The top 10 fitness trends for 2011

Say hello to a new year and a new you!

Jumping back into healthy habits doesn’t have to be difficult. Thanks to the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and their selection of fitness trends for 2011, there’s a host of new fitness fads and old favourites to pique your interest and motivation.

As always, be sure to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise plan

1. Heading back to the gym

When times are tough, activities viewed as luxuries fall by the wayside. For many, the first indulgence to go is a pricey gym membership. Now with the economy improving, people are striving to maintain not only a healthy bank balance, but also a healthy waistline. The fitness industry is no longer feeling the pinch, making it easier for you to find a gym and a trainer.

2. Added-value wellness

The days of fitness clubs offering only aerobics and weight machines are long gone. Gyms are now upping their game, hiring nutritionists to aid you in your fitness goals. The ACE predicts more new services, including tips on smart food choices and portion control. “A healthy lifestyle does not begin and end within the gym,” says Sammie Kennedy, creator of Booty Camp Fitness. “Giving nutritional guidance is key to a client’s continued success.”

2. Added-value wellness

The days of fitness clubs offering only aerobics and weight machines are long gone. Gyms are now upping their game, hiring nutritionists to aid you in your fitness goals. The ACE predicts more new services, including tips on smart food choices and portion control. “A healthy lifestyle does not begin and end within the gym,” says Sammie Kennedy, creator of Booty Camp Fitness. “Giving nutritional guidance is key to a client’s continued success.”

3. Stress-busting workouts

Feeling stressed? You can ease life’s pressures simply by adding more activity to your day. “Exercise is a great tool to help reduce stress,” says Brian Roy, associate professor of physical education and kinesiology at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario. “There are definite links, and it has many added benefits.” In 2011, watch for new fitness programs that are specifically designed to manage your stress levels.

4. Fitness meets technology

Online technology-think Facebook, Twitter, phone apps and virtual weight-loss programs-will flourish in the fitness industry this year, offering support via community forums and message boards, where you can share experiences with your peers. Technology’s part in fitness, however, won’t replace the need for human interaction. “People feel more accountable when there is a person involved,” says Kennedy, “[They] tend to stay motivated and focused.”

5. The buddy system

Want to stick to an exercise regime? Enlist a friend! The ACE predicts that the buddy system will keep pace in 2011. “Getting up early on a cold winter’s morning for a run? If someone is on the corner waiting, you’ll be more apt to do it,” says Roy. “When you’re lacking the motivation, your buddy can egg you on.” For this friendly approach to fitness, invite a pal and try tennis, walking, or a little ab work.

6. Trendy camps and classes

The ACE pinpoints Zumba classes, boot camp sessions, interval training and TRX Suspension exercises as 2011’s most popular fitness pursuits. Boot camps-a perennial winner-are favoured because “They provide great results, very efficiently. You don’t have to exercise for a long time,” says Kennedy. “They offer a great deal of variety, so clients remain engaged and stimulated.” Brian Roy warns, however, that the latest exercise trend should only be attempted “with guidance and a good trainer.” Without proper technique, you risk sustaining an injury.

7. Small-group workouts

Taking the buddy system one step further, group exercise programs bring camaraderie, socializing and fitness together in one package. “[Sports] teams and the military have been using it for years,” says Roy. “Challenging physical situations are a great way to bond.” Group activities also help cut costs for participants, and keep motivation high. “When there are other people taking that journey with you, you are much more likely to stick with it,” explains Kennedy. Join a team this year, such as volleyball or soccer, or give group Pilates a try.

7. Small-group workouts

Taking the buddy system one step further, group exercise programs bring camaraderie, socializing and fitness together in one package. “[Sports] teams and the military have been using it for years,” says Roy. “Challenging physical situations are a great way to bond.” Group activities also help cut costs for participants, and keep motivation high. “When there are other people taking that journey with you, you are much more likely to stick with it,” explains Kennedy. Join a team this year, such as volleyball or soccer, or give group Pilates a try.

7. Small-group workouts

Taking the buddy system one step further, group exercise programs bring camaraderie, socializing and fitness together in one package. “[Sports] teams and the military have been using it for years,” says Roy. “Challenging physical situations are a great way to bond.” Group activities also help cut costs for participants, and keep motivation high. “When there are other people taking that journey with you, you are much more likely to stick with it,” explains Kennedy. Join a team this year, such as volleyball or soccer, or give group Pilates a try.

8. Youth-based fitness

With cuts to after-school sports programs and childhood obesity hitting record levels, the ACE forecasts that youth fitness initiatives will be highlighted in 2011. Schools will step up their fitness curricula to make exercise more appealing for today’s youth, while gyms will start to cater to younger clients. Join the cause and make fitness a family affair this year.

9. Getting fit at the office

Does a fit workforce result in a successful company? According to the ACE, it does-and more and more businesses seem to agree. Many companies boast on-site gyms or discounted memberships to neighbouring fitness clubs. “A healthy, happy employee is probably going to be a more productive one,” says Roy. No time to break a sweat? Sneak in a workout at lunch or before the trip home.

10. Personal trainers who know their stuff

Savvy consumers now expect fitness instructors to possess proper certification. Understanding this need, Roy urges his students-potential future trainers-to seek certification from a reputable organization. “I’m a big advocate of the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology. Their certifications require a minimum of two years university training in the field,” he says. “If you’re paying a trainer, make sure you have someone who is truly educated. A trainer can really hurt someone if they don’t do things properly.”

Related:

• 20 ways to burn 100 calories

• How to set SMART fitness goals