7 fitness trends for 2016

Depending on where you live, your general lifestyle and your fitness level, the recently reported 2016 fitness trends may have you scratching your head. One article highlighted infrared saunas, dandelion coffee and rock climbing as trends to look for in 2016. More realistic are the following I found from some well-known and highly-regarded organizations:

1. Wearable technology. This topped reports by Men’s Fitness and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). Not surprising, since (according to Tech Insider) the Fitbit app was the most downloaded on Apple’s app store on Christmas Day 2015. Available in several styles, price points and added features, fitness trackers, smart watches and heart rate monitors are a great way to help keep you motivated. They won’t do the work for you, but they are happy to remind you to get moving!

2. Body weight training. Listed second on both the ACSM and Men’s Fitness lists, this familiar form of resistance training has been newly packaged and creatively programmed the past few years. Consumers and fitness professionals alike are using this format as a way to reap benefits without using equipment.

3. Steady state cardio training. Ranked fifth on the American Council on Exercise (ACE) list, this format is a welcome return for those who didn’t understand, couldn’t do or improperly used the HIT (high intensity training) protocols. According to ACE, this training – a continuous bout of cardio at one level instead of intervals of different exertion levels – can be used in promoting weight loss, overall fitness and program adherence when used correctly in an exercise routine.

4. Functional fitness. This format includes exercises that mimic everyday life activities or sport for improved performance, such as balance, coordination, agility and power.

5. Programming for older adults and special populations. Fitness programs designed for active older adults and the senior population can be beneficial if executed safely and effectively. I included programming for special populations (i.e., Parkinson’s, type II diabetes, arthritis, cancer recovery and the like) based on the growth in demand I’ve seen at my own facility.

6. Streaming fitness online. People who struggle to fit a trip to the gym into their busy schedules yet understand the importance of physical activity and exercise can go online. Streaming workouts are becoming more popular and more readily available. Be wary my friends – make sure your source is an educated, certified, experienced fitness professional. I recommend checking out ACE fitness programs.

7. Worksite and community wellness. Many companies and organizations realize that employees, members and followers will be more productive if they are healthier and happier (not to mention keeping health care costs down), so they are promoting physical and/or spiritual well-being on site! You may see athletic retailers hosting yoga workshops, faith organizations offering fitness classes, or offices adding an exercise room.

Want to learn more about any of these trends? Ask one of our fitness specialists or see me about hiring an educated, certified, experienced personal trainer.

Learn more about Edward-Elmhurst Health & Fitness Centers.

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