5 Must-Have Features in a Outdoor Fitness Equipment

“Americans have changed the way they exercise,” says CNN.

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The way people work out is evolving. From running clubs and outdoor boot camps to wellness retreats and pop-up strength training zones – outdoor fitness activities are at an all-time high. 

In fact, exercising outside was the #1 fitness trend of , and the demand for open-air workouts, functional training spaces, and nature-infused movement hasn’t slowed down since: ⬇️

• Pickleball reached 8.9 million players in ,
• Outdoor walking is now considered an essential part of fitness by 52% of people.
• 39% of consumers see outdoor exercise as crucial for their mental well-being.
• 43% of consumers believe that community plays a key role in their wellness experiences.

People are craving fitness experiences that connect them with nature—whether it’s walking, sports, or wellness retreats. The gym of the future is evolving into a space where community and functional movement take center stage.

According to IHRSA, fitness clubs are shifting away from cramming in as much equipment as possible. Instead, they’re prioritizing open spaces and even dedicated workout pods, where small group training participants have their own gear—eliminating the need to share.

Big-name gyms and fitness companies are already leading the way. Equinox, for instance, has expanded its outdoor fitness offerings with Equinox+ In The Wild, fully outdoor gym spaces designed for open-air training.

Pure Barre is offering classes in Central Park and Navy Pier, Physique 57 in Battery Park, and SoulCycle, which hosts outdoor spin sessions in Hudson Yards and the Hamptons. Meanwhile, companies like Evryman and Junto host men’s retreats in places like Joshua Tree and Costa Rica, where workouts are combined with hikes, meditations, and community-building activities. 

Apple Fitness+ has even leaned into the walking trend with its “Time to Walk” feature, offering audio-guided walks narrated by celebrities.

“The gym of the future is open, with more and more room for community and connection.” – DISRUPT , presented by Athletech News.

The opportunity is clear: as consumer demand for wellness experiences grows, outdoor fitness becomes a natural extension of your facility’s services. 

Good thing you don’t need a massive outdoor space or a huge budget to make it work. With the right outdoor equipment and setup, outdoor zones can be used in all seasons, offering new programming opportunities. This blog will walk you through the top outdoor fitness equipment —so you can create the ultimate outdoor training experience for your members.