2011 may be two months away but you don't need to wait to start getting fit! The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has compiled a list of the top ten fitness trends to look for in 2011. The list was compiled by over 2,200 ACSM-certified professionals worldwide.
The top ten trends predicted for 2011 are:
1. Educated and Experienced Fitness Professionals
Due to increases in the number of organizations offering certifications, it's important that consumers choose professionals certified through programs that are accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, such as those offered by ACSM (and the NSCA, Nat'l Strength & Conditioning Association).
2. Fitness Programs for Older Adults
As the baby boom generation ages into retirement, some of these people have more discretionary money than their younger counterparts. Therefore, many health and fitness professionals are taking the time to create age-appropriate programs to keep older adults healthy and active.
3. Strength Training
Strength training remains a central emphasis for many clubs. Incorporating strength training is an essential part of a complete physical activity program for all physical activity levels and genders.
4. Children and Obesity
With childhood obesity growing at an alarming rate, health and fitness professionals see the epidemic as an opportunity to create programs tailored to overweight and obese children. Solving the problem of childhood obesity will have an impact on the health care industry today and for years to come.
5. Personal Training
More and more students are majoring in kinesiology, which indicates that students are preparing themselves for careers in allied fields such as personal training. Education, training and proper credentials for personal trainers have become increasingly important to the facilities that employ them.
6. Core Training
Distinct from strength training, core training specifically emphasizes conditioning of the middle-body muscles, including the pelvis, lower back, hips and abdomen - all of which provide needed support for the spine.
7. Exercise and Weight Loss
In addition to nutrition, exercise is a key component of a proper weight loss program. Health and fitness professionals who provide weight loss programs are increasingly incorporating regular exercise and (moderate) caloric restriction for better weight control in their clients.
8. Boot Camp
Boot camp is a high-intensity structured activity program modeled after military style training and led by an instructor. Boot camp incorporates cardiovascular, strength, endurance and flexibility drills in both indoor and outdoor settings.
9. Functional Fitness
This is a type of physical activity using strength training to improve balance and ease of daily living. Functional fitness and special fitness programs for older adults are closely related.
10. Physician Referrals
Physician referrals, a key component of the Exercise is Medicine initiative, partner medical professionals with heath and fitness professionals to seamlessly integrate exercise into their patients' lives.
Source: American College of Sports Medicine
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