AIF ’ s fitness trends for 2022 : 11-20
11 . Lifestyle Medicine 12 . Virtual Fitness ( including Augmented Reality ) 13 . High Hygiene Standards for Gyms 14 . Mindfulness in Training 15 . Group Training 16 . Personal Training 17 . High Intensity Resistance Training ( HIRT ) 18 . Exercise for Weight Loss 19 . Micro Workouts 20 . Bodyweight Training
Hybrid Gyms Offerings ( In-gym / Virtual ) (# 6 )
One of this year ’ s major ‘ new entries ’ to the trend predictions was a development born of necessity , and subsequently evolved . Commenting on the rise of hybrid offerings , AIF ’ s General Manager of Training , Brodie Hicks , said ; ‘ This year , we have seen many consumers itching to get back to physical gyms . They have missed having access to the latest and greatest equipment , face-to-face trainer expertise , and the sense of community that comes with working out alongside others ’.
‘ However , as our lifestyles and general health concerns have continually shifted , the ability to train remotely and flexibly has gained appeal . Next year , many Australians will continue to work parttime from home , and the physical gym may not always form part of their natural daily schedule . There may also be people who are hesitant to train in physical gym spaces at certain times , due to potential localised COVID outbreaks and / or if they ’ re visiting high-risk family and friends .’
‘ Given these factors , it is likely we ’ ll increasingly see fitness establishments roll out hybrid offerings with a mix of in-gym , virtual live and on-demand products . This will allow gyms to snap up consumers with varying preferences across the market , while delivering fitness enthusiasts the expanded choice and flexibility they demand .’
Mind and Body Training (# 10 )
There ’ s no denying that mental wellbeing has seen a huge increase in prominence in recent years , and particularly in the past 18 months . Commenting on the trend that rounded out this year ’ s Top 10 , Kraschnefski said ; ‘ For many people , incorporating mindfulness and meditation into training and regular routines has become essential since the onset of the pandemic . A growing number of Australians are opting to work out for not only physical exercise , but also mental relaxation and reflection .’
‘ The practices of yoga , Pilates , breathing work , mindfulness , meditation and broader mental health training will continue to grow in popularity in 2022 as consumers seek out the psychological and mental health benefits that come with movement and body work . As hard as it can be to find motivation when we are stressed and tired , it is when we are experiencing these feelings that mind and body training can deliver the most benefit ’.
The AIF also predicted several additional key trends to gain momentum in Australia next year , including : increasing demand for highly skilled mobile PTs ; growing focus on pandemic related health conditions ( for example , Long-COVID ); micro workouts ; High Intensity Resistance Training ( HIRT ) and virtual fitness ( including augmented reality ).
High Intensity Resistance Training ( HIRT ) (# 17 )
While HIIT has become a mainstay of training programs and facilities the world over , its ‘ spinoffs ’ are also gaining traction . Reflecting on this , Kraschnefski said ; ‘ If the pandemic has taught us one thing , it ’ s that it ’ s OK to slow down , and that is exactly what has developed in the form of High Intensity Resistance Training ( HIRT ). HIRT brings strength training into HIIT , slowing things down and giving participants the ability to put more intention behind their movement . Form and strength become the focus while still achieving a solid calorie burn .
‘ HIRT will likely see growing uptake in 2022 , especially among women who have traditionally been less inclined to engage with strength training . HIRT actually reduces the stress on your body and central nervous system , allowing for extended rest periods and lessening fatigue . It is also a great option for people who don ’ t like HIIT training , given that it delivers many of the same benefits - but with less plyometrics , hardcore cardio and pressure on bones and joints .’
Micro Workouts (# 19 )
Edging its way into the Top 20 is a trend that makes HIIT devotees look like tortoises in comparison - the workout for those with no time to work out . Discussing the reasons for the emergence of this trend , Hicks said ; ‘ Micro workouts exploded onto the scene over the past year , as many of us battled increased inactivity due to lockdowns , shifting schedules and sedentary lifestyles . These short , high-intensity workouts are a great way to disrupt your regular routine and combat the health hazard of prolonged stillness .’
‘ Although lockdowns are hopefully a thing of yesterday , many Australians are now busier than ever , so having the option to do short , sharp workouts in small windows of time - but still achieve caloric and cardiovascular benefits - is highly appealing . Every effort - however modest - can be a big win . Because the sessions are quick - typically lasting between 4-12 minutes - they are fantastic for individuals who are time-poor but are still looking to kick their health and fitness goals .’
We ’ re undeniably living through volatile times , which has resulted in the sudden emergence of some of this year ’ s trend predictions . It will be interesting to check back in twelve months to see if the new entries have proven their worth and continue to rank , or whether changing conditions see them slip off the list .
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