Bored with the same old workout? If you’re in an exercise rut, it might be time to switch up your routine.
To help you out, we’ve pulled together a list of some of the top workout trends of the moment. The pandemic may have thrown a wrench in exercise routines, but it can’t stop you from finding innovative ways to get your sweat on. Whatever your workout style, there is something new and fun here for you to try.
Virtual personal training
One of the side effects of the lockdowns over the past year was the rise of virtual personal training. More gyms are offering training sessions via video chat, allowing participants to receive coaching from the comfort of their own homes. Most trainers can customize a workout plan based on the space and equipment you have available—and your fitness goals of course. Even as gyms begin to open again, virtual training is likely here to stay. It’s a great option for people with busy lives or just anyone who enjoys skipping the commute to the gym.
Outdoor bootcamps
As the weather warms up, what better way to get fit and enjoy getting outside than an outdoor bootcamp? As pandemic restrictions limited options last summer, outdoor workout classes began to pop up everywhere. Now, it’s another workout trend that is likely to stick around! After all, breaking a sweat with company is always more fun, and an excellent way to stay accountable with your goals. With spring on the horizon, keep an eye out for classes available in your local parks and outdoor recreation facilities.
Fitness apps
Have you tried a fitness app yet? The workout app trend has continued to grow this year, as more people look to their smartphones and watches to track their exercise. In addition to the data tracking capabilities, the top fitness apps are typically popular for their social functions. On apps such as Strava, Peloton, and Fitocracy, users can post their results, share their workouts with friends, and compete in challenges together.
Mind and body training
One of the newest trends in fitness is the mind-body workout. Loosely defined as any exercise that combines physical fitness with a focus on the mind, mind-body training can reduce stress, improve performance, and more. The good news? Many forms of exercise that you may already be familiar with—including yoga and tai chi—have mind-body components already. Meditation and breathing exercises are also considered forms of mind-body training, and they can have positive effects on both your physical and mental health.
Virtual fitness classes
To no one's surprise, demand for virtual fitness classes has exploded over the past year. With in-person classes limited, people have moved online—and so have some of the top instructors. For those who are looking for that live class experience from home, there are countless options to choose from. Whether you’re into a basic cardio workout, or something more niche like barre, there is a class out there for you.
