It’s that time of year again! The ACSM’s annual survey of worldwide 2019 fitness trends. The ACSM has been running this survey for the last 13 years and each year they update their survey to accurately represent the fitness community’s interests! This year’s survey received 2,038 responses from professionals across the globe. This survey is extremely helpful for gyms and health clubs to gauge interests in the upcoming year. This can help them plan programming and gage what is important to their patrons! Here are the 2019 fitness trends:
1. Wearable Technology
This trend topped the charts in 2016 and 2017 and it was #3 in 2018 and is back on top again this year. Wearable technology includes fitness trackers, smartwatches, heart rate monitors and GPS tracking devices. Wearable technology keeps users engaged and motivates them! The different tech options have many helpful features such as heart rate monitors, sleep tracking, step tracking and so much more. It’s no wonder wearable technology in 2019.
2. Group Training
Group Training is coming in at number two this year! The ACSM survey defines group training as, in-person exercise that is led by instructors designed for more than 5 participants. Group training has gained popularity because it is highly effective and motivational. Group training classes can range from cardio to strength and everything in between. There is a group training class for everyone!
3. HIIT
If you’re interested in fitness than you’re probably no stranger to HIIT. HIIT exercises are categorized as exercises that feature a short burst of intense energy followed by a brief rest period. This trend is ideal for exercisers that are short on time or want to torch a ton of calories. HIIT topped the charts in 2014 and 2018 making it a long-lasting, worldwide trend.
4. Fitness Programs for Older Adults
We’re happy to see Fitness Programs for Older Adults coming in at #4 this year! This trend is focusing on the fitness needs of individuals 55+. This market will continue to grow as the population ages and it is essential that gyms and health clubs create programs targeting their specific needs. These programs should be aimed at providing older adults with the tools to live long, active and healthy lives.
5. Bodyweight Training
Bodyweight Training is a focus on bringing exercise back to basics. This form of exercise requires minimal equipment meaning it can be done by anyone, anywhere. Bodyweight training is new to the trend list, becoming popular in 2013. Make sure to keep your eye on bodyweight training in the upcoming year!
6. Employing Certified Fitness Professionals
Employing Certified Fitness Professionals is coming in at #6 this year. Gyms and patrons recognize the importance of working with health and fitness professionals that are fully accredited and certified! These professionals are essential to creating programming that is safe and effective!
7. Yoga
Yoga has bounced around the top 20 since 2010! This long-lasting trend can take many forms from group classes to instructional videos. One thing is for sure, the Yoga trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
8. Personal Training
The Personal Training Trend continues to grow as it becomes more accessible to exercisers. You can now develop one on one relationships online, at your health club or in the comfort of your own home. They do everything from creating personalized training plans for you to training with you to meet your fitness goals.
9. Functional Fitness Training
The Functional Fitness trend focuses on using exercise to improve balance, coordination, strength and to improve activities of daily living. Functional Fitness has bounced around the top 20 since 2007! This popular trend replicates everyday movements to improve your fitness in a way that improves daily living. Functional Fitness pairs well with many different trends on the list, especially #4! (if you want to learn more about functional fitness, we’ve written more about it here!)
10. Exercise is Medicine
2019 is ushering in the global initiative that recognizes exercise as a key aspect of medicine and overall health. This trend is encouraging health care providers to include physically activity recommendations as a part of every patient visit. In addition, they recommend recognizing fitness professionals as part of a wider health care team.
That rounds out the top 10 2019 fitness trends! For a complete list of all 25 fitness trends visit the ACSM website! Which 2019 fitness trends are you most excited to try or incorporate into your health clubs programming this year?