New study reveals Londoners think they’re fit—but they want to be even fitter
Londoners love to think they’re the fittest bunch in the UK. Turns out, they’re not entirely wrong. A new study by PerformancePro has uncovered a city full of gym-goers, yoga enthusiasts, and park runners who still aren’t satisfied with their fitness levels. Nearly half of Londoners believe they’re in “great physical health,” yet a staggering 81% are determined to improve it. Clearly, this city doesn’t do complacency.
London’s Fitness Pride: Are We Really That Healthy?
Central London takes the crown for fitness confidence. A solid 62% of residents believe they’re in peak physical condition, leaving other boroughs trailing behind. Almost one in three are so convinced of their health superiority, they wouldn’t even entertain the idea of a gym buddy who can’t keep up.
Yet, despite all this self-assurance, 50% of people admit they’re worried about their physical health. The struggle is real. More women (84%) than men (78%) feel the need to step up their game, while 18-34-year-olds lead the charge for fitness improvements. This city is never happy unless it’s chasing something—this time, it’s muscle tone.
We’re Active… But Could Be Better
London’s fitness habits are surprisingly mixed. While 11% of residents exercise daily, another 10% admit they never exercise at all. That’s right, for every committed morning runner, there’s someone hitting snooze for the fifth time.
Still, 77% of Londoners work out at least once a week, with Central Londoners showing off once again—84% hit the gym or a class regularly. Men sneak ahead in terms of intensity, with 13% exercising 5-6 times a week, compared to just 8% of women.
Employment also plays a role. A massive 80% of working Londoners stay active weekly, compared to just 64% of those who are unemployed. Apparently, having a packed schedule also means squeezing in some deadlifts between meetings.
Is London the UK’s Healthiest City?
Londoners love to believe their city is the nation’s fitness capital. Yet only 34% actually think London is healthier than its European rivals. Ouch.
Younger residents are far more optimistic. 57% of 18-34-year-olds consider London a health-conscious city, but that number plummets to 41% among those aged 55 and over. The older generation isn’t convinced that a city fueled by Pret coffees and overpriced protein shakes is the pinnacle of wellness.
London’s Fitness Paradox: Confident Yet Always Striving for More
PerformancePro co-founder Dan Boulle summed it up best:
“This research shows how fitness is deeply embedded in London’s culture. Londoners are proud of their health, but they’re also incredibly driven to push for more. At PerformancePro, we help clients channel that ambition into sustainable, science-based training.”
Co-founder Mat Grove added:
“Londoners demand world-class training. This study proves that our city isn’t just about looking fit—it’s about staying fit long-term. Our approach at PerformancePro combines nutrition, rehab, physiology, and biomechanics to ensure real results.”
London Is Never Satisfied
This study proves one thing: Londoners are obsessed with self-improvement. Despite being among the UK’s most active people, they’re still on the hunt for better fitness, faster runs, and heavier lifts.
With expert-led, science-backed personal training, PerformancePro is on a mission to help Londoners hit their ever-rising fitness goals. Whether it’s getting stronger, improving endurance, or just staying ahead of the competition, London won’t stop—and neither will its people.
