Do you ever wonder what’s “in” or what might be new in fitness? If so, here’s a list from over 3,800 fitness professionals that participated in a survey that the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) did, to give us the top Fitness Trends for 2014. Here’s my top 10 out of their list of 20.
1. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT, which involves short bursts of activity followed by a short period of rest or recovery, jumps to the top of this year’s list. These exercise programs are usually performed in less than 30 minutes. It’s perfect for those of us that are short on time and want to get an efficient and effective workout in.
2. Body Weight Training: Body weight training uses minimal equipment making it more affordable and convenient – no gym membership needed. Not limited to just push-ups and pull-ups, this trend allows people to get “back to the basics” with fitness. Some examples include: squats, lunges, jumping jacks, burpees, dips, planks, crab walks, runner lunges, repeaters, etc.
3. More Educated Fitness Professionals: Given the large number of organizations offering health and fitness certifications, it’s important that consumers choose professionals certified through programs that are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), such as those offered by ACE, ACSM, AFAA, NASM.
4. Strength Training: Strength training remains a central emphasis for all adults. Incorporating strength training is an essential part of a complete physical activity program for all physical activity levels and genders. (The other essential components are aerobic exercise and flexibility.) Make sure you are strength training a minimum of 2 days a week. Ladies, I would love to have you in my strength class!
5. Fitness Programs for the Baby Boomers. As the baby boom generation ages into retirement, some of these people have more discretionary money than their younger counterparts. Therefore, many health and fitness professionals are taking the time to create age-appropriate fitness programs to keep older adults healthy and active.
6. Functional Fitness: Functional fitness and functional exercise are the latest gym buzzwords. They focus on building a body capable of doing real-life activities in real-life positions. It’s about teaching all the muscles to work together rather than isolating them to work independently. Functional fitness and special fitness programs for older adults are closely related.
7. Group Personal Training: In challenging economic times, many personal trainers are offering more group training options. Training two or three people at a time makes economic sense for the trainer and the clients.
8. Exercise Programs for Children: As obesity unfortunately rises in our children, more and more fitness programs are being offered to get our children moving and eating healthier.
9. Personal Training: With our busy schedules, not knowing what exercises to do, or just wanting to “turn off” and have someone else tell us what we should do and make sure we are doing it safely, more and more people are turning to personal trainers. A personal trainer holds you accountable and helps you schedule some “you” time.
10. Wellness Coaching: Coaching is becoming the fastest growing profession. When people are ready to make a change, a coach is the perfect person to help you do that. A good coach comes along side of you and really listens to what you are and aren’t saying (they hear between the lines). They create great awareness, help you overcome your obstacles, celebrate your successes, and hold you accountable.
Watch this NBC15 segment now:
I hope this gives you some new ideas as you work on your wellness journey in 2014.
As always, I would love to hear from you if you have any questions or comments.
Shine Brightly,
Ali
