10 fitness trends to expect in 2015
Whether it’s nostalgia, economics or the changing face of how Americans work out, exercises are getting back to the basics.
The American College of Sports Medicine recently released its annual fitness forecast based on survey results from more than 3,000 fitness professionals. The No. 1 trend is one that everyone can do in the comfort and ease of their own homes.
“It’s no surprise to see body weight training claiming the top spot this year,” said Dr. Walter R. Thompson, the lead author of the survey. “These kinds of exercises provide the benefit of requiring little to no equipment and are incorporated into many fitness programs that are currently popular.”
USA Football and St. Vincent Sports Performance offer more than a dozen body weight training videos that athletes young and old can use to build strength through simple movements.
Here are the top 10 fitness trends the ACSM survey predicted for the 2015:
Body weight training. Body weight training uses minimal equipment, making it more affordable. Not limited to just push-ups and pull-ups, this allows people to work out anywhere and anytime within their busy schedules.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT). HIIT involves short bursts of activity followed by a short period of rest or recovery. These exercise programs are usually performed in less than 30 minutes.
Educated and experienced fitness professionals. Personal trainers are still a popular fitness route. 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.
Strength training. Incorporating strength training is an essential part of a complete exercise program for all physical activity levels. The other essential components are aerobic exercise and flexibility.
Personal training. More and more students are majoring in kinesiology, preparing themselves for careers in allied health fields such as personal training. Education, training and proper credentialing for personal trainers have become increasingly important to the health and fitness facilities that employ them.
Exercise and weight loss. In addition to nutrition, exercise is a key component of a proper weight loss program. Health and fitness professionals who provide weight loss programs are increasingly incorporating regular exercise and caloric restriction for better weight control in their clients.
Yoga. Based on ancient tradition, yoga utilizes a series of specific bodily postures practiced for health and relaxation. This includes Power Yoga, Yogalates, Bikram, Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Kripalu, Anurara, Kundalini, Sivananda and others.
Fitness programs for older adults. As the baby boom generation ages into retirement, some have more discretionary money than their younger counterparts to spend on a fitness program. Many health and fitness professionals are creating age-appropriate fitness programs to keep older adults healthy and active.
Functional fitness. This is a trend toward using strength training to improve balance and ease of daily living. Functional fitness and special fitness programs for older adults are closely related.
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.