So, if you’re looking for some fit-spiration but feel overwhelmed by the fitness trends on the internet, here are some great options for you. These three popular fitness trends are worth a try if you’re stuck in any exercise rut and want to get back on track.
TREND 1: BUDDY UP / FIND A COMMUNITY
A key fitness trend is to make exercise more social - and who better than a friend or loved one to join you in working towards your health goals. Finding a partner or friend to join you is a great way to keep you motivated and accountable, especially if you need the extra encouragement for early morning runs or evening walks. Not only will a fitness partner help you stay consistent, but you may also find you’re more likely to try new things if you have the support of someone you know by your side.
Having a workout buddy can also inspire some healthy competition to add a bit of excitement and variety into your exercise routine. Another option is to find a local fitness class or group to meet like-minded individuals who can support you on your fitness journey.
TREND 2: GET TRACKING
The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) has given wearable technology such as fitness trackers, smart watches and heart rate monitors, one of the top spots on the global trends list1. Wearable tech are a great way to keep you goal-focused by tracking your steps, heart rate and blood pressure, performance metrics and even offering insights into your sleeping patterns. Whether you’re starting out or already a seasoned athlete, you can find a device to best fit your needs and budget to keep you tracking along.
Thrive with AIA Vitality
To support your fitness goals, the AIA Vitality app is compatible with a range of popular wearable tech such as Apple, Samsung, Fitbit, and Garmin. This means your workouts can integrate into your AIA Vitality member profile every time you get active, earning you Points towards your weekly physical targets that you can redeem for rewards.
PLUS, as an AIA Vitality member, you can access some great discounts on fitness devices to help you find the right device to support you to reach your goals.
TREND 3: ENJOY THE OUTDOORS
As humans we tend to get bored easily, and once this happens in an exercise setting, it can become difficult to feel inspired and motivated. Known as hedonic adaptation, this is a behavioural concept where we may, over time, lose interest in activities that used to excite us2.
Because of this, it’s important to switch things up every so often. Instead of your usual gym visit or treadmill time, why not head outdoors to your local park for a bike ride or a bush hike. The combination of fresh air, fun and fitness, especially in nature, can be good for both your overall physical and mental health. As a bonus, many community fitness groups like ParkRun often utilise park spaces to workout in, so you get the win-win benefit of being outdoor and having a workout partner/community.
While there are many fitness trends floating around on the internet that may change with the seasons, the benefits of getting more active always remain the same. So, if prioritising your physical health is something you’re committed to in 2024, start with small steps like moving a little more each day, maybe with a friend at your local park.