Available via license: CC BY 4.0
Content may be subject to copyright.
AIMS Public Health, 11(3): 861–885.
DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2024044
Received: 04 April 2024
Revised: 28 May 2024
Accepted: 07 June 2024
Published: 05 July 2024
http://www.aimspress.com/journal/aimsph
Research article
Health and fitness trends in the post-COVID-19 era in the United Arab
Emirates: A cross-sectional study
Alexios Batrakoulis1,2,*, Željko Banićević3, Ivana Banićević3,*, Ashokan Arumugam4,5,6,7, Ivan
Marović3, Nemanja Krstić8, Saša Obradović9
1 Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
2 Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Democritus University of Thrace,
Komotini, Greece
3 HERC – Health, Exercise & Research Center, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
4 Department of Physiotherapy, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United
Arab Emirates
5 Neuromusculoskeletal Rehabilitation Research Group, RIMHS – Research Institute of Medical and
Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
6 Sustainable Engineering Asset Management Research Group, RISE – Research Institute of Science
and Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
7 Adjunct Faculty, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal Academy of Higher Education,
Manipal, Karnataka, India
8 Sport & Wellness Office, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
9 Student Activities Department, Middlesex University, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
* Correspondence: Email: Alexios Batrakoulis: abatrakoulis@uth.gr; Ivana Banićević:
ivana@hercme.com.
Abstract: The health and fitness (H&F) sector is rapidly evolving and appears to be a vibrant space
for industry stakeholders with a great potential globally. This observational study aimed to identify the
most popular trends related to H&F services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the first time,
focused on the industry status after the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and aimed to detect
potential differences with the recent results observed in other countries or regions. Additionally, a chi-
862
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
square analysis was applied to determine the significant differences between trends and demographics,
such as sex, age, experience, and work status. A national online survey was conducted, and applied the
methodology of similar international surveys that have been carried out by the American College of
Sports Medicine since 2006. In particular, simple random sampling was utilized through an online
questionnaire sent to 2771 professionals involved in the UAE’s H&F sector. In total, 322 responses
were collected with a response rate of 11.6%. The 10 most popular H&F trends in the UAE during the
post-COVID-19 era were exercise for weight loss, personal training, traditional strength training,
employing certified exercise professionals, boxing, kickboxing, mixed martial arts, youth athletic
development, high-intensity interval training, massage, bodyweight training, and wearable
technologies. Exercise for weight loss (p = 0.001) and lifestyle medicine (p = 0.032) were more popular
among females compared to males, while traditional strength training (p = 0.035) was reported more
frequently by males. Going to health clubs and spas (p = 0.001) and practicing yoga (p = 0.011) were
more popular trends among middle-aged (36–64 years) respondents compared to young ones (18–34
years). Athletic development (p = 0.042) was more frequently reported by non-practitioners (students)
compared to practitioners (part- and full-time employees). The present results are partially in line with
those reported in other recent national, regional, and global surveys, which investigated the top H&F
trends after the COVID-19 pandemic. Importantly, the main outcomes of this study indicate that the
industry stakeholders should focus on in-person H&F services since trends related to technology and
digital services are not currently popular nationwide. Moreover, the majority of the top trends were
more traditional and rooted activities, which showed that the current status of the H&F sector has
established particular training services, programs, and products in the UAE.
Keywords: United Arab Emirates; fitness survey; trends; top programs; top services; ACSM survey
1. Introduction
The health and fitness (H&F) sector is considered a fast-growing business area, demonstrating
significant potential for evolution and innovation globally [1]. Importantly, this dynamic space
promotes various activities related to physical activity, exercise, and wellness among people of all ages,
races, and training experience levels; moreover, it aims to support public health and disseminate the
critical role of an active lifestyle in health and well-being after the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).
Specifically, the H&F sector sees recovery in the post-COVID-19 after almost three challenging years
that negatively affected business and consumer habits. However, the key role of regular bodily
movement has been extensively highlighted and the positive influence of various fitness services,
programs, and products has been extensively observed [2]. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the
number of fitness facilities and members has been increasing in the past few years, showing a dynamic
profile of the national H&F sector compared to developed countries. Interestingly, the UAE’s H&F
sector appears an emerging and competitive market, demonstrates attractive business and professional
development opportunities among industry stakeholders, and aims to support public health through
positive and inclusive fitness experiences. Programs that are relevant to Millennials, Generation Z, and
863
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
women are on the rise nationwide [3]. Interestingly, multipurpose gyms and boutique fitness studios
offering services in a luxurious environment seem to be an emerging trend in fitness facilities in the
UAE, which is in line with the current status of the H&F sector worldwide concerning fitness settings,
with the greatest potential for growth and innovation [4]. During the COVID-19 lockdown, the leading
causes of unhealthy behavior in the UAE were increased food intake and decreased physical activity,
followed by increased weight, decreased sleep, and increased smoking. Even before the COVID-19
pandemic, the UAE population exhibited a considerably elevated occurrence of sedentary behavior
and physical inactivity. It is worth mentioning that one in two individuals are physically inactive, two
in three individuals are overweight, and one in three individuals have obesity among adults in the UAE,
indicating a similar epidemiological status to that reported in the Western world [5,6]. On the other
hand, the physically active way of living has been underlined as an effective behavior to reduce
inactivity and obesity that attract various lifestyle-related chronic diseases worldwide [7,8].
The UAE is one of the world’s wealthiest states, demonstrating one of the highest gross domestic
products per capita worldwide [9]. Thus, the local fitness market has shown tremendous growth in the
past 10 years, attracting not only residents, but mostly foreign entrepreneurs and workers. Interestingly,
the UAE’s health, fitness, and wellness sector is a very competitive business arena, especially between
international and domestic players. The major growth market drivers are population growth, high-net-
worth individuals, increased obesity rates, government initiatives, and an increase in dedicated gyms
for women [3]. The prevalence of the most common lifestyle-related health issues is rising at an
alarming rate, setting public health under pressure while reducing the quality of life in adults [10].
Noticeably, the large majority of the adult population have been affected by various cardiometabolic
health diseases in the UAE [10]. A significant proportion of deaths in the UAE, approximately 77%,
are attributed to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with prevalent risk factors including an elevated
body mass index, an increased systolic blood pressure, elevated fasting plasma glucose levels, and
elevated total cholesterol levels [10]. Hence, the rising awareness regarding sedentarism and excess
weight associated with major health issues seems to be a top priority to strengthen the rationale for
fitness services and to support a national public health policy [11]. Noticeably, the UAE’s H&F sector
is rapidly increasing its size, showing an increased number of facilities, club members, and
practitioners involved in this well-established market. In particular, the UAE’s physical activity,
exercise, and wellness sector displays a total annual revenue of USD 0.36 billion in 2020; however,
this is expected to exceed USD 0.6 billion by 2025, showing a great growth potential [1,11].
A worldwide annual survey that emphasized the top H&F trends was conducted by the American
College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) over the past 19 years. Such an observational study aimed to
investigate the most popular exercise modes, training settings, and fitness services in the industry at
the global level and sought to identify the influence of those trends on practitioners and other industry
stakeholders [12–29]. Research of this kind may help not only industry stakeholders, but also
consumers to consider investing in good practices that promote safe, effective, and pleasant fitness
experiences. Importantly, such cross-sectional studies may support gym operators and employees by
highlighting specific areas in which they have to pay more attention. Such an approach provides all
involved parties with new professional opportunities, focusing on a new landscape linked to evident
outcomes [29]. The current status of trends in the UAE’s H&F sector has not been investigated
nationwide. Taking this into consideration, it is evident that the lack of an in-depth analysis of the most
864
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
popular H&F trends augments the gap between science and practice at the national level. In contrast, a
wide-ranging examination has been previously conducted by the ACSM, focused on several countries
and regions, collected data, and published comparative reports at the international level [30–34].
Noteworthy, several national and regional observational studies of this kind have replicated the
ACSM’s methodology, distributed applicable results, and aimed to raise awareness of the most
attractive H&F trends at the international level [35–44].
This cross-sectional study is the first-ever survey that collects data from the UAE and compared
the findings with those reported for various countries and regions [29]. From Asia, only data from
China, Iran, and Turkey have been already published in the past [41,43,44]. Taking this into account,
such a national survey will yield insights into the H&F trends from another Asian country, and this is
important given that the UAE has been identified as an emerging fitness market, attracting suppliers,
fitness club chains, operators, educators, and exercise professionals from all over the world. Hence,
the objectives of the present study are as follows: a) to identify the most popular H&F trends in the
UAE in the post-COVID-19 era; and b) to compare these trends between various countries and regions.
In summary, this observational study may benefit H&F sector stakeholders, given that they will be
capable of bringing their services, programs, and products into line with the current top trends in the
post-COVID-19 era at the national level. Moreover, leading stakeholders and policy-makers can use
the present report results to make up-to-date decisions, thus supporting public health through greater
customer retention, engagement, and loyalty.
2. Materials and methods
2.1. Study design
A cross-sectional study of H&F trends was carried out, and utilized an online survey and a
descriptive approach. The present observational study used the same methodology with relevant
surveys conducted by the ACSM. In particular, this study applied similar criteria to those that have
been widely included in relevant national [35–44], regional [30–34], and worldwide [12–29] surveys
of H&F trends since 2006. In the present study, data were collected through a national survey to report
the main results at both the local and international levels. That being said, a comparison between the
present outcomes and those recently reported in other countries and regions was conducted [29]. In
short, the web-based survey was developed to identify the H&F trends (not fads) that were considered
popular because of their impact on the industry, while demonstrating an increased attractiveness among
industry stakeholders in the UAE. Therefore, a distinction between a “fad” and a “trend” following the
dictionary was included in the introduction of the online survey, which aimed to help the respondents
recognize the difference between these two key terms as previously articulated [12–29].
2.2. Sample recruitment and inclusion criteria
Only adult participants with any involvement in the UAE’s H&F sector were eligible to participate
in the study. Participants were mainly recruited through databases of contacts of local institutions and
organizations. In particular, the survey was supported and distributed as follows: HERC- Health,
865
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Exercise & Research Center (28%), DSC- Dubai Sports Council (22.7%), Abu Dhabi University
(20.8%), University of Sharjah (17.4%), and Middlesex University Dubai (11.1%). The web-based
survey was sent electronically to 2771 individual contacts in total. All contacts were people highly
involved in the national H&F sector, exhibiting various occupations, working experiences, and
education levels. Additionally, numerous posts on social media and relevant websites were made to
promote the online survey and increase the awareness of this research project nationwide.
2.3. Data collection tool
A valid and reliable methodology that was widely used in similar research attempts over the
past two decades by the ACSM was applied. In particular, a group of technical experts with a broad
experience in the H&F space as practitioners, educators, and/or researchers was recruited to identify
a list of fitness trends [29]. This group (n =30) of industry experts and academics from all over the
world was involved in a pilot study to complete the list of candidate H&F trends from which the
online survey was developed after verifying the consistency of the questionnaire and modifications
were applied accordingly [40]. The internal consistency of the questionnaire was assessed by
calculating the alpha–Cronbach’s coefficients, where α = 0.74 indicated a respectable level of
internal consistency among the items of the questionnaire. Hence, an electronic questionnaire using
an online survey platform (Google Forms) was developed, including 46 related trends that were
retrieved from several sources and the experts’ personal experiences. The original ACSM survey was
adapted to local needs by making minor amendments. These modifications included the inclusion of
recovery-based therapies, such as water immersion and massages, which have gained popularity in
the UAE after the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, changes were made to the demographics
section, replacing the question about country alongside the nationality, and inquiring about the city
where participants currently work rather than their place of residence. Furthermore, six certifications
were added, as well as the occupation of a strength & conditioning coach as a primary profession.
The “where do you work” question now provided options for various locations/freelancers. To
capture a wider range of respondents, those who were interested in fitness and health but were not
exercise professionals were given the option to select “I am not an exercise professional” for the
current work status question. Finally, the participants were asked if they were members of specific
organizations, namely Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs) UAE and/or UAE Body Building
& Fitness Federation, both of which are currently the only organizations offering memberships in
the UAE. In the questionnaire, a brief description was provided for each trend, which supported
respondents to efficiently clarify each option as previously reported [30]. The potential trends were
assessed using a 10-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (least likely to be a trend) to 10 (most likely
to be a trend), as previously described [30]. The questionnaire required no more than 12–15 minutes
to be completed. In the questionnaire, various demographic questions were included regarding
gender, age, region, education, certification(s), occupation, experience, work status, and work setting,
as previously reported [30]. The questionnaire was provided in English with minor region-based
amendments (stated above) from the original version designed by the ACSM. The region-based
questionnaire was approved by the ACSM’s Work Group, which was in charge of overseeing all
international surveys.
866
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
2.4. Recruitment and study period
The survey was carried out electronically from July 5, 2023, to August 13, 2023 (5.5 weeks), and
re-opened from September 4, 2023, to October 15, 2023 (6 weeks), for a total of 11.5 weeks of data
collection. No financial or material incentives were offered to attract respondents to the survey. The
respondents could choose to stay anonymous or leave their name and contact details and enter a prize
draw, where they had a chance to win one of five 500 AED vouchers that could be used for fitness
services at HERC. Additionally, they received a certificate of participation for taking part in the survey.
Two email reminders were sent to all database contacts during the study period. All participants signed
a digital informed consent letter before submitting their answers as part of the electronic survey. All
mandatory specifics concerning the research aims, the confidentiality of the information, and the right
to withdraw participation in the study were included on the first page of the electronic survey.
2.5. Data analysis
This cross-sectional survey was methodologically grounded in numerous similar observational
studies broadly conducted by the ACSM and international partners [14–44], and thus data were
collected and analyzed using quantitative methods. The accuracy of each item of data was scrutinized.
Outliers and the normality of distributions were checked using frequent distributions and the
Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. Descriptive and inferential statistics (e.g., percentage frequency
distributions, means, and standard deviations) were implemented to report the outcomes. A Chi-square
(χ2) analysis was applied to determine significant differences between trends in different categories
such as sex, age, experience, and work status. All statistical analyses were performed using the IBM
SPSS Statistics 26.0 software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA).
2.6. Ethical approval
The ethics, methods, and study protocol were approved (#05242023) by the ACSM’s Work Group
overseeing the survey according to the 2013 Declaration of Helsinki. The participants provided
informed consent, confidentiality was assured, and all respondents did not include their names in the
filled questionnaire. Data collection was made by researchers with no access to any of the participants.
All procedures that involved the research study participants were approved by the ACSM.
3. Results
The present cross-sectional national survey gathered data from 322 respondents, representing a return
rate of 11.6%. According to the demographic characteristics (Table 1), respondents from all Emirates (50.5%
males) with diverse backgrounds, occupations, and experience levels participated in the study. In particular,
24.2% of respondents had over 20 years of professional experience in the industry and 5.3% had 10–20
years of experience, showing that almost one in three respondents were very experienced professionals.
Moreover, 25% of the participants currently work as practitioners under several occupations, mostly as
full-time (15%) and part-time personal trainers (5%), while 30% of respondents did not hold an academic
867
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
credential in exercise science or a related field. Full-time work and commercial fitness centers were stated
by 41.6% and 27%, respectively. Lastly, 42% of respondents were not certified through any international
or domestic fitness certification agencies, and 30% of participants were undergraduate students. All H&F
trends included in the survey were ranked from highest (most popular trend) to lowest (least popular trend)
mean score, which are illustrated in Table 2. A comparison of the top 20 H&F trends among the UAE and
other countries and regions is shown in Table 3. Moreover, trends were categorized into the following six
groups, as reported elsewhere [43,44]: trends related to i) fitness professionals; ii) fitness activities; iii)
training modalities; iv) programs oriented to specific populations; v) technology; and iv) health. Table 4
presents a grouped approach of the comparative analysis of the top 20 H&F trends in the UAE and the
world. Lastly, Table 5 provides a grouped comparative analysis of the top 10 fitness trends in the UAE
based on age, experience, and career choice.
Table 1. Demographics of the survey respondents in the UAE.
Project
N
%
Gender
Female
155
48.3
Male
162
50.5
Prefer not to say
4
1.3
No binary/Gender queer
1
0.3
Age (years)
18–21
98
30.5
22–34
122
38.0
35–44
78
24.3
45–54
18
5.61
55–64
3
0.9
>65
2
0.6
Region (Emirates)
Dubai
129
40.1
Abu Dhabi
136
42.2
Sharjah
48
14.9
Umm Al-Quwain
1
0.3
Ajman
3
0.9
Fujeirah
5
1.6
Ras Al Khaimah
0
0
Education
Some high school
14
4.3
High school diploma
82
25.5
Bachelor’s degree
159
49.4
Master’s degree
54
16.8
Doctoral degree
13
4.0
Continued on next page
868
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Project
N
%
Certification (s)
Focus Awards
14
4.3
ARP/ACSM Certified Ringside Physician®
1
0.3
ACSM Certified Group Exercise Instructor
13
4.0
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
8
2.5
ARP/ACSM Certified Ringside Physician
1
0.3
National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
8
2.5
ACSM/NCPAD Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer
5
1.6
National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA)
6
1.9
International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
11
3.4
Exercise is Medicine
2
0.6
Active IQ
27
8.4
American Council on Exercise (ACE)
11
3.4
Europe Active
6
1.9
ACSM/NPAS Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist
3
0.9
National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC)
2
0.6
Fitness Mentors (FM)
4
1.2
National Federation of Professional Trainers (NFPT)
3
0.9
SCW Fitness Education (SCW)
1
0.3
USA Weightlifting (USAW)
2
0.6
PD Approval
5
1.6
Yoga Alliance
3
0.9
International Fitness Professionals Association (IFPA)
4
1.2
International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
11
3.4
ACSM Certified Personal Trainer®
25
7.7
National Council on Strength & Fitness (NCSF)
1
0.3
STOTT Pilates
3
0.9
National Exercise and Sports Trainer Association (NESTA)
2
0.6
National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT)
1
0.3
American Fitness Professionals & Associates (AFPA)
2
0.6
Cooper Institute (CI)
2
0.6
Not currently certified
136
42.1
Other
101
31.3
Primary profession
Personal trainer (full-time)
48
14.9
Personal trainer (part-time)
15
4.7
Group exercise instructor
6
1.9
Exercise physiologist
3
0.9
Continued on next page
869
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Project
N
%
Clinical exercise physiologist
2
0.6
Program manager
4
1.2
Health/Fitness director
5
1.6
Strength coach
1
0.3
Owner/Operator
11
3.4
Health/Wellness coach
1
0.3
Corporate health and wellness
4
1.2
Athletics trainer
0
0.00
Undergraduate student
96
29.8
Graduate student
17
5.3
Teacher
4
1.2
Professor
12
3.7
Medical professional (MD/DO, RN, Physical Therapist,
Occupational Therapist)
19
5.9
Registered dietician (RD, EDN, LD)
0
0
Strength & Conditioning coach
15
4.7
Other
60
18.6
Experience (years)
0–1
49
15.2
1–3
43
13.4
3–5
45
14.0
5–7
40
12.4
7–9
50
15.5
10–20
17
5.4
>20
78
24.2
Not from health/Fitness industry
49
15.2
Work status
Full-time
134
41.6
Part-time
36
11.2
I am not exercise professional
146
45.3
Other
6
1.9
Member of UAE REPs and/or UAE
Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation?
Member of UAE REPs.
74
23.3
Not a member of either organization
237
74.5
Member of UAE Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation
7
2.2
Continued on next page
870
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Project
N
%
Work setting
Private Practice/Own business
52
16.1
Commercial fitness center
87
26.9
Community-based facility or program (like a YMCA or JCC)
3
0.9
Hospital/Medical center program/Department
18
5.6
University recreation center or student wellness center
31
9.6
Commercial recreation center
0
0.0
Various locations/Freelancer
34
10.5
Other
98
30.3
On average, exercise for weight loss was selected as the number one trend in the UAE’s H&F
sector. Specifically, six trends related to fitness activities (#3 Traditional Strength Training, #4
Bodyweight Training, #5 Boxing, Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts, #6 Youth Athletic Development,
#7 Outdoor Activities, and #10 High-Intensity Interval Training), one related to the training modalities
(#2 Personal Training), one related to programs oriented to specific populations (#1 exercise for weight
loss), one related to health/recovery (#8 Massage), and one related to fitness professionals (#9
Employing Certified Exercise Professionals) were included in the top 10 most attractive H&F trends
nationwide. No trends related to technology and health were ranked among the top 10 most popular
trends in the UAE. Instead, several technology- and health-related options were ranked between #11
and #20. A grouped comparative analysis of the top 10 H&F trends based on age, experience, and
career choice did not exhibit significant differences. However, females and males responded differently.
In particular, females selected exercise for weight loss and personal training as the number one and
two trends, respectively, while males selected the opposite. In terms of the third most popular trend,
females selected bodyweight training, while males selected traditional strength training. No differences
were observed for the first and second places based on the respondents’ age and years of professional
experience. However, major differences were found between practitioners and others who mostly
worked in academia or were students.
Comparing the top 20 UAE’s H&F for 2024 with the most recently published worldwide
trends [29], 50% (10/20) of the top 20 trends included in the global list were not present in the
UAE’s list (reimbursement for qualified exercise professionals, functional fitness training, fitness
programs for older adults, yoga, worksite health promotion, exercise for mental health, lifestyle
medicine, exercise is medicine, data-driven training technology, and online personal training). On
the other hand, 10 trends (bodyweight training, boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts, youth
athletic development, outdoor fitness activities, high-intensity interval training,
walking/running/cycling clubs, circuit training, health club and spa, exercise for children’s health,
and small group training) were included in the UAE’s list, but not in the global trend list.
The chi-square test, including a contingency coefficient (CC), showed significant differences
between males and females. Specifically, exercise for weight loss [χ2 (27, Ν = 322) = 54.913, p =
0.001, CC = 0.382] and lifestyle medicine [χ2 (27, Ν = 322) = 105.363, p = 0.032, CC = 0.497]
were reported more frequently by females, while traditional strength training [χ2 (27, Ν = 322) =
871
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
41.737, p = 0.035, CC = 0.339] was reported more frequently by males. Additionally, differences
were found between young (18–34 years) and middle-aged (35–64 years) respondents. In particular,
health clubs and spas [χ2 (18, Ν = 322) = 41.207, p = 0.001, CC = 0.337] and yoga [χ2 (18, Ν =
322) = 34.626, p = 0.011, CC = 0.312] were more popular among middle-aged respondents
compared to young ones. Lastly, youth athletic development [χ2 (9, Ν = 322) = 17.479, p = 0.042,
CC = 0.227] was reported more frequently by non-practitioners (students) compared to
practitioners (full-time and part-time).
Table 2. A comprehensive ranking of future H&F trends in the UAE.
#
Trend
Score
1
Exercise for weight loss
8.57 ± 1.91
2
Personal training
8.41 ± 2.06
3
Traditional strength training
8.16 ± 2.11
4
Bodyweight training
8.12 ± 2.08
5
Boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts
8.09 ± 2.12
6
Youth athletic development
8.08 ± 2.14
7
Outdoor fitness activities
8.07 ± 2.13
8
Massage
8.05 ± 2.16
9
Employing certified exercise professionals
8.04 ± 2.14
10
High-intensity interval training
8.02 ± 2.04
11
Lifestyle medicine
7.98 ± 2.17
12
Wearable technology
7.98 ± 2.20
13
Health/Wellness coaching
7.97 ± 2.13
14
Walking/Running/Jogging/Cycling clubs
7.94 ± 2.27
15
Exercise is medicine
7.92 ± 2.26
16
Exercise for children’s health
7.88 ± 2.23
17
Circuit training
7.85 ± 2.18
18
Health club and spa
7.82 ± 2.12
19
Small group training
7.82 ± 2.14
20
Post rehabilitation or disease/Condition maintenance classes
7.79 ± 2.30
21
Fitness programs for older adults
7.73 ± 2.34
22
Functional fitness training
7.72 ± 2.17
23
Pilates
7.71 ± 2.26
24
Stretch-based training
7.70 ± 2.21
25
Pre- and post-natal fitness
7.69 ± 2.17
26
Yoga
7.65 ± 2.45
27
Exercise for mental health
7.64 ± 2.42
28
Subscription based membership
7.57 ± 2.19
29
Balance and stabilization training
7.38 ± 2.37
30
Plyometric training
7.34 ± 2.40
Continued on next page
872
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
#
Trend
Score
31
Multidisciplinary work teams
7.33 ± 2.32
32
Myofascial release
7.26 ± 2.48
33
Low-cost and budget gyms
7.26 ± 2.40
34
Mobile exercise apps
7.25 ± 2.38
35
Data-driven training technology
7.25 ± 2.29
36
Influencer fitness
7.22 ± 2.56
37
Water immersion
7.21 ± 2.55
38
Home exercise gyms
7.20 ± 2.44
39
Dance-based workouts
7.17 ± 2.45
40
On-demand exercise classes
7.13 ± 2.35
41
Reimbursement for qualified exercise professionals
7.01 ± 2.53
42
Boutique fitness studios
6.93 ± 2.51
43
Aquatic exercise
6.93 ± 2.49
44
Worksite health promotion
6.86 ± 2.49
45
Online personal training
6.78 ± 2.60
46
Virtual reality exercise training
6.32 ± 2.76
Note: Scores are expressed as mean values ± standard deviation.
4. Discussion
A web-based survey targeting the top trends in the UAE’s H&F sector took place for the first
time nationwide, aiming to support gym operators, exercise professionals, educators, and suppliers
to recognize the most promising trends linked to particular fitness services and programs.
Additionally, an investigation of this kind may assist various industry stakeholders in improving
customer retention, loyalty, and satisfaction by offering good practices and evidence-based training
solutions nationwide.
4.1. What is most popular?
The outcomes of the first-ever survey of H&F trends in the UAE that replicated the ACSM’s
methodology [29] showed numerous similarities and differences with results observed in other
recent national and regional cross-sectional studies that examined the top H&F trends [35–44] and
regions [30–34]. On average, exercise for weight loss and personal training were ranked #1 and #2
in the UAE’s survey, respectively, which is a finding that corroborates the main results reported
in other international studies [29]. Moreover, these two trends were identified as the number one
and two top options across most subgroup analyses based on sex, age, experience, and career
choice. In particular, females ranked exercise for weight loss #1 compared to males (#2) in the
UAE. However, exercise for weight loss seems to be an attractive space for entrepreneurs and
exercise professionals working with plus-sized consumers in various fitness settings, given that
873
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
this trend has been currently reported as one of the top H&F trends in Italy (#9), Spain (#6),
Portugal (#3), Greece (#5), Cyprus (#14), Europe (#4), Brazil (#2), Chile (#2), Mexico (#1),
Turkey (#1), Iran (#2), China (#1), the United States (#4), and worldwide (#4) [29,39,41,43,44].
Exercise for weight loss appears to be popular not only in the UAE, but also globally. This is
important given that a very high percentage of the UAE population has an unhealthy weight and
dietary choices, high sedentary behavior, and low physical activity levels. Strong evidence reveals
that bodily movement for people living in larger bodies may be a high priority for these populations
that represent the vast majority of the world’s adult population nowadays [7,8]. Taking that into
account, exercise programs tailored to people with unhealthy weights seem to be a popular field for
personal trainers and gym operators who seek to attract this emerging type of clientele, which is
highly boosted by the increasing prevalence of overweight individuals and obesity worldwide [6].
Additionally, personal training was ranked #2, whereas small group training (#19) showed a lower
popularity, supporting the implementation of client-centered and customized training sessions for
consumers seeking to have exercise experiences in a private setting. This finding coincides with
recently published data from other international surveys that identified the top H&F trends across
the world (Table 3).
874
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Table 3. Comparative analysis of the top 10 H&F trends between the UAE and other countries and regions.
#
UAE
Australia [29]
Brazil [29]
Europe [29]
Mexico [29]
United States [29]
World [29]
1
Exercise for weight
loss
Exercise for mental
health
Fitness programs for older adults
Personal training
Exercise for weight
loss
Wearable technology
Wearable technology
2
Personal training
Fitness programs for
older adults
Exercise for weight loss
High-intensity
interval training
Personal training
Worksite health
promotion
Worksite health
promotion
3
Traditional strength
training
Group training
Personal training
Small group training
Traditional strength
training
Fitness programs for
older adults
Fitness programs for
older adults2
4
Bodyweight training
Functional fitness
training
Functional fitness training
Exercise for weight
loss
Training and feeding
programs
Exercise for weight loss
Exercise for weight loss
5
Boxing, kickboxing,
and mixed martial
arts1
Exercise is medicine
Traditional strength training
Bodyweight training
Functional fitness
training
Reimbursement for
qualified exercise
professionals
Reimbursement for
qualified exercise
professionals
6
Youth athletic
development
Traditional strength
training
Exercise for mental health
Functional fitness
training
Youth athletic
development
Employing certified
exercise professionals
Employing certified
exercise professionals
7
Outdoor fitness
activities
Employing registered
exercise professionals
Outcome measurements
Fitness programs for
older adults
Healthy diet
Mobile exercise apps
Mobile exercise apps
8
Massage1,2
Pilates
Post-rehabilitation classes
Employing certified
exercise
professionals
Multidisciplinary
work teams
Exercise for mental
health
Exercise for mental
health
9
Employing certified
exercise professionals
Wearable technology
Walking/Running/Jogging/Cycling
clubs
Exercise is medicine
Bodyweight training
Youth athletic
development
Youth athletic
development
10
High-intensity
interval training
Inclusive exercise
services
Outdoor fitness activities
Traditional strength
training
Exercise for
children’s health
Personal training
Personal training
Note: 1appearance only in the UAE, 2region-specific trend.
875
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Table 4. A grouped comparative analysis of the top 20 fitness trends in the UAE and the world.
#
UAE
#
World [29]
Trends related to fitness professionals:
9
Employing certified exercise professionals
5
Reimbursement for qualified exercise
professionals3
6
Employing certified fitness professionals
Trends related to fitness activities
3
Traditional strength training
9
Youth athletic development
4
Bodyweight training1
12
Outdoor activities
5
Boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial arts1
14
Functional fitness training3
6
Youth athletic development
15
Yoga2
7
Outdoor fitness activities
17
Traditional strength training
10
High-intensity interval training
20
High-intensity interval training
14
Walking/Running/Cycling Clubs1
17
Circuit training1
18
Health club and spa1
Trends related to training modalities:
2
Personal training
10
Personal training
13
Health/Wellness coaching
13
Health/Wellness coaching
19
Small group training1
Trends related to programs oriented to specific populations:
1
Exercise for weight loss
3
Fitness programs for older adults3
16
Exercise for children’s health1
4
Exercise for weight loss
Trends related to technology:
12
Wearable technology
1
Wearable technology
18
Data-driven training technology3
19
Online personal training3
Trends related to health:
8
Massage1,2
2
Worksite health promotion3
11
Lifestyle medicine
8
Exercise for mental health3
15
Exercise is medicine
11
Lifestyle medicine3
20
Post rehabilitation maintenance classes
16
Exercise is medicine3
Note: 1appearance only in the UAE, 2region-specific trend, 3appearance only in the worldwide survey.
876
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Table 5. A grouped comparative analysis of the top 10 fitness trends in the UAE based on
sex, age, experience, and work status.
Sex
Age
Experience
Work Status
Female (N = 162)
< 35 years (N = 220)
<10 years (N = 177)
Full and Part-time (N = 171)
Trend
Score
Trend
Score
Trend
Score
Trend
Score
ExWL
8.72 ± 1.87
ExWL
8.56 ± 1.89
PT
8.56 ± 1.96
PT
8.49 ± 2.05
PT
8.35 ± 2.18
PT
8.36 ± 2.09
ExWL
8.50 ± 1.89
ExWL
8.47 ± 1.90
BWT
8.22 ± 1.05
TST
8.26 ± 1.97
TST
8.27 ± 1.92
TST
8.27 ± 2.12
WT
8.20 ± 2.10
BKMMA
8.22 ± 2.07
BWT
8.26 ± 1.91
ECExP
8.26 ± 2.06
YAD
8.09 ± 2.16
YAD
8.21 ± 2.12
OFA
8.25 ± 2.01
Mas
8.05 ± 2.20
OFA
8.09 ± 2.14
OFA
8.17 ± 2.14
ECExP
8.22 ± 1.97
HIIT
8.04 ± 1.98
LsM
8.07 ± 2.07
BWT
8.11 ± 2.05
BKMMA
8.15 ± 2.08
BKMMA
8.01 ± 2.22
BKMMA
8.04 ± 2.14
Mas
8.08 ± 2.10
HWC
8.14 ± 1.95
CT
8.01 ± 2.14
Mas
8.01 ± 2.31
LsM
8.06 ± 2.07
ExM
8.13 ± 2.03
SGT
7.99 ± 2.14
TST
7.99 ± 2.10
ExM
8.05 ± 2.08
CT
8.12 ± 1.91
HWC
7.95 ± 2.14
Male (N = 155)
>35 years (N = 101)
>10 years (N = 67)
Other (N = 151)
PT
8.52 ± 1.92
ExWL
8.60 ± 1.97
PT
8.69 ± 1.84
ExWL
8.70 ± 1.92
ExWL
8.48 ± 1.93
PT
8.52 ± 2.01
ExWL
8.63 ± 1.79
WT
8.36 ± 1.94
TST
8.39 ± 2.12
ECExP
8.29 ± 2.03
ECExP
8.39 ± 2.02
OFA
8.33 ± 1.91
ECExP
8.25 ± 2.09
HCS
8.13 ± 1.91
TST
8.28 ± 2.08
PT
8.33 ± 2.08
Mas
8.15 ± 1.96
BWT
8.13 ± 2.16
ExCH
8.22 ± 2.01
BWT
8.32 ± 1.92
BKMMA
8.14 ± 2.12
Yoga
8.08 ± 2.03
YAD
8.19 ± 2.14
YAD
8.30 ± 1.97
HIIT
8.12 ± 1.87
Mas
7.98 ± 2.31
BKMMA
8.10 ± 2.08
LsT
8.25 ± 1.90
YAD
8.10 ± 2.14
WT
7.96 ± 2.12
CT
8.09 ± 2.07
BKMMA
8.18 ± 1.99
OFA
8.08 ± 2.08
HIIT
7.95 ± 1.98
FFT
8.06 ± 1.99
WRJCC
8.14 ± 2.09
BWT
8.06 ± 2.13
TST
7.93 ± 2.38
OFA
8.06 ± 2.01
ExM
8.09 ± 2.12
Note: GExT, Group Exercise Training; PT, Personal Training; WT, Wearable Technology; YAD, Youth Athletic Development; OFA,
Outdoor Fitness Activities; LsM, Lifestyle Medicine; BKMMA, Boxing, Kickboxing, and Mixed Martial Arts; Mas, Massage; TST,
Traditional Strength Training; ExWL, Exercise for Weight Loss; ECExP, Employing Certified Exercise Professionals; HIIT, High-Intensity
Interval Training; ExM, Exercise is Medicine ; BWT, Bodyweight Training; Core T, Core Training; HCS, Health Club and Spa; Yoga;
HWC Health/Wellness Coaching; CT, Circuit Training; ExCH, Exercise for Children’s Health; FFT Functional Fitness Training; SGT,
Small Group Training; WRJCC, Walking/Running/Jogging/Cycling Clubs. Scores are expressed as mean values ± standard deviation.
Interestingly, 60% of the top 10 trends were related to various fitness activities in the UAE. More
specifically, traditional strength training, bodyweight training, boxing, kickboxing, and mixed martial
arts (MMA), youth athletic development, outdoor fitness activities, and high-intensity interval training
were ranked as the most popular trends. The present findings are in line with those reported in various
national and regional surveys. As for the most popular exercise settings, low-cost and budget gyms
(#33) and boutique fitness studios (#42) were not present on the top trends list, not only in the UAE,
but also globally (Table 3). Instead, health clubs and spas (#18) seem to be an emerging trend locally;
877
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
however, it is not similarly popular internationally [29]. These observations cannot be analyzed here.
Nevertheless, the low popularity of these particular types of fitness facilities in the UAE appears to be
an important difference from other recently published international cross-sectional surveys.
Importantly, fitness studios are on the rise among gym operators in mature fitness markets such as
Europe and the USA [1,2]. It is worth noticing that personal training studios have been ranked as the
number one fitness setting among European exercise professionals, indicating the greatest potential for
growth, innovation, and professional development [45]. This particular fitness facility type appears to
be a promising business space, not only in developed countries but also in emerging markets, though
not yet in the UAE [1,11]. Instead, multi-purpose gyms currently demonstrate a higher popularity
compared to boutique fitness studios in the UAE, and this is a major difference between the present
study and others conducted in other countries and regions [29,36,37,39,43,44]. Furthermore,
bodyweight training (#4) and high-intensity interval training (#10) appear as popular fitness activities,
showing that exercise programs combining those two trends in the same session may be a feasible,
effective, and pleasant training option for practitioners and their clients in the UAE’s H&F sector. This
is an important observation supported by evidence since such a non-traditional, multi-component
exercise approach has been recently highlighted as an evidence-based solution for health, fitness, and
wellness among general and special populations [46–48].
4.2. Exercise professionals: Are they the gatekeepers to the H&F sector?
According to the main findings in the present study, fitness professionals-related trends, such
as employing certified fitness professionals (#9), appear popular in the UAE. Similarly, this
particular trend has been reported as attractive in other international observational studies of this
kind [29,34], revealing important similarities between the UAE and other countries regarding the
minimum qualifications fitness professionals should meet to be eligible to enter the H&F sector. It
is worth noticing that 49.4% and 42.1% of responders held at least a bachelor’s degree in exercise
science or a related field and/or a fitness certification, respectively (Table 1). However, considering
that the present web-based survey was widely sent to local universities to collect data from students
and academics involved in physiotherapy, fitness, and/or sports, this observation can be explained
by the participants’ demographics in the present study. Thus, a larger and more diverse sample may
help a future investigation in this research area that focuses on the top trends in the UAE’s H&F
sector. Importantly, qualified fitness professionals serving general and special populations are
necessary in the fight against the inactivity and obesity epidemics, aiming to support public health
nationwide [6,10]. That being said, established policies concerning education, certification, and
lifelong learning among practitioners may be necessary for the proper regulation of this field
initiated by Government entities. Such a strategy may promote the regulation and licensure
requirements among practitioners while locally elevating the profession, aiming to protect
consumers seeking high-quality fitness services and programs nationwide [49–52]. Additionally,
the presence of three health-related trends among the top 20 in the UAE indicates the rationale for
well-equipped practitioners, aiming to efficiently serve the masses.
878
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
4.3. What is no longer attractive?
Another important finding from the UAE’s survey that should be taken into account is the low ranking
of trends related to technology and mind-body fitness. In particular, Pilates (#23) and yoga (#26) were
lowly ranked in the present survey, indicating that mind-body fitness modalities are not yet established in
the UAE. However, respondents in the present survey were primarily young people that do not favor these
training modalities, and thus this outcome needs further investigation in the future. Similarly, mind-body
fitness activities have not been popular trends in various countries and regions (Table 3), and this is an
outcome that might need more investigation in the future. However, both pilates and yoga have been
documented as injury-free, enjoyable, and effective exercise training solutions, inducing beneficial changes
in physical fitness, cardiovascular disease risk factors, and mental health [53–55].
Importantly, technology-oriented trends were not reported as popular in the post-COVID-19
era nationwide, excluding wearable technology (#12), since mobile exercise apps (#34), data-
driven training technology (#35), and on-demand exercise classes (#40) were not included in the
top 20 in the UAE. It is worth mentioning that the UAE’s H&F sector is experiencing growth and
expansion in this particular area; however, its development is still in the initial phase when
compared to certain other nations. Specifically, digital services and online programs seem less
popular among industry stakeholders during the post-COVID-19 era in the UAE. On the other
hand, the impactful role of technology in the evolution and growth of the physical activity, exercise,
and wellness sector has been well documented, revealing that digital fitness may be the game
changer within the new fitness landscape [56,57]. This outcome is aligned with the findings
observed in various international surveys that detected an attractiveness of technology-related
trends in numerous countries [35–44] and regions [30–34] (Table 3); however, the worldwide
survey indicated that digital fitness-oriented trends were popular among exercise professionals [29]
(Table 4). The factors behind the low popularity of technology-related trends in the UAE’s H&F
sector warrant further examination. Potentially, digital fatigue may overwhelm practitioners and
consumers due to digital dependence during the COVID-10 lockdowns [58], and thus such services
might be less attractive within the H&F sector. However, the future of the H&F sector is linked to
the broad use of technology in various exercise settings [56,59], which also affects professional
education, certifications, and the lifelong learning context, with an emphasis on occupational roles
related to health and well-being, as previously reported [60].
4.4. International comparisons
When comparing the UAE with the worldwide results, there were 11 matching trends from the
top 20. Exercise for weight loss and personal training were within the top 10 in both surveys;
however, the remaining UAE trends were more traditional and rooted activities, such as resistance
training, bodyweight training, circuit training, and high-intensity interval training. The UAE,
especially Dubai, is known for its innovative approach, though when it comes to exercise, traditional
modalities dominate the list of trends. As a country-specific and additional trend, massages reached
a high 8th position. This validates the recent surge in the popularity of sports and exercise recovery
strategies in the UAE. An instance can be observed where the fitness programs for older adults held
879
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
the significant 5th position in the world; however, these were not in the top 20 for the UAE. This
revalidates recent research outcomes that indicated that a substantial number of older adults were
overweight or obese, suggesting a trend of increasing obesity with age [60]. In summary, the top five
fitness trends in the world, including worksite health promotion, exercise for mental health, and
fitness programs for older adults, are products of well-established systematic work, policies, and
regulations of the H&F sector. Contrary to that, the UAE trends are more likely a result of an
individuals’ self-awareness and understanding of the importance of being physically active. This is
evident among the student demographic, as recent research conducted with a person-centered
approach demonstrated a positive correlation between elevated health behavior patterns and an
engagement in physical activities and healthy dietary practices [61]. A strategic comprehensive
approach and policy initiatives by the Government would contribute to the overall improvement of
the H&F of the UAE residents. Lastly, the UAE has implemented numerous initiatives and programs
that focused on the younger generation in recent years and resulted in the elevated ranking of youth
athletic development at a notable 6th position. This aligns with the UAE’s National Sports Strategy
2031, which aims to identify and develop talent in schools [62]. Moreover, there has been a notable
increase in the popularity of MMA disciplines, as evidenced by the survey placing boxing,
kickboxing, and MMA at the 5th spot.
4.5. The impact of COVID-19
During the COVID-19 lockdown, all five aspects of unhealthy behaviors, including poor
eating habits, inactivity, overweight/obesity, low sleep quality, and smoking, were on the rise in
the UAE [63–66]. It has been well-reported that the H&F sector has been tremendously influenced by
the COVID-19 pandemic globally, and resulted in a strong relationship between digital services and
fitness businesses during the three-year global health crisis [1]. However, the rapid transition from in-
person to online fitness services aggressively took place; therefore, technology-oriented trends were
popular and necessary for consumers who exclusively sought virtual fitness programs throughout the
COVID-19 pandemic [1]. Since the UAE rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic relatively fast, an
increment in face-to-face services has been widely reported in the present study. This is reflected even
in the fitness trends results, as most of the top 20 trends included live workouts, either with individuals
or within a group. Additionally, mobile exercise apps, on-demand exercise classes, online personal
training, and virtual reality exercise training achieved relatively low scores. This outcome indicates
that H&F providers should focus on in-person services compared to digital fitness services through
a virtual exercise setting that was attractive to all industry stakeholders and consumers during the
COVID-19 pandemic [32–34]. It is worth mentioning that the intention to use fitness apps noticeably
increased in 2020–2023 globally [67], indicating that gym facilities offered digital fitness services and
online exercise programs to their customers due to the pandemic regulations. Furthermore, outdoor
activities were popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, since gyms adopted several restrictions to
offer in-person fitness services worldwide [29,34]. Interestingly, this particular trend retained its
attractiveness after that challenging period, given that it was ranked #7 in the UAE and was also
included in the top 20 H&F trends in other international surveys (Table 4) [29]. In Turkey, outdoor
activities (#7) were selected as one of the most popular options, indicating that such fitness activities
880
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
were no longer attractive nationwide. Likewise, walking, running, and cycling were reported as
popular trends (#14) in the UAE. This is important since COVID-19 promoted aerobic-based activities
out of the conventional gym setting, which enhanced the rapid growth of the global recreational
running community [68] characterized by an accessible, cost-effective, and pleasant fitness activity.
Lastly, group fitness programs were substantially influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, showing
extremely low popularity due to demanding sanitation protocols and limitations, and thus showed a
low attractiveness globally in 2020–2022 [29,33,34]. Interestingly, group training is currently still
unpopular not only in the UAE but also in various other countries and regions (Table 3). This is an
observation that may highlight the strong impact of COVID-19 on a customers’ intention and exercise
behavioral regulation due to the 3-year cessation from regular engagement in group fitness classes.
4.6. Strengths and limitations
The biggest benefits of reporting the top H&F trends in the UAE will be for fitness companies,
commercial gyms, and freelance personal trainers, considering that they will be able to align their
services, programs, and products with the current trends in the H&F sector. Additionally, influential
stakeholders and policy-makers can make informed decisions by utilizing data from the report. It is
worth mentioning that the replication of the ACSM’s methodology, which was broadly implemented
in relevant international cross-sectional studies, may be an additional strength of the UAE’s survey,
underlining a high degree of standardization that may limit potential biases commonly reported in such
observational studies. Importantly, the survey included UAE residents from a diverse range of
nationalities, from 42 different countries, and spanned across five Emirates, thus providing important
summarized data for the UAE.
On the other hand, cross-sectional surveys of this kind have numerous limitations based on the
nature of the research design and methodology. More specifically, causal effects cannot be
determined easily, and differences in the cohort and potential report biases are present, as
previously articulated [36,37,39,43,44]. Thus, a lack of randomization and potential coverage errors
in the sampling process are common in such observational studies. Moreover, due to the summer
season and vacation time, the data collection period was shortened as people tended to take extended
leaves and holidays during this season. This limited timeframe reduced the opportunity for
comprehensive data collection, which prompted reopening the survey to collect further data.
Additionally, the number of distributed surveys was restricted due to the reduced availability of
individuals who could participate. Furthermore, the response rate to the survey was typically low
during the selected period, resulting in a decreased engagement and participation. Lastly, there was a
challenge in organizing and involving H&F entities in the project due to the constrained time frame.
4.7. Implications for future research
Given that the present study was focused on the professionals’ opinions, further research targeting the
consumers’ viewpoint may be a beneficial approach for the local H&F sector. Such a new direction may
support both the industry stakeholders and the community to spread the word that regular engagement in
fitness services should be an important agenda item for locals living in a country presenting with
881
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
sedentarism and increasing cardiovascular disease risk factors, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes,
hypertension, and dyslipidemia [10]. Considering that such observational studies positively influence the
local physical activity, exercise, and wellness sector by highlighting popular services, programs, and
products, it may be important to continue to investigate H&F trends in the coming years in the UAE by
including all Emirates and a large sample size that encompasses different age groups (from children to
older adults) and expatriates from various countries across the world. Notably, the UAE’s fitness market is
transforming and emerging, engaging mostly young people and showing that the local market is immature
compared to the USA and Europe [1]. On the other hand, young populations demonstrated insufficient
physical activity, a poor sleep quality, high screen times, and unhealthy dietary habits, resulting in mental
health impairments [62,68]. However, the UAE presents the highest penetration rate among various Middle
Eastern and North African countries, showing an opportunity to grow while enhancing customer
engagement, satisfaction, and loyalty in the local H&F sector.
5. Conclusions
For the first time, a cross-sectional survey was carried out that focused on the current status of
the H&F trends in the UAE. The present outcomes may benefit local gym operators/managers, fitness
professionals, students, tutors, and academics to stay in line with the current status of the H&F trends
in the UAE. The study indicated that a more conventional approach was popular when it came to
physical activity and exercise training nationwide. Such research findings may benefit fitness
companies, commercial gyms, and practitioners, considering that they can align their offers with the
top national fitness trends in the post-COVID-19 era. Additionally, influential stakeholders and policy-
makers can make informed decisions based on data from the present report.
Use of AI tools declaration
The authors declare they have not used Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in the creation of this article.
Acknowledgments
The authors would like to extend their appreciation to the Dubai Sports Council for their support and
acknowledgment of the significance of this project. They are also grateful to several private fitness clubs
in the UAE and the participants who made UAE’s initial involvement in H&F trends a reality.
Author contributions
Alexios Batrakoulis, Željko Banićević, and Ivana Banićević designed and supervised the study;
Željko Banićević, Ivana Banićević, Ashokan Arumugam, Ivan Marović, Nemanja Krstić, and Saša
Obradović collected the data; Željko Banićević, Ivana Banićević, and Ivan Marović carried out the
statistical analyses; Alexios Batrakoulis drafted the manuscript; Željko Banićević, Ivana Banićević,
Ashokan Arumugam, Ivan Marović, Nemanja Krstić, and Saša Obradović reviewed and edited the
manuscript. All authors read and approved the final version of the manuscript.
882
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
References
1. International Health, Racquet and Sports Club Association (2023) The 2023 IHRSA global report.
Boston, MA, USA: IHRSA. Available from: https://www.healthandfitness.org/publications/the-
2023-ihrsa-global-report/.
2. Andreasson J, Johansson T (2014) Τhe fitness revolution: Historical transformations in the global
gym and fitness culture. Sport Sci Rev 23: 91–112. https://doi.org/10.2478/ssr-2014-0006
3. García-Fernández J, Gálvez-Ruiz P (2021) The global private health & fitness business: A
marketing perspective, Bingley, UK: Emerald Publishing Limited, 145–152.
https://doi.org/10.1108/9781800438507
4. International Health, Racquet and SportsClub Association (2019) The 2019 IHRSA health club
consumer report. Boston, USA: IHRSA. Available from: https://www.ihrsa.org/publications/the-
2019-ihrsa-health-club-consumer-report/.
5. Guthold R, Stevens GA, Riley LM, et al. (2018) Worldwide trends in insufficient physical activity
from 2001 to 2016: A pooled analysis of 358 population-based surveys with 1.9 million participants.
Lancet Glob Health 6: e1077–e1086. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2214-109X(18)30357-7
6. NCD Risk Factor Collaboration (NCD-RisC) (2017) Worldwide trends in body-mass index,
underweight, overweight, and obesity from 1975 to 2016: A pooled analysis of 2416 population-
based measurement studies in 128.9 million children, adolescents, and adults. Lancet 390: 2627–
2642. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(17)32129-3
7. Sallis R (2015) Exercise is medicine: A call to action for physicians to assess and prescribe
exercise. Phys Sportsmed 43: 22–26. https://doi.org/10.1080/00913847.2015.1001938
8. Rhodes RE, Janssen I, Bredin SS, et al. (2017) Physical activity: Health impact, prevalence,
correlates and interventions. Psychol Health 32: 942–975.
https://doi.org/10.1080/08870446.2017.1325486
9. International Monetary Fund (2023) World economic outlook database. Washington, DC, USA:
International Monetary Fund. Available from: https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/WEO/weo-
database/2023/October.
10. World Health Organization (2018) Noncommunicable diseases country profiles 2018. Geneva,
Switzerland: World Health Organization. Available from:
https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/274512.
11. Narula A, Chowcharia N (2021) UAE fitness services market outlook to 2025F-Driven by
increasing health concerns resulting in addition of number of health clubs and gyms in the country.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Ken research. Available from:
https://www.kenresearch.com/industry-reports/uae-fitness-services-market.
12. Thompson WR (2006) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2007. ACSM’s Health Fit J
10: 8–14. https://doi.org/10.1249/01.FIT.0000252519.52241.39
13. Thompson WR (2007) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2008. ACSM’s Health Fit J
11: 7–13. https://doi.org/10.1249/01.FIT.0000298449.25061.a8
14. Thompson WR (2008) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2009. ACSM’s Health Fit J
12: 7–14. https://doi.org/10.1249/01.FIT.0000312432.13689.a4
883
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
15. Thompson WR (2009) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2010. ACSM’s Health Fit J
13: 9–16. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0b013e3181bcd89b
16. Thompson WR (2010) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2011. ACSM’s Health Fit J
14: 8–17. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0b013e3181f96ce6
17. Thompson WR (2011) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2012. ACSM’s Health Fit J
15: 9–18. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0b013e31823373cb
18. Thompson WR (2012) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2013. ACSM’s Health Fit J
16: 8–17. https://doi.org/10.1249/01.FIT.0000422568.47859.35
19. Thompson WR (2013) Now trending: worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2014. ACSM’s
Health Fit J 17: 10–20. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0b013e3182a955e6
20. Thompson WR (2014) Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2015: What’s driving the market.
ACSM’s Health Fit J 18: 8–17. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0b013e3182a955e6
21. Thompson WR (2015) Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2016: 10th Anniversary Edition.
ACSM’s Health Fit J 19: 9–18. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000164
22. Thompson WR (2016) Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2017. ACSM’s Health Fit J 20: 8–
17. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000252
23. Thompson WR (2017) Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2018: The CREP edition. ACSM’s
Health Fit J 21: 10–19. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000341
24. Thompson WR (2018) Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2019. ACSM’s Health Fit J 22: 10–
17. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000341
25. Thompson WR (2019) Worldwide survey of fitness trends for 2020. ACSM’s Health Fit J 23: 10–
18. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000526
26. Thompson WR (2021) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2021. ACSM’s Health Fit J
25: 10–19. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000621
27. Thompson WR (2022) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2022. ACSM’s Health Fit J
26: 11–20. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000732
28. Thompson WR (2023) Worldwide survey reveals fitness trends for 2023. ACSM’s Health Fit J
27: 9–18. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000834
29. Newsome AM, Reed R, Sansone J, et al. (2024) 2024 ACSM worldwide fitness trends: future
directions of the health and fitness industry. ACSM’s Health Fit J 28: 14–26.
https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000933
30. Kercher VM (2018) International comparisons: ACSM’s worldwide survey of fitness trends.
ACSM’s Health Fit J 22: 24–29. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000431
31. Kercher V, Feito Y, Yates B (2019) Regional comparisons: The worldwide survey of fitness
trends. ACSM’s Health Fit J 23: 41–48. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000531
32. Kercher VM, Kercher K, Bennion T, et al. (2021) Fitness trends from around the globe. ACSM’s
Health Fit J 25: 20–31. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000639
33. Kercher VM, Kercher K, Bennion T, et al. (2022) 2022 Fitness trends from around the globe.
ACSM’s Health Fit J 26: 21–37. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000737
34. Kercher VM, Kercher K, Levy P, et al. (2023) Fitness trends from around the globe. ACSM’s
Health Fit J 27: 19–30. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000836
35. Amaral PC, Palma DD (2019) Brazil and Argentina survey of fitness trends for 2020. ACSM’s
Health Fit J 23: 36–40. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000525
36. Batrakoulis A, Chatzinikolaou A, Jamurtas AZ, et al. (2020) National survey of fitness trends in
Greece for 2021. Int J Hum Mov Sports Sci 8: 308–320. https://doi.org/10.13189/saj.2020.080602
884
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
37. Batrakoulis A (2023) National survey of fitness trends in Greece for 2023. Int J Hum Mov Sports
Sci 10: 1085–1097. https://doi.org/10.13189/saj.2022.100527
38. Batrakoulis A (2019) European survey of fitness trends for 2020. ACSM’s Health Fit J 23: 28–
35. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000523
39. Batrakoulis A, Veiga OL, Franco S, et al. (2023). Health and fitness trends in Southern Europe
for 2023: A cross-sectional survey. AIMS Public Health 10: 378–408.
https://doi.org/10.3934/publichealth.2023028
40. Chávez LF, Zavalza AR, Rodríguez LE (2020) National survey of fitness trends in Mexico for
2020. Retos 39: 30–37. https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v0i39.78113
41. Li YM, Han J, Liu Y, et al. (2019) China survey of fitness trends for 2020. ACSM’s Health Fit J
23: 19–27. https://doi.org/10.1249/FIT.0000000000000522
42. Valcarce-Torrente M, Arroyo-Nieto A, Veiga OL, et al. (2022) National survey of fitness trends
in Colombia for 2022. Retos 45: 483–495. https://doi.org/ 10.47197/retos.v45i0.93100
43. Batrakoulis A, Fatolahi S, Dinizadeh F (2023) Health and fitness trends in Iran for 2024: A cross-
sectional study. AIMS Publlc Health 10: 791–813. https://doi.org/10.3934/publichealth.2023053
44. Batrakoulis A, Keskin K, Fatolahi S, et al. (2024) H&F trends in the post-COVID-19 era in Turkey:
A cross-sectional study. Ann Appl Sport Sci 12: e1271. https://doi.org/10.52547/aassjournal.1271
45. Gronau N, Titze G (2018) Personal training in Europe. Den Bosch, the Netherlands: Black
BoxPublishers. Available from: https://www.blackboxpublishers.com/en/publications/personal-
training/personal-training-in-europe.
46. Batrakoulis A, Jamurtas AZ, Fatouros IG (2021) High-intensity interval training in metabolic
diseases: Physiological adaptations. ACSM’s Health Fit J 25: 54–59. https://doi.org/:
10.1249/FIT.0000000000000703
47. Batrakoulis A, Fatouros IG (2022) Psychological adaptations to high-intensity interval training in
overweight and obese adults: A topical review. Sports 10: 64.
https://doi.org/10.3390/sports10050064
48. Batrakoulis A, Jamurtas AZ, Metsios GS, et al. (2022) Comparative efficacy of 5 exercise types
on cardiometabolic health in overweight and obese adults: A systematic review and network meta-
analysis of randomized controlled trials. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 15: e008243.
https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.121.008243
49. Middelkamp J, Wolfhagen P, Eemstra J (2020) Group fitness in Europe. Den Bosch, the N
etherlands: BlackBoxPublishers. Available from: https://www.blackboxpublishers.com/en/publ
ications/groupfitness/group-fitness-in-europe.
50. De Lyon ATC, Neville RD, Armour KM (2017) The role of fitness professionals in public health:
A review of the literature. Quest 69: 313–330. https://doi.org/10.1080/00336297.2016.1224193
51. Soan EJ, Street SJ, Brownie SM, et al. (2014) Exercise physiologists: Essential players in
interdisciplinary teams for noncommunicable chronic disease management. J Multidiscip Healthc
7: 65–68. https://doi.org/10.2147/jmdh.s55620
52. Muth ND, Vargo K, Bryant CX (2015) The role of the fitness professional in the clinical setting.
Curr Sports Med. Rep 14: 301–312. https://doi.org/10.1249/JSR.0000000000000174
53. Batrakoulis A (2022) Psychophysiological adaptations to pilates training in overweight and obese
individuals: A topical review. Diseases 10: 71. https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases10040071
54. Batrakoulis A (2022) Psychophysiological adaptations to yoga practice in overweight and obese
individuals: A topical review. Diseases 10: 107. https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases10040107
885
AIMS Public Health Volume 11, Issue 3, 861–885.
55. Batrakoulis A (2023) Role of mind-body fitness in obesity. Diseases 11: 1.
https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases11010001
56. García-Fernández J, Gálvez-Ruiz P (2022) The digital transformation of the fitness sector: A
global perspective, Bingley, UK: Emerald Publishing Limited, 1–3. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-
1-80117-860-020221006
57. Štajer V, Milovanovic IM, Todorovic N, et al. (2022) Let’s (Tik) talk about fitness trends. Front
Public Health 10: 899949. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.899949
58. Gregersen EM, Astrupgaard SL, Jespersen MH, et al. (2023) Digital dependence: Online fatigue
and coping strategies during the COVID-19 lockdown. Media Cult Soc 45: 967–984.
https://doi.org/10.1177/01634437231154781
59. Middelkamp J, Rutgers H (2016) Growing the fitness sector through innovation. Den Bosch, the
Netherlands: BlackBoxPublishers, 165–177.
60. Ibtihal F, Razzak B, Abdul H (2019) National accountability and response for noncommunicable
diseases in the United Arab Emirates. IJNCD 4: 4–9. https://doi.org/10.4103/jncd.jncd_55_18
61. Webster C., Mîndrila D, Murphy A, et al. (2024) Student profiles of physical activity, screen time,
sleep quality and dietary habits and their association with mental health and school satisfaction:
An exploratory study. Psychol Sch 61: 1667–1693. https://doi.org/10.1002/pits.23127
62. General Authority of Sports (2023) The national sports strategy-2031. Dubai, United Arab
Emirates: General authority of sports. Available from: https://u.ae/en/about-the-
uae/culture/sports-and-recreation/national-sports-strategy-2031.
63. Radwan H, Al Kitbi M, Hasan H, et al. (2021) Indirect health effects of COVID-19: Unhealthy
lifestyle behaviors during the lockdown in the United Arab Emirates. Int J Environ Res Public
Health 18:1964. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18041964
64. Arumugam A, Murat D, Javed A, et al. (2023) Association of sociodemographic factors with
physical activity and sleep quality in Arab and non-Arab individuals of both sexes during the
COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare 11: 2200. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11152200
65. Alsamman RA, Shousha TM, Faris ME, et al. (2024) Association of sociodemographic,
anthropometric, and sleep quality factors with accelerometer-measured sitting and physical
activity times among Emirati working women during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional
study. Womens Health (Lond) 20: 17455057231225539.
https://doi.org/10.1177/17455057231225539
66. Angosto S, García-Fernández J, Grimaldi-Puyana M (2023) A systematic review of intention to
use fitness apps (2020–2023). Humanit Soc Sci Commun 10: 512. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-
023-02011-3
67. Dalibalta S, Majdalawieh A, Yousef S, et al. (2021) Objectively quantified physical activity and
sedentary behaviour in a young UAE population. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 7: e000957.
https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjsem-2020-000957
68. Georgiou Y, Patsantaras N, Kamberidou I (2024). The running tribes: Typology of the long-
distance running community of Greece. Eur J Phys Educ 11: 1–18.
https://doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v11i3.5435
© 2024 the Author(s), licensee AIMS Press. This is an open access
article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons
Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)
