The fitness and sports industry has undergone an impressive transformation in recent years. After setbacks due to the pandemic, the outlook for 2024 is significantly more optimistic – and rightly so: over 11.71 million people regularly train in German fitness and health facilities, marking a historic peak. The industry is also showing economic resilience, with an annual turnover of approximately €5.82 billion, nearly reaching pre-pandemic levels. This is reflected in employment figures, too: 157,700 people now work in the industry, a quarter of them holding an academic degree. This highlights not only the sector’s growing importance as an employer but also the increasing demand for professional qualifications.
However, the focus is no longer just on muscle building or endurance training. Fitness has become part of a holistic lifestyle, increasingly linked to aspects such as lifestyle, mental health, and sustainable health promotion – both on a personal level and in corporate settings. The world of work is evolving, too. Whether in traditional fitness studios, health centres, sports clubs, start-ups, sports agencies, or associations, the demand for skilled professionals with vision is growing. Those looking to enter the industry or take the next step in their careers will find a diverse field with enormous potential.
Shaping the Future: Key Trends and In-Demand Skills
The transformation of the industry is evident not only in its offerings but also in the skills required of those who shape it. Several key trends are particularly defining the competencies needed for the future:
Digitalisation & Tech Skills
Online training, digital membership management, wearables, and data-driven coaching models – digital applications are now an integral part of everyday work in the fitness and health industry. Whether as a trainer, manager, or project lead, those who are proficient with digital tools have an advantage. Familiarity with CRM systems or analytics software is also increasingly valuable.
Health as a Holistic Business Model
The merging of fitness, health, and prevention is creating new career opportunities. Corporate health management is one such area, as companies invest more in movement, nutrition, and mental resilience for their employees. Here, professionals with expertise in sports science, organisational skills, and strong communication abilities are in high demand.
Soft Skills with Substance
Beyond technical knowledge, personal skills are more crucial than ever: strong communication, empathy, self-motivation, and teamwork. Those who can inspire people, support change, and Career prospects in fitness and sport: why now is the perfect time
The fitness and sports sector has undergone profound changes in recent years. The challenges posed by the epidemic are gradually receding, and the outlook for 2024 is clearly positive: more than 11.71 million people in Germany regularly train in fitness and health clubs, an all-time high; annual turnover of around 5.82 billion euros is almost back to its pre-epidemic level; and 157,700 people work in the industry, a quarter of whom have advanced degrees. These figures not only reflect the industry's economic resilience, but also highlight the strong demand for specialized personnel.
New industry trends and core competencies
Digitalization and Technology ApplicationOnline courses, smart wearable devices, data-driven membership management and coaching models have become important components of daily operations. Skilled use of CRM, data analysis software, or programming and system building ability will make you stand out in the competition for positions.
Holistic model of health managementThe boundaries between fitness, rehabilitation and preventive health are blurring; corporate wellness management (EHM) programs continue to expand, involving exercise prescription, nutritional guidance and psychological adjustment. Professionals with a background in exercise and human sciences, program planning and cross-departmental communication skills are most sought after.
Soft Power and Emotional Intelligence AdvantageBeyond technical skills, communication skills, empathy, self-driven and teamwork are also critical. Talents who can motivate learners, drive change and integrate resources across boundaries are the most sought after by modern fitness organizations and brands.
Sustainability and value-drivenFrom the construction of venues to the selection of equipment to corporate social responsibility, the concepts of environmental protection and diversity and inclusiveness are becoming standard in the industry. Employees with a strong sense of mission and the ability to inject positive values into corporate culture will be given more opportunities for development.
Employment Trends: More Flexibility and Cultural RecognitionToday, whether it's a large gym chain, a professional wellness center, an athletic club, a startup or a trade association, all are actively creating flexible and productive work environments. Telecommuting, flexible working hours, customized training and flat organizational structures are no longer the exclusive domain of a few companies; small teams often give newcomers core responsibilities in their projects, so that creativity and enthusiasm can be quickly transformed into tangible results. At the same time, companies attach great importance to employer branding, showcasing their culture and values through official websites, social media and industry trade shows to attract and retain like-minded talent.
Suggestions for Career Entry and DevelopmentAccumulate real-world experience in advance: Take advantage of internships, volunteers, student assistants or freelance projects to both deepen your understanding of the industry and expand your network.
Build and activate a network of contacts: Many opportunities in the industry stem from word-of-mouth referrals. Keep an eye on major trade shows such as FIBO and ISPO, actively use platforms such as LinkedIn and XING, and join professional associations.
Continuous learning and curiosity: The fitness and sports industry is always evolving, and attending online and offline training, seminars or continuing education courses will ensure you are always on the cutting edge of the industry.
Express yourself and your personality: Career paths don't have to be cookie-cutter. Expressing your passions, ideas and goals is a great way to impress recruiters.
In-depth experience: FIBO VSD Career Tour 2025
Want to get a closer look at how a company operates, meet industry leaders face-to-face, and have the opportunity to meet your future employer? Sign up for the Career Tour organized by the German Association for Sports Management and Sports Economics (VSD) during FIBO 2025. Scheduled for April 12-13, from 11:00-13:00 daily, it will give you an in-depth insight into the industry's talent needs and workplace ecology through site visits and multi-party dialogues.
Whether you aspire to gym operations, corporate wellness management, product planning or sports marketing, now is a prime time to enter or advance in the industry. With digital competence, a holistic health perspective, strong soft power and values, as well as an attitude of continuous learning and active practice, you will find your own stage in this dynamic and meaningful industry. May your path to a career in sport start today and build momentum!
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