Obscure outdoor fitness trends that will be big in 2025

2025 is shaping up to be the year of the unconventional fitness trend. From the winter arc challenge to Jeffing, there’s a host of new fitness trends ready to take off that might have you scratching your head.

While experts debate how much exercise per day is enough, we believe that variety between exercises is just as important. That’s why we’ve decided to look at the unique fitness trends making their way onto the scene in 2025.

We’ll cover some general questions, like is walking good exercise, is swimming good exercise, and even touch upon what to wear for outdoor exercise in winter.

FOREST BATHING

Forest bathing, or “shinrin-yoku” as it’s known in Japan, is more than just a stroll through the woods and technically doesn’t involve any “bathing” at all. It’s becoming increasingly popular with burned-out city workers because it can help reduce stress, boost the body's immune system, and improve concentration and memory.

So, what is forest bathing? Well, it’s a mindfulness practice that involves immersing yourself in the forest atmosphere, observing the beauty of nature, and engaging all your senses.

The key to forest bathing is turning off your devices - you want to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Walk through your local forest or woods at a slow pace, breathing deep into the abdomen to relax your body. Clear your mind, and try and think only about what’s in front of you rather than what’s on your to-do list. It’s simple, yet effective.

What to wear: Comfortable, quiet clothing that won't distract from the sensory experience. We recommend layering up with our Cresswell or our Pearson Knitlook Fleece and a waterproof jacket to make sure you’re comfortable and prepared for rain, so a little drizzle doesn’t cut your forest bathing experience short.

COLD WATER PLUNGING

Cold water therapy used to be reserved purely for athletes, but it’s started moving into the mainstream in the last few years. From wild swimming in mountain lakes to home ice baths and plunge pools at the sauna, more people are discovering the benefits of cold water immersion for recovery from injury, and general well-being.

For those wondering "Is swimming a good exercise?" cold water plunging takes it to the next level, combining the full-body workout of swimming with the therapeutic benefits of cold water exposure. Some studies have found that cold water plunging can help improve your mood and concentration, boost your immune system, and reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. 

What to wear: We recommend slipping on some of our swimwear before taking the plunge and having a thermal base layer and a toasty Timble Sherpa Hoody lined up ready to help you warm back up post-plunge.

PARK FITNESS

Everyone’s been to their local park and had a go at the gym equipment - it’s only natural! But while park gym equipment is a fixture of most parks, it’s criminally underused. However, we think 2025 is going to be the year that it makes a comeback.

What are the benefits of exercising outdoors you ask? Working out in the great outdoors is a genuinely refreshing way to exercise. People are getting sick of being cooped up, and breathing in the fresh air and enjoying your surroundings is slowly becoming a more attractive option to gym-goers across the country. It can boost your mental health and reduce stress, plus, using your equipment at your local park is completely free - an attractive offering for many people put off by long-term gym membership fees.

What to wear: Our range of activewear is perfect for mixing cardio and strength training outdoors. On those colder mornings layer up with our quick-wicking Darley Base Layer Thermals Set and a Dorrington Running Gilet to help you stay dry and fight off the cold.

THE WINTER ARC CHALLENGE

The Winter Arc began picking up steam at the end of 2024, and it’s easy to see why. It’s all about setting yourself up for the new year right, instead of waiting for your new year’s resolution to start and inevitably flop (as they all do!)

The Winter Arc begins on October 1, and it gives you three months to focus on improving yourself. It’s designed to help you build better habits, which will, in turn, improve your mental well-being. By the time January rolls around, you’ll be ahead of the game - feeling stronger, more focused, and ready to take on the new year with a fresh mindset.

What makes this challenge unique is its flexibility - there are no hard and fast rules. You set your own targets and go at your own pace. Here are a few ideas for your Winter Arc goals:

• Start waking up earlier

• Eat a more balanced diet

• Make sure you get eight hours of sleep

• Exercise at least four times a week, twice outside

• Take a quick walk every day

• Stretch after your workouts
  
  

What to wear: Stay warm and comfortable during your Winter Arc with TOG24’s range of activewear and down-insulated jackets, designed to keep you cosy without overheating.

RUCKING

Is walking a good exercise? Definitely - and rucking ramps it up even further. As the name implies, rucking is walking with a weighted rucksack on. Originally a military training exercise, rucking has been on the rise recently as it’s a great, low-impact method of improving strength, endurance, and overall fitness.

Rucking is accessible to everyone, no matter their age or fitness level. It also doesn’t require any fancy equipment, just a rucksack and something to add weight - which can be something as simple as a heavy bottle of water. Whether you’re out on a hike or taking a simple stroll through your local park, rucking adds that little extra challenge to keep you active outdoors.

What to wear: Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows for easy movement. Our range of gilets or down-insulated jackets can help you stay warm and dry, no matter the weather. Also don’t forget the most important part - the rucksack.

JEFFING

Daft names aside, Jeffing is an exercise trend that’s sure to grow in popularity in 2025. It’s basically a running method where you alternate between running and walking during your workout.

It’s named after Jeff Galloway, the runner who popularized the technique, and involves taking short walking breaks while running - but not just when you’re tired. The walking intervals should last no more than 30 seconds to keep your momentum up and avoid cooling down too much.

Jeffing can be a great option if you’re new to running or coming back after a break, as it helps improve stamina and breathing. It also helps mentally on those long runs because, let’s face it, running for over an hour straight can feel overwhelming. Knowing you have a break coming up can make it a lot more manageable.

What to wear: Keep it comfy and practical. Quick-wicking gym wear, like our Haller Leggings, will keep you dry while you run and walk. For those colder runs, bundle up with our Adderley Running Gilet, and don’t forget a hat or headband to keep sweat or rain out of your eyes.

Ready to embrace the latest outdoor fitness trends? TOG24 has all the gear you need to stay comfortable and motivated! Visit our website today to explore our full range of outdoor wear.