Something interesting is happening in gyms. The BBC and The Guardian have both covered it: many people are spending less time on the treadmill and more time on strength training. Back in April 2025, The Guardian reported that Google searches for cardio workouts had been dropping since 2021, while searches for strength training were rising. Some big US gym chains were even cutting cardio equipment to make room for more weights.
Why the switch? A few simple reasons.
1. People want to be strong, not just tired.
An hour of jogging is real exercise. It is good for your heart and your lungs. But it does not build much strength. And strength is what you use all day. Carrying groceries. Picking up your kids. Getting up off the floor.
2. Add other ways to move.
A run is one part of training. You can also make time to practice a deep squat, a hang, or balancing on one leg.
3. Boredom is real.
If your workout feels like a chore, it is hard to keep showing up. A treadmill looks the same on day one and day one hundred.
So what are people doing instead? More of them mix it up. Some lift weights. Some play sports. And some try movement training.
Movement training is not anti-cardio. Your heart still needs work, and a hard movement session will make you sweat plenty. The idea is simple: train strength and movement at the same time. Squat low. Hang from a bar. Balance. Learn things your body could not do before.
At Chicago Movement Gym, that is what every session is about. No treadmills. No machines you sit in. You build strength and skill together, and it pairs well with whatever cardio you already love. We are the only true Ido Portal Method movement gym in Chicago.
Dr. Khong is the chiropractor and owner of Chicago Movement Gym, right here in River North.
Curious what a session feels like? Drop in for a session. 434 W Ontario St #310, Chicago. Give us a call at 312-397-1179.