Each new generation comes with a different point of view, understanding of the world, and a different way of moving through it. Born between 1997 and 2012, Generation Z was the first generation to grow up with the internet present. This digital native status has shaped their expectations and habits, including how they approach fitness and wellness. Les Mills, a company at the forefront of innovative fitness programming, recognizes the unique needs and preferences of Gen Z in a recent full-length report.
Taking into account the needs and preferences of Gen Z, Les Mills has developed cutting-edge workout experiences that blend technology, social connectivity, and high-energy routines. Their offerings, from immersive virtual classes aimed at building strength to gamified fitness utilizing VR, cater to the tech-savvy, fast-paced lifestyle of the newest gym generation. By embracing digital platforms and creating engaging, community-driven content, Les Mills is ahead of the curve in catering to the health and wellness needs of Gen Z.
Starting as a small gym in Auckland, New Zealand, Les Mills was founded in 1968 by four-time Olympian, Les Mills Senior, and his wife, Colleen. What began as a small gym has evolved into a worldwide fitness brand, recognized for its group fitness programming offered in gyms and fitness centers around the globe.
They offer classes such as:
Although this isn’t an exhaustive list, these are some of the well-loved workouts Les Mills offers to their clients.
Several things about Les Mills set them apart and led to their continued success as a well-recognized and respected name in the industry. Les Mills drops quarterly “innovations”, which is refreshed programming every three months including new music and choreography to keep regular students engaged, excited, and progressive. They also run scientifically-backed programs, collaborating with exercise physiologists and other topic experts to ensure workouts are safe, effective, and geared toward improvement.
As Gen Z starts to take over gym spaces, Les Mills and the rest of the industry have had to focus on meeting the needs of the largest health and wellness generation. Les Mills recently launched a report on Gen Z and how they interact with fitness and the gym space, finding that 50% of Gen Z want a regular fitness routine but need help getting started.
The interest in Gen Z has mostly fallen into a few categories:
Following these trends, “Generation Active” as Gen Z has been fondly nicknamed, it will be imperative for gyms, studios, and fitness spaces to accommodate the needs and desires of Gen Z to continue their interest and pursuit of physical activity. By providing online, strength-based, novel, and community-focused training, the current needs of Gen Z can be met, while continuing to look at the future to improve and diversify offerings.
Generation Z’s unique relationship with technology has transformed their approach to fitness and wellness. Les Mills, recognizing this shift, has adeptly tailored its offerings to meet the needs of this tech-savvy generation. By blending innovative programming, digital platforms, and community-driven classes, Les Mills has positioned itself at the forefront of the evolving fitness landscape to honor the needs of Gen Z.
The company’s focus on strength training, novel experiences, and group fitness aligns perfectly with Gen Z’s preferences, as revealed in their recent report. As “Generation Active” continues to shape the future of fitness, companies like Les Mills that can adapt and innovate will thrive. The fitness industry’s ability to cater to Gen Z’s desire for engaging, varied, and technology-integrated workout experiences will be crucial in fostering long-term health and wellness habits for this generation.
About Elisa Edelstein
Elisa is a curious and versatile writer, carving her niche in the health and wellness industry since 2015. Her lens is rooted in real world experience as a personal trainer and competitive bodybuilder and extended out of the gym and on to the page as a writer where she is able to combine her passions for empowering others, promoting wellness, and the power of the written word.
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