The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to experience a different side of life. As a result of social distancing and lockdowns, many new fitness trends have emerged and made a lasting impact on how we exercise. It remains to be seen what further changes will come from these new beginnings, but one thing is sure: people are now more connected and interested in their well-being than ever before. This newfound appreciation has changed their outlook on life, health, and exercise.

The pandemic, although horrible, made more people mindful of their lifestyle choices. It showed that simplicity was the recipe for successful health. And this led to the exploration and discovery of convenient fitness and exercise programs outside of the gym setting. These changes in behavior and perception will spark creativity and innovation for future fitness and health trends.

1. Wearable Technology and Apps

The popularity of wearable fitness technology has significantly impacted people’s lives, making them more health-conscious and interested in tracking their fitness progress. In addition, it has made the experience motivating, fun, and enjoyable, allowing individuals to measure their successes.

Furthermore, the data provided by wearables can help inform and inspire people helping them to understand their fitness and health better, as well as monitor their stress and sleep patterns. With the help of these devices, people can stay motivated and focused on their wellness and fitness journey by visualizing their progress.

2. Small Group Training

People have recently been taking small group training to improve their fitness and health. This type of training is an attractive option for those looking to reach their goals without being just another person in the crowd. Small groups are more personal than larger classes and have a unique experience and social connection that people enjoy. Additionally, the camaraderie of a small group makes regular exercise more fun.

Small group training is also cost-effective. You don’t need to fork over a lot of money to join a gym that you only use a few hours a week. In small groups, you get what you pay for, personal instruction. Furthermore, per person, the cost is far less than one would have to pay for a personal trainer, making it an ideal choice for those on a tight budget.

It’s no wonder that small group training is becoming increasingly popular. The right combination of professional guidance and social support is an excellent way to succeed.

3. On-Demand Fitness Class

Online fitness classes have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Online fitness classes offer more flexibility than traditional gym classes. With an online class, people can work out anytime they want and do any class they choose. In addition, they don’t need to wait until the time it is offered.

This trend is popular because of limited time and busy schedules in people’s lives. It allows them to fit their workouts into their busy schedules, which might not be feasible with a class at the gym. As a previous Fitness Director, I used to see people running to the locker room in work clothes to get to class on time. Instead, it is easier to go home, work out, shower, and eat dinner.

Online fitness classes also provide access to a wide range of instructors and different types of workouts. Since online classes are often streamed from other parts of the world, people can find instructors who specialize in various workouts, from yoga in India, Pilates in Russia, kickboxing in Thailand, or HIIT training in New York. Access to multiple instructors makes it fun and exciting. It keeps people interested, allowing people to choose a training style that works best for them or experiment with a different class.

4. HIIT

HIIT has become increasingly popular due to today’s fast-paced, limited-time, busy schedule modern world. HIIT has numerous benefits and is an excellent form of exercise for those looking to optimize their workout time. It also improves physical fitness quicker than traditional forms of exercise in a shorter amount of time. For example, research has shown that only 15 minutes of HIIT is as effective as a 45-minute moderate-intense cardio workout in reducing fat and improving muscle.

These trends have become very popular because they reach a greater part of the population that does not go to the gym. And they are for people who like convenience.

The Flops

1. Peloton

Peloton experienced a surge in popularity during the pandemic-induced lockdowns, as people confined to their homes sought out their exercise bikes. As a result, its stock skyrocketed by nearly 400% in 2020 but has since plummeted by over 75% in 2021 as sales slowed as customers returned to gyms.

2. Online Personal Training

Online training may have been acceptable during lockdowns, but people are now eager to venture out and explore again. Online training was popular due to the pandemic, but its popularity has taken a hit as people want to be outside. Also, people enjoy the personal attention and social interaction that comes with having a trainer.