45–44-year-olds, 10% of 55–64-yearolds, 9% of 65–74-year-olds and 10% of those over 75. The overall figures across all ages show that Brits are spending three times more on their health and fitness than they are on drinking socially (15% vs 5%). Options such as eating out (9%) were also lower on the charts, suggesting that many are choosing to invest their money in gym memberships for their long-term health and wellbeing. Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, said: ‘More and more people are really prioritising their long-term health and wellbeing by investing in their fitness, whether by joining the gym, going for a swim or trying a new class. ‘Our polling shows Millennials are leading the way, but we want people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the benefits of leading a more active life…It’s time for the Government to recognise this demand and help to get the nation moving more, because the future of our NHS and our economic growth depend on it.’
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paf-media.co.uk 13 trends As 2025 begins, the UK fitness industry is adopting a more inclusive and tech-enabled approach, addressing a wide range of needs, abilities, ages and lifestyles, with the emphasis shifting towards promoting overall health and wellbeing. Here, we explore the key trends FROM hybrid models and AI to functional training and budget gyms, the focus of the UK fitness and health industry is shifting toward comprehensive wellbeing, offering flexibility and accessibility to a diverse population. Hybrid fitness The boundary between physical gyms and virtual platforms is becoming increasingly blurred as hybrid fitness models gain traction. By offering both in-person and online training options, this approach addresses the modern demand for flexibility, blending the convenience of home workouts with the engagement of in-person sessions. Apps such as Peloton and platforms such as Les Mills+ combine digital coaching with communityfocused experiences, while tech products like Egym’s Genius leverages a vast database of workout and assessment data, along with over a decade of sports science expertise, to continuously refine and adapt training recommendations, making it a dynamic tool for both gym operators and members. Functional fitness Functional fitness continues to rise in popularity, focusing on exercises that mimic daily movements to enhance strength and mobility. Designed around squatting, pushing, pulling and lifting, these workouts not only improve athletic performance but also make everyday activities easier and reduce the risk of injury. According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), functional training ranks as one of the top 10 global fitness trends for 2025. Budget gyms Budget gym chains are expanding into smaller UK towns, cities and retail parks, with value operators far outpacing those of their more expensive rivals. The number of gyms run by the dominant trio of PureGym, The Gym Group and JD Gyms in places with a population of 10,000 to 75,000 people more than doubled between 2019 and 2024 to hit 168 sites, according to an analysis by Savills. The low-cost gym sector as a whole increased by about 30% to 372 new locations in the period, while the total number of new gyms, including mid-market and higher-end operators, increased by 15% to 447. Reports indicate that the membership base for budget gyms has grown by 25% annually over the past three years, reflecting the demand for affordable fitness options. Boutique gyms offering wellness services Many boutique gyms are integrating recovery zones and wellness services alongside opulent amenities. High-end fitness and wellness chains, such as Third Space, KXU and Ten Health & Fitness, now offer services such as cryotherapy, infrared saunas and sports massage, as well as niche workouts like Reformer Pilates, spin or barre. Padel Named as the fastest-growing sport in the world, padel is still experiencing significant growth in the UK, with projections indicating a substantial increase in the number of courts and players by 2025. The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has set an ambitious target to expand the sport to 1,000 courts by the end of 2026, aiming to reach 400,000 players. As of December 2024, the UK had approximately 726 padel courts, a substantial increase from the 350 courts reported earlier in the year. This rapid expansion is driven by both established and new operators entering the market, including Advantage Padel, Soul Padel, Padel Box and Destination Padel. Major health club brands, such as David Lloyd, are also investing in padel facilities, with plans to introduce 33 courts across 14 UK clubs.
14 paf-media.co.uk trends Meanwhile, the launch of a Padel Super League is being planned by R3 Sport, while the sport was included in the European Games, seen as one of the major stepping stones towards inclusion in the Olympics. Fitness beyond the leisure centre A recent Leisure DB report revealed that only 15% of the population regularly visits fitness facilities. In response, leisure centres are introducing innovative schemes to boost community participation by establishing health hubs in accessible locations such as shopping centres and community spaces. Initiatives like Oldham Active’s Exercise Referral Scheme, Alliance Leisure’s Warsop Health Hub in Mansfield and Mytime Active’s health hubs are transforming the health and fitness experience, offering health checks, as well as group classes, that motivate and foster a sense of community for people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Mental health integration The integration of mind-body practices like yoga, Pilates and movement meditation into fitness routines is a growing trend that reflects the increasing focus on mental health and stress management. As the mental health crisis continues to affect millions globally, fitness programmes are recognising the importance of combining physical exercise with mindfulness techniques. The research published in Frontiers in Psychology, showing that these practices can reduce stress by up to 40%, underscores the value of this holistic approach to wellbeing. Fitness competitions Community fitness offers the power of the community to stay accountable, and acknowledges the need for fitness to be social and have a training goal to motivate. Fitness facilities are focusing on creating strong communities through group workouts, enhancing member engagement and retention, while large events that bring fitness communities together are seeing a huge growth in the sector. • Hyrox, a global fitness competition combining running and functional exercises, is gaining popularity as an inclusive challenge for all fitness levels, with the number of training facilities in the UK currently standing at 1220. Its structured format appeals to beginners and elite athletes alike, fostering a competitive yet community-oriented environment. The Gym Group has become the largest national provider of Hyrox classes having expanded this offer from 37 to 120 gyms.
founded by Andy Wake, has announced a collaboration The Fitness Group, a leading UK fitness education provider, to offer both online and in-person courses, aiming to enhance the skills of fitness professionals and providing them with the tools to deliver high-quality, boxing-inspired workouts to their clients. Punch Trunk, meanwhile, offers a pro-grade boxing pad that can be taken to a park and strapped to a tree in seconds for those who don’t have a boxing gym membership or the budget for boxing equipment. BOX12 offers technology-led products in the form of pods, and automated in-club training spaces that combine boxing techniques and functional training to optimise a member’s workout potential. The Gym Group was the first gym in the UK to offer a BOX12 studio at its Euston location, and has installed BOX12 technology at multiple sites since, with an additional five gyms planned in 2025. Yoga and wellness • Technology into yoga: Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are creating immersive environments, allowing practitioners to engage in sessions from the comfort of their homes or in classes. • Personalised and hybrid yoga programmes: There's a growing emphasis on tailoring yoga practices to individual needs. Advanced AI algorithms analyse personal data to design customised routines, addressing specific goals such as flexibility, strength or stress relief. Additionally, hybrid yoga models that combine online and in-person classes offer flexibility, accommodating various schedules and preferences. • Eco: Yoga practitioners are increasing looking for supporting studios that prioritise energy efficiency, sustainability and waste reduction. Yogamatters, Liforme and Bullfrog Bottles & Yoga are just some of the companies offering eco-friendly mats, biodegradeable props and sustainable yoga wear. • Wellness festivals: The latest festival trends offer physical activity sessions such as yoga, meditation and aerial skills, to name a few. Most notable include the Verve Wellness Festival, Salisbury, Wiltshire; Soul Circus, Elmore, Gloucestershire, and the Wilderness Festival, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, where fitness bootcamps, HIIT, ‘hot-girl’ boxing and barre workouts are also available. • Yoga at work: UK office landlords are incorporating yoga studios and wellness amenities into fully managed office spaces in a bid to attract tenants by addressing holistic health needs in the workplace. paf-media.co.uk 15 trends • Turf Games began in 2017 as a series of casual workouts at different gyms and studios across London for those who wanted to train in a group. From this grew team-based workouts and one-off events, and a way to fill a void in the market between more 'highly skilled' events already in existence and one dimensional events such as runs. • Level Seven combines running and functional workout stations, setting a race against the clock to complete seven endurance-based workouts with a 450m run between each level. Combat fitness Combat fitness has seen a notable rise in popularity, with disciplines like mixed martial arts (MMA) and boxing transitioning from niche activities to mainstream sports, attracting a diverse audience. While specific UK-centric statistics are limited, the global combat sports products market is projected to grow from USD 9.70 billion in 2023 to USD 13.94 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.39%. This shift has spurred interest in combatthemed fitness routines. Specialised studios focusing on combat training have proliferated, particularly in urban centres like London. Establishments such as 1Rebel, Kobox and BXR offer classes that blend traditional combat techniques with modern fitness practices. Meanwhile, Boxercise,
Fitness for the perennials As we age better and people stay fitter for longer, traditional demographics are increasingly becoming redundant in fitness and leisure, with the demand for healthy ageing services increasing, with 70% of consumers in the US and UK and 85% in China purchasing a product in this category in the preceding year. It is estimated that by 2030, one in six people worldwide will be aged over 60, predicting a greater focus on healthy aging as younger people look for preventative solutions and older people aim to improve their longevity and healthspan. From a group training perspective, this is leading to new programming crafted through the lens of biological age vs actual age. New innovations include LES MILLS THRIVE™ – a low-intensity workout focused on lower body strength to keep people fit for life, without being targeted at a certain age group. It can be valuable for seniors seeking to maintain strength, but also for people who may have become deconditioned due to illness, injuries or just a long period away from being active. Growing number of operators and fitness suppliers are placing greater emphasis on supporting longevity in 2025, tapping into a large and prosperous demographic looking to add years to their life and life to their years. Outdoor fitness Outdoor boot camps, park yoga sessions and fitness events encourage people of all ages and abilities to connect while staying active. The Great Outdoor Gym Company, Kompan, Fresh Air Fitness, Sunshine Gym and Training Kit Outside are just some of the major players offering outdoor gym equipment designed for all levels from beginnings to advanced, as well as Calisthenics rigs. 16 paf-media.co.uk trends Tech trends Wearable technology Wearable devices such as Apple Watch, WHOOP and Garmin have advanced well beyond basic step tracking, now providing detailed insights into health metrics, including heart rate variability, stress levels, sleep patterns and blood oxygen levels. This data-centric approach empowers users to tailor their fitness routines for optimal results. Globally, the wearable fitness tracker market is expected to grow at an annual rate of 12.5%, reaching an estimated $92 billion by 2028. Remote personal training and AI integration There's a significant rise in remote personal training, with a 414% increase in Google searches for remote personal training over the past year, according to PureGym's UK Fitness Report. This growth is driven by the demand for personalised fitness solutions that accommodate individual schedules, including those who work from home. Drax, the South Korean fitness equipment manufacturer which has just launched in the UK, offers an AI-powered fitness platform called Draxfit, which integrates digitally controlled equipment and facility processes to provide a data-driven experience for users. The platform is designed to enhance workout efficiency and personalisation by utilising AI to monitor and adjust training parameters in real-time. Drax's cardio equipment line up also includes the Speedsync treadmill, which automatically adjusts speed based on the user's pace. Augmented Reality (AR) AR offers immersive experiences that enhance training, rehabilitation and entertainment. Notable UK-based companies leading this innovation include: • Rezzil, which specialises in AR and VR training solutions for athletes across various sports • HADO is a unique AR sport that combines physical activity with augmented reality gameplay. Players engage in energetic matches using wearable devices that project virtual elements into real-world environments • Virti utilises AR and VR to create immersive training scenarios, primarily applied to sports training, providing athletes with realistic simulations to improve skills and performance.
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18 paf-media.co.uk event preview Join us for the second physical activity facilities forum Europe in February 2025, which offers the unique opportunity to combine an immersive business experience with the activities and backdrop of the Alps THE physical activity facilities forum Europe is set to take place from 25-28 February 2025, in Switzerland, offering a unique blend of business and leisure against the stunning backdrop of the Alps. For the second year running, this groundbreaking event merges the excitement of winter sports with invaluable business networking opportunities. Held in the charming Swiss town of Andermatt, the forum helps professionals from across the industry connect and grow their businesses in an unparalleled setting. The Radisson Blu Hotel, located in the heart of the Alps, will serve as the venue for the forum. This luxurious hotel offers easy access to a range of winter sports and is the perfect base for ski and snowboard enthusiasts. After a day of networking and outdoor activities, guests can unwind with a soothing massage at the on-site spa or relax in their rooms. Andermatt's breathtaking mountain scenery promises to elevate the forum experience beyond typical business events. Attendees will enjoy guided tours of the historic old town, insightful talks on the region’s past and stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. We’ve chosen Andermatt for its enchanting environment and we’re confident you’ll be captivated by its beauty, just as we have been. Work hard, play hard The forum kicks off with a fireside chat featuring leading figures from the fitness and leisure industry, who will explore current trends, challenges and innovations, in addition to delving deep into the hot topics of the day. The event provides a platform for delegates to connect with industry peers while engaging in productive discussions and network opportunities. Packages include a two-day ski pass, equipment rental and lessons for all skill levels. A highlight of the event will be a fondue party at 2,222 meters on the mountainside, as well as a gala dinner, entertainment and additional alpine activities. Unprecedented networking opportunities Helen Adkins, the new paf editor, highlights the unique networking possibilities in this picturesque setting: ‘This is an unparalleled chance for the leisure and fitness industry to
paf-media.co.uk 19 event preview engage in tailored networking against a stunning backdrop. It really is a must-attend event for anyone in the sector.’ Stable Events MD Toby Filby adds: ‘We are thrilled to host the second year of this successful forum, combining meeting rooms with mountain views. And our events wouldn’t be possible without the support of our event partners, which include ukactive, Europe active, Elevate and the International Association for Sports and Leisure Facilities (IAKS).’ As a complimentary buyer, you’ll stay at the forefront of the evolving landscape of physical activity facilities, meeting innovative suppliers and forging valuable business relationships. Suppliers, in turn, will gain exclusive access to key decision-makers involved in the design, build and management of physical activity facilities, including operators, local authorities, universities, architects, contractors and consultants. Join us in Switzerland for a forum where business meets adventure, and make the most of this exceptional opportunity to advance your career and network in a truly memorable setting. www.paf-europe.com Partners & Supporters: Dave Stalker, on paf Europe 2024, speaking at the event ‘paf Europe 2024 has been exciting, different and intimate. It’s been incredibly well structured, with enough time to chat and get to know each other. It’s such a change from most standard events – this stands on its own. The great thing about the audience here, is that it’s packed full of really busy people whose time is valuable, which means Stable Events have got the right audience. I would say my time is also valuable, but I have endless time for an event like this if it’s going to add value, so, for me, people are getting really stuck in because they know these conservations are important. Some conversations will result in small changes to their business, and some might be niche ideas, but some of the conversations I’ve had could literally be game changing. It's rare that I come to an event like this where I don’t know everyone. You’ve brought people from Europe, but also from different industries together and it’s been seamless. And that is the strength of the event. I’ve come across ideas and spoken to people from many other industries. I might never use those ideas, but then not everything has to be a commercial decision that I make some value out of. Improving my knowledge and learning about new things is so valuable because I’ve seen things through a new lens. I’ve spoken to people from the industry I know and love, but I’ve spoken to people from other industries here and that has never happened in 35 years of being in health and fitness. Would I come again? That’s a no-brainer. I’ve loved the intimacy of this event, and I think it will expand and grow. I would say to everyone I speak to that they have to try this one. I go to thousands of events and this one is just ‘wow’. To attend as a supplier, contact: julian@stable-events.co.uk To attend as a complimentary buyer delegate, contact: georgie.smith@stable-events.co.uk
20 paf-media.co.uk trends Boxing Combat fitness – with boxing at its core – has seen a remarkable surge in popularity in gyms and leisure centres in recent years, with boxing fitness becoming a staple offering for operators looking to attract a diverse clientele and boost member retention. We talk to some of the key providers THE clang of gloves hitting pads, the rhythmic thud of feet shuffling on mats and the infectious energy of a trainer shouting encouragement: these are the unmistakable sounds of a boxing session in full swing. Once considered the domain of professional fighters and underground gyms, boxing has made its way into the mainstream fitness world in the UK – and it’s here to stay. Over the last decade, combat fitness – with boxing at its core - has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity. Gyms that once focused on treadmills and weight machines now dedicate entire spaces to punch bags, speed balls and tech-based studios. Group classes like boxercise, and high-intensity interval workouts inspired by boxing routines, are drawing in participants. The appeal of boxing So why has boxing become such a knockout success in the fitness world? One key factor is its versatility. Boxing offers a full-body workout that combines cardio, strength and coordination, making it ideal for those looking to improve their overall fitness. Unlike running on a treadmill or lifting weights, it engages both the body and the mind, requiring focus, strategy and quick thinking. It’s a sport where technique matters as much as effort and that dual challenge appeals to many. Another major draw is the empowerment it provides. Boxing builds confidence, not just from mastering techniques but also from the sheer catharsis of throwing punches. For many, it’s as much about stress relief as it is about fitness. The mental health benefits are significant; boxing allows people to channel their frustrations into something productive, leaving them physically exhausted but mentally rejuvenated. Social media has also played a significant role in boxing’s newfound fame. Influencers and celebrities regularly post about their boxing workouts. From model Gigi Hadid to actor Tom Hardy, boxing has become a go-to workout for the stars, inspiring their followers to try it out at their local gym. From sparring rings to fitness classes The shift from traditional boxing gyms to mainstream fitness centres has been pivotal in the sport’s rising popularity. Big-name chains like Virgin Active, Les Mills and David Lloyd now offer boxing-inspired classes, and boutique studios specialising in combat fitness are flourishing. These spaces are designed to be inclusive, welcoming everyone from seasoned athletes to complete beginners. The move from boxing clubs into gyms can be traced back to 1992, when Boxercise, a blend of boxing and exercise, was founded by professional boxing coach Andy Wake. The concept began as a club for students and was initially started to raise funds to buy equipment for the fledgeling Brunel University Boxing Club. The classes quickly became popular with participants wanting to enjoy the benefits of boxing training but without getting hit back. Soon, other fitness trainers approached Wake to train them and the courses were born. Boxercise’s structured format, featuring pad work, shadow boxing and circuit training, means it can be scaled for group classes, and its rapid adoption across gyms in the UK solidified its reputation as a versatile and effective workout. By the mid-2000s, Boxercise was a staple in gyms and fitness centres across the UK, while its certification programmes for instructors helped standardise the training methodology and clever
paf-media.co.uk 21 trends expand its reach. It’s now present in 56 countries worldwide, with the online courses translated into 11 languages. Wake explains: ‘The original concept began purely as punching only, but quickly the KickBoxercise element was added due to demand in the late 1990's. Then we introduced Boxercise for Kids and Parkinson's Boxercise. We are currently working on a new kids Boxercise programme, which we expect to launch in September.’ The company has recently partnered with The Fitness Group, the UK’s leading fitness education provider to provide online and inperson courses for fitness professionals, to help them upskill and deliver greater value and push standards higher. ‘This will be of great benefit to the fitness industry because there are some unscrupulous people using AI to make fake certificates,’ Wake says. ‘The public can't easily check that a PT or class instructor is qualified and insured, but they can check on our website if an instructor is qualified in a few seconds so they can feel safe. The benefit to ourselves is the excellent quality of graduates from The Fitness Group coming into our courses.’ Steven Dick, co-founder and director at The Fitness Group, agrees that the move was needed in light of the increasing popularity of the sport: ‘We came together because we both share a mission to improve the education standards for the sector, continuing to ensure that people wanting to begin a career in the fitness industry – or current fitness professionals upskilling – are given the very best education.’ Technology meets tradition The rise of combat fitness has been further amplified by technology. Wearable fitness trackers and apps now offer boxing-specific features, helping participants monitor their punch count, speed and intensity. Unique to the sector is BOX12, which was founded in 2019 by industry veterans Jamie Cartwright and Jon Eade. Cartwright had previously launched a multi-site, women-only circuit gym chain, while Eade had built a boxing for fitness training academy in collaboration with four-time world champion Ricky Hatton. This combination of hands-on fitness experience and expertise in boxing led them to create BOX12 – a scalable solution designed to help gym operators engage more ‘The shift from traditional boxing gyms to mainstream fitness centres has been pivotal in the sport’s rising popularity’ Boxercise is present in 56 countries worldwide, with online courses translated into 11 languages A new Boxercise for Kids programme is due to be launched in September Kick Boxercise was introduced in the late 90s
22 paf-media.co.uk trends consumers into boxing fitness. BOX12 products include The Pod, a techled boxing and functional fitness pod, designed as a standalone piece of kit with a screen and a hanging bag. It is aimed at operators who wants an on-demand solution but have limited space. By contrast, the club-in-club studio system requires around 53m2 and provides 24/7 individual circuits and group workouts, powered by virtual coaching screens. Joanna Walker has been chief marketing officer for BOX12 since September of last year and says both products not only offer the benefits of boxing, but the flexibility that users now require – arguably one of the biggest trends this year. ‘Flexibility is a hot topic of conversation and operators are asking how they can serve consumers in terms of working around customers’ schedules’, she says. ‘We’re seeing a lot of operators move into to 24/7 models now. What’s great about the club-inclub studio is that it can be used to fit around people's schedules rather than having to commit to rigid class timetables. ‘BOX12 enables members to just turn up at the gym, get a full body workout in 36 minutes using a guided training circuit via digital screens at any time that suits. The studio is the size of a squash court and offers an immersive experience, with a dark industrial look and low lighting – it’s a very boutique experience.’ ‘The health benefits of boxing are not just around the physical – you’ve also got the stress busting element, the confidence boosting and the sense of empowerment’
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