Only one in 10 Indians sustain wellness habits beyond three weeks: Survey

Wellness platform Habuild has released a national survey that reveals that 91% of Indians stick to habits better in a wellness programme, not alone.

The survey is the result of a study that draws responses from 4,000+ respondents, aged between 18 and 60+, from metros and Tier II cities.

The survey reveals that while many Indians are quick to jump onto wellness trends, only a small fraction manages to stay consistent.

So, what gets people started? For 25%, the motivation came from a simple, personal desire “I just wanted to feel better.” Another 24% said they started because friends or family were doing it. And while 12% were nudged into action through structured programmes like Habuild, just 6% credited social media as their reason to begin, suggesting the power of real-world influence over online trends.

But motivation faded over time, and quickly. When asked how long they stuck with their most recent habit, only 15% lasted between 3–5 weeks. Even fewer, just 7% stayed the course for less than a week. In contrast, those who participated in structured routines showed dramatically better consistency; nearly 65% reported maintaining the habit for over a month. And, only one in 10 Indians sustains wellness habits beyond three weeks.

A question arose as to why people give up? Life, mostly. Over 40% blamed their drop-off on life disruptions, work, children, and household responsibilities. 11% pointed to a lack of motivation. Others felt isolated in the process or disappointed by the absence of immediate results.

Social media, often seen as the wellness driver, had mixed reviews. While 26% of respondents said wellness content online helps, a larger 41% admitted it’s a double-edged sword, helpful, but also distracting. The takeaway? Likes don’t build discipline.

The survey points out that the power of community helps. WA resounding 91% said they feel more accountable and consistent when part of a structured wellness group. With daily routines, shared goals, and a sense of belonging, programs like these offer the one thing short-lived trends can’t: sustainability.

“Trends can trigger change, but transformation takes structure. This data proves what we’ve seen in practice - people thrive when they feel supported and guided. Habuild was built to turn those fleeting motivations into lifelong habits,” said Saurabh Bothra, Co-founder of Habuild.

The findings make one thing clear: while wellness trends come and go, lasting change hinges on structure, support, and the community.