159 Key Fitness App Stats for 2024: Trends by Age, Market & More
Up-to-date fitness app statistics from reputable sources—reviewed by an exercise scientist
If you’re a journalist or researcher looking for quality mobile fitness app stats, you’ve come to the right place.
With over two billion active users, fitness apps are one of the most popular categories in the app stores.
- Revenue: Grew from $0.68 billion in 2016 to $5.35 billion in 2021
- Usage: 71% of of users abandon their apps by 3 months
Searching for more stats?
Watch out for outdated, unverified information and poorly researched blog posts.
Why this compendium of fitness app stats is different
At Dr. Muscle, we've collected and carefully reviewed dozens of fitness app stats.
Today, we're making our research publicly available as part of our commitment to health, and our mission to make the world a fitter place.
In doing so, we hope to provide reliable and relevant data that can be used by all stakeholders interested in improving fitness and quality of life around the world.
Here, you’ll find:
- More stats than in any other resource, updated regularly for accuracy and completedness
- Only verified stats from reputable sources, with all facts checked and sources cited
- Reviewed by Dr. Carl Juneau, PhD (physical activity epidemiologist)
You are free to use data from this research in any publication. We only ask that you link to this article as the source (e.g. “according to a review by Dr. Muscle“).
Here’s a brief overview of the key stats we’ve compiled:
- Age: The average age of users continues to increase, with millennials dominating the market
- Gender: Men continue to outnumber women in fitness apps, but there is a growing trend of women in fitness apps.
- Geography: North America continues to be the largest market for fitness apps, followed by Europe.
- App type: Cardio/workout app dominates the market, but there are increasing numbers of health tracking apps.
If you’re looking for verified, up-to-date stats on these topics, this is the resource for you.
Fitness app market size
Fitness app market annual revenue, 2016-2021
Sources: Grand View Research & Polaris Market Research in BusinessOfApps
The fitness app market grew from USD 0.68 billion in 2016 to USD 5.35 billion by 2021. The growth of the fitness app market is driven by factors such as the growing popularity of fitness and wellness activities, the increasing use of smartphones and other connected devices, and the need for real-time tracking of fitness data.
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing market for fitness apps, due to the increasing number of health-conscious consumers and the growing adoption of mobile devices and apps in this region.
Some of the major players in the fitness app market include Fitbit, Inc. (U.S.), Apple, Inc. (U.S.), Google, Inc. (U.S.), Azumio Inc. (U.S.), Nike, Inc. (U.S.), Under Armour, Inc. (U.S.), and Strava, Inc.(U.S.).
Fitness App Market to reach USD 15.2 Billion by 2028
- Global fitness app market was valued at USD 5.1 Billion in 2021
- Total market size for fitness apps estimated to reach USD 15.2 Billion by 2028
- The revenue generated by both the Apple App Store and Google Play health and fitness apps rose to 837 million dollars in 2020, compared to the total 592 million dollars in 2019.
- Almost 1.2 billion U.S. dollars in funding were directed to the development of mHealth apps, making it one of the most promising sectors in digital health.
- The number of downloads for prescription apps increased by 26.6 percent in the United States at the beginning of 2021.
Sources: Statista, Vantage Market Research.
Fitness app usage statistics
Fitness app usage statistics show that people are becoming more and more interested in tracking their fitness and health data. In 2019, the average person spent about 2 hours and 15 minutes per week using fitness apps, which is a significant increase from 1 hour and 45 minutes per week in 2018.
This trend is expected to continue as people become more aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- 71% of of users abandon their apps by 3 months
- Average return rates to apps increased with active users returning to their apps 11 times more in 2021 than they did in 2020
- 26% of fitness app users use their apps 10+ times/week
- 10 PM is the most active time on fitness apps, when users are finishing up a night-time workout, planning their routines for the following day, updating progress, and getting clear on their goals.
- Workout and weight-loss apps account for 73 percent of all health and fitness app sessions
- Millennials are the most active users of fitness apps
Source: Runrepeat.
There are two months in the year when fitness apps see the highest growth in users: January and August
The reason for this is that people typically make New Year’s resolutions to get in shape, and then they try to stick to them throughout the year.
However, many people find that they don’t have the time or motivation to keep up with their fitness goals, so they give up and go back to their old habits.
In August, people start getting back into shape for the summer, when they want to look their best for beach vacations and other outdoor activities.
In January 2020, people were motivated to start the year off right by downloading 16.3 million workout apps. In January 2022, even more people downloaded workout apps, totaling nearly 17 million.
Health & mobile fitness apps continue to trend upward
Apps support people becoming more health conscious and wanting to lead healthier lifestyles. Some apps can even be used to connect with friends and family members, creating a support system.
- As is typical, the New Year’s Resolutions spike of early January occurred again this year – with installs up 10% YoY as more people than ever opted to begin their fitness journey on mobile.
- And those who already had their favorite fitness apps downloaded appear to have increased their exercise routines as sessions climbed 57% YoY in January.
Source: Adjust.
How do people find their fitness apps?
There are a variety of fitness apps available, so people can find the one that best meets their needs. Some popular fitness apps include Nike+ Training Club, Fitbit, and MyFitnessPal.
People can find these apps by searching for them in their app store or online. Once they have found the app, they can read reviews and decide if it is the right fit for them.
Meditation apps statistics
Market leaders Calm and Headspace experienced a 27 percent and 32 percent increase in consumer spending compared to 2020, respectively. In 2022, global users are expected to maintain the high spending on mental wellness apps and generate almost 500 million U.S. dollars, up by 82 percent compared to 2020. (Statista)
Key fitness app industry stats and revenue
There are many fitness apps available on the market, and they all have different features. However, some common features include tracking your fitness goals, monitoring your progress, and providing motivation.
The fitness app industry is growing rapidly, with new apps being released all the time. In fact, Statista reports that the global revenue from fitness apps is expected to reach $15.2 Billion by 2028.
This growth is being driven by the increasing popularity of health and fitness tracking, as well as the rise of wearable devices such as fitness tracker watches. Namely:
- Fitness apps generated revenue of $5.35 billion in 2021, a 54% increase on the year prior
- MyFitnessPal was the top grossing fitness app of 2020 and 2021
- Fitness apps were downloaded more than 400 million times in 2021
- Revenue increased by 54% in 2021, primarily through higher usage during lockdown
- Received a 45% boost in users in 2020, and interest has remained high in 2021, with unique users reaching an estimated 385 million users
Source: Businessofapps.
Number of health and fitness app users and their demographics in the United States from 2018 to 2022 (in millions) – Statista
Covid-19 pandemic impact on the gym and fitness app industry
The pandemic triggered the large-scale usage of fitness apps, and usage continues to grow.
The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on the fitness app industry. With gyms closed and people forced to stay home, many smartphone users have turned to fitness apps as a way to stay active. This has resulted in a boom in the industry, with many new users and a surge in popularity for existing apps.
This trend is likely to continue in the future, as people become more accustomed to using fitness apps and appreciate the convenience and flexibility they offer. This could lead to even more people using fitness apps, and potentially even replacing traditional gyms altogether.
Fitness app statistics on the increase in users and downloads during the covid-19 pandemic
There has been a significant increase in the use of fitness apps since the outbreak of the pandemic. According to a recent study, the number of people using fitness apps has increased by nearly 50% since the start of the pandemic. This is likely due to the fact that people are looking for ways to stay healthy and active while being stuck at home.
There are a variety of different fitness apps available, ranging from simple step counters to more comprehensive workout programs. Some of the most popular apps include Fitbit, Nike+ Training Club, and Dr. Muscle. These apps allow users to track their progress, set goals, and compete with friends.
Research by Visualcapitalist on Fitness app growth
In India, the number of downloads increased by a whopping 156%. This means that there were 58 million new active users- which is almost the equivalent of the entire population of Italy.
Given that India had the largest lockdown in the world, this makes sense. From March 25 to May 2020, 1.3 billion people were instructed to stay indoors. (Visualcapitalist)
A mid-year survey by OnePoll found that 74% of Americans used at least one fitness app during quarantine, and 60% enjoyed their home workouts so much they now plan on canceling their gym membership as they are expensive fitness. Plus they also get the advantage of a personal trainer at home with these apps.
Downloads of fitness apps grew 46% during the first half of 2020 globally. Downloads grew in the following regions by Visualcapitalist:
- India – 157% (58 million new active users)
- Middle East and North Africa – 55%
- Asia-Pacific – 47%
- Europe – 25%
- Americas – 21%
- Rest of the world – 43%
Most popular free, paid, and grossing fitness apps
Leading fitness apps by revenue
Source: Apptopia in BusinessOfApps.
Fitness apps are big business. In 2021, the global fitness app market was valued at $1.1 billion and is expected to grow to $15.2 Billion by 2028. The leading fitness apps by revenue are My Fitness Pal, Strava, and Fitbit.
MyFitnessPal is a great resource for tracking your fitness and diet goals, providing an overall holistic approach. The website and app are easy to use and offer a variety of features to help you stay on track.
You can log your food and exercise, set goals, and view progress over time. MyFitnessPal also has a large community of users who can offer support and motivation.
Strava is a popular fitness app that records your runs and bicycle rides, as well as creates competition between you and people who travel the same routes.
Fitbit is an American company that produces consumer electronics and fitness technology. This technology includes wireless-enabled devices, physical fitness monitors, activity trackers, smartwatches, pedometers, and monitors for heart rate, quality of sleep, and stairs climbed.
The company also produces software related to these products.
Most popular free fitness apps in the United States (iOS) for 2022
- JustFit: Lazy Workout
- Planet Fitness Workouts
- Flo Period Tracker & Calendar
- MyFitnessPal: Calorie Counter
- BetterSleep: Relax and Sleep
- Sweatcoin Walking Step Counter
- Calm
- Workouts by Muscle Booster
- Fitbit: Health & Fitness
- Workout: Gym Workout Planner
- Breeze: Mental Health
- Fitness Coach & Diet: FitCoach
- InPulse – Heart Rate Monitor
- Mindbody: Fitness, Salon & Spa
- Daily Yoga: Fitness+Meditation
- Lose It! – Calorie Counter
- Headspace: Mindful Meditation
- Peloton: Fitness & Workouts
- BetterMe: Health Coaching
- BetterHelp – Therapy
Source: SimilarWeb.
Top grossing fitness apps in the US (iOS) 2022
- MyFitnessPal: Calorie Counter
- Calm
- Flo Period Tracker & Calendar
- WW / WeightWatchers
- Peloton: Fitness & Workouts
- Fitbit: Health & Fitness
- Headspace: Mindful Meditation
- Noom: Healthy Weight Loss
- Strava: Run, Ride, Hike
- Lose It! – Calorie Counter
- Workouts by Muscle Booster
- Sweat: Fitness App For Women
- Fitbod Workout & Fitness Plans
- JustFit: Lazy Workout
- AllTrails: Hike, Bike & Run
- BetterSleep: Relax and Sleep
- Workout: Gym Workout Planner
- Waking Up: Guided Meditation
- Hatch Sleep
- ShutEye: Sleep Tracker
Source: SimilarWeb.
Most popular paid fitness apps in the US (iOS) 2022
- AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch
- 75 Hard
- My Macros+ | Diet & Calories
- HeartWatch: Heart Rate Tracker
- MyFLO Period Tracker
- WorkOutDoors
- Blood Type Diet®
- Buddhify: meditation on the go
- Calorie Counter PRO MyNetDiary
- Clock Yourself
- Little Bean: Pregnancy Health
- HRV4Training
- Seconds Pro Interval Timer
- Couch to 5K® – Run training
- Heart Rate Pro-Health Monitor
- HealthFit
- mySymptoms Food Diary
- Anxiety Release based on EMDR
- The Work App
- Skincare Routine
Source: SimilarWeb.
Most popular free fitness apps in the UK 2022 (iOS)
- Flo Period Tracker & Calendar
- PureGym
- MyFitnessPal: Calorie Counter
- Sweatcoin Walking Step Counter
- The Gym Group
- Calm
- StepsApp Pedometer
- Calorie Counter +
- Strava: Run, Ride, Hike
- Fitbit: Health & Fitness
- PhysiApp
- Headspace: Mindful Meditation
- BetterSleep: Relax and Sleep
- Everyone Active
- Balance: Meditation & Sleep
- Fitness Coach & Diet: FitCoach
- Better UK
- Airmid UK
- ShutEye: Sleep Tracker
- Intermittent Fasting for Men
Source: SimilarWeb.
Top-grossing fitness apps in the UK 2022 (iOS)
- MyFitnessPal: Calorie Counter
- Flo Period Tracker & Calendar
- Strava: Run, Ride, Hike
- Headspace: Mindful Meditation
- Calm
- Fitbit: Health & Fitness
- Calorie Counter +
- Courtney Black Fitness
- Zwift: Ride and Run
- The Body Coach Workout Planner
- Peloton: Fitness & Workouts
- Sweat: Fitness App For Women
- WW / WeightWatchers
- Sleep Cycle – Sleep Tracker
- SHREDDY: We Get You Results
- AllTrails: Hike, Bike & Run
- Noom: Healthy Weight Loss
- EvolveYou: Fitness For Women
- Fitness Coach & Diet: FitCoach
- Waking Up: Guided Meditation
Source: SimilarWeb.
Most popular paid fitness apps in the UK 2022 (iOS)
- AutoSleep Track Sleep on Watch
- WorkOutDoors
- Heart Rate Pro-Health Monitor
- My Macros+ | Diet & Calories
- HRV4Training
- mySymptoms Food Diary
- buddhify: meditation on the go
- 75 Hard
- HeartWatch: Heart Rate Tracker
- HealthFit
- Police Fitness Trainer
- Thin – Weight Loss Hypnosis
- MyFLO Period Tracker
- Bleep Test Solo
- Full Fitness : Exercise Workout Trainer
- Skincare Routine
- FiveK – Couch to 5K for Watch
- MoodKit
- 7 Minute Workout Challenge
- Let’s Meditate Guided Meditate
Source: SimilarWeb.
Most popular fitness apps by downloads and sessions
Most popular fitness apps by downloads
Source: Apptopia in BusinessOfApps.
The most popular fitness app in the United States is Home Workout, which has over 28 million downloads. Another popular app is Sixpack, which has over 24 million users.
Both of these apps track your fitness activity and help you to set and reach goals. They also provide motivation by allowing you to see your progress over time.
Other popular fitness apps include…
Most popular fitness app by sessions
Stats from BusinessOfApps on Fitness Apps by Sessions
The most popular app by session is MyFitnessPal.
My Fitness Pal is a great way to track your fitness and diet goals. The website and app are easy to use and offer a variety of features to help you stay on track.
You can log your food and exercise, set goals, and view progress over time. My Fitness Pal also has a large community of users who can offer support and motivation.
Other popular fitness apps include Nike+ Run Club, Strava, and Home Workout.
Forecast for fitness apps
There is no doubt that fitness apps are becoming more and more popular, as people are becoming more health-conscious. In fact, a recent study found that the number of people using fitness apps has doubled in the past two years.
With this trend likely to continue, it is forecast that the market for fitness apps will reach $15.2 Billion by 2028 at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate)of 20.5%. This is good news for app developers, as there is a growing demand for fitness apps.
So if you’re thinking about developing a fitness app, now is the time to do it. There is a huge potential market out there for you to tap into.
There are many fitness apps available nowadays that can help people to improve their physical health. However, with so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.
A good fitness app should offer a variety of features to help users reach their goals. These might include workout tracking, nutrition advice, and even community support.
When choosing a fitness app, it’s important to consider your own needs and goals. There are apps out there for all kinds of different people, so take some time to find the right one for you. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find an app that will help you get in shape and reach your fitness goals.
Wrapping up: our thoughts about fitness apps in 2024
As we continue into 2024, the fitness app market is only going to get bigger and better. There are a variety of different apps available that can help people to improve their physical health, and it is likely they will continue to increase in popularity and improve fitness on a global scale. In addition, with so many people looking to improve their fitness, we expect the market for fitness apps to continue to grow.