Several trends are reshaping the fitness app landscape, but coaching platforms appear to hold major promise by offering engaging and effective user experiences

The global fitness app market size is projected to grow by $55.86 billion from 2024 to 2028, according to a new market report from Technavio, with health management, chronic diseases, and integrated video coaching platforms as key growth drivers.

While the fitness app space is particularly promising for its AI-driven personalization, convenience, affordability, and wearable tech integration, user engagement and retention pose a challenge for the competitive fitness app market, according to the global technology research and advisory company.

Notably, the integration of video into coaching platforms signals a shift toward more effective and engaging fitness experiences—a trend Technavio expects will significantly boost the market.

Major deals in the fitness app sector suggest Technavio’s projections are on track, with industry players already making moves to capitalize on the trend.

Virtual indoor training platform TrainingPeaks recently acquired cycling platform IndieVelo, giving endurance athletes the ability to find training plans, schedules, and structured workouts while allowing TrainingPeaks coaches to better assist users and build community reach with virtually hosted group rides and races. Meanwhile, AI-powered coaching app Coopah raised £1.5 million ($1.9 million) this fall in a seed funding round for its personalized training plan and AI-powered platform for runners.

SageHouse, an investment and advisory firm for fitness brands, also unveiled proof3 this year as a longevity-focused remote coaching platform that offers those 30 years and above personalized fitness, nutrition, and lifestyle plans. Brick-and-mortar brands, such as luxury athletic country club operator Life Time, added fitness and meditation classes to its complementary app. At the same time, SweatPals secured $3 million for its connection-building fitness app.

Technavio’s report can be found here.