One of the most interesting health and lifestyle trends of 2026 has little to do with a new device.
People increasingly want to put their devices away.
Google search data shows searches for "how to digital detox" increased 110 percent during 2026, while searches related to spending more time outdoors have also surged.
The trend is appearing alongside rapidly growing interest in running clubs, walking groups, tennis and other social activities.
Google reported that searches for "run club" and "how to start running" reached record levels this year.
Searches for adult tennis lessons also reached record interest, while searches for the best tennis racket for beginners jumped dramatically.
Why People Are Looking Offline
Smartphones have become deeply integrated into daily life.
People work, communicate, shop, watch entertainment and consume news through screens.
Artificial intelligence is likely to increase that digital dependence even further.
At the same time, a growing number of people appear to be deliberately creating periods without screens.
A digital detox does not necessarily require abandoning technology.
For many people, it simply means setting boundaries around social media, notifications and unnecessary phone use.
That can include leaving a phone behind during a walk, avoiding screens before sleep or spending several hours outside without constantly checking notifications.
Social Exercise Is Growing Too
The rise of running clubs is particularly notable.
Running was once viewed largely as an individual activity.
Social running groups have transformed it into something that combines exercise with community.
Searches for how to find local running clubs have broken out this year, according to Google.
Walking clubs are also experiencing their highest search interest in a decade.
These trends suggest people may be looking for something beyond physical exercise.
They are also searching for real world social interaction.
Technology Is Not Disappearing
Ironically, technology is helping people discover these offline activities.
Someone may use Google to find a running club, Maps to reach the meeting point and a smartwatch to record the exercise.
The difference is how the technology is being used.
Instead of keeping people continuously attached to a screen, it can help them participate in activities away from it.
The growing search interest around digital detoxing, running, walking and outdoor activities suggests that one of the biggest wellness trends of 2026 could simply be spending more time in the physical world.
