When I learned of my task this month, exploring fitness fads and if they actually work, my mind immediately revealed images of a dusty cross-trainer draped with laundry or a plastic gadget promising a sculpted physique in just five minutes a day. It brought back memories of me testing a wide variety of fitness equipment destined to be touted as the new magic fitness solution. Most arrived without instructions, leaving me to decipher their purpose and write instructions on how to use the equipment to get the best results (I ended up putting a considerable amount of them in the bin!). 
After years of a one-size-fits-all approach to fitness programs with little flexibility it’s been a joy to see how the fitness industry is finally adapting to meet a wide range of different needs, evolving to reshape how we approach wellness, blending movement with mental wellbeing for sustainable, long term physical and mental health. It now embraces inclusivity and diversity like never before. People once intimidated by gyms or sports – whether due to neurodiversity, physical differences, or a lack of confidence – are now being welcomed with open arms. Tailored programs, like sensory-friendly workouts and adaptive classes, are empowering those previously overlooked, making fitness accessible to all. 

Here are a few workouts that I’ve been impressed with:

1.Mindful Movement

Yoga, pilates and tai chi are surging in popularity, integrating breathwork, meditation, and gentle movement to enhance both physical and mental health. Apps like Walking Yoga combine low-impact walking with yoga flows and audio-guided meditations, offering beginner-friendly routines that reduce stress and improve flexibility without requiring a studio.

A 2025 study found that yoga and tai chi significantly lower insomnia severity and boost sleep quality by promoting relaxation and increasing melatonin levels.

2.Breathwork Focused Workouts

Exercises syncing breath with movement, like those in mindful walking or slow resistance training, reduce cortisol and enhance mood. These workouts are accessible, requiring no equipment, and are great for working out at home. 

3. Online Pilates and Yoga 

Online programs are gaining in popularity due to being flexible and effective. Walking Yoga (look for WalkingYoga in the app store) and Nohrd Pilates (nohrd.com) provide guided home workouts, easing sensory overload and social anxiety. You can pause or customise routines at your pace. Studies show 70% of app users stick to goals longer due to flexibility. It’s ideal for those who find group settings overwhelming.

4.5Rhythms Dance

The idea is that you move freely to music, connecting with your body and emotions. No set steps in routines are required, making it accessible to everyone. Each two-hour class starts with a warm-up, followed by a ‘Wave’ to dance through each of the 5 rhythms, releasing stress and boosting creativity. 5Rhythms.com

5.Sensory Fitness

Synergy Dance Outreach, a multi-award-winning charity, offers inclusive dance, fitness and yoga programs tailored for children, teens and adults with SEND, autism, ADHD and visual impairments. A combination of seated and standing movements, along with sensory elements are renowned  for greatly improving confidence, fitness and overall wellbeing. In-person and online classes are available. synergydanceoutreach.co.uk. For more Sensory information contact activesurrey.com or activekent.org.

The latest trends/fads are about sustainability and holistic health, not quick fixes. They’re backed by science and show they can help with improving mental resilience, aiding sleep, and reducing stress, making them ideal for today’s high-pressure lifestyles. And if your latest fitness fad doesn’t stick? So what, it’s not about religiously adhering to one thing; it’s about finding what makes you happy.
Fitness isn’t about being the fastest, strongest, or most coordinated – it’s about moving in a way that makes you feel alive and thrive in your own unique way!

Sarah Maxwell is a multi-award winning Lifestyle Wellbeing and Fitness coach. You can find her at sarahmaxwell.com
Get in touch via email at sarahmaxwell@mail.com
and on social
@sarahmaxlife