The survey, which involved 2,000 active adults, discovered a range of fitness trends that have left enthusiasts scratching their heads.
Some of the puzzling fads include practising yoga with animals and ear candling, a procedure claimed to extract toxins and earwax.
Gen Z are apparently the quickest to jump on these quirky trends, according to the research. With 38% confessing they've tried a new one this year, compared to just 16% of Millennials and a mere 2% of Gen X.
Individuals are likely to experiment with and try out different wellness trends for a range of reasons. Most importantly, this is driven by the desire to enhance wellbeing (44%) but other reasons include dissatisfaction with current routines (30%) or the influence of celebrities and influencers (30%).
The research, conducted by Virgin Active, revealed that adults are inundated with over four fitness-related posts on social media daily, primarily from Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
But, the overwhelming number of social media posts about wellness trends has left almost half (48%) feeling bewildered and unsure where they should turn to for reliable information.
Donna Collins, head of product at Virgin Active, expressed: "We know that people are confused about where to turn to for wellness advice that actually works."
"Our members often come to us and ask for our help in distinguishing between real advice and fleeting fads offering unrealistic and unsustainable health benefits."
"We want to make sure we offer wellness without the BS and it's important for people to join a community where they can be themselves."
For those aiming to enhance their wellbeing, 31% found adhering to a healthy diet the most difficult aspect, while 19% struggled with participating in exercise.
According to OnePoll figures, the primary motivators behind exercise include health and wellbeing (66%) and improving mental health (48%). Other factors that motivate people include socialising with friends (13%) and being incentivised by rewards (8%).
Online personality and wellness guru, Chessie King, commented: "The list of fitness fads I've witnessed since being on social media is endless and I can put my hand up saying I've been a part of those fleeting trends."
"Going to the extreme of competing in a bikini competition, which was highly influenced by Instagram, I know firsthand how easy it is to be manipulated by all the noise online and offline."
"You can wish for a quick fix or cheat code to achieving your wellness goals but longevity is key. I work out now for future me, 80 year old Chessie will be so grateful for the time I've spent looking after her."
"That's why I think it's so important for everyone to be able to distinguish between a fad or fleeting trend."
