New workout classes and childhood favourites are gaining popularity
When the clock struck midnight on Jan. 1, many of us had our sights set on making this year the year we get fit. With January coming to a close, odds are many of us have slipped up on our New Year’s resolutions. However, all journeys are due to have setbacks which should not be a reason to give up our goals entirely.
There are a variety of reasons why people struggle with keeping active, including lack of time, interest, and cost. Fortunately, there is a diverse array of methods that are slated for popularity in 2017 and can help you achieve your specific goals.
If you become bored with your workout quickly
Studies have shown in the past that people are more likely to stick with a type of exercise if they find it enjoyable. Between childhood and adolescence, many children stop participating in sports. This can be linked to reaching a higher level of competition or by simply aging out of the program. Reconnecting with past activities that you used to enjoy through intramural sports and specialized group fitness classes can be an effective first step into making physical activity a part of your weekly routine.
In addition to childhood favourites, the past few years have shown a surge in popularity for niche group exercise classes. These classes hold a certain “wow” factor that led some of them to become viral sensations, such as aerial silks, barre classes, and trapeze. The classes gain popularity from their novelty, a promise to be both fun and effective, and an opportunity to showcase your new favourite workout on social media. Unfortunately, the prices of these classes are usually high due to low availability and high demand, and their availability can be concentrated in larger cities.
If you cannot afford a gym membership
For those hoping to become fit on a budget, equipment-free workouts remain popular and it is easier than ever to access resources on these activities. From traditional push ups and running, to pilates and yoga routines, there are a number of options available for getting fit in the comfort of your own home. If you are not yet confident in your ability to put together a comprehensive workout routine on your own, YouTube channels such as Blogilates and Yoga with Adriene allow you to follow along with video routines and offer an online community keen on providing support to one another.
If you are too busy to work out
Being unable to incorporate fitness into an already busy schedule can be difficult and a key reason why people do not follow through with their fitness resolutions. HIIT, which stands for high intensity interval training, is a quick and effective method blending cardio and strength training, often without the use of extra equipment. Most workouts last roughly half an hour, and with long term commitment the results can be impressive.
Of course, physical activity is not the only key to achieving fitness goals. The push from social media to recognize all body types has led to the “fit, not skinny” mentality that is due to gain popularity in 2017. This perspective shift can be important for a person’s goal setting in their fitness journeys, shifting aspirations to becoming stronger and increasing endurance rather than pursuing a certain body type.
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