The COVID-19 pandemic marked a turning point for fitness culture in the UK, not least in how fitness programmes were produced, delivered, and consumed on British television. As lockdowns shuttered gyms and forced millions indoors, the nation turned to screens both big and small for guidance, motivation, and community. This article explores how fitness programming on British TV changed in response to the pandemic, the trends that have emerged in its aftermath, and what the future holds for televised fitness in the UK.
The Pre-Pandemic Landscape: Fitness on British TV
Before COVID-19, British television had a rich tradition of fitness programming. From the energetic routines of Mr Motivator in the 1990s to celebrity-led workout DVDs, fitness on TV was often about entertainment, accessibility, and community spirit. While home workouts were already popular, they were largely supplemental to gym-based routines and in-person classes.
The Pandemic Pivot: Fitness Goes Digital and Interactive
The Rise of Home Workouts and Influencers
With the onset of lockdowns, gyms and studios closed overnight, and the public sought new ways to stay active. Television and digital platforms filled this void. Fitness personalities like Joe Wicks became household names, with his "P.E. with Joe" sessions streamed on YouTube and widely discussed on TV news and magazine shows. His live workouts attracted millions, earning him the title of "the nation’s PE teacher" and a Guinness World Record for the most viewers of a fitness workout live on YouTube.
Other TV channels and streaming services quickly adapted, offering daily workout segments, yoga classes, and wellness content. The BBC, ITV, and Channel 4 all increased their fitness-related programming, often featuring experts guiding viewers through routines suitable for small living spaces.
The Digital-Physical Hybrid
The pandemic also saw a surge in the use of digital fitness platforms, with many TV personalities and gyms launching their own apps and on-demand services. This hybrid approach—combining televised or streamed content with interactive online communities—became a hallmark of the era. Social media amplified these trends, with influencers and celebrities using Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to engage audiences and encourage participation.
Post-Pandemic Trends: What Has Changed?
Return to Gyms, But With a Twist
As restrictions eased, many Britons returned to gyms, but the habits formed during lockdown have persisted. The fitness industry now operates in a more "omnichannel" environment, where people mix in-person workouts with digital and televised options. Budget gyms such as Pure Gym and The Gym Group have seen a resurgence, but the demand for flexible, hybrid fitness routines remains strong.
The New Normal: Flexibility, Community, and Mental Well-being
Fitness programming on British TV has shifted focus to reflect post-pandemic priorities:
Flexibility: Viewers expect content they can access live or on-demand, tailored to different fitness levels and schedules.
Community: There is a renewed emphasis on group activities, both virtually and in-person, with TV shows highlighting running clubs, park runs, and community fitness events.
Mental Health: Programmes increasingly address holistic well-being, incorporating mindfulness, stress management, and recovery alongside traditional exercise.
The Role of Technology
Wearable devices, fitness apps, and health tracking have become integral to the fitness experience. British TV programmes now frequently feature segments on how to use technology to monitor heart rate, sleep, and overall health, reflecting a broader trend toward "amateur elitism"—where everyday people have access to data and tools once reserved for elite athletes.
Comparative Table: Fitness Programming Before, During, and After COVID-19
Challenges and Opportunities
Declining Home Workout Popularity
While home workouts surged during lockdown, their popularity has waned as people seek variety and social interaction. Searches for "home workout" and related equipment have declined, and brands that thrived during the pandemic are now adapting to a more competitive landscape.
The Importance of Phased Return
Experts caution that returning to pre-pandemic fitness routines should be gradual, especially for those recovering from COVID-19 or long COVID. TV programmes and fitness instructors have incorporated phased guidance, encouraging viewers to listen to their bodies and progress at their own pace.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
One positive legacy is the increased focus on inclusivity. Fitness programming now caters to a wider range of abilities, ages, and backgrounds, making exercise more accessible to all.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic fundamentally reshaped fitness programming on British television. What began as a crisis response has evolved into a more flexible, inclusive, and technologically integrated approach to health and well-being. British TV continues to play a vital role, not just in keeping the nation active, but in fostering community, supporting mental health, and championing lifelong fitness habits. As the industry adapts to new expectations, the hybrid model—combining the best of digital, televised, and in-person experiences—looks set to define the future of fitness in the UK.