The Evolution of the Cardio Floor Takes Another Leap

Treadmills are still the most popular piece of health club equipment.

Functional fitness and strength training keep growing in popularity, but the cardio floor will always be the central training area of fitness facilities from big-box budget clubs to luxury brands.

Why? The demand is still there. According to the 2024 U.S. Health & Fitness Consumer Report, treadmills are still the most popular equipment (see graph below). Say the authors of the report: "Treadmills remained the most utilized equipment at fitness facilities in 2023 with a 43% participation rate. The activities with the highest participation rates have remained relatively stable since 2019, reflecting consistent trends in member preferences."

While accommodating the continuing interest in strength training, operators, personal trainers, and fitness programmers are finding new ways to utilize cardio units. Although cardio floors these days may look a bit different—some smaller, some sporting a changing layout and evolving line-up, and others migrating specific machines into small group training and circuit workout areas—they remain absolute necessities.

While some exercisers still engage in longer, steady-state sessions, clubs report that many members are decreasing workout time and increasing intensity for greater efficiency. Many opt for mix-and-match modalities within an exercise session for variety or multitask by combining cardio with strength.

Treadmill main

Treadmills remained the most utilized equipment at U.S. fitness facilities in 2023 with a 43% participation rate.

How cardio equipment is used is part of the upgrades in the design and function of today’s newest models. Integrating with personal devices, such as Apple watches and smartphones, is now an imperative, as are high-resolution displays and data capture.

The cardio equipment in this section meets these demands, while providing unique programming options built into the unit databases. This is equipment that delivers highly efficient workouts with creative touches that keep the exerciser engaged and motivated, leading to progress that keeps members coming back.

Chart treadmills

This article originally appeared in the December 2024 issue of Club Business International. View the full digital version of the issue online.

Author avatar

Jim Schmaltz

Jim Schmaltz is Editor-in-Chief of Club Business International.