In 2025, fitness classes remain a cornerstone of the wellness industry, offering structured, social, and engaging workouts. According to Roy Morgan’s Single Source survey, women are three times more likely to attend fitness classes than men, highlighting a significant gender gap in exercise preferences. This data, drawn from a comprehensive study of Australian consumers, underscores the social, psychological, and practical factors driving women’s participation. This article explores the Roy Morgan findings, why women dominate fitness classes, and how this trend shapes the fitness industry in 2025.
The Roy Morgan Findings
Roy Morgan’s research, based on interviews with over 50,000 Australians, reveals that 76% of the 1.75 million people spending on fitness classes in an average four-week period are women. This translates to women being approximately three times more likely than men to invest in classes like yoga, Pilates, Zumba, or barre. The data also shows that while gym memberships are nearly evenly split (53% women, 47% men among 3.14 million gym-goers), fitness classes attract a disproportionately female audience. This trend aligns with broader consumer behavior, as women are also more likely to pay for personal services like hairdressing or alternative health treatments (70% of women vs. 60% of men).
The gender disparity in fitness class attendance is not about overall exercise frequency. A 2017 Australian Sports Commission report noted that 61% of women and 57% of men exercise at least three times weekly, suggesting similar activity levels. However, women gravitate toward group settings, while men lean toward solo activities like strength training or sports. In 2025, this preference continues to shape fitness trends, with women driving demand for boutique studios and group exercise programs.
Why Are Women More Likely to Attend Fitness Classes?
Several factors explain women’s preference for fitness classes, rooted in social, psychological, and practical considerations.
1. Social Connection and Community
Fitness classes offer a sense of community that resonates with women. Dr. Kathryn Mills, a physiotherapist and lecturer at Macquarie University, notes that women are more likely to engage in activities with a social aspect, such as group classes, which foster friendships and accountability. In 2025, 36% of women participate in group fitness classes compared to just 8% of men (Women’s Health, 2025). Retreats and studios emphasize community, with instructors facilitating connections, reducing dropout rates by 20% (Les Mills, 2025). For women, the social bonds formed in classes like yoga or barre enhance motivation and enjoyment.
2. Variety and Accessibility
Fitness classes provide diverse, instructor-led workouts that appeal to women seeking variety. Classes like Pilates, spin, or dance cater to different fitness levels and goals, from flexibility to cardio. Women are more likely to frequent boutique studios offering yoga, Pilates, or barre, with 72% of boutique class attendees being female (Upmetrics, 2024). These classes require minimal equipment knowledge, reducing intimidation—a barrier for 19% of gym-goers (Mindbody, 2023). In 2025, hybrid models (in-person and virtual) make classes more accessible, with 43% of Millennials and 30% of Gen Z discovering in-person classes through virtual platforms.
3. Holistic Wellness Focus
Women prioritize holistic health, combining physical fitness with mental well-being. Classes like yoga or mindfulness-based fitness address stress, with 25% of participants reporting reduced anxiety (Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 2025). Roy Morgan data shows women are more likely to invest in health-related services, such as supplements (47% of women vs. 35% of men), reflecting a broader commitment to wellness. Fitness classes often incorporate mindfulness or recovery, aligning with women’s goals of health, mood enhancement, and weight management, which 50% cite as top exercise motivations (PMC, 2022).
4. Instructor Guidance and Motivation
Instructor-led classes provide structure and motivation, particularly appealing to women. Certified trainers ensure proper form, reducing injury risk—a concern for 30% of female gym-goers (PureGym, 2024). In 2025, 32% of gym members attend group classes for their goal-oriented design, with women favoring sessions like Cycle (21% of bookings) or Legs, Bums & Tums (14%). The presence of instructors fosters confidence, especially for beginners, and creates a supportive environment that encourages regular attendance.
Impact on the Fitness Industry
The gender gap in fitness class attendance is reshaping the industry, driving growth and innovation:
- Boutique Studio Boom: Boutique studios, where 48% of memberships are held, generate 21% of fitness club revenue (Upmetrics, 2024). Women’s preference for specialized classes like Pilates or barre fuels this trend, with 72% of attendees increasing spending since 2023.
- Hybrid Fitness Models: Virtual classes, valued at $16.4 billion in 2022, are projected to reach $106.4 billion by 2030. Women, particularly Millennials, drive demand for livestreamed yoga or dance, with 35% growth expected annually (The Good Body, 2023).
- Focus on Women’s Wellness: Operators like The Gym Group and Les Mills are launching women-specific programs, addressing physical and mental health. In 2025, 86.8% of fitness operators expect membership growth, with group classes as a key driver (HFA Global Report, 2024).
- Retention Strategies: High class attendance (only 8% of members inactive in 12 weeks, Fitness First Germany) boosts retention by fostering community, critical as 40% of members cancel due to time or cost (Flex AI, 2025).
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite their popularity, fitness classes face challenges. High costs deter 40% of potential members, with boutique classes averaging $15-$60 per session. Women also report feeling intimidated in gym settings (24% vs. 20% of men, PureGym, 2024). Solutions include affordable virtual options and women-only classes, which 50% of female gym-goers prefer (ASICS, 2025). Operators can capitalize on women’s engagement by offering flexible memberships and inclusive environments.