Top Health and Fitness Stocks to Buy for Growth

As both an Exercise Physiologist and a blog writer focused on health and wellness trends, I’m acutely aware that this industry is booming—and not just in your gym or local juice bar. The health and fitness sector has become one of the hottest and most resilient spaces in the investment world. With growing awareness surrounding preventive health care, personalized fitness, and mental well-being, many companies are delivering not only results in terms of improved wellness but also significant financial performance.

Whether you're a fitness enthusiast exploring sustainable investments or a finance-savvy investor looking to diversify your portfolio, health and fitness stocks offer exciting growth potential in 2024 and beyond. Below are some of the top-performing and emerging health and fitness stocks worth buying now for long-term gains.

Why Invest in Health and Fitness Stocks?

The global health and fitness market is projected to grow to $434.74 billion dollars by 2028, according to Fortune Business Insights. This considerable expansion is driven by numerous trends:

• Rising lifestyle diseases like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension pushing populations toward preventive care.
• A shift toward wellness-driven lifestyles, especially among Millennials and Gen Z consumers.
• Advancements in health-tech solutions—from wearables to personalized nutrition apps.
• Increased remote and hybrid work setups fueling demand for home-based fitness solutions.

Now, let’s break down some of the top health and fitness stocks that investors should keep on their radar this year.

1. Planet Fitness (NYSE: PLNT)

Planet Fitness is one of the most recognizable names in the gym and health club space. Known for its judgement-free zone and affordable pricing, Planet Fitness stands out for its high-volume, low-cost model—making it ideal for value-conscious fitness consumers.

Why PLNT is a Strong Buy:

• Extensive Market Penetration: With over 2,400 locations nationwide, Planet Fitness is one of the fastest-growing franchises in the gym industry.
• Affordable Memberships: Low-cost pricing positions it to thrive even in a recession-proof environment.
• High Margins: Their franchising model reduces operating costs and boosts profitability.

Exercise Physiologist's Take: PLNT targets first-time gym-goers and deconditioned individuals—an often-overlooked segment with significant potential for long-term engagement and lifestyle transformation.

2. Lululemon Athletica Inc. (NASDAQ: LULU)

What began as a premium yoga apparel brand has morphed into a global health and wellness lifestyle empire. Lululemon captures both the fashion-forward and performance-based consumer looking for quality activewear and a sense of community-focused wellness.

Why LULU Remains a Market Favorite:

• Impressive Expansion: Lululemon is rapidly growing both in the U.S. and international markets, especially in Asia.
• Diverse Product Line: With product categories spanning workout gear, accessories, and even footwear, LULU is expanding its ecosystem.
• Digital Innovation: Mirror, its smart fitness device, supports LULU’s shift into personalized home fitness.

Exercise Physiologist's Take: LULU’s focus on function and form means they cater extensively to physically active individuals who prioritize quality gear, supporting injury prevention and performance enhancement.

3. Herbalife Nutrition (NYSE: HLF)

If you're looking to tap into the rapidly growing nutrition and supplements market, Herbalife offers a compelling opportunity. Specializing in meal replacements, energy drinks, and protein powders, the company is reaching a global audience focused on dietary health.

Growth Catalysts for Herbalife:

• International Reach: Operates in over 90 countries, giving it geographical diversification.
• Customized Nutrition: As personalization in nutrition grows, Herbalife is well-positioned to cater to demand.
• High Engagement From Independent Sellers: The company’s direct selling model increases its grassroots market penetration.

Exercise Physiologist's Take: Proper nutrition is foundational for performance and recovery. Herbalife supports those goals, especially in underserved communities that need science-backed supplementation.

4. Peloton Interactive (NASDAQ: PTON)

Despite some volatility, Peloton has remained a household name, thanks to its innovative approach to connected fitness through high-end home-based exercise equipment and premium subscription content. The future of fitness includes hybrid models, and Peloton is a key player in this shift.

Why Peloton Still Holds Long-Term Appeal:

• Recurring Revenue Model: Peloton’s subscription service provides consistent, long-term income.
• Expansion Beyond Bikes: New product launches, including rowers and strength training devices, offer portfolio diversification.
• Loyal User Base: PTON members are highly engaged, averaging multiple workouts per week.

Exercise Physiologist's Take: Peloton taps into intrinsic motivation through community engagement and real-time data tracking, strong behavioral drivers for sustained activity.

5. Abbott Laboratories (NYSE: ABT)

While not traditionally bucketed alongside fitness brands, Abbott Laboratories is quietly revolutionizing the health-tech space. Their wearable biosensors (like the Freestyle Libre continuous glucose monitor) are creating new endpoints for both fitness and medical users.

Reasons to Consider Abbott:

• Healthcare Meets Fitness Tech: Glucose monitoring isn’t just for diabetics anymore; it’s gaining popularity among athletes and fitness buffs for personalized training and nutrition.
• Strong Financials: As a large-cap company, ABT offers stability alongside long-term growth potential.
• Growing Wearables Market: Partnerships and innovation keep ABT relevant in the evolving digital health landscape.

Exercise Physiologist’s Take: Real-time glucose monitors help fine-tune workout intensity, fueling strategies, and even fat-loss phases—creating biofeedback loops never before available to the average gym-goer.

Other Health and Fitness Stocks to Watch

• Nike (NYSE: NKE): A global leader in athletic wear with recent partnerships in the digital workout space.
• Technogym (BIT: TGYM): The Peloton of Europe with premium equipment and corporate wellness initiatives.
• WW International (NASDAQ: WW): Formerly Weight Watchers, shifting toward a tech-first personal health platform.

Final Thoughts: Diversifying in Health and Fitness Pays Off

The intersection of health, fitness, and technology represents one of the most exciting frontiers in both consumer behavior and long-term investment opportunities. From wearable tech to virtual fitness memberships to pharma-grade nutrition, companies rising to meet this demand show the potential for enduring growth and market leadership.

While all investments come with inherent risks, the health and wellness sector offers a rare combination of necessity, innovation, and global appeal. Your portfolio—like your physical fitness—will benefit from a long-term, diversified approach.

Pro Tip from an Exercise Physiologist:

Just like you'd vary your workout intensity and style, consider mixing both high-growth and stable companies among your health-focused investments for optimal gains. That way, your financial health keeps pace with your physical well-being.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult with a certified financial advisor before making investment decisions.