With every new year many people are joining gyms and health clubs, intent on getting into shape. People returning after a long absence may be surprised at recent trends. Some new trends involve different training styles, new groups of participants, and unique equipment.
NEW GROUPS ARE PARTICIPATING
Many fitness programs are now being tailored toward baby boomers. Trying to defray signs of aging, stave off heart disease, arthritis and dementia, seniors are expected to flock to gyms in greater numbers than ever before. Many may choose to join Zumba or step classes. Cycling classes are becoming more popular too.
Exercise programs directed at overweight juveniles are also on the rise. With the alarming trend of childhood obesity creeping up and foreboding adult obesity, the need for these fitness programs continues to increase. Children will be introduced to stability balls, stretch bands, treadmills and perhaps a personal trainer. Instead of kids sitting in front of a video screen madly moving their thumbs, the Wii fitness and dance programs are becoming a popular way to have fun and get in shape.
INTENSE TRAINING
Boot camp training will become more popular this year because this hard-hitting program is geared to small groups of participants with lots of individual attention from the instructor. It combines cardio, strength and core fitness in a short, intense program. Partakers will have to be careful of injuries, and high expectations that may cause pre-mature quitting. More and more certified trainers are arriving on the scene, as people employ them for individualized training programs. A 12-14-class session runs about $200.
Specialty classes employing fast paced dance steps will increase in popularity as well. These calorie burning, exercises are great for energizing, weight loss and cardiovascular health. If weights are added to the routines they become more effective as a strength builder.
Circuit training in groups is a growing trend in 2009 as it combines cardio and weight training in an efficient manner. The group participation provides support, which enforces individuals' desire to continue. A membership in gyms that offer specialty classes or circuit training groups is about $30-$60 a month
NEW EQUIPEMENT TRENDS
Back to basics classic training with a new twist is expected to grow strong this year. Basic weight training with "kettlebells" makes many feel like they are training very seriously. These cannon ball-shaped weights with a handle from Russia are growing more and more popular. Prices on kettlebells range from $89 for the 9lb KB to the mutant-strength-level 88lb kettlebell, which will set you, back $179.
The hottest new trend is the vibrating power-plate, which can be a fabulous exercise machine for the infirm person who cannot walk more than a few steps. You merely stand on its platform and turn it on, and a set frequency sends vibrations through your body. Originally built for use by astronauts to prevent bone and muscle wasting in a weightless environment, the machines are useful for people unable to perform conventional exercise. They are sold usually in the $2000-$3000 price-range.
Another hot trend for adults is Techno-Fitness, including game machines such as Wii Fit and Wii Sports. You hook these up to your TV screen, stand on a platform with sensors, and perform the various exercises outlined on the screen. The Wii Sports involves games like baseball, tennis, bowling, and a wide variety of other sports. Wii Fit measures your fitness age and helps you develop goals in a time line. You will have so much fun that you won't realize that you're getting a good workout.
Think about getting off the couch and trying some of these new fitness opportunities. This year promises to give you many new trends and great new technology to make your goals attainable. Why not be part of the new fitness population that just might be more fit this time next year?
http://getyouinshape.wordpress.com/2008/08/03/get-yo u-in-shape-fitness-boot-camp-cost/
http://www.kidsource.com/kidsource/content4/promote. phyed.html
http://healthhabits.wordpress.com/2008/11/07/2009-fi tness-trends/
http://www.forbes.com/technology/2009/01/06/game-con soles-xbox-tech-enter-cx_bc_0107consoles.html