Every year for the last eight years, the American College of Sports Medicine conducted a survey to identify the top trends for the upcoming year. This year there was almost four thousand health and fitness professionals responding. Here are some of the top fitness rages to look for in the upcoming year. It is interesting to note that some of the past years hits, notably spinning, Zumba and Pilates have dropped out of the top twenty.
HITT or High Intensity Interval Training
This intense workout has topped the list. The professionals and elite athletes have been talking about this for years and it has now taken the industry by storm; high intensity workout with short recovery intervals stresses the body and makes for quicker gains in fitness. Very appealing as it allows big results with 15 – 30 minute workouts. No matter what your sport it can be adapted to help you make gains in performance.
Body Weight Workouts
This is back in vogue. These simple exercises require almost no equipment. This allows you to get through your workout wherever you are and whenever it suits you. Look up the new 7 – minute drills (that you repeat 2 or 3 times) that combine some classic calisthenics with core exercises to get an idea of these workouts.
Professional Trainers
Exercise, like anything works best if you have the knowledge to do it right. There is a big emphasis on finding trainers that are fully educated, qualified and certified to get the most out of your fitness investment.
Strength Training
For years the focus was on aerobic training. This shouldn’t be forgotten, but should be supplemented with flexibility and strengthening. There is a lot of emphasis on strength training as it improves performance, no matter your sport; it also is great for burning calories.
Programs Adapted for Older Clients
As the Baby Boomers are getting older and have more recreational time and financial resources it is not surprising that the fitness industry is accommodating this group with more programs customized for this demographic. It is a great idea as many of the older population want to stay fit and understand they can have different requirements than the younger athletes.
Yoga
Yoga has been a mainstay and is enjoying revitalization recently. Different forms of Yoga classes are being introduced to meet the need of individuals. Flexibility and strength are always beneficial. The emphasis in 2014 is to enjoy Yoga safely, join a class with a program that is “flexible” for your need.
Happy Holidays and great training in the New Year!