The Workouts Brits Are Actually Searching for This January
From Pilates to Couch to 5K, new data reveals how the UK is getting active at the start of the year
January is the month when millions of Brits recommit to fitness, and new search data shared by Fresha offers a clear snapshot of how the nation is choosing to work out in 2026.
The findings show a mix of familiar favourites, beginner-friendly plans and newer fitness trends — highlighting what people are most curious about as they kick-start their New Year routines.
Based on recent search behaviour, the following workouts are attracting the most interest right now
Workout search trends (latest data as of 06/1/26)
| Workout type | Monthly search volume | Recent trend |
| Yoga | 1.7M | −2% past year |
| Pilates | 1.2M | +3% past quarter |
| Strength training | 133K | +21% past year |
| Couch to 5K | 80K | +44% past month |
| Spin class | 22K | −19% past month |
| HIIT | 17K | −9% past quarter |
| Cold water swimming | 4K | +31% past quarter |
| Home workouts | 4K | +16% past quarter |
| Hyrox training | 4K | +37% past quarter |
| Hybrid training | 3K | +68% past quarter |
Source: Search trend analysis (Google Trends), January 2026
What’s proving popular with Brits right now
Pilates continues to be one of the UK’s most searched workouts, with interest remaining high as more people look for low-impact ways to build strength and flexibility.
Strength training also remains a staple, while the rise in Couch to 5K searches suggests many people are turning to structured, beginner-friendly programmes to ease themselves back into exercise after the festive period.
At the same time, newer formats such as Hybrid training and Hyrox training are attracting attention from those looking for variety, challenge and goal-driven workouts.
Home-based routines and cold water swimming are also featured in January searches, reflecting the wide range of approaches people are taking — from quick workouts at home to outdoor wellness trends.
What this means for January fitness plans
With so many options available, the data shows there’s no single “right” way Brits are approaching fitness this year. Instead, people are exploring workouts that suit their lifestyle, preferences and confidence levels — whether that’s a gentle Pilates session, a return to running, or something more intense.
“January is all about fresh starts, but it’s also about finding something that feels achievable,” says James Hayward-Browne, Head of Brand & Content Marketing at Fresha. “We’re seeing people explore a broad mix of workouts as they figure out what works best for them.”
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