In 2025, a noticeable shift is taking place in the way Australians approach fitness — especially in major urban centers like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. The traditional gym model is being challenged by a growing trend: outdoor fitness culture . More Australians are choosing to break a sweat under the open sky, trading treadmills for trails, dumbbells for bodyweight exercises, and air-conditioned gyms for fresh-air workouts.
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This movement isn’t just about physical health — it’s also driven by mental well-being, community connection, and a desire for more flexible, accessible, and eco-friendly ways to stay fit.
The Shift from Indoor Gyms to Open Spaces
For years, indoor gyms dominated the fitness landscape in Australia. However, rising membership costs, crowded spaces, and rigid schedules have led many urbanites to seek alternatives. In response, outdoor fitness has exploded in popularity, particularly among millennials and Gen Z.
According to a 2025 survey conducted by Roy Morgan Research, over 40% of Australians now engage in regular outdoor exercise , with the highest participation rates found in cities like Melbourne (47%) and Sydney (45%).
Key reasons cited include:
- Lower cost : No gym fees or equipment needed.
- Better mental health benefits : Exposure to nature reduces stress and improves mood.
- Flexibility : Workouts can be done anytime without waiting for equipment or dealing with peak-hour crowds.
- Social motivation : Group outdoor fitness classes foster a sense of community and accountability.
Popular Outdoor Fitness Activities in 2025
Several outdoor workout formats have gained traction across Australian cities:
1. Park-Based HIIT and Functional Training
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) and functional workouts using bodyweight and resistance bands are now common in parks such as Sydney’s Hyde Park, Melbourne’s Fitzroy Gardens, and Brisbane’s South Bank. Many local councils have installed free outdoor fitness stations equipped with pull-up bars, parallel bars, and resistance platforms.
Organizations like ParkFit Australia and Bootcamp Nation offer guided group sessions that cater to all fitness levels, helping participants achieve strength, endurance, and flexibility goals outdoors.
2. Trail Running and Bushwalking
Urban dwellers are increasingly heading to nearby national parks and coastal trails for running and walking. Apps like AllTrails and Strava report record usage among Australians, with popular spots like the Blue Mountains near Sydney and the Dandenong Ranges near Melbourne seeing a 30% increase in visitors compared to 2023.
Trail running clubs have also grown in number, offering weekly meetups and races ranging from 5Ks to ultra-marathons.
3. Yoga and Mindfulness in Nature
Outdoor yoga continues to thrive, especially in beachside locations like Bondi, Byron Bay, and Manly. Classes are often held at sunrise or sunset, combining physical activity with meditation and breathwork.
Wellness studios like The Practice in Melbourne and Flow Athletic in Sydney have expanded their offerings to include weekly outdoor sessions, drawing large followings from professionals looking to disconnect from work stress.
4. Cycling and Commuter Fitness
With improved bike infrastructure and government incentives, cycling has become both a commuting solution and a form of daily exercise. In 2025, cities like Canberra and Adelaide have seen significant growth in bike-to-work participation, supported by new bike lanes and e-bike subsidies.
Group cycling events like City2Surf Ride and Great Victorian Bike Ride continue to attract thousands of participants annually.
Community and Social Impact
One of the most powerful aspects of the outdoor fitness movement is its ability to build inclusive, welcoming communities . Unlike some gym environments that can feel intimidating or exclusive, outdoor fitness groups emphasize accessibility and camaraderie.
Cities have embraced this shift by supporting:
- Free community fitness days
- Public wellness workshops
- Fitness ambassador programs in local councils
These initiatives help people of all ages and backgrounds engage in physical activity together, fostering social cohesion and reducing isolation — especially important post-pandemic.
