American College of Sports Medicine releases top 10 fitness trends

Each year, the American College of Sports Medicine surveys health and fitness professionals from around the United States and creates a top 10 health and fitness trends list for the upcoming year. The results are in for 2018:

1. HIIT (high intensity interval training) — training that involves short bursts of activity followed by short periods of rest or recovery; these sessions are usually performed in 30 minutes or less.

2. Group training — intentionally led group exercise classes taught by a trained instructor to lead and motivate a group of people for all different fitness levels. Examples of these classes include spin classes, kickboxing or TRX.

3. Wearable technology — fitness trackers, smart watches, heart rate monitors and GPS tracking devices help people identify, track and reach measurable goals while providing feedback and motivation.

4. Body weight training — uses minimal equipment, making it very affordable and including exercises for strength, balance and flexibility. The top five body weight exercises are: push-ups, bodyweight squats, lunges, planks and pull-ups.

5. Strength training — using force against a specific muscle or group of muscles is an essential part of a complete exercise program and should be done at least two non-consecutive days per week.

6. Educated and experienced fitness professionals — consumers should be aware of the credentials fitness professionals hold and which programs they are accredited by.

7. Yoga — based on ancient tradition, this type of exercise utilizes a series of specific bodily postures for fitness and relaxation.

8. Personal training — more and more students are educating and preparing themselves with degrees in kinesiology for careers in a health and fitness field such as personal training. Fitness facilities look for trainers who have received the proper education, training and credentialing. The Oshkosh YMCA offers a multitude of personal training programs that fit everyone’s needs. Rich Roehrick, health and fitness director said, “Whether you prefer land-based exercise or water workouts, our professionals can personalize a plan based on your lifestyle and goals. We offer programs and prescription to everyone. At the Oshkosh YMCA, all program professionals are nationally certified at the highest level. Our approach is precise and scientific. Every person will receive their own personalized program/prescription based on their specific needs.

9. Fitness programs for older adults — age appropriate fitness programs to keep older adults active and healthy. As people age, it’s important to provide age appropriate fitness programs to maintain strength, flexibility and balance to help prevent injury and falls. The Oshkosh Community YMCA offers more than 30 exercise classes a week for active older adults, including water- and land-based programs. From water exercise to aerobics, there is something for everyone. Pickleball also is a popular activity offered at both YMCA locations. A fun game that is played on a badminton court with a low net, Pickleball is easy for beginners and one of the fastest-growing sports for seniors. Siri Smits, Oshkosh YMCA’s active older adult director said, “Active older adults at the YMCA experience a strong sense of belonging and create a network of friends who provide support for sustained health and well-being.”

10. Functional fitness — trend using strength training to improve balance and ease of daily living. Functional fitness programs and fitness programs for older adults are closely related as both train muscles to work together to perform daily tasks by simulating common movements you might do at home, work, or other activities.

Molly Yatso Butz is the foundation development coordinator for Aurora Health Care in Oshkosh and Green Bay.

Source: American College of Sports Medicine releases top 10 fitness trends