How to Attract Gen Z Clients: Personal Training Trends for 2025

Business and Marketing

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Author: TrueCoach

5 min read

Introduction 

Generation Z (born between 1997 and 2012) is transforming the fitness industry. With their unique priorities and preferences, they’re quickly becoming a major segment of the fitness market. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z values flexibility, digital access, and holistic health practices. They also seek brands and professionals that align with their social and environmental values. 

For personal trainers, this shift represents an incredible opportunity to connect with a new wave of clients—but only if you adapt to their expectations. In this blog, we’ll explore actionable strategies to attract and retain Gen Z clients in 2025, from leveraging technology to emphasizing mental wellness and sustainability. 

1. Understanding Gen Z: What They Value in Fitness 

To connect with Gen Z, it’s essential to understand their unique approach to fitness and wellness. Here’s what they prioritize: 

  • Flexibility: Gen Z clients are busy and expect training options that fit their lifestyles. Hybrid models that combine in-person and virtual training are especially appealing. 
  • Tech-Savvy Solutions: Raised in the digital era, Gen Z embraces fitness apps, wearable devices, and online platforms to monitor their progress and stay engaged. 
  • Holistic Health: This generation sees fitness as part of a broader wellness journey. Mental health, mindfulness, and balanced living are as important as physical results. 
  • Social Responsibility: Gen Z is highly conscious of social and environmental issues. They want to work with trainers who share their values, such as promoting inclusivity or adopting eco-friendly practices. 

Pro Tip: By allowing clients control over their workout schedule with features like an interactive Program and Workout Builder, you can increase your clients’ retention and adhere to their lifestyle.  

2. Attracting Gen Z Clients: Strategies for Success 

2.1. Build a Strong Digital Presence 

If you want to connect with Gen Z, you need to meet them where they are: online. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are key channels for reaching this demographic. 

  • Share Engaging Content: Post short, dynamic videos featuring workout tips, wellness hacks, and client success stories. Use trending sounds and challenges to boost visibility. 
  • Highlight Real Results: Showcase authentic testimonials and progress stories from your clients, especially those in the Gen Z age group. 
  • Be Relatable: Use casual, conversational language in your posts and captions to build trust and relatability. 

Pro Tip: Need help building up your social media presence? Get 30 pre-built social media templates (and more) for personal trainers here. 

2.2. Offer Virtual and Hybrid Training Options 

Flexibility is a non-negotiable for Gen Z clients. They want training that adapts to their schedules and lifestyles. 

  • Live Virtual Training: Offer one-on-one or group sessions through platforms like Zoom or TrueCoach to cater to clients who prefer remote workouts. 
  • Pre-Recorded Content: Create a library of workout videos and resources that clients can access on demand. 
  • Hybrid Models: Combine in-person training with virtual sessions for a seamless experience, especially for clients who travel frequently or have unpredictable schedules. 

2.3. Leverage Technology to Enhance Engagement 

Gen Z loves tech, and integrating it into your training approach can set you apart. 

  • Wearables: Use data from fitness trackers to monitor client progress and offer personalized recommendations. 
  • Mobile-Friendly Tools: Platforms like TrueCoach provide an intuitive interface where clients can access workouts, track habits, and communicate with you. 
  • Gamification: Add a fun, competitive element to training by using leaderboards or progress badges to motivate clients. 

Pro Tip: Explore TrueCoach’s integrations with the world’s top wearables here. 

3. Retaining Gen Z Clients: Long-Term Engagement 

Attracting Gen Z clients is just the first step. Retaining them requires a focus on personalized experiences, community-building, and shared values. 

3.1. Personalize Their Experience 

Customization is key for this generation. They want training programs tailored to their individual goals and preferences. 

  • Custom Workouts: Design training plans that align with each client’s specific fitness objectives, whether it’s building strength, improving mobility, or managing stress. 
  • Habit Tracking: Use tools like TrueCoach to help clients set and track habits such as daily hydration, regular stretching, or mindfulness exercises. 
  • Frequent Feedback: Regularly check in with clients to assess their progress, celebrate milestones, and make adjustments to their plans. 

Pro Tip: Create custom daily, weekly, and monthly habits for your clients with our Advanced Habit and Nutrition Tracker. 

3.2. Foster Community Connections 

Gen Z thrives on social connections, even in fitness. Creating a sense of community can enhance engagement and retention. 

  • Group Challenges: Host monthly challenges (e.g., a steps competition or a hydration streak) to encourage accountability and friendly competition. 
  • Private Groups: Set up a private social media group or chat for your clients where they can share progress, ask questions, and support one another. 
  • Social Media Shoutouts: Celebrate client achievements publicly on your social channels to build a sense of pride and recognition. 

3.3. Highlight Social and Environmental Responsibility 

For Gen Z, choosing a trainer is as much about shared values as it is about fitness results. 

  • Sustainability: Incorporate eco-friendly practices, such as using digital tools instead of paper for schedules and programs. 
  • Inclusivity: Promote diversity and inclusivity in your marketing and training approach to show clients you value all individuals. 
  • Support Causes: Align with causes that matter to Gen Z, such as mental health awareness or environmental sustainability, to build deeper connections. 

4. Tools and Resources for Success 

To attract and retain Gen Z clients, you’ll need the right tools to streamline your services and enhance client experiences. 

  • TrueCoach: A comprehensive platform for managing workouts, tracking client progress, and communicating effectively. 
  • Social Media Scheduling Tools: Apps like Buffer or Later can help you plan and post engaging content consistently. 
  • Wearables and Integrations: Use tools that sync with fitness trackers to provide personalized insights and data-driven recommendations. 

Conclusion 

Attracting and retaining Gen Z clients requires flexibility, tech-savviness, and a commitment to holistic health and social values. By adopting hybrid training models, leveraging digital tools, and fostering meaningful connections, you can position your personal training business for success in 2025 and beyond. 

Ready to get started? Explore TrueCoach’s 14-Day Free Trial for tools and resources that make it easy to connect with Gen Z clients and elevate your training practice with one of the world’s leading personal training apps. 

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Author: TrueCoach

  • First published: January 02 2025

    Written by: TrueCoach