Strength training has exploded in popularity — and it’s not just for the hardcore gym rats anymore. Whether you’re an athlete chasing peak performance, a busy professional looking to stay fit, or someone over 50 wanting to keep your muscle mass and independence, strength gear is getting smarter, sleeker, and more adaptable. Here’s what you need to know about the future of strength training, straight from the industry’s top players.
Outdoor Strength? Yes, Please.
Nick Vay, Vice President of Commercial Sales at BeaverFit, sees a major shift: “Our partners are pushing strength training outside. More people want to train in fresh air — and facilities want to meet that demand with equipment that lasts and looks good outdoors.”
That means strength racks and rigs are going modular and weatherproof. “Our customers want durability, customization, and smart storage — all while reflecting their brand’s style,” Vay says. No compromises, no fluff.
Functional Fitness: The Game Changer
Functional fitness isn’t a trend; it’s a revolution. Ryan Fuchs from Marpo Fitness nails it: “Our customers want equipment that’s safe, versatile, durable — and yes, fun. It’s about blending strength and movement in ways that actually prepare you for life.”
Christy Browning at PLAE adds that functional training has widened the audience. “Women and beginners are embracing strength training like never before, thanks to equipment that’s simple but tech-savvy. We’re seeing a return to basics but with digital metrics that make every workout count.”
Free Weights Are Back — With a Vengeance
Michael Rojas from Iron Grip Barbell Company says free weights are king. “They’re the most used gear in any gym. Our customers want heavy-duty, premium dumbbells that last and look great — because people post their workouts online, and brand identity matters.”
Eleiko’s Magnus Nyberg agrees: “Free weights and flexible training systems dominate. Our Prestera Strength System lets gyms create adaptable spaces that grow with their users’ needs.”
Tech Is Coming to the Weight Room
Forget chalk and metal only. ZIVA’s Mitch Carlin predicts, “Strength training is about to get smart. Just like cardio has cadence and biometric tracking, strength gear will soon give you real-time feedback on your form, tempo, and explosiveness.”
Ruben Mejia from SportsArt backs this up: “Technology — AI, virtual trainers, remote coaching — will change the game. Strength training is no longer just physical; it’s digital, interactive, and personalized.”
Customization Is King
Erin Milani from Perform Better says the trend is clear: “Gyms want customizable, modular racks. Our Signature Series lets multiple people train in one space — bench press, pulldown, deadlift — all at the same time.”
Jim McIntyre at TRUE Fitness sees specialty machines booming. “Operators want equipment that’s easy to use, looks good, and targets specific muscles. It’s about enhancing the experience while keeping maintenance low.”
Why It Matters to You
Here’s the bottom line: strength training is no longer one-size-fits-all. It’s about real results for real people, with gear that fits your lifestyle, space, and goals.
Jeff Dilts from Core Health & Fitness sums it up: “Whether you’re 20 or 70, strength training improves performance, wellness, and quality of life. The gear is evolving to meet that demand — versatile, functional, and tech-enabled.”
So next time you hit the gym, remember: the equipment you use is designed to work harder, smarter, and longer — just like you.
