Gaining more and more followers, sport has become a lifestyle for many people today, combining physical health, emotional well-being, and social interaction. According to the annual report Year In Sport: Trend Report, which analyzed data from over 135 million people in 190 countries, there was a 59% increase in participation in running groups in 2024. This report highlighted that sport is not just a form of exercise but also an opportunity to create social connections, with 58% of participants reporting they made new friends through fitness groups.
This growing engagement in sports activities reflects a demand for disciplines that balance physical activity, social integration, and, in many cases, contact with nature. Whether through emerging sports or established practices, the sports landscape in 2025 is set to continue evolving, offering enriching experiences to an increasingly diverse audience.
In this article, we will explore the fastest-growing disciplines in 2024 and how they will continue to impact the sports world in 2025.
Padel
In 2024:
Padel has won a massive base of practitioners in Portugal, thanks to its balance between competition and relaxation. It is easy to learn, less physically demanding than tennis, and highly social. Many sports clubs, previously focused on tennis, have already converted parts of their facilities into padel courts to meet demand.
In 2025:
Padel is expected to continue growing at an accelerated pace, with more tournaments and increased presence in sports clubs, especially in inland Portugal. The Portuguese Padel Federation is investing in the expansion and professionalization of the sport, and organizing regional and national events will be a major focus to consolidate its place in national sports. Additionally, integrating padel into schools or academies could give a significant boost to the sport's future, with more young people learning and practicing from an early age.
Road Running and Trail Running
In 2024:
Events such as the Lisbon and Porto Half Marathons, and trail running challenges in the mountains (Arrábida, Gerês, or Sintra) have attracted thousands of participants, both national and international. The Covid-19 pandemic significantly accelerated this trend, which has gained more athletes year after year.
Road Running, which has become an accessible and inclusive practice, continues to grow, with many runners discovering the freedom and psychological benefits this discipline offers. Meanwhile, Trail Running stands out for its connection to nature and the opportunity to explore stunning landscapes while challenging physical and mental limits.
In 2025:
Participation numbers are expected to keep increasing, with a diverse range of events and greater amateur involvement in longer and more demanding races.
Surf and Stand-Up Paddle (SUP)
In 2024:
Portugal is one of the "world capitals" of Surf, with highly renowned beaches like Peniche, Ericeira, and Nazaré. Surf gained even more prominence with the growth of competitions and schools making the sport more accessible. SUP has also established itself as one of the most sought-after water activities. This sport, combining balance and endurance, allows participants to glide over the water standing up with the help of a paddle. Ideal for those seeking a more relaxed sport or an alternative to surfing, SUP has attracted a diverse audience, from casual practitioners to sports enthusiasts.
In 2025:
The surf scene in 2025 promises even more dynamism, with Portugal continuing to grow as a top destination for surfers, both national and international.
Cycling and Gravel
In 2024:
Cycling, both road and leisure, has been growing alongside the expansion of infrastructure such as urban bike lanes and mountain routes. Gravel, a mix of road and trail riding on specialized bikes, offers a versatile experience and has become a major trend throughout this year.
In 2025:
Substantial growth is forecasted, with particular emphasis on gravel and electric cycling, largely driven by investments in sustainable mobility.
HYROX
In 2024:
HYROX is a discipline distinguished by its intensity and versatility. Combining running and functional exercises (such as rowing, push-ups, kettlebell swings, among others), HYROX was designed to challenge athletes of all levels. The concept of time as the main performance criterion motivates everyone, from beginners to elite athletes, to compete and push their limits.
This sport also stands out for its dynamic community, fostering a sense of unity and motivation among participants. HYROX's impact has been notable, especially in Portugal, where it has become popular among CrossFit practitioners and runners looking for a more challenging training method.
In 2025:
In 2025, HYROX is expected to gain even more visibility in Portugal, with more events scheduled in major urban centers like Lisbon, Porto, and other cities. Participant numbers are also anticipated to increase as more people seek challenging, high-intensity competitions. With the rise of social media and growing focus on personal achievement, HYROX has all it takes to remain one of the main sports trends, establishing itself as a benchmark event for those wanting to test their physical and mental limits.
Sport Climbing
In 2024:
Inclusion in the Olympic Games brought huge visibility to Climbing. The development of new indoor climbing walls and the popularity of natural areas (Arrábida, Sintra) have attracted both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
In 2025:
An increase in indoor climbing spaces and more regional and national competitions are expected.
Yoga and Pilates
In 2024:
Yoga and Pilates continue to be two of the most sought-after practices for those looking to balance body and mind. Both disciplines stand out for their versatility, being practiced in studios, outdoors in parks, or even at home, helped by the growing popularity of virtual classes.
Demand for Pilates Reformer has been particularly strong in major cities like Lisbon and Porto, thanks to the effectiveness of the equipment that allows for more intense yet controlled workouts. Meanwhile, Yoga, with its gentler or more challenging variations, has attracted not only long-time practitioners but also beginners, due to its inclusive nature.
In 2025:
Both Yoga and Pilates are expected to continue growing, with a greater diversity of offerings and expansion of outdoor classes. With increasing concern for mental well-being and holistic health, it is likely these practices will become even more integrated into corporate and organizational wellness programs. Additionally, the ongoing rise of digital fitness platforms is expected to democratize access to these disciplines, allowing more people to include them in their daily routines.
Final Considerations
The trend towards greater involvement in sports-related activities has shown that people are increasingly seeking sports experiences that are not limited to physical exercise but also foster social contact and emotional well-being.
For 2025, projections indicate continued growth of the most popular disciplines and an expansion of practice options, with more spaces, events, and new approaches to meet practitioners' needs.
BOOMFIT aims to continue being an active voice in the sports world, ready to respond to emerging trends and stand side by side with its partners.
Happy Training!
