For too long, group exercise has carried the stereotype that it’s “for women”, leaving men hesitant to join. But the landscape is changing. Today, more men are stepping into gyms, studios, and functional fitness events in groups, challenging old ideas and discovering the benefits of exercising together.
Men are joining group exercise in growing numbers
From small studio classes to large events like HYROX, men are finding formats that are engaging, social, and results-driven.
While women still represent a larger share of weekly class participants, male involvement has been steadily rising. According to the 2022 EMD UK National Survey:
- 1.21 million men take part in weekly group exercise, up from 750,000 in 2016.
- Men now make up roughly 26% of weekly group-class participants, reflecting a growing trend of male engagement.
This shift is especially notable in strength-based, HIIT, and functional fitness classes. HYROX is a prime example: global participation stats show around 62% of competitors are male, and men are drawn to the combination of measurable performance, community, and friendly competition.
Why men are embracing group fitness
A few simple reasons:
- Community and accountability. Training together creates schedules, friendships and a shared goal, which makes it easier to turn up consistently.
- Challenge + fun = winning combo. Events like HYROX pair competitive goals with social energy. You train with others, you race with others, and you celebrate together.
- Accessible levels and formats. Fitness is becoming more and more accessible with categories for different abilities (open, doubles, relays), so it’s much less intimidating.
HYROX: a new era of male-friendly group exercise
HYROX demonstrates how group exercise is evolving to attract more men. With functional strength stations, running, and performance tracking, it combines competition with community. Men can compete individually, in doubles, or as part of a relay team, making it accessible and social, while delivering tangible fitness results.
The rise of events like HYROX signals a broader shift: men are no longer sidelined in group fitness. They’re engaging, competing, and thriving alongside others.
What this means for men’s health
More men are moving together, challenging stereotypes, and prioritising their health, physically, mentally, and socially. Whether it’s joining a gym class, training for a HYROX race or similar, or simply exercising with friends, men are discovering the benefits of group exercise in a way that suits them.
There’s strong evidence that exercise can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, boosting life satisfaction. Group exercise then adds an extra layer. Social support and connection appear to account for a meaningful portion of the mental health gains people report from group activity.
Basically, training in a group can:
- Reduce loneliness and offer safe spaces to open up.
- Normalises showing vulnerability: Men who train together often get comfortable talking about stress, family and work as part of regular banter and encouragement.
- Builds identity and belonging, which supports long-term behaviour change and resilience.
Ready to join the many men opting for group fitness? Grab your mate and spread the word that moving is better when done together.
Browse our app for group exercise options in your area: https://bit.ly/4jBgf3I
