ShareWow Wow Wow! 2013 is coming to a close, and what a wild year it’s been! I’ve been staring into my crystal ball…
So KV, what are we going to see happen in the fitness industry in 2014?
I’m so glad you asked. One thing is for sure. You’re going to sweat.
Prediction 1: Shorter Workouts Will Reign Supreme
The scientific research proves it. Shorter, high intensity workouts rock, which means even if you’re pressed for time, you can still get excellent fat loss and fitness results.
While more folks opt for the shorter workouts, expect to see a slight decline in popularity of long, knee crushing infomercial programs like Insanity and P90X.
Prediction 2: Bodyweight Training For All Ages
Most people still think body weight training is limited to push-ups, pull-ups and squats. You know it is way more fun, and there are endless variations to keep you interested. Plus it can be tailored to any fitness level.
Bodyweight training will continue to rise in popularity through 2014. The convenience of being able to train “anytime, anywhere” means there are no limitations or excuses to skip your workouts.
Prediction 3: Education standards for Personal Trainer Certifications will get tougher
The overall quality of personal training is going to improve.
That being said, budding personal trainers will no longer be able to do a “weekend” certification on the Internet and instantly become certified. The process will become more rigorous, and filter out the “wannabe” trainers from the serious, smart ones with strong educational background.
The requirements for becoming certified will get tougher, and attending workshops and on-going education classes for learning and improving skills and techniques will become paramount.
Prediction 4: Boutique gyms in Every Neighborhood
People will shun the big chain gyms and look to specialized group training and private clubs. The rise of “Boutique Gyms” across the nation offering only group training, will cater to those who want a more personal fitness experience.
Expect to see boot camps and small group training programs flourish.
Prediction 5: The CrossFit Obsession Will End
CrossFit has reached a peak. But the injury rate is skyrocketing and frustrations are mounting. The decline of CrossFit will be slow, but expect to see attendance start to drop off in 2014.
While you may get fast results, it comes at a cost. The physical toll this hardcore style of training takes on your body can’t be ignored.
You can still train hard. But listen to your body, and always stay safe.
Prediction 6: Dangers of Mud Endurance Challenges Exposed
While growing in popularity, the real dangers behind these mud-filled obstacle course challenges such as the Tough Mudder and Warrior Dash will be exposed.
It’s a very high risk activity. And the thing is, these events attract people with no intention of training, they just want to get out and race in the mud. Tough Mudder is risky enough for someone who is in good shape, let alone someone who hasn’t run 5 miles in the last year.
A study by the ACEP found that a single competition last June resulted in 38 ER visits for everything from dislocated shoulders to head and face injuries to electrical burns to paralysis. Even worse, a bunch of deaths were reported.
Now that’s enough to scare me away.
Prediction 7: Paleo, Organic, and Gluten-free Diets (POGF) Will Be Huge
Everyman and their dog will be talking and following POGF diets.
Specialized recipes books and meal plans will flood the market and there will be a crackdown on food quality, especially here in the States. Keep your eyes peeled for this one!
The fermented, probiotic tea Kombucha will also gain popularity. While 2013 saw a rise in juice bars, don’t be surprised if you see kombucha bars popping up and dominating in 2014.
Wow, 2013 was an incredible year. I can’t wait to hear about your breakthroughs and success in the coming year.
Get pumped – 2014 is going to ROCK!
Kate Vidulich, BSc, ACSM, MCTT
