Blog & Newsletter Archives

Obesity Awareness – Losing weight continues to be the primary reason consumers seek personal-training support as the public responds to the expanded messaging concerning the dangers of physical inactivity and obesity. Despite a modest improvement in the nation's obesity rates for the first time in three years, the fact remains that three out of five Americans are still overweight or obese.

Whole-Life Training – Lifestyle coaching will become a bigger trend, with more personal trainers expanding their education and training to be able to holistically improve their clients' lifestyles.

Behavior Modification – While great strides have been made in health education, the average consumer still believes the best way to lose weight is by following a restrictive or fad diet. Organizations such as ACE incorporate tools that help personal trainers identify appropriate strategies for working with each client to enhance goal-setting, motivation, adherence, and rapport to help consumers better understand that there are no shortcuts to lasting results.

Community Collaboration – Access to fitness services and education will continue to expand in local communities including gyms, parks, and recreation centers. National initiatives such as Lets Move! aim to encourage young people and their families to be more physically active to help them avoid becoming part of the disturbing obesity trend.

Influence of Technology – 2011 showed technology has started to play a role in complementing in-person fitness services by providing additional motivation support. Social media and mobile-based apps will continue to revolutionize the industry.

Senior and Youth Specialties – Aquatic and group fitness classes will be the most popular forms of exercise for older adults. Americans over the age of 50 make up 41 percent of the population, and the trend continues to address the specific needs of the 50+ community. First Lady Michelle Obama, advocating for active children, expect to see more physical fitness in schools, youth-based classes at fitness centers, and families who work out or participate in outdoor activities together.

Workplace Support – Due in part to several years of declining economic conditions for business owners, employers will look to outsource wellness programs, and seek out employee discounts and reduced membership fees to increase access for workers.

Popular Workouts – Zumba, boot camp-style workouts, TRX Suspension Training and interval training will continue to be popular workout trends. Balance and core training also will become more prevalent in 2012.