Top Ten Trends in Fitness

On a recent trip to Vegas, I attended the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Health & Fitness Summit. Gin Miller, a Reebok Master Trainer, presented on the top ten trends that she, along with Reebok University, have found to be prevalent in their research. Although these trends may sound familiar, the classes that are being offered at facilities do not necessarily represent the most prevalent trends.

Trend 1 – Mind/Body

Mind/Body activities have been increasing steadily over the years. These activities may include a stretching and relaxation class, Yoga, pilates-type, stability ball, Tai Chi or other classes that focus on a balance between the body and soul.

Trend 2 – Functional Training

Functional training is training to enhance your ability to perform everyday movements. You’ll be hearing the word “Core” training a lot. For every movement you do, the movement originates from the core of the body, meaning the trunk area. These classes may include use of a stability ball, integrated muscular conditioning, or a core board. Reebok has released what they call a Core Board, which was originally invented by a physical therapist. I had the opportunity to attend a class utilizing this board and I loved it. Although the individual price is high, I look for that to drop enough for facilities to be able to afford to offer the class.

Trend 3 – Specificity Training

Specificity training is training for a specific goal such as a triathlon, golfing, or running. I’ve seen more and more race preparation workshops and training sessions being advertised.

Trend 4 – Intensity Training

Workouts and facilities that tailor to the in-and-out mindset are becoming more popular. People want to get in, have a high intense workout, and get back to work. High intensity classes would be in short duration and tough enough to burn the calories you want.

Trend 5 – Outdoor Training/Adventure Workouts

Have you tried a boot camp class yet? They are tough. People are turning to the outdoors to stay fit. Kayaking, hiking, rafting, climbing, biking and other outdoor activities are on the top of many favorite workout lists.

Trend 6 – Diversified Training/Cross Training

Fitness programmers are adding cross training to their base classes like Hi/Lo to not only spice it up but to keep members from getting bored. These can be circuit classes alone or mixing a step and hi/lo class, dance and core conditioning, or anything to give the body a change during the movement.

Trend 7 – Strength Training