Remember when everyone was into Jane Fonda’s aerobics exercise? Then it was tae-bo, then yoga, then badminton. Fitness, like fashion, follows hot trends, and if you’re in the fitness industry you need to stay updated so you can respond to the needs of the market. This article summarizes the latest fitness trends. It is of special interest to personal trainers, weigh management consultants, and other fitness specialists, but is a pretty good read for anyone who’s trying to lose weight. See how other people are doing it, and what you can expect (and even demand for) at your favorite gym.
Hot fitness trend # 1: workouts for busy people
According to the American Council on Exercise, there’s a clear need for fitness groups to provide unique and efficient workouts that will help busy people who have limited time for exercise. Consumers want to maximize their workout! There seems to be a big demand for short but high-intensity exercises, which can burn calories and strengthen muscles, as well as circuit training for endurance.
There’s also a lot of business opportunities for portable fitness equipment, for people who want to exercise in their homes but have limited space. Personal training sessions can also be appealing for those in higher-income brackets.
Hot fitness trend # 2: Group Training
There is also a market for small-group training, for people who would like a ‘personalized’ approach but are also looking for a way to save on expenses. Being in a group can also give them emotional support and a sense of community.
Hot fitness trend # 3: Exergaming
Lose weight while playing video games! That’s the promise given by Nintendo’s Wii Sports and Wii Fit and the PC-based Dancetown, which could appeal to teenagers or the predominantly male gaming crowd.
Hot fitness trend # 4: Workouts for Aging Adults
These workouts will help aging adults cope with high blood pressure and cholesterol, and strengthen their muscles and boost their overall sense of well-being. For them, exercise is a way for them to continue to have a good quality of life and enjoy functional independence.
Hot fitness trend # 5: Specialty classes
Reality dance shows (like Dancing with the Stars) have propelled an interest in ethnic dance, Zumba, hooping and pole dancing. In response to this, gyms not only offer these classes but also offer ‘fusion programs’ that work out different parts of the body, an prevent boredom.
Photo from purplecrying.info
Exergaming! Cool.