New decade = new ideas.  Check out these fitness trends that have been surfacing around the country:

1. Functional Fitness

This trend focuses on creating exercise routines that mimic our daily activities such as carrying groceries, running up the flight of stairs, carrying children, gardening and etc… The use of  free weights and interval training techniques are more prevalent in this program than using machines that predetermine your motion. 

2. Exergaming

Remember playing Super Mario Bros while sitting on the couch?  Well, now you need to move in order to win.  In 2010 families are plugging in their Wii Fit into their TVs and breaking the sweat right their living rooms.  Wide selection of sports and fitness games will accommodate everyone in the family. 

3. Specialty Exercise Classes

Search your area for new class formats such a zumba, pole aerobics (using a stripper pole), STOMP, body balance,  Namaste and much more.  Challenge your body to a new class  format and it will thank you for it!

4. Fitness Training Tools

In today’s day and age we have sneakers that work in tandem with our iPods, on-line software programs keep us accountable and array of mobile applications stay with us throughout the day.  Figure out which tech gadget suits your needs and make a great use of it!

5. Budget Conscious Training

2009 has been a financially hard year for many of us.  Adapting some of these ideas will help you stay fit and not brake the bank:

• Group Personal Training – share the cost of a personal trainer with your friends or your spouse and continue to enjoy the expertise of a fitness professional.  Many fitness clubs and private personal training studios have various options. Just ask!
• Purchase Exercise Equipment for home - Cannot afford to join the gym?  Build one at home.   Now you can exercise in your pajamas and have NO excuses for skipping a workout.
• Outdoor training- Exercising outside does not cost a dime!  Get you sneakers, dress appropriately and search your neighborhood for great running/walking routes.  Perhaps you will find  some hills, stairs.  Use your imagination, not your bank account.

6. Time-efficient workouts

Time is precious for many of us and incorporating an exercise plan can be a challenge.  Try breaking up your routine into two sessions, exercise while watching TV, walk stairs, park further away from your office.  Little additions will add up to big results!

7. Health and Fitness Awareness

Staying fit means not only looking better, but feeling better.  This trend focuses on establishing and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle which includes regular exercise, proper nutrition, low levels of stress, adequate rest and much more.

8. Importance of Proper Professional Credentials

It is important to know who you are seeking an advise from.  If you are looking for a fitness professional,  here are top organizations that your personal trainer should be accredited with:

• NASM – National Academy of Sports Medicine
• ACE – American Council on Exercise
• ACSM – American College of Sports Medicine

If you are looking for a nutrition expert, seek a professional with R.D. (Registered Dietician) credential.

9. Pilates

Along with yoga, pilates have been a growing trend and will continue so into 2010.

10. Fitness Programs For Older Adults

Older adults are not only living longer but living stronger.  As well all know, exercise has numerous health benefits and baby boomer population is taking full advantage of that. All I can say - keep it up!!!

 If something works well for you we want to hear about it.  As always, e-mail me at dan@topbalancenutrition.com