Top 10 Fitness Trends for 2014

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recently revealed the Top 10 2014 fitness trends in the United States as a result of surveying more than 3,800 fitness professionals. Here’s what’s trending this year.

1. High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT consists of short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by short periods of recovery. This form of exercise is great if you are short of time, but still want to get a good workout. For some examples of HIIT workouts, check out this article from our contributor Tom Holland.
2. Body Weight Training: Using your own body to strengthen your muscles is not only efficient, but also inexpensive. You can start by learning to perform the perfect pushup.
3. Educated, Certified and Experienced Fitness Professionals: This trend is on the rise since there are many national third-party accrediting organizations for health and fitness.
4. Strength Training: Weight loss isn’t the only reason why Americans practice weight training; individuals of all ages are focusing on strength training because they want to improve or maintain physical endurance. If you are looking for a challenge, you should check out this total body kettlebell workout, provided by fitness trainer Joe Vennare.
5. Exercise and Weight Loss: A healthy weight-loss program consists of a combination of exercise and a healthy diet. For some guidance and inspiration, you can check out our recent interview with Olympic athlete, Lindsey Jacobellis, and learn how she keeps a healthy diet and good exercise regime.
6. Personal Training: One-on-one personal training is a great way to target and achieve your specific fitness goals.
7. Fitness Programs: More age-appropriate and safe exercise programs tailored for older adults are in the rise.
8. Functional Fitness: Functional fitness focuses on teaching all your muscles to work together rather than isolating them to work independently. By doing so, people are training their bodies to handle real-life situations.
9. Group Personal Training: Personal trainers can still provide the expected necessary one-on-one service, but with a small group of two to four persons. Group personal training can be very beneficial because working out with your peers will keep you motivated.
10. Yoga: There is an abundance of instructional yoga videos and books, leading to more Americans practicing yoga and/or getting certified to teach yoga. You can learn how to practice “Soft Yoga” from our yogi contributor Dove Rose.