Is Fitness the New Luxury? Why Health in Britain is More Than a Status Symbol

by | Apr 9, 2026 | Health & Wellbeing, News

You may have seen the headline circulating on social media recently: “Fitness is becoming rarer than a Rolex.” It sounds like a provocative click-bait title, but a look at the latest UK health data suggests a sobering reality.

In 1993, around 15 per cent of adults in England were living with obesity. Fast forward to 2024, and that figure has doubled to 30 per cent. Even more striking are the projections for the future. Cancer Research UK analysis suggests that by 2040, more than 70 per cent of the UK adult population will be classified as overweight or obese. When you look at those numbers, it is easy to see why some people view a fit, healthy body as a new kind of luxury item.

The Myth of the Luxury Body

The “Rolex” comparison suggests that fitness is only for those with excessive time, expensive premium gym memberships (which can now top £200 a month in London), and the budget for high-end meal prep. While it is true that environment and economics play a massive role, at RunMoveTone, we believe that movement should never be a restricted commodity.

The statistics are real, but they do not have to be your destiny. We are currently seeing a “postcode lottery” in health. In more affluent areas of the South East, obesity rates are significantly lower than in regions like Blackpool or parts of the North West, where structural barriers and “food deserts” are more common. However, the solution is not to accept fitness as an elite status symbol. Instead, we must redefine how we move within our own circumstances.

Breaking the Barriers with the RunMoveTone Approach

Our philosophy is built on three pillars that tackle these modern British challenges head-on:

  • Run: Cardiovascular health should not require a boutique studio. Whether it is a jog around your local park or a structured interval session on the pavement, or in our purpose-built, private gym, we provide the programmes to help you build endurance without the “luxury” price tag.
  • Move: Mobility is the foundation of longevity. Our transformation programmes are designed to be done anywhere, no specialised equipment or designer floor space required, to ensure your joints and muscles stay functional for the long term.
  • Tone: Strength training is often the most intimidating aspect of fitness. We simplify the process, focusing on effective, science-based resistance work that fits into a busy UK lifestyle, helping you metabolise more effectively and feel stronger in your daily life.

Beyond the Statistics

The latest data from the NHS and the World Obesity Federation remind us that the “default” environment in 2026 is not designed for our health. Ultra-processed foods often make up more than 50 per cent of the average UK household’s shopping basket, and sedentary desk roles are the norm for 80 per cent of the workforce.

This is exactly why we created the RunMoveTone community. We provide the tools to help you navigate these obstacles. By focusing on individual journeys rather than “Rolex” expectations, we help you find a sustainable rhythm that works for your specific lifestyle.

Movement for Everyone

Fitness should not be rare. It should be a fundamental part of how we live, regardless of our postcode or our paycheck. While the national trends are concerning, your personal health journey is still within your control. Our small, group sessions are just £6 each, while our 28-Day Transformation Packages start from just £30.

Are you ready to move away from the statistics and towards a stronger version of yourself? Explore our latest fitness articles and join a community that values progress over prestige.

Symone x

Symone English RunMoveTone

Symone English

I am the founder of RunMoveTone and a level 3 qualified personal trainer and nutritionist.