Experts in every industry and field are predicting the hot trends they see taking shape for 2013. Speaking of “taking shape,” the physical fitness industry is no exception. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has released its list of the top 10 fitness trends for 2013. They are as follows:
1. Educated, certified and experienced fitness professionals. For the sixth consecutive year, the trend in professionally qualified fitness instructors and trainers tops the list. The number of fitness professionals who attain accredited education and certification programs continues to increase, providing better results for those they instruct and train.
2. Strength training. This holds the number two spot for the second year in a row. Research now indicates that strength training also benefits the brain (refer to previous blog post) as well as the body.
3. Body weight training. Even when you can hit the gym, doing push-ups, crunches and other exercises that don’t require equipment is a great way to keep fit and toned. And when you can’t, body weight training keeps you from falling into a slump.
4. Children and obesity-related exercise. Programs designed to promote physical fitness and good nutrition among children will continue to increase. Sedentary activities and a steady diet of fast food are the main culprits contributing to the childhood obesity epidemic.
5. Exercise and weight loss. More and more people are beginning to understand that being thin isn’t necessarily synonymous with being healthy. Fitness programs that emphasize a balance of exercise and good diet choices to reach and maintain a healthy weight will continue to increase in popularity.
6. Fitness programs for older adults. With longer lifespans comes the risk of physical decline. Continuing their generation’s passion for personal independence, baby boomers will increasingly take to the gym to remain healthy and mobile as they age.
7. Personal training. An increasing number of companies and communities are promoting wellness programs that include personal trainers. Future Fitness provides one-on-one sessions with a personal trainer to members.
8. Functional fitness. Typically designed for older adults, these programs incorporate everyday activities that involve strength training to improve balance and coordination.
9. Core training. Strengthening core muscles improves the body’s overall stability, making programs emphasizing core muscle development popular among all age groups and workout disciplines.
10. Group personal training. Sort of an oxymoron, but small group classes led by a personal trainer for such regimes as boot camps will continue to trend.
Whatever trend may apply to you, fitness is never a fad! Future Fitness can help you make 2013 your best year yet!